Set forth to them, by way of a parable, the (story of) the Companions of the City. Behold!, there came messengers to it. 13 We sent to them two, but they belied them so We reinforced them with a third. They said: 'We have surely been sent as Messengers to you' 14 The (people) said: "Ye are only men like ourselves; and (Allah) Most Gracious sends no sort of revelation: ye do nothing but lie." 15 (The messengers) said: "Our Lord knows that we have been sent to you. 16 And it is only for us to deliver a Clear Message' 17 The (people) said: "for us, we augur an evil omen from you: if ye desist not, we will certainly stone you. And a grievous punishment indeed will be inflicted on you by us." 18 They said: Your evil fortune is with you; what! if you are reminded! Nay, you are an extravagant people. 19 Then, from the furthest part of the city, a man came running. He said, "My people, follow the messengers. 20 follow those who ask no wage of you and are rightly guided. 21 "It would not be reasonable in me if I did not serve Him Who created me, and to Whom ye shall (all) be brought back. 22 Shall I take (other) gods in place of Him when, if the Beneficent should wish me any harm, their intercession will avail me naught, nor can they save? 23 Verily then I should be in error manifest. 24 Verily I believe now in your Lord; so hearken unto me. 25 (Eventually they killed him and he was told): “Enter Paradise.” The man exclaimed: “Would that my people knew 26 how my Lord has forgiven me and placed me among the honoured ones!" 27 ۞ And We sent not against his people after him a host from heaven, nor do We send (such a thing). 28 It was but one shout, and lo! they were extinct. 29 OH, THE REGRETS that [most] human beings will have to bear! Never has an apostle come to them without their deriding him! 30 Have they not considered how many generations We destroyed before them - that they to them will not return? 31 And indeed, all of them will yet be brought present before Us. 32