Hopes Revived by Moses
An educational method that motivates people to seek education is giving hope to them. A hope is an expectation of better conditions to come in the future.
God, the Almighty, who is the greatest teacher, uses this method in the Quran, saying: “If you avoid violating that which has been prohibited, your (lesser) sins will be forgiven and you will be admitted into an exalted dwelling.” (Verse 31 of Surah An-Nisa)
Using the method of giving hope, God wants to spread His mercy to all people and guide them this way. There are also attributes of God that raise hope in people. Some of these attributes that are frequently mentioned in the Quran include Ghaffar al-Zunub (one who forgive sins), Rahman (merciful), and Tawwab (one who accepts repentance).
Prophet Moses (AS), who is a messenger of God, has also used this method.
1- Creating hope in those who remain patient.
When pharaoh decided to kill all Bani Isra’il boys, it causes big concern and fear among the people. But Prophet Moses (AS) sowed the seeds of hope in their hearts:
“Moses said to his nation: ‘Seek help from Allah and be patient. The earth belongs to Allah; He gives it as a heritage to whom He chooses amongst His worshipers. The outcome is for the cautious.’” (Verse 128 of Surah Al-A’raf)
The story of Bani Isra’il in the Quran shows that they acted upon this advice, remained patient and the divine promise was fulfilled.
2- Creating hope in those persecuted.
The Bani Isra’il, who had been tired of pharaoh’s persecutions complained to Moses (AS): “His people said, ‘We suffered a great deal before you came and we are still suffering even after you have come.’ Moses (tried to encourage them) by saying, ‘There is hope that your Lord will destroy your enemies and make you (their) successors in the land. So consider how you act.’” (Verse 129 of Surah Al-A’raf)
Moses (AS) gave the people hope by telling them that pharaoh and his companions would soon be destroyed.
