Set forth to them, by way of a parable, the (story of) the Companions of the City. Behold!, there came messengers to it. 13 When We sent two of them they called them liars; so We sent a third to strengthen them. "We have been sent to you," they said. 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 And we are not responsible except for clear notification." 17 The people of the town said: “We believe you are an evil omen for us. If you do not desist, we will stone you or you will receive a grievous chastisement from us.” 18 They said: Your evil fortune is with you; what! if you are reminded! Nay, you are an extravagant people. 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 do not ask you for any reward and who are rightly guided. 21 And why should I not serve Him who originated me, and unto whom you shall be returned? 22 Should I take other gods apart from Him, who would neither be able to intercede for me nor save me if Ar-Rahman brings me harm? 23 and so, behold, I would have indeed, most obviously, lost myself in error! 24 I believe in your Lord, so hear me' 25 It was said (to him when the disbelievers killed him): "Enter Paradise." He said: "Would that my people knew! 26 "For that my Lord has granted me Forgiveness and has enrolled me among those held in honour!" 27 ۞ And We did not send down upon his people after him any soldiers from the heaven, nor would We have done so. 28 nothing was [needed] but one single blast [of Our punishment] - and lo! they became as still and silent as ashes. 29 How regretful for the servants. There did not come to them any messenger except that they used to ridicule him. 30 Have they not considered how many generations We destroyed before them - that they to them will not return? 31 all shall be arraigned before Us. 32