AND SET FORTH unto them a parable - [the story of how] the people of a township [behaved] when [Our] message-bearers came unto them. 13 When We sent to them two but they denied them, so We strengthened them with a third, and they said, "Indeed, we are messengers to you." 14 But they said: 'You are only humans like ourselves. The Merciful has not sent down anything, your speech is but lies' 15 They answered, “Our Lord knows that surely, without doubt, we have been sent towards you.” 16 And nothing devolves on us but a clear deliverance (of the message). 17 They (the people of the city) said, “We think you are ominous; indeed, if you do not desist, we shall surely stone you to death, and you will surely face a grievous torture at our hands.” 18 They said: Your evil fortune is with you; what! if you are reminded! Nay, you are an extravagant people. 19 Then a man came running from the other side of the city. "O my people," he said, "follow the messengers. 20 Follow those who ask of you no fee, and who are rightly guided. 21 Why should I not worship Him who brought me into being, to whom you will be brought back in the end? 22 What! Shall I take any deities apart from Him whose intercession will not avail me the least were the Merciful One to bring any adversity upon me, nor will they be able to rescue me? 23 “Undoubtedly, I am then in open error.” 24 “Indeed I have believed in your Lord, so heed me.” 25 We said to him, "Enter paradise," and he exclaimed: "Would that my people knew 26 for what reason Allah has forgiven me and placed me among the honoured ones.” 27 ۞ We did not send an army against his people from the heaven after his death nor did We need to send one. 28 It was no more than a single mighty Blast, and behold! they were (like ashes) quenched and silent. 29 Ah, woe for those servants! Never comes unto them a Messenger, but they mock at him. 30 See they not how many generations before them we destroyed? Not to them will they return: 31 But each one of them all - will be brought before Us (for judgment). 32