99. After the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt which marks, on the one
hand, the end of the constraints of slavery and on the other, the beginning
of their life as an independent nation, Moses was summoned by God to Mount Sinai
in order that he might receive the Law for Israel. He was initially summoned
for a period of forty days so that he might single-mindedly devote himself to
worshipping, fasting, meditation and reflection and thus develop the ability
to receive the revelation which was to put a very heavy burden upon him.
In compliance with God's command, Moses left the Israelites at the place now
known as the Wadi al-Shaykh which lies between Nabi Salih and Mount Sinai. The
place where the Israelites had camped is presently called
Maydan al-Rahah. At one end of the valley is a hillock where, according to local
tradition, the Prophet Salih pitched his tent after his migration from the land
of Thamud. A mosque built as a monument to the Prophet Salih still adorns the
landscape. Mount Harun is located at the other end of the valley where, again,
according to local tradition, the Prophet Harun (Aaron) stayed after his exasperation
with the Israelites because of their cow-worship. The top of the towering Mount
Sinai, standing 7,359 feet high, is mostly enveloped by clouds. The cave to
which Moses retired for forty days to devote himself to worship and meditation
is situated at the top of the mountain, and still attracts many pilgrims. Close
to the cave are a mosque and a church. Moreover, a monastery built in the Justinian
period stands even today at the foot of the mountain. (See Tafhim al-Qur'an,
(al-Naml 27: nn. 9-10).
100. Although Aaron was senior to Moses in age by three years, he was placed under the direction of the Prophet Moses and was required to assist him in connection with his mission, As explained elsewhere in the Qur'an, Aaron was not assigned independent prophethood; he was rather appointed a Prophet by God in response to Moses' prayer that he be appointed as his assistant. See (Ta Ha 20: 29-31 - Ed.)