We sent to Thamud their brother Saleh (who said): "Worship God." But they were divided into two groups disputing with one another. 45 He urged them, "O my people, why do you wish to hasten on the evil rather than the good? Why do you not ask forgiveness of God, so that you may be shown mercy?" 46 They said, "We see you and your followers as an evil omen." He replied, "No, your evil omen is with God; the truth is that you are a people being put to the test." 47 Now there were nine ring-leaders in the city who created corruption in the land and never worked to set things right. 48 They said: Swear to each other by Allah that we will certainly make a sudden attack on him and his family by night, then we will say to his heir: We did not witness the destruction of his family, and we are most surely truthful. 49 And so they devised an evil scheme; but We devised a subtle scheme (of Our own), and they perceived it not. 50 Then look how was the outcome of their plan - that We destroyed them and their people, all. 51 See, yonder are their dwellings empty and in ruins because they did wrong. Lo! herein is indeed a portent for a people who have knowledge. 52 And We delivered those who believed and were wont to fear. 53 And Lot, when he said to his people, 'What, do you commit indecency with your eyes open? 54 “What! You lustfully go towards men, leaving the women?! In fact, you are an ignorant people.” 55 ۞ Then there was no answer of his people save that they said: drive forth the family of Lut from your City, verily they are a people who would be pure! 56 But We delivered him and his followers except his wife; We ordained her to be of those who remained behind. 57 And We rained a rain upon them. Dreadful is the rain of those who have been warned. 58