And propound thou unto them the similitude of the inhabitants of a town, when there came thereto the sent ones. 13 We sent to them two Messengers and they rejected both of them as liars. Then We strengthened them with a third (Messenger). They said: “We have been sent to you as Messengers.” 14 "You are only men like us," they replied; "Ar-Rahman has not sent down any thing. You are speaking only lies." 15 They said, "Our Lord knows that We are Messengers 16 And we are not responsible except for clear notification." 17 They (people) said: "For us, we see an evil omen from you, if you cease not, we will surely stone you, and a painful torment will touch you from us." 18 The Messengers replied: “Your evil omen is with you. (Are you saying this) because you were asked to take heed? The truth is that you are a people who have exceeded all bounds.” 19 And from the outermost part of the city came a man running; he said, “O my people! Obey those who have been sent.” 20 Follow those who ask of you no fee, and who are rightly guided. 21 And why should I not serve Him who originated me, and unto whom you shall be returned? 22 Shall I take others besides Him as gods? If the Gracious God should intend me any harm, their intercession will be of no avail, nor can they deliver me. 23 Surely in that case I should be in manifest error. 24 Messengers, listen to me. I believe in your Lord." 25 (But they stoned him to death.) It was said to him: "Enter Paradise;" and he said: "If only my people knew 26 Of that on account of which my Lord has forgiven me and made me of the honored ones! 27 ۞ And We sent not against his people after him a host from heaven, nor do We send (such a thing). 28 nothing was [needed] but one single blast [of Our punishment] - and lo! they became as still and silent as ashes. 29 Ah the misery of the bondmen! there cometh not unto them an apostle, but him they have been mocking. 30 Do they not see how many generations We have destroyed before them? Never shall they return to them. 31 They shall every one of them be arraigned before Us. 32