And indeed We sent to the Thamud, their fellowman Saleh that, “Worship Allah”, thereupon they became two parties quarrelling. 45 He urged them, "O my people, why do you wish to hasten on the evil rather than the good? Why do you not ask forgiveness of God, so that you may be shown mercy?" 46 They said, 'We augur ill of thee and of those that are with thee.' He said, 'Your augury is with God; nay, but you are a people being proved.' 47 And there were nine persons in the city who used to cause turmoil in the land and did not wish reform. 48 They said, "Let us bind ourselves by an oath sworn in the name of God that we shall attack Salih and his family by night, and to his protector [who demands retribution], we shall say, "We were not present when they were slain. We are telling the truth." 49 They plotted and planned, but We too planned, even while they perceived it not. 50 See, then, how was the end of their plan that We destroyed them and their people, all (of them). 51 Now such were their houses, - in utter ruin, - because they practised wrong-doing. Verily in this is a Sign for people of knowledge. 52 And We saved those who believed and used to fear Allah. 53 And Lot! when he said unto his folk: Will ye commit abomination knowingly? 54 "Do you approach men in your lusts rather than women? Nay, but you are a people who behave senselessly." 55 ۞ Then there was no answer of his people save that they said: drive forth the family of Lut from your City, verily they are a people who would be pure! 56 But We delivered him and his followers except his wife; We ordained her to be of those who remained behind. 57 And We rained down on them a rain (of stones). So evil was the rain of those who were warned. 58