The Thamud gave the lie to the Messengers. 141 when their brother Salih said unto them: "Will you not be conscious of God? 142 Behold, I am an apostle [sent by Him] to you, [and therefore] worthy of your trust: 143 So fear God and follow me. 144 'I ask of you no wage for this; my wage falls only upon the Lord of all Being. 145 Do you believe that you will be left here to live securely in the present state 146 "In gardens and springs. 147 and cornfields, and palm-trees laden with fruit -- 148 Will you still hew your dwellings in the mountains? 149 So fear God and obey me: 150 and obey not the commandment of the prodigal 151 Who corrupt the land and do not reform it." 152 They replied: "You are nothing but one of those who are bewitched; 153 “You are just a human like us; therefore bring some sign if you are truthful.” 154 (Saleh) said: "Here is a she-camel. She has a right of drinking water, and you have a right of drinking it on appointed turns. 155 And do not touch her with evil, lest the punishment of a grievous day should overtake you. 156 But they hamstrung her, then regretted; 157 so the punishment came down upon them. Surely in that there is a sign, but most of them would not believe. 158 Your Lord is Majestic and All-merciful. 159