Narrate to them the example of the people of the city when the messengers came to it. 13 What time We sent unto them two, then they belied the twain, wherefore We strengthened them with a third, and they said: verily we are unto you the sent ones. 14 The people said, "You are mere mortals like us and the Beneficent God has sent nothing. You are only liars." 15 The Messengers said: “Our Lord knows that we have indeed been sent to you 16 “And our duty is nothing but to plainly convey (the message).” 17 They rejoined: "We feel you augur ill. If you do not desist, we shall stone you to death, and inflict a grievous punishment on you." 18 They said: Your evil fortune is with you; what! if you are reminded! Nay, you are an extravagant people. 19 In the meantime a man came running from the far end of the town, saying: “My people, follow the Messengers; 20 “Obey those who do not ask any fee from you, and they are on guidance.” 21 And why should I not serve Him who originated me, and unto whom you shall be returned? 22 Should I take to worshipping [other] deities beside Him? [But then,] if the Most Gracious should will that harm befall me, their intercession could not in the least avail me, nor could they save me: 23 "Then verily, I should be in plain error. 24 Verily! I have believed in your Lord, so listen to me!" 25 It was said (unto him): Enter paradise. He said: Would that my people knew 26 how my Sustainer has forgiven me [the sins of my past,] and has placed me among the honoured ones!" 27 ۞ And We did not send down upon his people after him any soldiers from the heaven, nor would We have done so. 28 It was naught but a single cry, and lo! they were still. 29 Ah the misery of the bondmen! there cometh not unto them an apostle, but him they have been mocking. 30 Have they not seen how many generations We destroyed before them, which will not return to them? 31 They will all be brought together before Us. 32