The meaning of “do not be hard on me in my affair”

Irhāq (“to burden”) means to cover and encompass, and the phrase “do not be hard on me in my affair” means do not take me to task and do not impose hardship upon me. “In my affair” refers to the promise he made and then forgot about.(241)

It should be noted that from the expression “And do not be hard upon me in my affair” it appears that Moses was trying to understand the secrets and mysteries of Khiḍr’s actions, because he knew that he was wise and his actions were based on wisdom, and that he possessed divine mercy and divine knowledge (ʿilm ladunī). Therefore, he asked him not to be harsh with him and to show leniency, and Khiḍr accepted and allowed him to accompany him. It is also understood from this phrase that all of Moses’ questions of inquiry revolve around Khiḍr’s actions, not objections to the doer. This is why he repeatedly expresses his discipleship to the doer and offers apologies.

According to some, when Moses saw that despite breaking part of the ship and making a hole in it, which opened a way for water to enter, no water actually entered the ship, he asked to be excused for his question arising from forgetfulness.(242)