“Bani Israel: Faith, Punishment, and Redemption”

Exegesis of Surah Baqarah: Verse 2:55-56

Regarding the Almighty’s words:

وَإِذْ قُلْتُمْ يَا مُوسَىٰ لَن نُّؤْمِنَ لَكَ حَتَّىٰ نَرَى اللَّـهَ جَهْرَةً فَأَخَذَتْكُمُ الصَّاعِقَةُ وَأَنتُمْ تَنظُرُونَ

ثُمَّ بَعَثْنَاكُم مِّن بَعْدِ مَوْتِكُمْ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَشْكُرُونَ

Introduction

The Quran repeatedly reminds the Children of Israel (Bani Israel) of their historical transgressions and Allah’s mercy upon them. Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 55-56, recounts a significant event in their history where they demanded to see Allah with their own eyes. This incident reflects their disobedience, lack of faith, and arrogance despite witnessing numerous miracles.

According to the teachings of Imam Hasan Al-Askari (A.S.), this verse highlights the consequences of disbelief, the justice of Allah, and the hope for redemption.

The Demand of Bani Israel

The verse begins with a reminder to Bani Israel of their ancestors’ words:

“And when you said: O Musa! We will not believe in you until we see Allah clearly and openly.”

Their demand to see Allah physically was a sign of their arrogance and unwillingness to accept the truth through faith. This refusal came despite witnessing the miracles of Prophet Musa (Moses), such as the parting of the sea and the provision of manna and quails.

Imam Hasan Al-Askari explains that this demand reflects their desire to set conditions on Allah’s commands, showcasing their stubbornness and lack of submission.

The Punishment of the Lightning

As a consequence of their rebellion, Allah sent a punishment upon them:

“So the punishment (lightning) overtook you while you looked on.”

Imam Hasan Al-Askari explains that this punishment, a severe lightning strike, was not an act of cruelty but a demonstration of divine justice. It struck their forefathers as a direct response to their arrogance and disbelief. The mention of “while you looked on” highlights how this event served as a warning to others, reminding them of the consequences of defying Allah.

Resurrection and Gratitude

After the punishment, Allah displayed His mercy:

“Then We raised you up after your death, that you may give thanks.”

Imam Hasan Al-Askari points out that Allah’s decision to bring them back to life demonstrates His infinite mercy and willingness to forgive, even after their repeated transgressions. This resurrection was an opportunity for them to reflect, correct their ways, and express gratitude to Allah for sparing them. However, it also serves as a lesson for humanity about the importance of faith, submission, and gratitude.

Conclusion

Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 55-56, serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of arrogance and disbelief. According to the interpretation of Imam Hasan Al-Askari, it highlights the justice and mercy of Allah. The punishment through lightning was a response to the stubbornness of Bani Israel.

Their resurrection was an invitation to repentance and gratitude. This verse calls us to reflect on our own faith, avoid setting conditions on Allah’s commands, and remain grateful for His blessings. It emphasizes that true belief lies in submission to Allah, not in demanding proof beyond what He has already provided.

This event is a timeless reminder of the importance of faith, submission, and recognizing divine authority. According to Imam Hasan Al-Askari, the story not only underscores the justice of Allah but also His mercy, as He gave the resurrected individuals a chance to repent and testify to the truth.

For believers today, it emphasizes the need to honor Allah’s chosen representatives, remain humble in faith, and avoid the arrogance of demanding proof beyond what Allah has provided. As the resurrected individuals realized, rejecting divine authority leads to punishment, while submission to Allah and His chosen guides brings redemption and eternal reward.