And recall what time Ibrahim said unto his father and his people: verily I am quit of that which ye worship. 26 except for the One who has created me and will guide me". 27 And he uttered this as a word destined to endure among those who would come after him, so that they might [always] return [to it]. 28 In fact, We allowed them and their fathers to enjoy themselves until the truth and a strong Messenger came to them. 29 Yet when the truth had come to them, they said: "This is sorcery. We shall never believe in it." 30 They say, 'Why was this Koran not sent down upon some man of moment in the two cities?' 31 Will they distribute the mercy of your Lord? We distribute among them their livelihood in the life of this world, and We j have exalted some of them above others in degrees, that some of them may take others in subjection; and the mercy of your Lord is better than what they amass. 32 And were it not that [with the prospect of boundless riches before them] all people would become one [evil] community, We might indeed have provided for those who [now] deny the Most Gracious roofs of silver for their houses, and [silver] stairways whereon to ascend, 33 doors for their houses, couches on which to recline, 34 and gold [beyond count]. Yet all this would have been nothing but a [brief] enjoyment of life in this world - whereas [happiness in] the life to come awaits the God-conscious with thy Sustainer. 35