AND WHEN Abraham spoke to his father and his people, [he had this very truth in mind:] "Verily, far be it from me to worship what you worship! 26 except Him who originated me, for He will guide me' 27 And he left it as a Word to endure among those who came after him, that they may turn back (to Allah). 28 In fact, We allowed them and their fathers to enjoy themselves until the truth and a strong Messenger came to them. 29 And when the Truth came to them they said: “This is just sorcery and we reject it.” 30 And they say: If only this Qur'an had been revealed to some great man of the two towns? 31 Shall they apportion their Lord's mercy? It is We Who have apportioned among them their livelihood in the life of the world, and raised some of them over others in degrees, so that one of them may take another as a serf; and the mercy of thy Lord is better than that which they amass. 32 Had it not been that all people would become one community (of unbelievers), We might have given those who disbelieve in Ar-Rahman roofs of silver for their dwellings and (silver) stairs for mounting, 33 with doors to their houses and couches on which to recline; 34 and ornaments of gold. But all of these are but the provision of this present life; it is the life to come that the Lord reserves for those who fear Him. 35