(The nation of) Aad belied their Messengers. 123 When their brother Hud said unto them: Will ye not ward off (evil)? 124 Surely I am a faithful apostle to you; 125 "So fear Allah, keep your duty to Him, and obey me. 126 I do not ask for any payment for my preaching. I shall receive my reward from the Lord of the Universe. 127 Do you build monuments on every high place in vanity, 128 and erect huge palaces as though you will live for ever, 129 When you lay hands upon anyone, you do so as tyrants. 130 So fear Allah and obey me. 131 Fear Him who has bestowed on you what you know, 132 He has given you cattle, children, 133 And gardens and springs. 134 I fear for you the chastisement of an Awesome Day." 135 They said: "It is the same to us whether you preach or be not of those who preach. 136 This is but a custom of the ancients. 137 And we are not to be punished." 138 And so they gave him the lie: and thereupon We destroyed them. In this [story,] behold, there is a message [unto men,] even though most of them will not believe [in it]. 139 And indeed, your Lord - He is the Exalted in Might, the Merciful. 140