(The tribe of) A'ad denied the messengers (of Allah). 123 When their brother Hud said to them: "Will you not fear Allah and obey Him? 124 I have been sent as a trusted messenger to you. 125 “Therefore fear Allah and obey me.” 126 And I do not ask you any reward for it; surely my reward is only with the Lord of the worlds 127 Build ye on every high place a monument for vain delight? 128 and erect huge palaces as though you will live for ever, 129 "And when ye exert your strong hand, do ye do it like men of absolute power? 130 So fear Allah, and obey me. 131 fear Him who has aided you with all that you know -- 132 "Freely has He bestowed on you cattle and sons,- 133 And gardens and watersprings. 134 Indeed, I fear for you the punishment of a terrible day." 135 They replied, "It makes no difference to us whether you preach or do not preach, 136 This is just a habit of antiquated people. 137 We are not going to be damned." 138 Eventually they gave the lie to him and We destroyed them. Surely there is a Sign in this, but most of them would not believe. 139 And most surely your Lord is the Mighty, the Merciful. 140