(The tribe of) A'ad denied the messengers (of Allah). 123 When their brother Hud said to them: Will you not guard (against evil)? 124 I am a trustworthy Messenger to you. 125 be, then, conscious of God, and pay heed unto me! 126 I do not ask for any payment for my preaching. I shall receive my reward from the Lord of the Universe. 127 "Do you build high palaces on every high place, while you do not live in them? 128 "And do you get for yourselves palaces (fine buildings) as if you will live therein for ever. 129 And will you [always,] whenever you lay hand [on others,] lay hand [on them] cruelly, without any restraint? 130 So fear Allah, and obey me. 131 Keep your duty toward Him Who hath aided you with (the good things) that ye know, 132 succoured you with flocks and sons, 133 gardens and fountains. 134 Indeed, I fear for you the punishment of a dreadful Day' 135 They replied, "It makes no difference to us whether you preach or do not preach, 136 this is nothing but the habit of the ancients, 137 "And we are not the ones to receive Pains and Penalties!" 138 So they rejected him, and We destroyed them. Verily in this is a Sign: but most of them do not believe. 139 And indeed, your Lord - He is the Exalted in Might, the Merciful. 140