And put forward to them a similitude; the (story of the) dwellers of the town, [It is said that the town was Antioch (Antakiya)], when there came Messengers to them. 13 When We sent them two messengers, they rejected them both, so We strengthened them with a third. They said, "Truly, we have been sent to you [by God] as messengers." 14 They said, 'You are naught but mortals like us; the All-merciful has not sent down anything. You are speaking only lies.' 15 They answered, “Our Lord knows that surely, without doubt, we have been sent towards you.” 16 And it is only for us to deliver a Clear Message' 17 Said [the others]: "Truly, we augur evil from you! Indeed, if you desist not, we will surely stone you, and grievous suffering is bound to befall you at our hands!" 18 They said: Your evil augury be with you! Is it because ye are reminded (of the truth)? Nay, but ye are froward folk! 19 Then, from the furthest part of the city, a man came running. He said, "My people, follow the messengers. 20 Follow those who ask of you no fee, and who are rightly guided. 21 And what aileth me that I should not worship Him who hath created me, and unto whom ye shall be returned. 22 Should I take other than Him [false] deities [while], if the Most Merciful intends for me some adversity, their intercession will not avail me at all, nor can they save me? 23 and so, behold, I would have indeed, most obviously, lost myself in error! 24 I believe in your Lord; so listen to me.” 25 (But they stoned him to death.) It was said to him: "Enter Paradise;" and he said: "If only my people knew 26 "For that my Lord has granted me Forgiveness and has enrolled me among those held in honour!" 27 ۞ We did not send down any army against his people from heaven, nor did We have to send one. 28 It was naught but a single cry, and lo! they were still. 29 Alas for mankind! There never came a Messenger to them but they used to mock at him. 30 Behold they not how many We have destroyed before them of the generations! verily unto them they shall not return. 31 And without exception, all of them will be brought forth before Us. 32