Recite to them, as a case in point, the story of the people of the town when the Messengers came to them. 13 Lo! We sent unto them two [apostles,] and they gave the lie to both; and so We strengthened [the two] with a third; and thereupon they said: "Behold, we have been sent unto you [by God]!" 14 They said: You are naught but mortals like ourselves, nor has the Beneficent Allah revealed anything; you only lie. 15 (The messengers) said: "Our Lord knows that we have been sent to you. 16 And on us is naught but manifest preaching. 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 apostles] replied: "Your destiny, good or evil, is [bound up] with yourselves! [Does it seem evil to you] if you are told to take [the truth] to heart? Nay, but you are people who have wasted their own selves!" 19 Then a man came running from the other side of the city. "O my people," he said, "follow the messengers. 20 Follow those who ask no reward of you, and themselves are rightly guided! 21 Why should I not worship Him who has originated me and to whom you shall all be returned? 22 Should I take other gods apart from Him, who would neither be able to intercede for me nor save me if Ar-Rahman brings me harm? 23 Verily then I should be in error manifest. 24 Indeed, I have believed in your Lord, so listen to me." 25 (But they stoned him to death.) It was said to him: "Enter Paradise;" and he said: "If only my people knew 26 Of that on account of which my Lord has forgiven me and made me of the honored ones! 27 ۞ We did not send down any army against his people from heaven, nor did We have to send one. 28 It was no more than a single mighty Blast, and behold! they were (like ashes) quenched and silent. 29 Alas for My servants! Never does a Messenger come to them but they mock him. 30 What, have they not seen how many generations We have destroyed before them, and that it is not unto them that they return? 31 But each one of them all - will be brought before Us (for judgment). 32