AND SET FORTH unto them a parable - [the story of how] the people of a township [behaved] when [Our] message-bearers came unto them. 13 Lo! We sent unto them two [apostles,] and they gave the lie to both; and so We strengthened [the two] with a third; and thereupon they said: "Behold, we have been sent unto you [by God]!" 14 "You are only men like us," they replied; "Ar-Rahman has not sent down any thing. You are speaking only lies." 15 They said: "Our Lord doth know that we have been sent on a mission to you: 16 And on us is naught but manifest preaching. 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 They said: 'Your prediction is with you, if you are reminded. Surely, you are but a wayward nation' 19 Then came a man from the furthest part of the city, running; he said, 'My people, follow the Envoys! 20 Follow those who ask no recompense of you and are rightly guided. 21 “And what is the matter with me that I should not worship Him Who created me, whereas it is towards Him that you are to return?” 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 Then truly I should be in error manifest. 24 “Indeed I have believed in your Lord, so heed me.” 25 (Having been murdered by the disbelievers) he was told to enter paradise 26 that my Lord has forgiven me and that He has placed me among the honoured.' 27 ۞ And We sent not down against his People, after him, any hosts from heaven, nor was it needful for Us so to do. 28 There was just one blast, and they were extinguished. 29 And it was said, “Woe to those bondmen – whenever a Noble Messenger comes to them, they mock at him!” 30 Have they not seen how many nations before them did We destroy? Thereafter they never came back to them. 31 And without exception, all of them will be brought forth before Us. 32