We (once) sent Noah to his people, and he tarried among them a thousand years less fifty: but the Deluge overwhelmed them while they (persisted in) sin. 14 And We rescued him and the people aboard the ship, and made the ship a sign for the entire world. 15 Abraham told his people, "Worship God and have fear of Him. It is better for you if only you knew it. 16 You only worship, besides Allah, idols, and you produce a falsehood. Indeed, those you worship besides Allah do not possess for you [the power of] provision. So seek from Allah provision and worship Him and be grateful to Him. To Him you will be returned." 17 If you, (pagans), call our (revelations) lies, certainly many generations living before you have also done the same thing. The duty of a Messenger is only to preach clearly. 18 (Have they not seen how God originates creation, then brings it back again? Surely that is an easy matter for God. 19 Say (O Muhammad): Travel in the land and see how He originated creation, then Allah bringeth forth the later growth. Lo! Allah is Able to do all things. 20 He shall torment whomsoever He will, and shall show mercy unto whomsoever He will, and unto Him ye shall be returned. 21 You cannot defeat His purpose on earth or in heaven; nor have you any friend or helper besides God." 22