AND WHEN Abraham spoke to his father and his people, [he had this very truth in mind:] "Verily, far be it from me to worship what you worship! 26 Other than Him who created me. He will show me the right way." 27 And he made it a word enduring among his posterity; haply so they would return. 28 In fact, We allowed them and their fathers to enjoy themselves until the truth and a strong Messenger came to them. 29 And when there came to them the truth they said: This is magic, and surely we are disbelievers in it. 30 Also, they say: "Why is not this Qur'an sent down to some leading man in either of the two (chief) cities?" 31 What, is it they who divide the Mercy of your Lord! (It is) We who divided between them their livelihoods in this life, raising some in rank above others, so that some may take the other into his service. Your Lord's Mercy is better than all they gather. 32 If it were not that all mankind might have become one community [of disbelievers], We could have given all those who deny the Lord of Mercy, houses with roofs of silver, silver staircases to ascend, 33 And for their houses doors (of silver) and couches of silver whereon to recline, 34 And gold ornament. But all that is not but the enjoyment of worldly life. And the Hereafter with your Lord is for the righteous. 35