Strike for them a similitude -- the inhabitants of the city, when the Envoys came 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 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 knows that we are Messengers to you. 16 And we are not responsible except for clear notification." 17 They said, "Indeed, we consider you a bad omen. If you do not desist, we will surely stone you, and there will surely touch you, from us, a painful punishment." 18 The Messengers said, "This ill omen lies within yourselves. Will you then take heed? In fact, you are a transgressing people." 19 Then, from the furthest part of the city, a man came running. He said, "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 "[As for me,] why should I not worship Him who has brought me into being, and to whom you all will be brought back? 22 Should I worship other gods besides Him? If the Beneficent God was to afflict me with hardship, the intercession of the idols can be of no benefit to me nor could it rescue me from hardship. 23 In that case I would surely be in clear error. 24 Indeed, I have believed in your Lord, so listen to me." 25 It was said (to him): 'Enter Paradise' and he said: 'Would that my people knew 26 (wherein he said), "Would that people knew how my Lord has granted me forgiveness and honor". 27 ۞ And after him, We did not send down any army from heaven against his people, nor did We intend to send down an army. 28 It was only one Cry and lo, they were silent and still. 29 How regretful for the servants. There did not come to them any messenger except that they used to ridicule him. 30 Have they not seen how many generations We destroyed before them, which will not return to them? 31 And indeed, all of them will yet be brought present before Us. 32