۞ Have they, then, never journeyed about the earth and beheld what happened in the end to those [deniers of the truth] who lived before their time? Greater were they in power than they are, and in the impact which they left on earth: but God took them to task for their sins, and they had none to defend them against God: 21 that was because their messengers came to them with clear signs but they rejected them. So God seized them: He is powerful, severe in punishment. 22 Verily We sent Moses with Our Signs and a clear authority 23 unto Pharaoh, and Haman, and Qarun; but they [only] said, "A spellbinder is he, a liar!" 24 And when he brought them the Truth from Our presence, they said: Slay the sons of those who believe with him, and spare their women. But the plot of disbelievers is in naught but error. 25 And Pharaoh said: "Leave it to me to slay Moses - and let him invoke his [alleged] sustainer! Behold, I fear lest he cause you to change your religion, or lest he cause corruption to prevail in the land!" 26 Moses said: 'I take refuge in my Lord and in your Lord from every proud (person), who does not believe in Day of Reckoning' 27