And present to them an example: the people of the city, when the messengers came to it - 13 When We sent them two messengers, they rejected them both, so We strengthened them with a third. They said, "Truly, we have been sent to you [by God] as messengers." 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 we are Envoys unto you; 16 And our duty is but plain conveyance (of the message). 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 omen is with yourselves. Is it because you were reminded? Rather, you are a transgressing people." 19 Then came a man from the furthest part of the city, running; he said, 'My people, follow the Envoys! 20 "Obey those who ask no reward of you (for themselves), and who have themselves received Guidance. 21 Why should I not worship Him who has originated me and to whom you shall all be returned? 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 Then truly I should be in error manifest. 24 "Verily, [O my people,] in the Sustainer of you all have I come to believe: listen, then, to me!" 25 It was said (to him): 'Enter Paradise' and he said: 'Would that my people knew 26 Of how my Lord has forgiven me and placed me among the honored." 27 ۞ And We sent not against his people after him a host from heaven, nor do We send (such a thing). 28 It was only one Shout and they were silent, still. 29 Alas for men! No apostle ever came to them but they made fun of him. 30 Do they not see how many generations We have destroyed before them? Never shall they return to them. 31 And surely all, every one of them, shall be brought before Us. 32