The Implication of the Word ‘Death’ in Al-Baqarah 2: 55 - 56…
I have a question about this verse, what is actually meant by "then we raised you up after your death", can you tell me in what context is this said:
"And remember ye said: "O Moses! We shall never believe in thee until we see Allah manifestly," but ye were dazed with thunder and lighting even as ye looked on. Then We raised you up after your death: Ye had the chance to be grateful." (2: 55 - 56)
Can we allow for the possibility that it is spiritual death, which is meant here, or is the physical part in us more important?
I hope you can help
Thanks
Truth Seeker
Reply
In my opinion, the word ‘death’ in the referred verse is used figuratively for ‘unconsciousness’. The previous verse clearly states that when the Israelites demanded to see God, great thunder and lightening followed. It seems that the Israelites were rendered unconscious by the extreme severity of the thunder and lightening. Later on, God raised them up again from their unconsciousness. The Qur’an has referred to this raising up from their unconsciousness in the words: “We raised you up after your death”. By referring to this particular unconsciousness by the words ‘death’, the Qur’an has, in a way, also indicated that the gravity of their (i.e. the Israelite’s) crime was such that they actually deserved to be put to death for it. Yet, God, in His all-encompassing mercy, pardoned them, so that they be grateful to Him.
Nevertheless, one may interpret the word ‘death’ in its literal meaning. In that case, the implication of the verse would be that when they made their unreasonable demand, they were struck by lightening and were all rendered dead. However, later on at Moses’ (pbuh) invocations and prayers, they were pardoned and brought to life again, so that they be grateful for God’s mercy upon them.
The words ‘Then We raised you up again after your death’ may, as you have suggested, be taken to imply a spiritual (moral) raising-up. Nevertheless, I am more inclined towards the first of the three options.
I hope this helps.
Regards,