And put forward to them a similitude; the (story of the) dwellers of the town, [It is said that the town was Antioch (Antakiya)], when there came Messengers to them. 13 When We sent two of them they called them liars; so We sent a third to strengthen them. "We have been sent to you," they said. 14 "You are only men like us," they replied; "Ar-Rahman has not sent down any thing. You are speaking only lies." 15 They said: 'Our Lord knows that we are Messengers to you. 16 "And our duty is only to convey plainly (the Message)." 17 Said [the others]: "Truly, we augur evil from you! Indeed, if you desist not, we will surely stone you, and grievous suffering is bound to befall you at our hands!" 18 [The apostles] replied: "Your destiny, good or evil, is [bound up] with yourselves! [Does it seem evil to you] if you are told to take [the truth] to heart? Nay, but you are people who have wasted their own selves!" 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 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 (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 (Had I worshipped things besides God, I would have been in manifest error). 24 I believe in your Lord, so listen to me." 25 It was said: enter thou the Garden. He said: would that my people knew. 26 "That my Lord (Allah) has forgiven me, and made me of the honoured ones!" 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 only one Cry and lo, they were silent and still. 29 Ah! Alas for (My) Servants! There comes not a messenger to them but they mock him! 30 Do they not see how many of the generations We have destroyed before them? Verily, they will not return to them. 31 And indeed, all of them will yet be brought present before Us. 32