AND SET FORTH unto them a parable - [the story of how] the people of a township [behaved] when [Our] message-bearers came unto them. 13 What time We sent unto them two, then they belied the twain, wherefore We strengthened them with a third, and they said: verily we are unto you the sent ones. 14 [The others] answered: "You are nothing but mortal men like ourselves; moreover, the Most Gracious has never bestowed aught [of revelation] from on high. You do nothing but lie!" 15 Said [the apostles]: "Our Sustainer knows that we have indeed been sent unto you; 16 and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.” 17 but they answered, "We see an evil omen in you. If you do not stop, we shall certainly stone you, and you will suffer a painful punishment at our hands." 18 They said: "Your evil omens are with yourselves: (deem ye this an evil omen). If ye are admonished? Nay, but ye are a people transgressing all bounds!" 19 And from the remote part of the city there came a man running, he said: O my people! follow the apostles; 20 "Obey those who ask no reward of you (for themselves), and who have themselves received Guidance. 21 Why should I not serve the One Who created me and to Whom all of you shall be sent back? 22 "Shall I take (other) gods besides Him? If (Allah) Most Gracious should intend some adversity for me, of no use whatever will be their intercession for me, nor can they deliver me. 23 Then truly I should be in error manifest. 24 Indeed, I have believed in your Lord, so listen to me." 25 It was said: Enter the garden. He said: O would that my people had known 26 "For that my Lord has granted me Forgiveness and has enrolled me among those held in honour!" 27 ۞ After him, We did not send down any hosts from the heaven; We stood in no need to send down any host. 28 It was just one scream, and with it they were extinguished. 29 Woe, for those (unbelieving) worshipers! They mocked every Messenger that came to them. 30 Have they not seen how many generations We destroyed before them, which will not return to them? 31 And without exception, all of them will be brought forth before Us. 32