The Thamud belied the sent ones 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 you God, and obey you me.' 144 "And no reward whatever do I ask of you for it: my reward rests with none but the Sustainer of all the worlds. 145 Shall ye be left secure in that which is here before us. 146 "Gardens and Springs, 147 and cornfields, and palm-trees laden with fruit -- 148 And hew ye out houses in the mountains skilfully! 149 Therefore guard against (the punishment of) Allah and obey me; 150 "And follow not the command of Al-Musrifun [i.e. their chiefs, leaders who were polytheists, criminals and sinners], 151 who spread evil in the land with no reform." 152 They replied, "Surely you 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 so do her no harm, or the punishment of an awful day will befall you." 156 Yet they hamstrung her, and then they became regretful: 157 So the torment overtook them. Verily, in this is indeed a sign, yet most of them are not believers. 158 Your Lord, He is the Almighty, the Most Merciful. 159