AND SET FORTH unto them a parable - [the story of how] the people of a township [behaved] when [Our] message-bearers came unto them. 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 They said, 'You are naught but mortals like us; the All-merciful has not sent down anything. You are speaking only lies.' 15 They said, 'Our Lord knows we are Envoys unto 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 prediction is with you, if you are reminded. Surely, you are but a wayward nation' 19 In the meantime a man came running from the far end of the town, saying: “My people, follow the Messengers; 20 Follow those who ask of you no fee, and who are rightly guided. 21 For what cause should I not serve Him Who hath created me, and unto Whom ye will be brought back? 22 Shall I take others besides Him as gods? If the Gracious God should intend me any harm, their intercession will be of no avail, nor can they deliver me. 23 In that case I should indeed be in manifest error. 24 Surely I believe in your Lord, therefore hear me. 25 (But they stoned him to death.) It was said to him: "Enter Paradise;" and he said: "If only my people knew 26 how my Lord has forgiven me and placed me among the honoured ones!" 27 ۞ We sent not down against his people after him a host from heaven, nor do We ever send. 28 It was but one Saihah (shout, etc.) and lo! They (all) were silent (dead-destroyed). 29 Alas for the servants! there comes not to them an apostle but they mock at him. 30 Have they not considered how many generations We destroyed before them - that they to them will not return? 31 They shall every one of them be arraigned before Us. 32