Recite to them, as a case in point, the story of the people of the town when the Messengers came to them. 13 We sent to them two Messengers and they rejected both of them as liars. Then We strengthened them with a third (Messenger). They said: “We have been sent to you as Messengers.” 14 They said: You are naught but mortals like ourselves, nor has the Beneficent Allah revealed anything; you only lie. 15 The Messengers said: "Our Lord knows that we have been sent as Messengers to you, 16 “And our duty is nothing but to plainly convey (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 They said: Your evil fortune is with you; what! if you are reminded! Nay, you are an extravagant people. 19 A man came running from the farthest part of the city saying, "My people, follow the Messengers. 20 "Obey those who ask no wages of you (for themselves), and who are rightly guided. 21 "Why should I not worship God who has created me? To him you will all return. 22 Should I take other than Him [false] deities [while], if the Most Merciful intends for me some adversity, their intercession will not avail me at all, nor can they save me? 23 Surely, I should then be in clear error. 24 Indeed, I have believed in your Lord, so listen to me." 25 It was said, 'Enter Paradise!' He said, 'Ah, would that my people had knowledge 26 that my Lord has forgiven me, and caused me to be amongst the receivers of generosity' 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 no more than a single mighty Blast, and behold! they were (like ashes) quenched and silent. 29 Alas for mankind! There never came a Messenger to them but they used to mock at him. 30 See they not how many generations before them we destroyed? Not to them will they return: 31 They shall every one of them be arraigned before Us. 32