And indeed, [in times long past] We sent forth Noah unto his people, and he dwelt among them a thousand years bar fifty; and then the floods overwhelmed them while they were still lost in evildoing: 14 But We saved him and the companions of the Ark, and We made the (Ark) a Sign for all peoples! 15 And [We sent] Abraham, when he said to his people, "Worship Allah and fear Him. That is best for you, if you should know. 16 You worship only [lifeless] idols instead of God, and [thus] you give visible shape to a lie! Behold, those [things and beings] that you worship instead of God have it not in their power to provide sustenance for you: seek, then, all [your] sustenance from God, and worship Him [alone] and be grateful to Him: [for] unto Him you shall be brought back! 17 If you belie me, other nations before you also belied. It is only for a Messenger to deliver the clear deliverance. 18 Have they not seen how God begins the creation and then turns it back? This is not difficult at all for God. 19 Say, [O Muhammad], "Travel through the land and observe how He began creation. Then Allah will produce the final creation. Indeed Allah, over all things, is competent." 20 He punishes whom He will and shows mercy to whom He pleases. And to Him you shall be returned. 21 And you will not cause failure [to Allah] upon the earth or in the heaven. And you have not other than Allah any protector or any helper. 22