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 Save Him Who did create me, for He will surely guide me. 27 And he uttered this as a word destined to endure among those who would come after him, so that they might [always] return [to it]. 28 In fact, We allowed them and their fathers to enjoy themselves until the truth and a strong Messenger came to them. 29 And when there came to them the truth they said: This is magic, and surely we are disbelievers in it. 30 They say: “Why was this Qur'an not sent down upon some great man from the two (main) cities?” 31 Is it they who distribute the Mercy of your Lord? It is We Who have distributed their livelihood among them in the life of this world, and have raised some above others in rank that some of them may harness others to their service. Your Lord's Mercy is better than all the treasures that they hoard. 32 If it were not that all mankind might have become one community [of disbelievers], We could have given all those who deny the Lord of Mercy, houses with roofs of silver, silver staircases to ascend, 33 and (silver) doors to their houses, and couches (of silver) upon which they would recline; 34 and gold, surely, all this is but the enjoyment of this present life. The Everlasting Life with your Lord is for those who fear (Him). 35