And propound thou unto them the similitude of the inhabitants of a town, when there came thereto the sent ones. 13 We sent to them two Messengers and they rejected both of them as liars. Then We strengthened them with a third (Messenger). They said: “We have been sent to you as Messengers.” 14 They (people of the town) said: "You are only human beings like ourselves, and the Most Beneficent (Allah) has revealed nothing, you are only telling lies." 15 They said: our Lord knoweth that we are surely unto you the sent ones. 16 Our duty is to convey the message clearly." 17 They answered: 'We predict evil of you. If you do not desist, we will stone you and a painful punishment from us will befall you' 18 The Messengers replied: “Your evil omen is with you. (Are you saying this) because you were asked to take heed? The truth is that you are a people who have exceeded all bounds.” 19 Then, from the furthest part of the city, a man came running. He said, "My people, follow the messengers. 20 Follow such as ask no wage of you, that are right-guided. 21 For what cause should I not serve Him Who hath created me, and unto Whom ye will be brought back? 22 What, shall I take, apart from Him, gods whose intercession, if the All-merciful desires affliction for me, shall not avail me anything, and who will never deliver me? 23 “Undoubtedly, I am then in open error.” 24 I believe in your Lord, so hear me' 25 It was said (to him): 'Enter Paradise' and he said: 'Would that my people knew 26 How my Lord has forgiven me and made me one of those who are honoured!" 27 ۞ And We sent not against his people after him a host from heaven, nor do We send (such a thing). 28 It was only a single blast which made them extinct. 29 Ah! Alas for (My) Servants! There comes not a messenger to them but they mock him! 30 Have they not seen how many generations We destroyed before them, which indeed returned not unto them; 31 All of them, gathered together, will certainly be brought before Us. 32