Set forth to them, by way of a parable, the (story of) the Companions of the City. Behold!, there came messengers to it. 13 When We sent to them two but they denied them, so We strengthened them with a third, and they said, "Indeed, we are messengers to you." 14 But they said: 'You are only humans like ourselves. The Merciful has not sent down anything, your speech is but lies' 15 (The messengers) said: "Our Lord knows that we have been sent to you. 16 "And our duty is only to convey plainly (the Message)." 17 The people of the town said: “We believe you are an evil omen for us. If you do not desist, we will stone you or you will receive a grievous chastisement from us.” 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 from the outermost part of the city came a man running; he said, “O my people! Obey those who have been sent.” 20 Follow such as ask no wage of you, that are right-guided. 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 appoint Gods other than Allah? So that if the Most Gracious should wish me any harm, their intercession would be of no use to me, nor would they be able to save me?” 23 Surely in that case I should be in manifest error. 24 Indeed, I have believed in your Lord, so listen to me." 25 [And] he was told, "[Thou shalt] enter paradise!" - [whereupon] he exclaimed: "Would that my people knew 26 how my Lord has forgiven me and placed me among the honoured ones!" 27 ۞ After him We did not send down against his people a host from heaven, nor do We send down such hosts: 28 It was only one Cry and lo, they were silent and still. 29 Woe to human beings! Whenever a Messenger came to them, they mocked him. 30 Behold they not how many We have destroyed before them of the generations! verily unto them they shall not return. 31 All of them, gathered together, will certainly be brought before Us. 32