Set forth to them, by way of a parable, the (story of) the Companions of the City. Behold!, there came messengers 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: You are naught but mortals like ourselves, nor has the Beneficent Allah revealed anything; you only lie. 15 They answered: Our Lord knoweth that we are indeed sent unto you, 16 And nothing devolves on us but a clear deliverance (of 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 They said: 'Your prediction is with you, if you are reminded. Surely, you are but a wayward nation' 19 In the meantime a man came running from the far end of the town, saying: “My people, follow the Messengers; 20 Follow those who do not ask for any recompense of you, and are rightly guided. 21 For what cause should I not serve Him Who hath created me, and unto Whom ye will be brought back? 22 What! Shall I take any deities apart from Him whose intercession will not avail me the least were the Merciful One to bring any adversity upon me, nor will they be able to rescue me? 23 Surely in that case I should be in manifest error. 24 Indeed, I have believed in your Lord, so listen 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 do We send (such a thing). 28 It was but one Shout, and lo! they were extinct. 29 Alas for mankind! There never came a Messenger to them but they used to mock at 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 They will all be brought into Our presence together. 32