Strike for them a similitude -- the inhabitants of the city, when the Envoys came to it; 13 We sent to them two Messengers and they rejected both of them as liars. Then We strengthened them with a third (Messenger). They said: “We have been sent to you as Messengers.” 14 They said: Ye are but mortals like unto us. The Beneficent hath naught revealed. Ye do but lie! 15 Said [the apostles]: "Our Sustainer knows that we have indeed been sent unto you; 16 "And our duty is only to convey plainly (the Message)." 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 replied: “Your evil omen is with you. (Are you saying this) because you were asked to take heed? The truth is that you are a people who have exceeded all bounds.” 19 Then, from the furthest part of the city, a man came running. He said, "My people, follow the messengers. 20 Follow those who do not ask you for any reward and who are rightly guided. 21 And why should I not worship He who created me and to whom you will be returned? 22 Should I take other gods apart from Him, who would neither be able to intercede for me nor save me if Ar-Rahman brings me harm? 23 Surely in that case I should indeed be in evident error. 24 "Verily, [O my people,] in the Sustainer of you all have I come to believe: listen, then, to me!" 25 It was said, "Enter Paradise." He said, "I wish my people could know 26 Of how my Lord has forgiven me and placed me among the honored." 27 ۞ And We sent not against his people after him a host from heaven, nor have We been sending down any such. 28 It was but one Shout, and lo! they were extinct. 29 Woe, for those (unbelieving) worshipers! They mocked every Messenger that came to them. 30 Have they not seen how many generations We destroyed before them? They shall never return to them, 31 all shall be arraigned before Us. 32