Set forth to them, by way of a parable, the (story of) the Companions of the City. Behold!, there came messengers to it. 13 When We sent to them two but they denied them, so We strengthened them with a third, and they said, "Indeed, we are messengers to you." 14 They said: Ye are but mortals like unto us. The Beneficent hath naught revealed. Ye do but lie! 15 The Messengers said: "Our Lord knows that we have been sent as Messengers to you, 16 who have been sent to you. Our only duty is to preach clearly to you". 17 but they answered, "We see an evil omen in you. If you do not stop, we shall certainly stone you, and you will suffer a painful punishment at our hands." 18 They said: "Your evil omens are with yourselves: (deem ye this an evil omen). If ye are admonished? Nay, but ye are a people transgressing all bounds!" 19 Then, from the furthest part of the city, a man came running. He said, "My people, follow the messengers. 20 “Obey those who do not ask any fee from you, and they are on guidance.” 21 And what aileth me that I should not worship Him who hath created me, and unto whom ye shall be returned. 22 "Shall I take (other) gods besides Him? If (Allah) Most Gracious should intend some adversity for me, of no use whatever will be their intercession for me, nor can they deliver me. 23 Surely, I should then be in clear error. 24 “Indeed I have believed in your Lord, so heed me.” 25 It was said to him, “Enter Paradise”; he said, “If only my people knew!” 26 Of how my Lord has forgiven me and placed me among the honored." 27 ۞ We sent not down against his people after him a host from heaven, nor do We ever send. 28 It was no more than a single mighty Blast, and behold! they were (like ashes) quenched and silent. 29 Woe, for those (unbelieving) worshipers! They mocked every Messenger that came to them. 30 Are they not aware of how many a generation We have destroyed before their time, [and] that those [that have perished] will never return to them, 31 They shall every one of them be arraigned before Us. 32