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, they rejected both of them, then We strengthened (them) with a third, so they said: Surely we are apostles to you. 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 They said: 'Our Lord knows that we are Messengers to you. 16 And our duty is but plain conveyance (of the message). 17 They rejoined: "We feel you augur ill. If you do not desist, we shall stone you to death, and inflict a grievous punishment on you." 18 [The apostles] replied: "Your destiny, good or evil, is [bound up] with yourselves! [Does it seem evil to you] if you are told to take [the truth] to heart? Nay, but you are people who have wasted their own selves!" 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 not of you any hire, and who are rightly guided. 21 For what cause should I not serve Him Who hath created me, and unto Whom ye will be brought back? 22 What, shall I take, apart from Him, gods whose intercession, if the All-merciful desires affliction for me, shall not avail me anything, and who will never deliver me? 23 In that case I should indeed be in manifest error. 24 Behold, I believe in your Lord; therefore hear me!' 25 It was said: "Enter thou the Garden." He said: "Ah me! Would that my People knew (what I know)!- 26 that my Lord has forgiven me and that He has placed me among the honoured.' 27 ۞ We did not send down any army against his people from heaven, nor did We have to send one. 28 It was but one Saihah (shout, etc.) and lo! They (all) were silent (dead-destroyed). 29 Alas for men! No apostle ever came to them but they made fun of him. 30 See they not how many generations before them we destroyed? Not to them will they return: 31 All of them shall (one day) be gathered before Us. 32