And those who disbelieve in God's signs and the encounter with Him -- they despair of My mercy, and there awaits them a painful chastisement.) 23 So naught was the answer of his people except that they said: Slay him or burn him; then Allah delivered him from the fire; most surely there are signs in this for a people who believe. 24 He said: “You have taken up idols instead of Allah as a bond of love among yourselves in the present life, but on the Day of Resurrection you will disown and curse one another. Your refuge shall be the Fire, and none will come to your aid.” 25 ۞ Then Lot believed in him; and (Abraham) said: "I will separate myself and take refuge in my Lord. Surely He is all-mighty and all-wise." 26 And We bestowed Ishaq and Yaqub to him, and kept the Prophethood and the Book among his descendants, and We gave him his reward in the world; and in the Hereafter he is indeed among those who deserve Our proximity. 27 And (We sent) Lut when he said to his people: Most surely you are guilty of an indecency which none of the nations has ever done before you; 28 Must you indeed approach men [with lust,] and thus cut across the way [of nature]? and must you commit these shameful deeds in your open] assemblies?" But his people's only answer was, "Bring down upon us God's chastisement, if thou art a man of truth!" 29 He said: "O my Lord! help Thou me against people who do mischief!" 30