craft or vocation, or any position whose very purpose is to safeguard and supervise workers and their work. When a person brings the two traits together—being strong enough for the task, in a manner appropriate to the nature of that work, and being trustworthy in carrying it out—the job is done properly and its goal and fruit are attained. Any flaw or shortcoming arises only from neglecting one or both of these qualities.

• Another lesson: Among the greatest hallmarks of noble character is treating with kindness everyone connected to you—servant, employee, wife, child, business partner, and others. Part of that kindness is to lighten the workload for the laborer, as in his words, “I do not intend to burden you. You will find me, God willing, among the righteous” (Q 28:27). The verse also shows that it is permissible for a contracting party, whether in sales or hire, to invite another to deal with him by describing himself as fair and easy to work with, provided he is truthful.

• Another lesson: It is permissible to conclude transactions—hire and otherwise—without calling witnesses, as indicated by the statement, “And Allah is Witness over what we say” (Q 28:28). Even so, we noted earlier that having witnesses preserves rights and reduces disputes. People differ in how much they need this safeguard, and so do the rights involved.

• Another lesson: the clear signs with which Allah supported Moses:
• His staff, which he knew so well, turned into a slithering snake and then returned (1) to its original form.
• When he placed his hand inside his cloak and then withdrew it, it came out shining white, unmarred, for all to see.
• Allah’s protection (2) and safeguarding of Moses and Aaron from Pharaoh and his chiefs.