Thamud denied the messengers 141 Their brother Salih asked them, "Why do you not fear God? 142 I am for you a faithful Messenger, 143 So fear Allah and obey me. 144 'I ask of you no wage for this; my wage falls only upon the Lord of all Being. 145 “Will you be left peacefully in these favours over here?” 146 In gardens and watersprings. 147 and cornfields, and palm-trees laden with fruit -- 148 And hew ye out houses in the mountains skilfully! 149 Therefore guard against (the punishment of) Allah and obey me; 150 “And do not follow those who exceed the limits.” 151 Who cause corruption in the land and do not amend." 152 They said, "You are only of those affected by magic. 153 You are only a human being like ourselves. Show us a sign, if you are telling the truth." 154 He said: This is a she-camel; she shall have her portion of water, and you have your portion of water on an appointed time; 155 And do not touch her with evil, lest the punishment of a grievous day should overtake you. 156 But they hamstrung her, and then were penitent. 157 so the punishment came down upon them. Surely in that there is a sign, but most of them would not believe. 158 And verily thy Lord is He, the Exalted in Might, Most Merciful. 159