Recite to them, as a case in point, the story of the people of the town when the Messengers came to them. 13 When We sent two of them they called them liars; so We sent a third to strengthen them. "We have been sent to you," they said. 14 The people said, "You are mere mortals like us and the Beneficent God has sent nothing. You are only liars." 15 They said, "Our Lord knows that we have been sent to you. 16 Our duty is to convey the message clearly." 17 They (people) said: "For us, we see an evil omen from you, if you cease not, we will surely stone you, and a painful torment will touch you from us." 18 They said, "Your omen is with yourselves. Is it because you were reminded? Rather, you are a transgressing people." 19 A man came running from the farthest part of the city saying, "My people, follow the Messengers. 20 follow those who ask no wage 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 Shall I take beside Him gods when, if the Compassionate should intend me any harm, their intercession will avail me not at all, nor would they save me? 23 In that case I should indeed be in manifest error. 24 Indeed, I have believed in your Lord, so listen to me." 25 (Having been murdered by the disbelievers) he was told to enter paradise 26 "That my Lord (Allah) has forgiven me, and made me of the honoured ones!" 27 ۞ And We sent not down upon his people, after him, any host out of heaven; neither would We send any down. 28 nothing was [needed] but one single blast [of Our punishment] - and lo! they became as still and silent as ashes. 29 Alas for the servants! there comes not to them an apostle but they mock at him. 30 Have they not considered how many generations We destroyed before them - that they to them will not return? 31 All of them shall (one day) be gathered before Us. 32