When Abraham said to his father and his people: "I am rid of what you worship 26 except Him who originated me, for He will guide me' 27 And he made it a word remaining among his descendants that they might return [to it]. 28 (Even when they began worshipping others than Allah We did not destroy them) but bestowed sustenance on them and on their forefathers until there came to them the Truth and a Messenger who clearly expounded things to them. 29 but now that the truth has come to them, they say: "All this is mere spellbinding eloquence" - and behold, we deny that there is any truth in it!" 30 They said, "Why was this Quran not sent down to one of the great men of the two cities?" 31 What, is it they who divide the Mercy of your Lord! (It is) We who divided between them their livelihoods in this life, raising some in rank above others, so that some may take the other into his service. Your Lord's Mercy is better than all they gather. 32 And were it not that mankind would be one nation, We would have appointed for those who disbelieve in the All-merciful roofs of silver to their houses, and stairs whereon to mount, 33 And for their houses - doors and couches [of silver] upon which to recline 34 and ornaments of gold. But all of these are but the provision of this present life; it is the life to come that the Lord reserves for those who fear Him. 35