Tell them the story of the people of the town to whom Messengers came. 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 They said, “You are nothing but mortals like us; the Most Gracious has not sent down anything – you are nothing but liars.” 15 The Messengers said: “Our Lord knows that we have indeed been sent to you 16 but we are not bound to do more than clearly deliver the message [entrusted to us]." 17 (The people of the city) said: We augur ill of you. If ye desist not, we shall surely stone you, and grievous torture will befall you at our hands. 18 They said: 'Your prediction is with you, if you are reminded. Surely, you are but a wayward nation' 19 Then, from the furthest part of the city, a man came running. He said, "My people, follow the messengers. 20 Follow him who does not ask you for reward, and they are the followers of the right course; 21 And what aileth me that I should not worship Him who hath created me, and unto whom ye shall be returned. 22 Shall I take beside Him gods when, if the Compassionate should intend me any harm, their intercession will avail me not at all, nor would they save me? 23 and so, behold, I would have indeed, most obviously, lost myself in error! 24 “Indeed I have believed in your Lord, so heed me.” 25 (Having been murdered by the disbelievers) he was told to enter paradise 26 That my Lord hath forgiven me, and hath made me of the honoured ones. 27 ۞ And We sent not against his people after him a host from heaven, nor do We send (such a thing). 28 There was but a single Blast and suddenly they became silent and still. 29 Alas for the servants! there comes not to them an apostle but they mock at him. 30 Are they not aware of how many a generation We have destroyed before their time, [and] that those [that have perished] will never return to them, 31 all shall be arraigned before Us. 32