We sent (aforetime), to the Thamud, their brother Salih, saying, "Serve Allah": But behold, they became two factions quarrelling with each other. 45 (Saleh) said: "O people, why do you wish to hasten evil rather than good? Why not ask for God's forgiveness? You may well be forgiven." 46 They said, "We have an ill omen about you and your followers." Salih replied, God has made your ill fortune await you. You are a people on trial." 47 And there were in the city nine persons who made mischief in the land and did not act aright. 48 [and] after having bound one another by an oath in God's name, they said: "Indeed, we shall suddenly fall upon him and his household by night [and slay them all]; and then we shall boldly say to his next of kin, 'We did not witness the destruction of his household - and behold, we are indeed men of truth!'" 49 And they devised a device, and We likewise devised a device, while they were not aware; 50 And behold the consequences of their devising! We destroyed them, and their nation altogether. 51 Now such were their houses, - in utter ruin, - because they practised wrong-doing. Verily in this is a Sign for people of knowledge. 52 And We delivered those who believed and who guarded (against evil). 53 And Lot! when he said unto his folk: Will ye commit abomination knowingly? 54 You lust after men in place of women. You are indeed a stolid people." 55 ۞ But the answer of his people was not except that they said, "Expel the family of Lot from your city. Indeed, they are people who keep themselves pure." 56 We therefore rescued him and his family, except his wife; We had decreed that she is of those who will remain behind. 57 And We showered a rain upon them; so what a wretched rain for those who were warned! 58