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 They said, "You are not but human beings like us, and the Most Merciful has not revealed a thing. You are only telling lies." 15 They said, "Our Lord knows that We are Messengers 16 but we are not bound to do more than clearly deliver the message [entrusted to us]." 17 The people said, "We have ill omens about you. If you will not desist, we shall stone you and make you suffer a painful torment". 18 They said: Your evil augury be with you! Is it because ye are reminded (of the truth)? Nay, but ye are froward folk! 19 At that, a man came running from the farthest end of the city, [and] exclaimed: "O my people! Follow these message-bearers! 20 "Obey those who ask no reward of you (for themselves), and who have themselves received Guidance. 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 Should I take other gods apart from Him, who would neither be able to intercede for me nor save me if Ar-Rahman brings me harm? 23 (Had I worshipped things besides God, I would have been in manifest error). 24 Indeed, I have believed in your Lord, so listen to me." 25 It was said (to him): 'Enter Paradise' and he said: 'Would that my people knew 26 That my Lord hath forgiven me, and hath made me of the honoured ones. 27 ۞ And We sent not against his people after him a host from heaven, nor have We been sending down any such. 28 There was just one blast, and they were extinguished. 29 Alas for My servants! Never does a Messenger come to them but they mock him. 30 See they not how many generations before them we destroyed? Not to them will they return: 31 They will all be brought together before Us. 32