Recite to them, as a case in point, the story of the people of the town when the Messengers came to them. 13 When We sent to them two, they rejected both of them, then We strengthened (them) with a third, so they said: Surely we are apostles to you. 14 The people of the town said: “You are only human beings like ourselves, and the Merciful Lord has revealed nothing. You are simply lying.” 15 Said [the apostles]: "Our Sustainer knows that we have indeed been sent unto you; 16 And on us is naught but manifest preaching. 17 They said, "Indeed, we consider you a bad omen. If you do not desist, we will surely stone you, and there will surely touch you, from us, a painful punishment." 18 The Messengers said, "This ill omen lies within yourselves. Will you then take heed? In fact, you are a transgressing people." 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 ask no recompense of you and are rightly guided. 21 Why should I not worship Him who brought me into being, to whom you will be brought back in the end? 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 and so, behold, I would have indeed, most obviously, lost myself in error! 24 Verily I believe now in your Lord; so hearken unto me. 25 (But they stoned him to death.) It was said to him: "Enter Paradise;" and he said: "If only my people knew 26 (wherein he said), "Would that people knew how my Lord has granted me forgiveness and honor". 27 ۞ We did not send down any army against his people from heaven, nor did We have to send one. 28 There was just one blast, and they were extinguished. 29 Alas for mankind! There never came a Messenger to them but they used to mock at him. 30 Have they not seen how many generations have We destroyed before them who will not return again? 31 all shall be arraigned before Us. 32