The Thamud belied the sent ones 141 When their brother Salih said unto them: fear ye not? 142 Verily I am unto you an apostle trusted. 143 "So fear Allah, 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 think that you will remain here peacefully forever 146 amidst the gardens, springs, 147 and fields, and [these] palm-trees with slender spathes? 148 hewing out houses in the mountains and taking pride in your skill? 149 Have fear of God and obey me. 150 "And follow not the bidding of those who are extravagant,- 151 Who spread corruption in the earth, and reform not. 152 They replied, "Surely you are bewitched. 153 "You are but a human being like us. Then bring us a sign if you are of the truthful." 154 He said, "This is a she-camel. For her is a [time of] drink, and for you is a [time of] drink, [each] on a known day. 155 "Touch her not with harm, lest the Penalty of a Great Day seize you." 156 But they hamstrung her, and in the morning they were remorseful, 157 and the chastisement seized them. Surely in that is a sign, yet most of them are not believers. 158 Yet verily your Lord is mighty and merciful. 159