And indeed, [in times long past] We sent forth Noah unto his people, and he dwelt among them a thousand years bar fifty; and then the floods overwhelmed them while they were still lost in evildoing: 14 So We delivered him and the inmates of the ark, and made it a sign to the nations. 15 And [We sent] Abraham, when he said to his people, "Worship Allah and fear Him. That is best for you, if you should know. 16 You worship idols besides God and fabricate falsehoods. Those whom you worship besides God have no power to provide sustenance for you. So seek your sustenance from God and worship Him and be grateful to Him, for to Him you shall return. 17 "And if ye reject (the Message), so did generations before you: and the duty of the messenger is only to preach publicly (and clearly)." 18 Have they not seen how Allah initiates the creation, then will create it again? Indeed that is easy for Allah. 19 Say, [O Muhammad], "Travel through the land and observe how He began creation. Then Allah will produce the final creation. Indeed Allah, over all things, is competent." 20 He punishes whom He wills and has mercy upon whom He wills, and to Him you will be returned. 21 You are not able to frustrate Him either in the earth or in heaven; and you have not, apart from God, either protector or helper. 22