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 They said: Ye are but mortals like unto us. The Beneficent hath naught revealed. Ye do but lie! 15 They said: 'Our Lord knows that we are Messengers 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 They said: Your evil fortune is with you; what! if you are reminded! Nay, you are an extravagant people. 19 Then came a man from the furthest part of the city, running; he said, 'My people, follow the Envoys! 20 Follow those who do not ask you for any reward and who are rightly guided. 21 "And why should I not worship Him (Allah Alone) Who has created me and to Whom you shall be returned. 22 “What! Shall I appoint Gods other than Allah? So that if the Most Gracious should wish me any harm, their intercession would be of no use to me, nor would they be able to save me?” 23 In that case I shall most surely be in clear error: 24 I believe in your Lord, so listen to me." 25 [And] he was told, "[Thou shalt] enter paradise!" - [whereupon] he exclaimed: "Would that my people knew 26 that my Lord has forgiven me and that He has placed me among the honoured.' 27 ۞ We did not send down any army against his people from heaven, nor did We have to send one. 28 It was only one Shout and they were silent, still. 29 Woe to human beings! Whenever a Messenger came to them, they mocked him. 30 Do they not see how many generations We have destroyed before them? Never shall they return to them. 31 And surely, all, everyone of them will be brought before Us. 32