Tell them the story of the people of the town to whom Messengers came. 13 When We had sent two towards them and they denied them both, so We fortified them with a third, and they all said, “Indeed we have been sent to you.” 14 They said: ye are but human beings like ourselves; the Compassionate hath not sent down aught; ye are only lying. 15 They said: our Lord knoweth that we are surely unto you the sent ones. 16 and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.” 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 augury is with you; if you are reminded? But you are a prodigal 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 "[As for me,] why should I not worship Him who has brought me into being, and to whom you all will be brought back? 22 Should I worship other gods besides Him? If the Beneficent God was to afflict me with hardship, the intercession of the idols can be of no benefit to me nor could it rescue me from hardship. 23 "Then verily, I should be in plain error. 24 Messengers, listen to me. I believe in your Lord." 25 We said to him, "Enter paradise," and he exclaimed: "Would that my people knew 26 (wherein he said), "Would that people knew how my Lord has granted me forgiveness and honor". 27 ۞ We did not send down any army against his people from heaven, nor did We have to send one. 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 Have they not seen how many generations We destroyed before them, which will not return to them? 31 And indeed, all of them will yet be brought present before Us. 32