The Thamud accused the messengers of lies. 141 Their brother Salih asked them, "Why do you not fear God? 142 Behold, I am an apostle [sent by Him] to you, [and therefore] worthy of your trust: 143 So fear Allah and obey me. 144 And I do not ask you for it any payment. My payment is only from the Lord of the worlds. 145 "Do you think that you will remain here peacefully forever 146 amidst the gardens, springs, 147 and cornfields and date-palms laden with juicy fruits? 148 And you hew houses out of the mountains exultingly; 149 Therefor keep your duty to Allah and obey me, 150 and pay no heed to the counsel of those who are given to excesses 151 Who work corruption in the land and rectify not. 152 They replied: "You are nothing but one of those who are bewitched; 153 You are nothing but a man like us. Bring us a token if you speak the truth." 154 He said, "This is a she-camel. She will have her share of water as you have your share, each on a certain day. 155 And do not touch her with harm, lest you be seized by the punishment of a terrible day." 156 But they cruelly slaughtered her - and then they had cause to regret it: 157 And the punishment seized them. Indeed in that is a sign, but most of them were not to be believers. 158 Surely thy Lord, He is the All-mighty, the All-compassionate. 159