When Our messengers brought Abraham the good news [of the birth of Isaac] they [also] said, "We are indeed going to destroy the people of this city, for the people of this city are truly wrongdoers." 31 He said: "But there is Lut there." They said: "Well do we know who is there: we will certainly save him and his following,- except his wife: she is of those who lag behind!" 32 When Our emissaries came to Lot he was distressed and embarrassed on their account. They said: “Do not fear nor be distressed. We shall save you and all your household except your wife who is among those that will stay behind. 33 We are surely going to bring down a punishment from heaven on the people of this town because of their depravities." 34 And certainly We have left a clear sign of it for a people who understand. 35 And We sent to Midian their brother Shuayb. He said: “My people, serve Allah and look forward to the Last Day and do not go about the earth committing mischief.” 36 In response they denied him – thereupon the earthquake seized them – so at morning they remained lying flattened in their homes. 37 (Remember also) the 'Ad and the Thamud (people): clearly will appear to you from (the traces) of their buildings (their fate): the Evil One made their deeds alluring to them, and kept them back from the Path, though they were gifted with intelligence and skill. 38 And Korah, Pharaoh, and Haman Moses came to them with clear signs, but they became very insolent in the earth, yet they did not outstrip Us. 39 Each of them We seized for his sin. On some We loosed a squall of pebbles, and others were seized by the Cry. Some We caused to be swallowed up by the earth, and some We drowned. Allah would never wrong them but they wronged themselves. 40 The likeness of those who have taken guardians, other than Allah, is as the likeness of the spider that takes to itself a house; surely the spider's house is the weakest house if they but knew. 41 Verily Allah doth know of (every thing) whatever that they call upon besides Him: and He is Exalted (in power), Wise. 42 These are the parables that We set forth to make people understand. But only those endowed with knowledge will comprehend them. 43 Allah created the heavens and the earth in true (proportions): verily in that is a Sign for those who believe. 44