We sent to Thamud their brother Saleh (who said): "Worship God." But they were divided into two groups disputing with one another. 45 (Saleh) said: "O people, why do you wish to hasten evil rather than good? Why not ask for God's forgiveness? You may well be forgiven." 46 They said, "We see you and your followers as an evil omen." He replied, "No, your evil omen is with God; the truth is that you are a people being put to the test." 47 Now in the city there were nine persons who did corruption in the land, and put not things right; 48 They said: 'Let us swear by Allah to attack him and his family at night, then we will tell his guardian we were not witnesses of the destruction of his family; and surely we are truthful' 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 See, yonder are their dwellings empty and in ruins because they did wrong. Lo! herein is indeed a portent for a people who have knowledge. 52 We deliver those who believe and take heed for themselves. 53 And Lot! when he said unto his folk: Will ye commit abomination knowingly? 54 What, do you approach men lustfully instead of women? No, you are a people that are ignorant.' 55 ۞ But this had only one answer from his people. They said: "Expel Lot's folk from your city. They pretend to be absolutely clean." 56 So We saved him and his family, except his wife, whom We decreed should stay behind. 57 And We rained down upon them a rain. It was an evil rain for those who had already been warned. 58