۞ Have they not travelled through the land and seen what was the end of those who have gone before them? They were stronger than them and made a more impressive mark upon the land, yet God destroyed them for their sins, they had no one to defend them against Him, 21 This was so because their apostles came with clear proofs to them, but they refused to believe. So they were seized by God. Surely God is powerful, unrelenting in retribution. 22 And assuredly We sent Musa with Our signs and a manifest authority. 23 To Pharaoh, Haman and Qarun; but they said, "[He is] a magician and a liar." 24 Now [as for Pharaoh and his followers,] when he came to them, setting forth the truth from Us, they said, "Slay the sons of those who share his beliefs, and spare [only] their women!" - but the guile of those deniers of the truth could not lead to aught but failure. 25 And Fir'awn said: let me alone, that I may slay Musa, and let him call upon his Lord. Verily I fear that he may change your religion or that he may cause to appear in the land corruption. 26 Moses said, "I seek protection from your and my Lord against every arrogant person who has no faith in the Day of Judgment." 27