And We sent to Thamud their brother Salih (with the Message): "Serve Allah," but all of a sudden they became split into two quarrelling factions. 45 Salih said: "My people, why do you wish to hasten that evil rather than good should come upon you? Why should you not seek pardon from Allah so that mercy be shown to you?" 46 They said, "We have an ill omen about you and your followers." Salih replied, God has made your ill fortune await you. You are a people on trial." 47 And there were in the city nine men (from the sons of their chiefs), who made mischief in the land, and would not reform. 48 They said: "Swear one to another by Allah that we shall make a secret night attack on him and his household, and afterwards we will surely say to his near relatives: 'We witnessed not the destruction of his household, and verily! We are telling the truth.'" 49 Thus they devised a plan, and We also devised a plan, but they were not aware of it. 50 Then see the nature of the consequence of their plotting, for lo! We destroyed them and their people, every one. 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 delivered those who believed and were godfearing. 53 We also sent Lot, and recall when he told his people: "Do you commit shameless acts with your eyes open? 54 Do you have carnal relations with men rather than women? You are ignorant people". 55 ۞ But the answer of his people was not except that they said, "Expel the family of Lot from your city. Indeed, they are people who keep themselves pure." 56 We saved (Lot) and his family except his wife who was destined to remain behind. 57 And We rained down on them a rain (of stones). So evil was the rain of those who were warned. 58