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 unto them two men, but they cried them lies, so We sent a third as reinforcement. They said, 'We are assuredly Envoys unto 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 we are Envoys unto you; 16 And it is only for us to deliver a Clear Message' 17 They (people) said: "For us, we see an evil omen from you, if you cease not, we will surely stone you, and a painful torment will touch you from us." 18 They said, “Your evil omens are with you! What! You get annoyed for being advised? In fact you are a people who transgress the limits!” 19 In the meantime a man came running from the far end of the town, saying: “My people, follow the Messengers; 20 Follow such as ask no wage of you, that are right-guided. 21 For what cause should I not serve Him Who hath created me, and unto Whom ye will be brought back? 22 Shall I take beside Him gods when, if the Compassionate should intend me any harm, their intercession will avail me not at all, nor would they save me? 23 In that case I shall most surely be in clear error: 24 Verily I believe now in your Lord; so hearken unto me. 25 It was said, "Enter Paradise." He said, "I wish my people could know 26 (wherein he said), "Would that people knew how my Lord has granted me forgiveness and honor". 27 ۞ And We did not send down upon his people after him any soldiers from the heaven, nor would We have done so. 28 nothing was [needed] but one single blast [of Our punishment] - and lo! they became as still and silent as ashes. 29 Alas for the servants! there comes not to them an apostle but they mock at him. 30 See they not how many generations before them we destroyed? Not to them will they return: 31 But all, without exception, will be brought before Us. 32