None but a few youths of Moses' people accepted him, fearing that Pharaoh and their own chiefs would persecute them. Indeed Pharaoh was mighty in the land, he was among those who exceed all limits. 83 And Moses said, "O my people, if you have believed in Allah, then rely upon Him, if you should be Muslims." 84 They answered: "We have placed our trust in God. O Lord, do not make us a target of oppression for these tyrannical people, 85 And do Thou deliver us by Thy mercy from the unbelieving people. 86 And [thus] did We inspire Moses and his brother: "Set aside for your people some houses in the city, and [tell them,] 'Turn your houses into places of worship, and be constant in prayer!' And give thou [O Moses] the glad tiding [of God's succour] to all believers." 87 Moses prayed, "Our Lord, You have bestowed upon Pharaoh and his nobles pomp and wealth in the present life, whereby they lead people astray from Your path. Our Lord, destroy their riches and harden their hearts, so that they shall not believe until they are faced with grievous punishment." 88 The Lord replied, "Moses, the prayer of your brother and yourself has been heard. Both of you must be steadfast (in your faith) and must not follow the ignorant ones." 89 ۞ We brought the Children of Israel through the sea, and Pharaoh and his legions pursued them arrogantly and frantically. But as he was drowning he cried out: '(Now) I believe that there is no god except He in whom the Children of Israel believe. I am of those that surrender (Muslims)' 90 [But God said:] "Now? - when ever before this thou hast been rebelling [against Us,] and hast been among those who spread corruption? 91 We shall preserve your body today that you may be a lesson for those who come after you; as many a man is heedless of Our signs." 92