Episode 3

Episode 3: In the Land of Madyan

In his flight, Musa turned toward the land of Madyan, praying, "Perhaps my Lord will guide me to the right way" (28:22). When he reached its watering place, he found a crowd of people watering their flocks, and behind them two women holding their own flocks back. Musa asked, "What is the matter with you two?" They said, "We cannot water until the shepherds dispatch their flocks, and our father is an old man" (28:23). So Musa watered their flocks for them, then withdrew to the shade and prayed with deep humility, "My Lord, indeed I am in need of whatever good You would send down to me" (28:24) — the prayer of a traveler who possessed nothing but hope in Allah. One of the two women came to him walking shyly and told him her father was inviting him to reward him for his help. When Musa recounted his story, the old man said, "Do not fear. You have escaped the wrongdoing people" (28:25). One of the daughters said, "O my father, hire him — the best one you can hire is the one who is strong and trustworthy" (28:26). The father then offered, "Indeed, I wish to marry you to one of these two daughters of mine, on condition that you serve me for eight years; and if you complete ten, that will be your own generosity" (28:27). Musa accepted with plain honesty, "That is between me and you. Whichever term I fulfill, let there be no injustice to me, and Allah is Witness over what we say" (28:28). Reflection: a sincere act of help — watering the flocks of two women he did not know, expecting nothing in return — opened the door to provision and family for Musa. Small kindnesses done with sincerity often become the gateway to a favor far greater than one could have imagined.

Episode 4: Fire at the Blessed Valley of Thuwa