۞ And to Thamud [We sent] their brother Salih. He said, "O my people, worship Allah; you have no deity other than Him. He has produced you from the earth and settled you in it, so ask forgiveness of Him and then repent to Him. Indeed, my Lord is near and responsive." 61 They said: 'O Salih! Until now you were one of those among us on whom we placed great hopes. Now, would you forbid us to worship what our forefathers were wont to worship? Indeed we are in disquieting doubt about what you are calling us to. 62 He said, 'O my people, what think you? If I stand upon a clear sign from my Lord, and He has given me mercy from Him, who shall help me against God if I rebel against Him? You would do nothing for me, except increase my loss. 63 O my people, this she-camel of God is a token for you. So leave her alone to graze on God's earth, and do not molest her, otherwise the swiftest punishment would befall you." 64 But they hamstrung her; and he said, 'Take your joy in your habitation three days -- that is a promise not to be belied.' 65 And when Our command came, We saved Salih together with those who believed with him through Our Mercy, and from the ignominy of that day. Your Lord is Strong and Mighty. 66 And the terrible scream seized the unjust – so at morning they remained lying flattened in their homes. 67 As if they had never lived there. No doubt! Verily, Thamud disbelieved in their Lord. So away with Thamud! 68