Recite to them, as a case in point, the story of the people of the town when the Messengers came to them. 13 When We had sent two towards them and they denied them both, so We fortified them with a third, and they all said, “Indeed we have been sent to you.” 14 They replied, "You are nothing but mortal men like us and the Merciful God has not revealed anything. You are surely lying." 15 They said: "Our Lord doth know that we have been sent on a mission to you: 16 but we are not bound to do more than clearly deliver the message [entrusted to us]." 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 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 In the meantime a man came running from the far end of the town, saying: “My people, follow the Messengers; 20 Follow those who do not ask you for any reward and who 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 gods apart from Him, who would neither be able to intercede for me nor save me if Ar-Rahman brings me harm? 23 "I would indeed, if I were to do so, be in manifest Error. 24 Messengers, listen to me. I believe in your Lord." 25 It was said: "Enter thou the Garden." He said: "Ah me! Would that my People knew (what I know)!- 26 that my Lord has forgiven me, and caused me to be amongst the receivers of generosity' 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 no more than a single mighty Blast, and behold! they were (like ashes) quenched and silent. 29 And it was said, “Woe to those bondmen – whenever a Noble Messenger comes to them, they mock at him!” 30 Have they not seen how many generations We destroyed before them, which indeed returned not unto them; 31 All of them, gathered together, will certainly be brought before Us. 32