Tell them the story of the people of the town to whom Messengers came. 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: Ye are but mortals like unto us. The Beneficent hath naught revealed. Ye do but lie! 15 They said: Our Lord knows that we are most surely apostles to you. 16 but we are not bound to do more than clearly deliver the message [entrusted to us]." 17 but they answered, "We see an evil omen in you. If you do not stop, we shall certainly stone you, and you will suffer a painful punishment at our hands." 18 [The apostles] replied: "Your destiny, good or evil, is [bound up] with yourselves! [Does it seem evil to you] if you are told to take [the truth] to heart? Nay, but you are people who have wasted their own selves!" 19 Then, from the furthest part of the city, a man came running. He said, "My people, follow the messengers. 20 Follow those who do not ask of you [any] payment, and they are [rightly] guided. 21 Why should I not worship Him who brought me into being, to whom you will be brought back in the end? 22 What! shall I take besides Him gods whose intercession, If the Beneficent Allah should desire to afflict me with a harm, shall not avail me aught, nor shall they be able to deliver me? 23 Surely in that case I should be in manifest error. 24 Verily! I have believed in your Lord, so listen to me!" 25 It was said: Enter the garden. He said: O would that my people had known 26 for what reason Allah has forgiven me and placed me among the honoured ones.” 27 ۞ And We sent not down upon his people, after him, any host out of heaven; neither would We send any down. 28 it was but one great blast and they fell down lifeless. 29 Alas for mankind! There never came a Messenger to them but they used to mock at him. 30 Have they not considered how many generations We destroyed before them - that they to them will not return? 31 And surely, all, everyone of them will be brought before Us. 32