And propound thou unto them the similitude of the inhabitants of a town, when there came thereto the sent ones. 13 When We sent two of them they called them liars; so We sent a third to strengthen them. "We have been sent to you," they said. 14 The people of the town said: “You are only human beings like ourselves, and the Merciful Lord has revealed nothing. You are simply lying.” 15 The Messengers said: "Our Lord knows that we have been sent as Messengers to you, 16 “And our duty is nothing but to plainly convey (the 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 fortune is with you; what! if you are reminded! Nay, you are an extravagant people. 19 Then, from the furthest part of the city, a man came running. He said, "My people, follow the messengers. 20 Follow those who do not ask you for any reward and who are rightly guided. 21 And what reason have I that I should not serve Him Who brought me into existence? And to Him you shall be brought back; 22 What! Shall I take any deities apart from Him whose intercession will not avail me the least were the Merciful One to bring any adversity upon me, nor will they be able to rescue me? 23 In that case I would surely be in clear error. 24 Verily! I have believed in your Lord, so listen to me!" 25 (Having been murdered by the disbelievers) he was told to enter paradise 26 how my Lord has forgiven me and placed me among the honoured ones!" 27 ۞ And We did not send down upon his people after him any hosts from heaven, nor do We ever send down. 28 It was only one Cry and lo, they were silent and still. 29 Ah, the anguish for the bondmen! Never came there unto them a messenger but they did mock him! 30 Are they not aware of how many a generation We have destroyed before their time, [and] that those [that have perished] will never return to them, 31 They will all be brought together before Us. 32