To Thamood We sent their brother Salih saying: 'Worship Allah' But they were two parties in dispute with one another. 45 Said [Salih to the erring ones]: Why do you seek to hasten the coming upon you of evil instead of hoping for the good?" Why do you not, rather, ask God to forgive you your sins, so that you might be graced with His mercy?" 46 They answered: "We augur evil from thee and those that follow thee!" Said he: "Your destiny, good or evil, rests with God; yea, you are people undergoing a test!" 47 There were nine tribes in the city spreading evil without any reform in the land. 48 they said, 'Swear you, one to another, by God, "We will attack him and his family by night, then we will tell his protector, We were not witnesses of the destruction of his family; and assuredly we are truthful men."' 49 So they plotted a plot: and We plotted a plot, while they perceived not. 50 and behold, how was the end of their device! For We destroyed them and their people all together. 51 Now such were their houses, - in utter ruin, - because they practised wrong-doing. Verily in this is a Sign for people of knowledge. 52 And we saved those who believed and used to ward off (evil). 53 And Lut! what time he said unto his people: commit ye indecency while ye see? 54 Would ye really approach men in your lusts rather than women? Nay, ye are a people (grossly) ignorant! 55 ۞ The only answer of his people was, "Drive out Lot and his family from the city. They are a people who make themselves out to be pure." 56 We saved (Lot) and his family except his wife who was destined to remain behind. 57 And We rained down on them a shower (of brimstone): and evil was the shower on those who were admonished (but heeded not)! 58