(The nation of) Aad belied their Messengers. 123 When their brother Hood said to them: 'Will you not be cautious? 124 “I am indeed a trustworthy Noble Messenger of Allah to you.” 125 So fear Allah and obey me. 126 And I ask of you no wage therefor; my wage is the concern only of the Lord of the Worlds. 127 Do you build over each high place a sign to amuse yourselves! 128 And seek ye out strongholds, that haply ye may last for ever? 129 and when you strike you strike like tyrants? 130 "So fear Allah, keep your duty to Him, and obey me. 131 and fear Him who has succoured you with what you know, 132 "He has aided you with cattle and children. 133 gardens and fountains. 134 I fear the punishment of a terrible day for you. 135 They replied, "It makes no difference to us whether you preach or do not preach, 136 your preaching is nothing but ancient legends and we shall not face any torment". 137 and we shall not be chastised.' 138 So they belied him, so We destroyed them. Surely, in that there is a sign; yet most of them do not believe. 139 And indeed your Lord – only He is the Almighty, the Most Merciful. 140