And put forward to them a similitude; the (story of the) dwellers of the town, [It is said that the town was Antioch (Antakiya)], when there came Messengers 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 They said: You are naught but mortals like ourselves, nor has the Beneficent Allah revealed anything; you only lie. 15 Said [the apostles]: "Our Sustainer knows that we have indeed been sent unto you; 16 And our duty is but plain conveyance (of the 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 The Messengers said, "This ill omen lies within yourselves. Will you then take heed? In fact, you are a transgressing people." 19 Then a man came running from the other side of the city. "O my people," he said, "follow the messengers. 20 “Obey those who do not ask any fee from you, and they are on guidance.” 21 Why should I not worship Him who has originated me and to whom you shall all be returned? 22 "Shall I take (other) gods besides Him? If (Allah) Most Gracious should intend some adversity for me, of no use whatever will be their intercession for me, nor can they deliver me. 23 “Undoubtedly, I am then in open error.” 24 I believe in your Lord, so hear me' 25 It was said (to him when the disbelievers killed him): "Enter Paradise." He said: "Would that my people knew! 26 how my Sustainer has forgiven me [the sins of my past,] and has placed me among the honoured ones!" 27 ۞ We did not send down any army against his people from heaven, nor did We have to send one. 28 It was but one shout, and lo! they were extinct. 29 Alas for the servants! there comes not to them an apostle but they mock at him. 30 Do they not consider how many of the generations have We destroyed before them, because they do not turn to them? 31 All of them shall (one day) be gathered before Us. 32