And We had certainly sent Noah to his people, and he said, "O my people, worship Allah; you have no deity other than Him; then will you not fear Him?" 23 But the notables among his people had refused to believe, and said: "This is none other than a mortal like yourselves who desires to attain superiority over you. Had Allah wanted (to send any Messengers) He would have sent down angels. We have heard nothing like this in the time of our forebears of old (that humans were sent as Messengers). 24 He is only a madman, so, as far as he is concerned wait for a while." 25 Nuh said: my Lord! vindicate me, for they belie me. 26 So We asked him to build the ark under Our eyes and guidance, (and said): "When Our command is issued and the source of water boils over, put a pair of every species in it, and your family except those for whom Our sentence has been passed already; and do not speak to Me for those who are wicked: They will be drowned. 27 And then when you and those accompanying you are firmly seated in the Ark, say: "Thanks be to Allah Who has delivered us from the wrong-doing people." 28 And say, "'O my Lord, do Thou harbour me in a blessed harbour, for Thou art the best of harbourers." 29 In this story there is enough evidence (of the Truth); thus do We try (mankind) 30 Then We raised after them another generation. 31 and We sent amongst them a Messenger of themselves, saying, 'Serve God! You have no god other than He. Will you not be godfearing?' 32