Set forth to them, by way of a parable, the (story of) the Companions of the City. Behold!, there came messengers to it. 13 When We sent them two messengers, they rejected them both, so We strengthened them with a third. They said, "Truly, we have been sent to you [by God] as messengers." 14 The people said, "You are mere mortals like us and the Beneficent God has sent nothing. You are only liars." 15 They said: our Lord knoweth that we are surely unto you the sent ones. 16 And it is only for us to deliver a Clear Message' 17 They (people) said: "For us, we see an evil omen from you, if you cease not, we will surely stone you, and a painful torment will touch you from us." 18 They said, "Your omen is with yourselves. Is it because you were reminded? Rather, you are a transgressing people." 19 And there came from the farthest part of the town a man running. He said; O my people! follow the sent ones. 20 Follow those who ask no recompense of you and 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 What, shall I take, apart from Him, gods whose intercession, if the All-merciful desires affliction for me, shall not avail me anything, and who will never deliver me? 23 Verily then I should be in error manifest. 24 Lo! I have believed in your Lord, so hear me! 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 ۞ And We sent not against his people after him a host from heaven, nor have We been sending down any such. 28 nothing was [needed] but one single blast [of Our punishment] - and lo! they became as still and silent as ashes. 29 Woe to human beings! Whenever a Messenger came to them, they mocked him. 30 Have they not seen how many nations before them did We destroy? Thereafter they never came back to them. 31 But all, without exception, will be brought before Us. 32