Recite to them, as a case in point, the story of the people of the town when the Messengers came to them. 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 They said, 'You are naught but mortals like us; the All-merciful has not sent down anything. You are speaking only lies.' 15 (The messengers) said: "Our Lord knows that we have been sent to you. 16 who have been sent to you. Our only duty is to preach clearly to you". 17 They (the people of the city) said, “We think you are ominous; indeed, if you do not desist, we shall surely stone you to death, and you will surely face a grievous torture at our hands.” 18 (The messengers) said: "The augury is within your own selves. Do you (consider it a bad omen) that you should be warned? You are a people guilty of excess." 19 And there came running from the farthest part of the town, a man, saying: "O my people! Obey the Messengers; 20 Follow those who ask of you no fee, and who are rightly guided. 21 And what reason have I that I should not serve Him Who brought me into existence? And to Him you shall be brought back; 22 "Shall I take besides Him aliha (gods), if the Most Beneficent (Allah) intends me any harm, their intercession will be of no use for me whatsoever, nor can they save me? 23 “Undoubtedly, I am then in open error.” 24 Indeed, I have believed in your Lord, so listen to me." 25 It was said, 'Enter Paradise!' He said, 'Ah, would that my people had knowledge 26 (wherein he said), "Would that people knew how my Lord has granted me forgiveness and honor". 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 Shout, and lo! they were extinct. 29 Alas for My servants! Never does a Messenger come to them but they mock him. 30 What, have they not seen how many generations We have destroyed before them, and that it is not unto them that they return? 31 and [that] all of them, all together, will [in the end] before Us be arraigned? 32