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 sent to them two but they denied them, so We strengthened them with a third, and they said, "Indeed, we are messengers 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 doth know that we have been sent on a mission to you: 16 And on us is naught but manifest preaching. 17 The people of the town said: “We believe you are an evil omen for us. If you do not desist, we will stone you or you will receive a grievous chastisement from us.” 18 They said: 'Your prediction is with you, if you are reminded. Surely, you are but a wayward nation' 19 In the meantime a man came running from the far end of the town, saying: “My people, follow the Messengers; 20 Follow such as ask no wage of you, that are right-guided. 21 Why should I not worship Him who has originated me and to whom you shall all be returned? 22 Shall I take others besides Him as gods? If the Gracious God should intend me any harm, their intercession will be of no avail, nor can they deliver me. 23 In that case I should indeed be in manifest error. 24 "For me, I have faith in the Lord of you (all): listen, then, to me!" 25 It was said to him, “Enter Paradise”; he said, “If only my people knew!” 26 that my Lord has forgiven me and that He has placed me among the honoured.' 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 not but one shout, and immediately they were extinguished. 29 Alas for the servants! there comes not to them an apostle but they mock at him. 30 Do they not see how many generations We have destroyed before them? Never shall they return to them. 31 all shall be arraigned before Us. 32