We sent to the tribe of Thamud their brother Salih so that they would worship God, but they became two quarrelling groups. 45 Said [Salih to the erring ones]: Why do you seek to hasten the coming upon you of evil instead of hoping for the good?" Why do you not, rather, ask God to forgive you your sins, so that you might be graced with His 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 And there were in the city nine family heads causing corruption in the land and not amending [its affairs]. 48 They said: "Swear one to another by Allah that we shall make a secret night attack on him and his household, and afterwards we will surely say to his near relatives: 'We witnessed not the destruction of his household, and verily! We are telling the truth.'" 49 So they plotted a plot: and We plotted a plot, while they perceived not. 50 And behold the consequences of their devising! We destroyed them, and their nation altogether. 51 Those are their empty houses which We ruined because of their injustice. In this there is evidence (of the truth) for the people of knowledge. 52 And We saved those who believed and were cautious. 53 And (remember) Lut when he said to his people, “What! You stoop to the shameful whereas you can see?” 54 Would ye really approach men in your lusts rather than women? Nay, ye are a people (grossly) ignorant! 55 ۞ But the answer of his folk was naught save that they said: Expel the household of Lot from your township, for they (forsooth) are folk who would keep clean! 56 We therefore rescued him and his family, except his wife; We had decreed that she is of those who will remain behind. 57 And We rained down on them a rain (of stones). So evil was the rain of those who were warned. 58