(Such were the circumstances) when We sent forth Noah to his people. (He said): 'I have been sent to you to warn you plainly 25 That you not worship except Allah. Indeed, I fear for you the punishment of a painful day." 26 The chiefs of the disbelievers among his people said: "We see you but a man like ourselves, nor do we see any follow you but the meanest among us and they (too) followed you without thinking. And we do not see in you any merit above us, in fact we think you are liars." 27 He said, “O my people! What is your opinion – if I am on a clear proof from my Lord and He has bestowed mercy upon me from Him, so you remained blind towards it; shall we force it upon you although you dislike it?” 28 "And O my people! I ask you for no wealth in return: my reward is from none but Allah: But I will not drive away (in contempt) those who believe: for verily they are to meet their Lord, and ye I see are the ignorant ones! 29 "And O my people! who would help me against Allah if I drove them away? Will ye not then take heed? 30 I do not say to you that I possess Allah's treasures, nor that I have access to the realm beyond the ken of sense-perception, nor do I claim to be an angel. Nor do I say regarding those whom you look upon with disdain that Allah will not bestow any good upon them. Allah knows best what is in their hearts. Were I to say so I would be one of the wrongdoers.' 31 They said: "O Noah, you have argued with us, and disputed at length; so bring that (retribution) you promise, if you speak the truth." 32 He said, “Allah will surely bring that upon you if He wills, and you will not be able to escape.” 33 My advice will be of no benefit to you if God wants to let you go astray. He is your Lord and to Him you will all return." 34 Or do they say, "He has forged it"? Say: "If I had forged it, on me were my sin! and I am free of the sins of which ye are guilty! 35