The Qur'an (Oxford World's Classics)

28. THE STORY
A Meccan sura which centres on the story of Moses and takes its title from the
reference to the story told by Moses in verse 25. Its main theme is the bad end that
comes to those who are arrogant and spread corruption, like Pharaoh and
Qarun––polytheism is denounced at various points throughout the sura––and a
link is made between these and the disbelievers of Mecca. The Prophet is
reminded that he cannot make everyone believe (verse 56) and should remain
steadfast (verse 87).
In the name of God, the Lord of Mercy, the Giver of Mercy
1 Ta Sin Mim
2 These are the verses of the Scripture that makes things clear: 3 We
recount to you [Prophet] part of the story of Moses and Pharaoh,
setting out the truth for people who believe. 4 Pharaoh made himself
high and mighty in the land and divided the people into different
groups: one group he oppressed, slaughtering their sons and sparing
their women––he was one of those who spread corruption––5 but We
wished to favour those who were oppressed in that land, to make
them leaders, the ones to survive, 6 to establish them in the land, and
through them show Pharaoh, Haman, and their armies the very
thing they feared.
7 We inspired Moses’ mother, saying, ‘Suckle him, and then, when
you fear for his safety, put him in the river: do not be afraid, and do
not grieve, for We shall return him to you and make him a messenger.’
8 Pharaoh’s household picked him up––later to a become an
enemy and a source of grief for them: Pharaoh, Haman, and their
armies were wrongdoers––9 and Pharaoh’s wife said, ‘Here is a joy to
behold for me and for you! Do not kill him: he may be of use to us, or
we may adopt him as a son.’ They did not realize what they were
doing. 10 The next day, Moses’ mother felt a void in her heart––if We
had not strengthened it to make her one of those who believe, she
would have revealed everything about him––11 and she said to his
sister, ‘Follow him.’ So she watched him from a distance, without
a Li here indicates consequence rather than purpose.