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 We sent them two Messengers whom they rejected. We supported them by sending a third one who told the people, "We are the Messengers (of God) who have been sent to you". 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 doth know that we have been sent on a mission to you: 16 "And our duty is only to convey plainly (the Message)." 17 They answered: 'We predict evil of you. If you do not desist, we will stone you and a painful punishment from us will befall you' 18 They (Messengers) said: "Your evil omens be with you! (Do you call it "evil omen") because you are admonished? Nay, but you are a people Musrifun (transgressing all bounds by committing all kinds of great sins, and by disobeying Allah). 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 why should I not serve Him who originated me, and unto whom you shall be returned? 22 What, shall I take, apart from Him, gods whose intercession, if the All-merciful desires affliction for me, shall not avail me anything, and who will never deliver me? 23 Then truly I should be in error manifest. 24 Verily I believe now in your Lord; so hearken unto me. 25 (But they stoned him to death.) It was said to him: "Enter Paradise;" and he said: "If only my people knew 26 How my Lord has forgiven me and made me one of those who are honoured!" 27 ۞ And after him, We did not send down any army from heaven against his people, nor did We intend to send down an army. 28 It was just one scream, and with it they were extinguished. 29 Alas for the servants! there comes not to them an apostle but they mock at him. 30 Have they not seen how many generations have We destroyed before them who will not return again? 31 But all, without exception, will be brought before Us. 32