Set forth to them, by way of a parable, the (story of) the Companions of the City. Behold!, there came messengers to it. 13 We sent them two Messengers whom they rejected. We supported them by sending a third one who told the people, "We are the Messengers (of God) who have been sent to you". 14 But they said: 'You are only humans like ourselves. The Merciful has not sent down anything, your speech is but lies' 15 They said: "Our Lord doth know that we have been sent on a mission to you: 16 but we are not bound to do more than clearly deliver the message [entrusted to us]." 17 They rejoined: "We feel you augur ill. If you do not desist, we shall stone you to death, and inflict a grievous punishment on you." 18 They said: your evil augury be with you. Call ye it an ill-luck because ye are admonished! Aye! ye are a people extravagant. 19 And from the remote part of the city there came a man running, he said: O my people! follow the apostles; 20 Follow those who do not ask you for any reward and who are rightly guided. 21 Why should I not serve the One Who created me and to Whom all of you shall be sent back? 22 Shall I take beside Him gods when, if the Compassionate should intend me any harm, their intercession will avail me not at all, nor would they save me? 23 “Undoubtedly, I am then in open error.” 24 Surely I believe in your Lord, therefore hear me. 25 It was said: enter thou the Garden. He said: would that my people knew. 26 how my Lord has forgiven me and placed me among the honoured ones!" 27 ۞ We did not send an army against his people from the heaven after his death nor did We need to send one. 28 It was but one Saihah (shout, etc.) and lo! They (all) were silent (dead-destroyed). 29 Ah! Alas for (My) Servants! There comes not a messenger to them but they mock him! 30 Have they not seen how many generations We destroyed before them? They shall never return to them, 31 They will all be brought into Our presence together. 32