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 Messengers, they belied them both, so We reinforced them with a third, and they said: "Verily! We have been sent to you as Messengers." 14 They said: ye are but human beings like ourselves; the Compassionate hath not sent down aught; ye are only lying. 15 The Messengers said: “Our Lord knows that we have indeed been sent to you 16 "And our duty is only to proclaim the clear Message." 17 The (people) said: "for us, we augur an evil omen from you: if ye desist not, we will certainly stone you. And a grievous punishment indeed will be inflicted on you by us." 18 The Messengers replied: “Your evil omen is with you. (Are you saying this) because you were asked to take heed? The truth is that you are a people who have exceeded all bounds.” 19 Then a man came running from the other side of the city. "O my people," he said, "follow the messengers. 20 Follow those who ask not of you any hire, 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 take any deities apart from Him whose intercession will not avail me the least were the Merciful One to bring any adversity upon me, nor will they be able to rescue me? 23 Then truly I should be in error manifest. 24 Indeed, I have believed in your Lord, so listen to me." 25 It was said, "Enter Paradise." He said, "I wish my people could know 26 "For that my Lord has granted me Forgiveness and has enrolled me among those held in honour!" 27 ۞ And We did not send down upon his people after him any hosts from heaven, nor do We ever send down. 28 It was but one shout, and lo! they were extinct. 29 Alas for the servants! there comes not to them an apostle but they mock at him. 30 Behold they not how many We have destroyed before them of the generations! verily unto them they shall not return. 31 They will all be brought into Our presence together. 32