And set out to them an example of the people of the town, when the apostles came to it. 13 We sent to them two Messengers and they rejected both of them as liars. Then We strengthened them with a third (Messenger). They said: “We have been sent to you as Messengers.” 14 They replied, "You are nothing but mortal men like us and the Merciful God has not revealed anything. You are surely lying." 15 (The messengers) said: "Our Lord knows that we have been sent to you. 16 Our duty is to convey the message clearly." 17 Said [the others]: "Truly, we augur evil from you! Indeed, if you desist not, we will surely stone you, and grievous suffering is bound to befall you at our hands!" 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 any recompense from you and are rightly-guided. 21 For what cause should I not serve Him Who hath created me, and unto Whom ye will be brought back? 22 Shall I take beside Him gods when, if the Compassionate should intend me any harm, their intercession will avail me not at all, nor would they save me? 23 Then truly I should be in error manifest. 24 Verily! I have believed in your Lord, so listen to me!" 25 It was said: "Enter thou the Garden." He said: "Ah me! Would that my People knew (what I know)!- 26 how my Lord has forgiven me and placed me among the honoured ones!" 27 ۞ And We sent not against his people after him a host from heaven, nor have We been sending down any such. 28 nothing was [needed] but one single blast [of Our punishment] - and lo! they became as still and silent as ashes. 29 Alas for the servants! there comes not to them an apostle but they mock at him. 30 Do they not see how many generations We have destroyed before them? Never shall they return to them. 31 They will all be brought together before Us. 32