And not an Ayâh (sign, etc.) We showed them but it was greater
than its fellow, and We seized them with torment, in order that they might turn
[from their polytheism to Allâh's religion (Islâmic Monotheism)]. (48) And they said [to
Mûsa (Moses)]: "O you sorcerer! Invoke your Lord for us according to what
He has covenanted with you. Verily, We shall guide ourselves (aright)." (49) But when We removed
the torment from them, behold, they broke their covenant (that they will
believe if We remove the torment from them). (50) And Fir'aun (Pharaoh)
proclaimed among his people, (saying:) "O my people! Is not mine the
dominion of Egypt,
and these rivers flowing underneath me. See you not then? (51) "Am I not better
than this one [Mûsa (Moses)], who is despicable] and can scarcely express
himself clearly? (52) "Why then are not golden bracelets bestowed on him, or
angels sent along with him?" (53) Thus he [Fir'aun (Pharaoh)] befooled (and
misled) his people, and they obeyed him. Verily, they were ever a people who
were Fâsiqûn (rebellious, disobedient to Allâh). (54) So when they angered
Us, We punished them, and drowned them all. (55) And We made them a
precedent (as a lesson for those coming after them), and an example to later
generations. (56) And when the son of Maryam (Mary) is quoted as an example [i.e.
'Īsā (Jesus) is worshipped like their idols), behold! Your people cry
aloud (laugh out at the example). (57) And say: "Are our âlihah (gods) better
or is he ['Īsā (Jesus)]?" They quoted not the above example
except for argument. Nay! But they are a quarrelsome people. [(See VV. 21:97-101)] (58) He ['Īsā
(Jesus)] was not more than a slave. We granted Our Favour to him, and We made
him an example for the Children of Israel (i.e. his creation without a
father). (59) And if it were Our Will, We would have [destroyed you (mankind)
all, and] made angels to replace you on the earth. [Tafsir At-Tabarî]. (60)