And put forward to them a similitude; the (story of the) dwellers of the town, [It is said that the town was Antioch (Antakiya)], when there came Messengers to them. 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 But they said: 'You are only humans like ourselves. The Merciful has not sent down anything, your speech is but lies' 15 They said: our Lord knoweth that we are surely unto you the sent ones. 16 and it is only for us to deliver the Manifest Message.' 17 They (the people of the city) said, “We think you are ominous; indeed, if you do not desist, we shall surely stone you to death, and you will surely face a grievous torture at our hands.” 18 They said: your evil augury be with you. Call ye it an ill-luck because ye are admonished! Aye! ye are a people extravagant. 19 In the meantime a man came running from the far end of the town, saying: “My people, follow the Messengers; 20 Follow him who does not ask you for reward, and they are the followers of the right course; 21 “And what is the matter with me that I should not worship Him Who created me, whereas it is towards Him that you are to return?” 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 In that case I should indeed be in manifest error. 24 Surely I believe in your Lord, therefore hear me. 25 It was said (unto him): Enter paradise. He said: Would that my people knew 26 How my Lord has forgiven me and made me one of those who are honoured!" 27 ۞ We did not send an army against his people from the heaven after his death nor did We need to send one. 28 It was only one Cry and lo, they were silent and still. 29 Ah, woe for those servants! Never comes unto them a Messenger, but they mock at him. 30 See they not how many generations before them we destroyed? Not to them will they return: 31 But each one of them all - will be brought before Us (for judgment). 32