Tell them the story of the people of the town to whom Messengers came. 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 They answered, “Our Lord knows that surely, without doubt, we have been sent towards you.” 16 but we are not bound to do more than clearly deliver the message [entrusted to us]." 17 The people said, "We have ill omens about you. If you will not desist, we shall stone you and make you suffer a painful torment". 18 They said, "Your evil augury be with you! Is it because you are admonished about the truth? Surely, you are a people transgressing all bounds!" 19 And there came from the farthest end of the city a man, running. He said, "O my people, follow the messengers. 20 Follow those who do not ask for any recompense of you, and are rightly guided. 21 "Why should I not worship Him who has brought me into being, and to whom you shall all be recalled? 22 Shall I take (other) gods in place of Him when, if the Beneficent should wish me any harm, their intercession will avail me naught, nor can they save? 23 (Had I worshipped things besides God, I would have been in manifest error). 24 “Indeed I have believed in your Lord, so heed me.” 25 It was said (to him): 'Enter Paradise' and he said: 'Would that my people knew 26 for what reason Allah has forgiven me and placed me among the honoured ones.” 27 ۞ We did not send an army against his people from the heaven after his death nor did We need to send one. 28 it was but one great blast and they fell down lifeless. 29 Woe, for those (unbelieving) worshipers! They mocked every Messenger that came to them. 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 And indeed, all of them will yet be brought present before Us. 32