We sent Noah to his people who said, "My people, worship God for He is your only Lord. Will you then not have fear of Him?" 23 But the chieftains of his folk, who disbelieved, said: This is only a mortal like you who would make himself superior to you. Had Allah willed, He surely could have sent down angels. We heard not of this in the case of our fathers of old. 24 He is only a madman, so, as far as he is concerned wait for a while." 25 "O my Lord," prayed (Noah), "help me against them, for they accuse me of lies." 26 So We inspired to him, "Construct the ship under Our observation, and Our inspiration, and when Our command comes and the oven overflows, put into the ship from each [creature] two mates and your family, except those for whom the decree [of destruction] has proceeded. And do not address Me concerning those who have wronged; indeed, they are to be drowned. 27 "And as soon as thou and those who are with thee are settled in the ark, say: 'All praise is due to God, who has saved us from those evildoing folk!' 28 And say, "'O my Lord, do Thou harbour me in a blessed harbour, for Thou art the best of harbourers." 29 Surely, in that are signs, and surely We will put (nations) to the test. 30 AND AFTER those [people of old] We gave rise to new generations; 31 And we sent among them a messenger of their own, saying: Serve Allah, Ye have no other Allah save Him. Will ye not ward off (evil)? 32