[AND the tribe of] Thamud gave the lie to [one of God's] message-hearers 141 when their brother Salih said unto them: "Will you not be conscious of God? 142 Truly, I am a trustworthy messenger for you, 143 Therefore guard against (the punishment of) Allah and obey me: 144 "No reward do I ask of you for it: my reward is only from the Lord of the Worlds. 145 Do you believe that you will be left here to live securely in the present state 146 In gardens and watersprings. 147 And green crops (fields etc.) and date-palms with soft spadix. 148 Though ye hew out dwellings in the mountain, being skilful? 149 “Therefore fear Allah and obey me.” 150 And obey not the command of the extravagant. 151 those who spread corruption on earth instead of setting things to rights!" 152 They replied: "You are nothing but one of those who are bewitched; 153 You are but a man like ourselves, so bring a sign, if you should be of the truthful." 154 Salih said: "This is a she-camel. There is a day set for her to drink and there is a day set for you to drink. 155 "Touch her not with harm, lest the Penalty of a Great Day seize you." 156 But they hamstrung her and then regretted it. 157 for the suffering [predicted by Salih,] befell them [then and there]. In this [story,] behold, there is a message [unto men,] even though most of them will not believe [in it]. 158 And indeed your Lord – only He is the Almighty, the Most Merciful. 159