Episode 4

Episode 4: Facing the Fitna of the Golden Calf

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While Musa was at Mount Tur, a man named the Samiri led the Children of Israel astray. He fashioned a calf from their gold ornaments that made a lowing sound, and called the people to worship it. Most of them were seduced by it. Harun rose at once to warn them. Allah said, "And Harun had already told them before [the return of Musa], 'O my people, you are only being tested by it, and indeed, your Lord is the Most Merciful, so follow me and obey my order'" (Qur'an 20:90). But the stubborn people rejected his counsel. "They said, 'We will never cease being devoted to it until Musa returns to us'" (Qur'an 20:91). Harun did not stay silent before the wrong. He warned firmly that it was only a fitna (trial), and that only Allah, the Most Merciful, deserves worship. Yet he faced a defiant majority that even threatened his safety. Reflection: a true guide does not stay silent before deviation, however little power he holds. Harun fulfilled his duty — warning clearly. But guidance remains with Allah; counsel can be rejected by a heart overtaken by desire.

Episode 5: Harun Explains Himself to an Angry Musa