And put forward to them a similitude; the (story of the) dwellers of the town, [It is said that the town was Antioch (Antakiya)], when there came Messengers to them. 13 What time We sent unto them two, then they belied the twain, wherefore We strengthened them with a third, and they said: verily we are unto you the sent ones. 14 They replied, "You are nothing but mortal men like us and the Merciful God has not revealed anything. You are surely lying." 15 They answered: Our Lord knoweth that we are indeed sent unto you, 16 And it is only for us to deliver a Clear Message' 17 They rejoined: "We feel you augur ill. If you do not desist, we shall stone you to death, and inflict a grievous punishment on you." 18 (The messengers) said: "The augury is within your own selves. Do you (consider it a bad omen) that you should be warned? You are a people guilty of excess." 19 Then, from the furthest part of the city, a man came running. He said, "My people, follow the messengers. 20 Follow those who do not ask you for any reward and who are rightly guided. 21 And why should I not serve Him who originated me, and unto whom you shall be returned? 22 "Shall I take (other) gods besides Him? If (Allah) Most Gracious should intend some adversity for me, of no use whatever will be their intercession for me, nor can they deliver me. 23 "Then verily, I should be in plain error. 24 “Indeed I have believed in your Lord, so heed me.” 25 It was said: Enter the garden. He said: O would that my people had known 26 that my Lord has forgiven me and that He has placed me among the honoured.' 27 ۞ And We sent not against his people after him a host from heaven, nor have We been sending down any such. 28 It was only one Shout and they were silent, still. 29 Ah! Alas for (My) Servants! There comes not a messenger to them but they mock him! 30 Do they not consider how many of the generations have We destroyed before them, because they do not turn to them? 31 And without exception, all of them will be brought forth before Us. 32