The Thamud (people) rejected the messengers. 141 When their brother Salih said to them, "Will you not fear God? 142 Behold, I am an apostle [sent by Him] to you, [and therefore] worthy of your trust: 143 So fear Allah and obey me. 144 I do not ask for any payment for my preaching. I shall receive my reward from the Lord of the Universe. 145 "Do you think that you will be left secure [forever] in the midst of what you have here and now? 146 In gardens and fountains, 147 farms, and palm-trees in thick groves, 148 And hew ye out houses in the mountains skilfully! 149 So fear Allah, and obey me. 150 and do not follow the biddings of those that go to excesses 151 Who corrupt the land and do not reform it." 152 They said: Thou art but one of the bewitched; 153 you are no different from a mortal like us. So produce a sign if you are truthful." 154 He said, 'This is a she-camel; to her a draught and to you a draught, on a day appointed, 155 And do not touch her with evil, lest the punishment of a grievous day should overtake you. 156 But they hamstrung her, and then were penitent. 157 So the retribution came on them. Lo! herein is indeed a portent, yet most of them are not believers. 158 And indeed, your Lord - He is the Exalted in Might, the Merciful. 159