۞ 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 they disbelieved their Messengers when they came to them with clear signs, and so Allah seized them. Surely, He is Strong, and Stern in retribution. 22 Of old We sent Moses, with Our Signs and an authority manifest, 23 to Pharaoh, Haman and Korah. But they said, "A magician, a liar." 24 And when he brought the truth to them from Us, they said: "Slay the sons of those who believe with him, and spare their women." But the unbelievers' stratagem is bound to fail. 25 And Pharaoh said, 'Let me slay Moses, and let him call to his Lord. I fear that he may change, your religion, or that he may cause corruption to appear in the land.' 26 Moses replied, "I seek refuge with my Lord and your Lord from every arrogant person who does not believe in the Day of Reckoning." 27