AND SET FORTH unto them a parable - [the story of how] the people of a township [behaved] when [Our] message-bearers came unto them. 13 When We sent to them two, they rejected both of them, then We strengthened (them) with a third, so they said: Surely we are apostles to you. 14 "You are only men like us," they replied; "Ar-Rahman has not sent down any thing. You are speaking only lies." 15 They said: Our Lord knows that we are most surely apostles to you. 16 And our duty is but plain conveyance (of the message). 17 They (the people of the city) said, “We think you are ominous; indeed, if you do not desist, we shall surely stone you to death, and you will surely face a grievous torture at our hands.” 18 They said: 'Your prediction is with you, if you are reminded. Surely, you are but a wayward nation' 19 In the meantime a man came running from the far end of the town, saying: “My people, follow the Messengers; 20 "Obey those who ask no reward of you (for themselves), and who have themselves received Guidance. 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 Surely in that case I should be in manifest error. 24 Verily! I have believed in your Lord, so listen to me!" 25 (Having been murdered by the disbelievers) he was told to enter paradise 26 how my Sustainer has forgiven me [the sins of my past,] and has 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 Shout, and lo! they were extinct. 29 Ah! Alas for (My) Servants! There comes not a messenger to them but they mock him! 30 Have they not seen how many generations, living before them, had We destroyed and they cannot ever come back to them? 31 And indeed, all of them will yet be brought present before Us. 32