And set out to them an example of the people of the town, when the apostles came to it. 13 When We sent two of them they called them liars; so We sent a third to strengthen them. "We have been sent to you," they said. 14 They said: You are naught but mortals like ourselves, nor has the Beneficent Allah revealed anything; you only lie. 15 They said: 'Our Lord knows that we are Messengers to you. 16 but we are not bound to do more than clearly deliver the message [entrusted to us]." 17 The (people) said: "for us, we augur an evil omen from you: if ye desist not, we will certainly stone you. And a grievous punishment indeed will be inflicted on you by us." 18 The Messengers replied: “Your evil omen is with you. (Are you saying this) because you were asked to take heed? The truth is that you are a people who have exceeded all bounds.” 19 And there came from the uttermost part of the city a man running. He cried: O my people! Follow those who have been sent! 20 Follow those who ask no reward of you, and themselves are rightly guided! 21 Why should I not serve the One Who created me and to Whom all of you shall be sent back? 22 Should I take other than Him [false] deities [while], if the Most Merciful intends for me some adversity, their intercession will not avail me at all, nor can they save me? 23 Verily then I should be in error manifest. 24 Messengers, listen to me. I believe in your Lord." 25 It was said, "Enter Paradise." He said, "I wish my people could know 26 How my Lord has forgiven me and made me one of those who are honoured!" 27 ۞ We sent not down against his people after him a host from heaven, nor do We ever send. 28 nothing was [needed] but one single blast [of Our punishment] - and lo! they became as still and silent as ashes. 29 Ah, woe for those servants! Never comes unto them a Messenger, but they mock at him. 30 Have they not seen how many generations We destroyed before them, which indeed returned not unto them; 31 all shall be arraigned before Us. 32