The Thamud (people) rejected the messengers. 141 Their brother Salih asked them, "Why do you not fear God? 142 "I am a trustworthy Messenger to you. 143 So fear God and follow me. 144 For this I demand no recompense from you; my reward is only with the Lord of the Universe. 145 Will ye be left secure in that which is here before us, 146 "Gardens and Springs, 147 sown fields, and palms with slender spathes? 148 And hew ye out houses in the mountains skilfully! 149 Therefor keep your duty to Allah and obey me, 150 and do not follow the biddings of those that go to excesses 151 "Those who spread turmoil in the earth, and do no reform." 152 They replied, "Surely you are bewitched. 153 Thou art nothing but a mortal like ourselves! Come, then, forward with a token [of thy mission] if thou art a man of truth!" 154 He said, "This is the she-camel - one day shall be her turn to drink, and on the other appointed day, shall be your turn." 155 and do her no harm, lest suffering befall you on an awesome day!" 156 So they hamstrung her, and in the morning could only regret. 157 and the punishment seized them. Surely, in that there is a sign. Yet most of them do not believe. 158 Yet verily your Lord is mighty and merciful. 159