AND WHEN Abraham spoke to his father and his people, [he had this very truth in mind:] "Verily, far be it from me to worship what you worship! 26 except Him who originated me, for He will guide me' 27 He made this an abiding word among his descendants, in order that they would return. 28 In fact, I allowed them and their fathers to enjoy this life till the truth, and the apostle preaching it lucidly, came to them. 29 Yet when the truth had come to them, they said: "This is sorcery. We shall never believe in it." 30 Also, they say: "Why is not this Qur'an sent down to some leading man in either of the two (chief) cities?" 31 Is it they who apportion thy Lord's mercy? We have apportioned among them their livelihood in the life of the world, and raised some of them above others in rank that some of them may take labour from others; and the mercy of thy Lord is better than (the wealth) that they amass. 32 Had it not been that all people would become one community (of unbelievers), We might have given those who disbelieve in Ar-Rahman roofs of silver for their dwellings and (silver) stairs for mounting, 33 with doors to their houses and couches on which to recline; 34 and other ornament of gold. All these are only the means of enjoyment in this world, but the pious will receive their reward from your Lord in the life hereafter. 35