In his absence, the nation of Moses made a calf from their ornaments, a body with a hollow sound. Did they not see that it could neither speak to them, nor guide them to a path? Yet they took it in worship and were harmdoers. 148 although [later,] when they would smite their hands in remorse, having perceived that they had gone astray, they would say: "Indeed, unless our Sustainer have mercy on us and grant us forgiveness, we shall most certainly be among the lost!" 149 And when Moses returned to his nation, angry and sorrowful, he said: 'Evil is what you have done in my absence! Would you hasten the retribution of your Lord' He threw down the Tablets, and seizing his brother by the head, dragged him towards him. 'Son of my mother' said (Aaron), 'the nation weakened me, and almost killed me. Do not let my enemies rejoice over me; do not number me among the harmdoers.' 150 He said, "My Lord, forgive me and my brother and admit us to Your mercy. You are the Most Merciful of the merciful." 151