۞ We have conveyed Our Word to them, in succession, so that they may give heed. 51 (As to) those whom We gave the Book before it, they are believers in it. 52 When it is recited to them, they say, "We believe in it. It is the Truth from our Lord. We were Muslims before it was revealed". 53 Twice will they be given their reward, for that they have persevered, that they avert Evil with Good, and that they spend (in charity) out of what We have given them. 54 And when they hear ill speech, they turn away from it and say, "For us are our deeds, and for you are your deeds. Peace will be upon you; we seek not the ignorant." 55 You cannot guide whoever you please: it is God who guides whom He will. He best knows those who would accept guidance. 56 And they say, "If we were to follow the guidance with you, we would be swept from our land." Have we not established for them a safe sanctuary to which are brought the fruits of all things as provision from Us? But most of them do not know. 57 How many townships have We destroyed where the people had become arrogant on account of their affluence? Since then their dwelling-places have scarcely been inhabited -- We became their inheritors. 58 But your Lord does not destroy habitations without having sent an apostle to their metropolis to read out Our commandments to them. We would never have destroyed cities if their inhabitants were not given to wickedness. 59 Whatsoever has been given you is the stuff this life is made of, and only its embellishment. What is with your Lord is better and abiding. Will you not understand? 60