Set forth to them, by way of a parable, the (story of) the Companions of the City. Behold!, there came messengers to it. 13 When We sent to them two but they denied them, so We strengthened them with a third, and they said, "Indeed, we are messengers to you." 14 They said: Ye are but mortals like unto us. The Beneficent hath naught revealed. Ye do but lie! 15 They said: 'Our Lord knows that we are Messengers to you. 16 and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.” 17 They (the people of the city) said, “We think you are ominous; indeed, if you do not desist, we shall surely stone you to death, and you will surely face a grievous torture at our hands.” 18 They said, 'Your augury is with you; if you are reminded? But you are a prodigal people.' 19 In the meantime a man came running from the far end of the town, saying: “My people, follow the Messengers; 20 Follow those who ask no reward of you, and themselves are rightly guided! 21 And why should I not serve Him who originated me, and unto whom you shall be returned? 22 Should I worship other gods besides Him? If the Beneficent God was to afflict me with hardship, the intercession of the idols can be of no benefit to me nor could it rescue me from hardship. 23 and so, behold, I would have indeed, most obviously, lost myself in error! 24 Messengers, listen to me. I believe in your Lord." 25 It was said: Enter the garden. He said: O would that my people had known 26 Of how my Lord has forgiven me and placed me among the honored." 27 ۞ And after him, We did not send down any army from heaven against his people, nor did We intend to send down an army. 28 It was no more than a single mighty Blast, and behold! they were (like ashes) quenched and silent. 29 Ah! Alas for (My) Servants! There comes not a messenger to them but they mock him! 30 What, have they not seen how many generations We have destroyed before them, and that it is not unto them that they return? 31 And surely, all, everyone of them will be brought before Us. 32