And We sent not a prophet to any township but We laid hold of the people thereof with tribulation and distress that haply they may humble themselves. 94 then We transformed the affliction into ease of life, so that they throve and said [to themselves,] "Misfortune and hardship befell our forefathers as well - whereupon We took them to task, all of a sudden, without their being aware [of what was coming]. 95 Had the people of the villages believed and been cautious, We would have opened upon them the blessings from heaven and earth. But they belied, and We seized them for what they earned. 96 Do the people of those towns feel secure that Our punishment will not come to them at night while they are asleep? 97 Do the people of the cities feel secure Our might shall not come upon them in daylight while they are playing? 98 Did they consider themselves secure from the retribution of God? No one can have such attitude except those who are lost. 99