And present to them an example: the people of the city, when the messengers came to it - 13 When We had sent two towards them and they denied them both, so We fortified them with a third, and they all said, “Indeed we have been sent to you.” 14 [The others] answered: "You are nothing but mortal men like ourselves; moreover, the Most Gracious has never bestowed aught [of revelation] from on high. You do nothing but lie!" 15 (The messengers) said: "Our Lord knows that we have been sent to you. 16 "And our duty is only to convey plainly (the Message)." 17 They said, "Indeed, we consider you a bad omen. If you do not desist, we will surely stone you, and there will surely touch you, from us, a painful punishment." 18 (The messengers) said: "The augury is within your own selves. Do you (consider it a bad omen) that you should be warned? You are a people guilty of excess." 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 what aileth me that I should not worship Him who hath created me, and unto whom ye shall be returned. 22 “What! Shall I appoint Gods other than Allah? So that if the Most Gracious should wish me any harm, their intercession would be of no use to me, nor would they be able to save me?” 23 Surely, I should then be in clear error. 24 Indeed, I have believed in your Lord, so listen to me." 25 (Eventually they killed him and he was told): “Enter Paradise.” The man exclaimed: “Would that my people knew 26 for what reason Allah has forgiven me and placed me among the honoured ones.” 27 ۞ After him We did not send down against his people a host from heaven, nor do We send down such hosts: 28 It was but one Saihah (shout, etc.) and lo! They (all) were silent (dead-destroyed). 29 Alas for mankind! There never came a Messenger to them but they used to mock at him. 30 Have they not seen how many generations have We destroyed before them who will not return again? 31 All of them, gathered together, will certainly be brought before Us. 32