Narrate to them the example of the people of the city when the messengers came to it. 13 We sent them two Messengers whom they rejected. We supported them by sending a third one who told the people, "We are the Messengers (of God) who have been sent to you". 14 They replied, "You are nothing but mortal men like us and the Merciful God has not revealed anything. You are surely lying." 15 They said: Our Lord knows that we are most surely apostles to you. 16 but we are not bound to do more than clearly deliver the message [entrusted to us]." 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 (The messengers) said: "The augury is within your own selves. Do you (consider it a bad omen) that you should be warned? You are a people guilty of excess." 19 A man came running from the farthest part of the city saying, "My people, follow the Messengers. 20 Follow him who does not ask you for reward, and they are the followers of the right course; 21 Why should I not worship Him who has originated me and to whom you shall all be returned? 22 What! shall I take besides Him gods whose intercession, If the Beneficent Allah should desire to afflict me with a harm, shall not avail me aught, nor shall they be able to deliver me? 23 Then truly I should be in error manifest. 24 Messengers, listen to me. I believe in your Lord." 25 It was said to him, “Enter Paradise”; he said, “If only my people knew!” 26 for what reason Allah has forgiven me and placed me among the honoured ones.” 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 Ah the misery of the bondmen! there cometh not unto them an apostle, but him they have been mocking. 30 Behold they not how many We have destroyed before them of the generations! verily unto them they shall not return. 31 all shall be arraigned before Us. 32