Indeed We sent Moses with Our Signs to Pharaoh and his nobles. He told them: “I am a Messenger of the Lord of the Universe.” 46 But when he brought them Our signs, at once they laughed at them. 47 (Even though) each miracle that We showed them was greater than the other. So We seized them with chastisement so that they may turn back. 48 And they said [to Moses], "O magician, invoke for us your Lord by what He has promised you. Indeed, we will be guided." 49 But lo, each time We removed Our affliction from them, they would go back on their word. 50 And Pharaoh caused a proclamation to be made among his people saying: O my people! Is not mine the sovereignty of Egypt and these rivers flowing under me? Can ye not then discern? 51 Am I not better than this lowly man who can barely express himself? 52 Why were bracelets of gold not bestowed upon him? Why did a retinue of angels not accompany him as attendants?” 53 Thus he persuaded his people to make light (of Moses), and they obeyed him. Lo! they were a wanton folk. 54 But when they roused Our anger We inflicted retributive punishment and drowned them all, 55 And We made them a precedent and an ensample unto those after. 56