[AND the tribe of] Thamud gave the lie to [one of God's] message-hearers 141 Their brother Salih said to them: 'Will you not be cautious? 142 Surely I am a faithful apostle to you 143 Have fear of God and obey me. 144 I do not ask for any payment for my preaching. I shall receive my reward from the Lord of the Universe. 145 Do you believe that you will be left here to live securely in the present state 146 In these gardens and these springs, 147 and fields, and [these] palm-trees with slender spathes? 148 "And ye carve houses out of (rocky) mountains with great skill. 149 So be mindful of God and listen to me. 150 do not obey the bidding of those who are given to excesses, 151 and spread mischief in the land rather than set things right." 152 They replied: "You are nothing but one of those who are bewitched; 153 You are naught but a mortal like ourselves; so bring a sign if you are one of the truthful. 154 He said: "Here is a she-camel: she has a right of watering, and ye have a right of watering, (severally) on a day appointed. 155 And touch her not with ill, lest there take hold of you the torment of a Mighty Day. 156 But they hamstrung her, and in the morning they were remorseful, 157 So the retribution came on them. Lo! herein is indeed a portent, yet most of them are not believers. 158 And verily! Your Lord, He is indeed the All-Mighty, the Most Merciful. 159