AND SET FORTH unto them a parable - [the story of how] the people of a township [behaved] when [Our] message-bearers came unto them. 13 Lo! We sent unto them two [apostles,] and they gave the lie to both; and so We strengthened [the two] with a third; and thereupon they said: "Behold, we have been sent unto you [by God]!" 14 They said, "You are not but human beings like us, and the Most Merciful has not revealed a thing. You are only telling lies." 15 They said: 'Our Lord knows that we are Messengers to you. 16 who have been sent to you. Our only duty is to preach clearly to you". 17 The people of the town said: “We believe you are an evil omen for us. If you do not desist, we will stone you or you will receive a grievous chastisement from us.” 18 They said, “Your evil omens are with you! What! You get annoyed for being advised? In fact you are a people who transgress the limits!” 19 Then came a man from the furthest part of the city, running; he said, 'My people, follow the Envoys! 20 "Obey those who ask no reward of you (for themselves), and who have themselves received Guidance. 21 And what aileth me that I should not worship Him who hath created me, and unto whom ye shall be returned. 22 What, shall I take, other than Him, gods whose intercession, if the Merciful desires to afflict me, cannot help me at all, and they will never save me? 23 "Then verily, I should be in plain error. 24 Indeed, I have believed in your Lord, so listen to me." 25 It was said (unto him): Enter paradise. He said: Would that my people knew 26 how my Sustainer has forgiven me [the sins of my past,] and has placed me among the honoured ones!" 27 ۞ And We sent not down upon his people, after him, any host out of heaven; neither would We send any down. 28 it was but one great blast and they fell down lifeless. 29 Alas for human beings! They ridicule every messenger that comes to them. 30 Do they not see how many generations We have destroyed before them? Never shall they return to them. 31 But all, without exception, will be brought before Us. 32