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 We sent them two Messengers whom they rejected. We supported them by sending a third one who told the people, "We are the Messengers (of God) who have been sent to you". 14 They said, 'You are naught but mortals like us; the All-merciful has not sent down anything. You are speaking only lies.' 15 They said: Our Lord knows that we are most surely apostles to you. 16 And it is only for us to deliver a Clear Message' 17 They said, 'We augur ill of you. If you give not over, we will stone you and there shall visit you from us a painful chastisement.' 18 They said: Your evil fortune is with you; what! if you are reminded! Nay, you are an extravagant 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 “Obey those who do not ask any fee from you, and they are on guidance.” 21 And what aileth me that I should not worship Him who hath created me, and unto whom ye shall be returned. 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 In that case I would surely be in clear error. 24 Behold, I believe in your Lord; therefore hear me!' 25 It was said, 'Enter Paradise!' He said, 'Ah, would that my people had knowledge 26 "For that my Lord has granted me Forgiveness and has enrolled me among those held in honour!" 27 ۞ After him We did not send down against his people a host from heaven, nor do We send down such hosts: 28 It was only one Cry and lo, they were silent and still. 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 will not return to them? 31 and [that] all of them, all together, will [in the end] before Us be arraigned? 32