But none save a few youths declared their faith in Moses, [while others held back] for fear that Pharaoh and his nobles would persecute them. Pharaoh was high and mighty in the land. And one who transgressed all bounds. 83 And Moses said: "O my people! If you believe in God, place your trust in Him - if you have [truly] surrendered yourselves unto Him!" 84 They said, "In God do we trust. Lord, do not subject us to the persecution of the unjust ones, 85 And deliver us in Thine mercy from the disbelieving people. 86 We inspired Moses and his brother with this Message: "Provide dwellings for your people in Egypt, make your dwellings into places of worship, and establish regular prayers: and give glad tidings to those who believe!" 87 'Our Lord' supplicated Moses. 'You have given Pharaoh and his Council adornments and possessions in this life. Our Lord, let them go astray from Your Path. Our Lord, destroy their possessions and harden their hearts so that they shall not believe until they see the painful punishment. 88 [God] answered: "Accepted is this your prayer! Continue, then, both of you, steadfastly on the right way, and follow not the path of those who have no knowledge [of right and wrong]." 89 ۞ And We brought the children of Israel across the sea; and thereupon Pharaoh and his hosts pursued them with vehement insolence and tyranny, until [they were overwhelmed by the waters of the sea. And] when he was about to drown, [Pharaoh] exclaimed: "I have come to believe that there is no deity save Him in whom the children of Israel believe, and I am of those who surrender themselves unto Him!" 90 [But God said:] "Now? - when ever before this thou hast been rebelling [against Us,] and hast been among those who spread corruption? 91 So We shall save your body this day, so that you may serve as a sign for those who come after you: for many people are indeed heedless of Our signs." 92