Set forth to them, by way of a parable, the (story of) the Companions of the City. Behold!, there came messengers to it. 13 We sent them two Messengers whom they rejected. We supported them by sending a third one who told the people, "We are the Messengers (of God) who have been sent to you". 14 They said: ye are but human beings like ourselves; the Compassionate hath not sent down aught; ye are only lying. 15 They said, "Our Lord knows that We are Messengers 16 And our duty is but plain conveyance (of the message). 17 They answered: 'We predict evil of you. If you do not desist, we will stone you and a painful punishment from us will befall you' 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 A man came running from the farthest part of the city saying, "My people, follow the Messengers. 20 follow those who do not ask any recompense from you and 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 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 Verily then I should be in error manifest. 24 I believe in your Lord, so hear me' 25 It was said (to him when the disbelievers killed him): "Enter Paradise." He said: "Would that my people knew! 26 that my Lord has forgiven me, and caused me to be amongst the receivers of generosity' 27 ۞ We did not send down any army against his people from heaven, nor did We have to send one. 28 There was but a single Blast and suddenly they became silent and still. 29 How regretful for the servants. There did not come to them any messenger except that they used to ridicule him. 30 Have they not seen how many generations have We destroyed before them who will not return again? 31 And indeed, all of them will yet be brought present before Us. 32