The Thamud gave the lie to the Messengers. 141 When their brother Salih said to them, "Will you not fear God? 142 I have been sent as a trusted messenger to you. 143 So fear Allah and obey me. 144 For this I demand no recompense from you; my reward is only with the Lord of the Universe. 145 Will you be left secure in this here, 146 amidst [these] gardens and springs 147 And tilled fields and heavy-sheathed palm-trees, 148 Though ye hew out dwellings in the mountain, being skilful? 149 "So fear Allah, keep your duty to Him, and obey me. 150 do not obey the bidding of those who are given to excesses, 151 "Who make mischief in the land, and mend not (their ways)." 152 They said: "Surely you are deluded. 153 You are but a man like ourselves, so bring a sign, if you should be of the truthful." 154 He said: 'Here is a shecamel. She shall have her share of water as you have yours on an appointed day. 155 Do not molest her lest the chastisement of an Awesome Day should seize you." 156 But they hamstrung her and then regretted it. 157 So the torment took hold of them: verily herein is a sign, but most of them are not believers. 158 And lo! thy Lord! He is indeed the Mighty, the Merciful. 159