Set forth to them, by way of a parable, the (story of) the Companions of the City. Behold!, there came messengers to it. 13 When We sent unto them twain, and they denied them both, so We reinforced them with a third, and they said: Lo! we have been sent unto you. 14 They said, 'You are naught but mortals like us; the All-merciful has not sent down anything. You are speaking only lies.' 15 They said: 'Our Lord knows that we are Messengers to you. 16 but we are not bound to do more than clearly deliver the message [entrusted to us]." 17 They answered: 'We predict evil of you. If you do not desist, we will stone you and a painful punishment from us will befall you' 18 They said: Your evil augury be with you! Is it because ye are reminded (of the truth)? Nay, but ye are froward folk! 19 In the meantime a man came running from the far end of the town, saying: “My people, follow the Messengers; 20 Follow those who do not ask for any recompense of you, and are rightly guided. 21 "[As for me,] why should I not worship Him who has brought me into being, and to whom you all will be brought back? 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 I believe in your Lord, so hear me' 25 It was said (to him): 'Enter Paradise' and he said: 'Would that my people knew 26 How my Lord has forgiven me and made me one of those who are honoured!" 27 ۞ And after him, We did not send down any army from heaven against his people, nor did We intend to send down an army. 28 It was only a single blast which made them extinct. 29 OH, THE REGRETS that [most] human beings will have to bear! Never has an apostle come to them without their deriding him! 30 Have they not seen how many generations We destroyed before them, which indeed returned not unto them; 31 all shall be arraigned before Us. 32