Korah in Islam
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: قَارُون (Qārūn)
- Hebrew: קֹרַח (Korah)
Korah, known as Qārūn in Arabic, is a historically and religiously significant figure within both Islamic and Judeo-Christian traditions. In Islamic texts, he is particularly known for his role as a wealthy and arrogant dissenter during Moses’ time.
Historical Background
Korah, son of Yitzhar (Yaṣhar), son of Kohath (Qāhis̤), son of Levi (Lāwī), is a key figure in the narrative of dissent against Moses. His story is well-documented in the Book of Numbers (Num. xvi. 1) and makes notable appearances in the Quran and Islamic exegesis.
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Biblical Account:
- Korah leads a rebellion against Moses, questioning his authority. This act of defiance leads to his downfall as narrated in the Book of Numbers: “And the earth opened its mouth and swallowed them …” (Num. xvi. 32).
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Qur’anic Account:
- Surah Al-Mu’min (40:24-25): The narrative presents Korah along with Pharaoh and Haman, condemning Moses as a sorcerer and an impostor.
- Surah Al-Ankabut (29:38): A recount of how Korah, Pharaoh, and Haman rejected Moses and faced divine retribution.
- Surah Al-Qasas (28:76-82): Detailed account of Korah’s immense wealth, arrogance, and eventual downfall.
Key Themes and Moral Lessons
1. Arrogance and Wealth
The Quran emphasizes Qārūn’s immense wealth and his arrogance:
<p>“Now Korah was of the people of Moses: but he behaved haughtily toward them; for we had given him such treasure that its keys would have burdened a company of men of strength.” (Surah Al-Qasas 28:76)</p>
The moral here highlights the danger of excessive pride and the ethical imperative to remain humble and charitable.
2. Divine Retribution
Both the Quran and the Bible document Korah’s punishment:
<p>“And we clave the earth for him and for his palace, and he had no forces, in the place of God, to help him, nor was he among those who are succoured.” (Surah Al-Qasas 28:81)</p>
This echoes the biblical account where the earth opens up swallowing Korah and his followers.
Scholarly Commentary
- Al-Baydawi recounts how Korah falsely accused Moses of immorality. When God authorized Moses to command the earth, it swallowed up Korah and his fortune.
- Jalal ad-Din al-Suyuti symbolizes Korah as the epitome of physical beauty and riches, yet his greed and arrogance led to his demise.
Traditions and Interpretations
- A noted Islamic tradition highlights that despite Korah’s repeated pleas for mercy, Moses continued to command the earth to swallow him.
- In Jewish Talmud, Korah’s vast hidden treasures in Egypt symbolize his unshared wealth.
Takeaways
- Humility Over Arrogance: Both the Quran and the Bible stress the importance of humility.
- Generosity Over Greed: The case of Korah serves as a caution against amassing and hoarding wealth without contributing to societal welfare.
- Divine Justice: Symbolizes that despite one’s earthly fortune, ultimate judgment and retribution lie with the divine.
Further Studies
For those wanting to delve deeper into the life and lessons from Korah/Qārūn:
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Books:
- “Stories of the Prophets” by Ibn Kathir
- “The Prophets of Islam” by Ghassan Ascha
- “Mysteries of the Qur’an” by Dr. David Solomon Jalajel
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Academic Papers:
- “Moses and Pharaonic Monotheism” - Insights into Korah’s narrative in a broader context
Conclusion
The story of Korah/Qārūn provides timeless lessons on the dangers of arrogance, the moral responsibility toward wealth, and the inevitable nature of divine justice. His narrative is a critical intersection between Islamic, Jewish, and Christian theological traditions, offering rich ethical and spiritual discourse that remains relevant across centuries.
