The Thamud gave the lie to the Messengers. 141 Their brother Salih said to them: 'Will you not be cautious? 142 Behold, I am an apostle [sent by Him] to you, [and therefore] worthy of your trust: 143 So fear God and follow me. 144 For this I demand no recompense from you; my reward is only with the Lord of the Universe. 145 Do you think that you will be left secure [forever] -- 146 In these gardens and these springs, 147 sown fields and palmtrees, with slender spathes. 148 Will you still hew your dwellings in the mountains? 149 So fear you God, and obey you me; 150 "And follow not the command of Al-Musrifun [i.e. their chiefs, leaders who were polytheists, criminals and sinners], 151 who do corruption in the earth, and set not things aright.' 152 They said: "Thou art only one of those bewitched! 153 Thou art but a mortal like us. So bring some token if thou art of the truthful. 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 But they hamstrung her; and on the morrow were repentant, 157 For they were seized by the torment. Verily there was a sign in this, but most of them did not believe. 158 And verily! Your Lord, He is indeed the All-Mighty, the Most Merciful. 159