Recite to them, as a case in point, the story of the people of the town when the Messengers came to them. 13 We sent to them two, but they belied them so We reinforced them with a third. They said: 'We have surely been sent as Messengers to you' 14 The people of the town said: “You are only human beings like ourselves, and the Merciful Lord has revealed nothing. You are simply lying.” 15 Said [the apostles]: "Our Sustainer knows that we have indeed been sent unto you; 16 And it is only for us to deliver a Clear Message' 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 They said: Your evil augury be with you! Is it because ye are reminded (of the truth)? Nay, but ye are froward folk! 19 And there came from the farthest end of the city a man, running. He said, "O my people, follow the messengers. 20 follow those who do not ask any recompense from you and are rightly-guided. 21 "And why should I not worship Him (Allah Alone) Who has created me and to Whom you shall be returned. 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 and so, behold, I would have indeed, most obviously, lost myself in error! 24 Messengers, listen to me. I believe in your Lord." 25 We said to him, "Enter paradise," and he exclaimed: "Would that my people knew 26 “The manner in which my Lord has pardoned me and made me of the honoured ones!” 27 ۞ And after that, no host out of heaven did We send down against his people, nor did We need to send down any: 28 It was naught but a single cry, and lo! they were still. 29 Ah, woe for those servants! Never comes unto them a Messenger, but they mock at him. 30 Have they not seen how many generations We destroyed before them? They shall never return to them, 31 And all of them shall surely be brought before Us. 32