Ask them, "Who can protect them from (the wrath of) the Beneficent God during the night and day?" Yet they are neglectful about their Lord. 42 Have they gods who defend them beside Us? They are not able to succour themselves, and against Us they cannot be kept company with. 43 Nay, We have allowed these [sinners] - as [We allowed] their forebears - to enjoy the good things of life for a great length of time: but then - have they never yet seen how We visit the earth [with Our punishment,] gradually depriving it of all that is best thereon? Can they, then, [hope to] be the winners? 44 Say: "I am warning you by God's command." But the deaf do not hear the call when they are warned. 45 If a blast of the torment of your Lord strikes them, they will say, "Woe to us! We have been unjust people." 46 And We will set up a just balance on the day of resurrection, so no soul shall be dealt with unjustly in the least; and though there be the weight of a grain of mustard seed, (yet) will We bring it, and sufficient are We to take account. 47 In the past We granted to Moses and Aaron the criterion (for judgment), and a Light and a Message for those who would do right,- 48 for those who fear their Lord without seeing Him and dread the Hour (of Reckoning). 49 And this is a blessed Reminder (the Quran) which We have sent down, will you then (dare to) deny it? 50