Tell them the story of the people of the town to whom Messengers came. 13 When We (first) sent to them two messengers, they rejected them: But We strengthened them with a third: they said, "Truly, we have been sent on a mission to you." 14 They replied, "You are nothing but mortal men like us and the Merciful God has not revealed anything. You are surely lying." 15 The Messengers said: “Our Lord knows that we have indeed been sent to you 16 but we are not bound to do more than clearly deliver the message [entrusted to us]." 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 augury is with you; if you are reminded? But you are a prodigal people.' 19 And there came from the farthest end of the city a man, running. He said, "O my people, follow the messengers. 20 Follow those who ask no reward of you, and themselves are rightly guided! 21 And what aileth me that I should not worship Him who hath created me, and unto whom ye shall be returned. 22 “What! Shall I appoint Gods other than Allah? So that if the Most Gracious should wish me any harm, their intercession would be of no use to me, nor would they be able to save me?” 23 "Then verily, I should be in plain error. 24 Indeed, I have believed in your Lord, so listen to me." 25 It was said, "Enter Paradise." He said, "I wish my people could know 26 How my Lord has forgiven me and made me one of those who are honoured!" 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 but one Shout, and lo! they were extinct. 29 Ah! Alas for (My) Servants! There comes not a messenger to them but they mock him! 30 Do they not see how many generations We have destroyed before them? Never shall they return to them. 31 And all of them shall surely be brought before Us. 32