The Thamud (people) rejected the messengers. 141 When their brother Salih said to them, "Will you not fear God? 142 Surely I am a faithful apostle to you 143 so fear you God, and obey you me.' 144 For this I demand no recompense from you; my reward is only with the Lord of the Universe. 145 Do you think that you will be left secure [forever] -- 146 in the midst of gardens and fountains, 147 And green crops (fields etc.) and date-palms with soft spadix. 148 "And you carve houses out of mountains with great skill. 149 So fear Allah, and obey me. 150 and do not follow the biddings of those that go to excesses 151 and spread mischief in the land rather than set things right." 152 They said, "You are only bewitched and insane. 153 Thou art nothing but a mortal like ourselves! Come, then, forward with a token [of thy mission] if thou art a man of truth!" 154 He said, 'This is a she-camel; to her a draught and to you a draught, on a day appointed, 155 so do her no harm, or the punishment of an awful day will befall you." 156 So they hamstrung her, and in the morning could only regret. 157 But the Penalty seized them. Verily in this is a Sign: but most of them do not believe. 158 And lo! thy Lord! He is indeed the Mighty, the Merciful. 159