Recite to them, as a case in point, the story of the people of the town when the Messengers came to them. 13 We sent to them two Messengers and they rejected both of them as liars. Then We strengthened them with a third (Messenger). They said: “We have been sent to you as Messengers.” 14 The people of the town said: “You are only human beings like ourselves, and the Merciful Lord has revealed nothing. You are simply lying.” 15 They said: 'Our Lord knows that we are Messengers to you. 16 and it is only for us to deliver the Manifest Message.' 17 but they answered, "We see an evil omen in you. If you do not stop, we shall certainly stone you, and you will suffer a painful punishment at our hands." 18 The Messengers replied: “Your evil omen is with you. (Are you saying this) because you were asked to take heed? The truth is that you are a people who have exceeded all bounds.” 19 And there came running from the farthest part of the town, a man, saying: "O my people! Obey the Messengers; 20 Follow him who does not ask you for reward, and they are the followers of the right course; 21 For what cause should I not serve Him Who hath created me, and unto Whom ye will be brought back? 22 What, shall I take, other than Him, gods whose intercession, if the Merciful desires to afflict me, cannot help me at all, and they will never save me? 23 Then truly I should be in error manifest. 24 Lo! I have believed in your Lord, so hear me! 25 It was said: enter thou the Garden. He said: would that my people knew. 26 Of how my Lord has forgiven me and placed me among the honored." 27 ۞ And We sent not against his people after him a host from heaven, nor do We send (such a thing). 28 It was not but one shout, and immediately they were extinguished. 29 Alas for mankind! There never came a Messenger to them but they used to mock at him. 30 Have they not seen how many generations have We destroyed before them who will not return again? 31 And all of them shall surely be brought before Us. 32