Set forth to them, by way of a parable, the (story of) the Companions of the City. Behold!, there came messengers to it. 13 We sent them two Messengers whom they rejected. We supported them by sending a third one who told the people, "We are the Messengers (of God) who have been sent to you". 14 The people said, "You are mere mortals like us and the Beneficent God has sent nothing. You are only liars." 15 (The messengers) said: "Our Lord knows that we have been sent to you. 16 but we are not bound to do more than clearly deliver the message [entrusted to us]." 17 They said, 'We augur ill of you. If you give not over, we will stone you and there shall visit you from us a painful chastisement.' 18 They said: 'Your prediction is with you, if you are reminded. Surely, you are but a wayward nation' 19 Then there came running, from the farthest part of the City, a man, saying, "O my people! Obey the messengers: 20 Follow those who do not ask for any recompense of you, and are rightly guided. 21 "[As for me,] why should I not worship Him who has brought me into being, and to whom you all will be brought back? 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 shall most surely be in clear error: 24 I believe in your Lord, so listen to me." 25 [And] he was told, "[Thou shalt] enter paradise!" - [whereupon] he exclaimed: "Would that my people knew 26 Of how my Lord has forgiven me and placed me among the honored." 27 ۞ And We did not send down upon his people after him any hosts from heaven, nor do We ever send down. 28 It was just one scream, and with it they were extinguished. 29 Ah the misery of the bondmen! there cometh not unto them an apostle, but him they have been mocking. 30 Do they not see how many of the generations We have destroyed before them? Verily, they will not return to them. 31 And without exception, all of them will be brought forth before Us. 32