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 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 [The others] answered: "You are nothing but mortal men like ourselves; moreover, the Most Gracious has never bestowed aught [of revelation] from on high. You do nothing but lie!" 15 They said: 'Our Lord knows that we are Messengers to you. 16 "And our duty is only to proclaim the clear Message." 17 They rejoined: "We feel you augur ill. If you do not desist, we shall stone you to death, and inflict a grievous punishment on you." 18 They said, "Your omen is with yourselves. Is it because you were reminded? Rather, you are a transgressing people." 19 Then, from the furthest part of the city, a man came running. He said, "My people, follow the messengers. 20 Follow those who ask not of you any hire, and who are rightly guided. 21 "Why should I not worship God who has created me? To him you will all return. 22 What! shall I take besides Him gods whose intercession, If the Beneficent Allah should desire to afflict me with a harm, shall not avail me aught, nor shall they be able to deliver me? 23 Verily then I should be in error manifest. 24 I believe in your Lord, so listen to me." 25 It was said, "Enter Paradise." He said, "I wish my people could know 26 (wherein he said), "Would that people knew how my Lord has granted me forgiveness and honor". 27 ۞ We did not send an army against his people from the heaven after his death nor did We need to send one. 28 It was but one shout, and lo! they were extinct. 29 Alas for human beings! They ridicule every messenger that comes to them. 30 Have they not considered how many generations We destroyed before them - that they to them will not return? 31 And all of them shall surely be brought before Us. 32