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, but they belied them so We reinforced them with a third. They said: 'We have surely been sent as 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 proclaim the clear Message." 17 Said [the others]: "Truly, we augur evil from you! Indeed, if you desist not, we will surely stone you, and grievous suffering is bound to befall you 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 those who ask no recompense 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 What, shall I take, apart from Him, gods whose intercession, if the All-merciful desires affliction for me, shall not avail me anything, and who will never deliver me? 23 Verily then I should be in error manifest. 24 Verily I believe now in your Lord; so hearken unto me. 25 (But they stoned him to death.) It was said to him: "Enter Paradise;" and he said: "If only my people knew 26 for what reason Allah has forgiven me and placed me among the honoured ones.” 27 ۞ After him, We did not send down any hosts from the heaven; We stood in no need to send down any host. 28 nothing was [needed] but one single blast [of Our punishment] - and lo! they became as still and silent as ashes. 29 Alas for men! No apostle ever came to them but they made fun of him. 30 What, have they not seen how many generations We have destroyed before them, and that it is not unto them that they return? 31 But each one of them all - will be brought before Us (for judgment). 32