(The tribe of) A'ad denied the messengers (of Allah). 123 When their brother Hood said to them: 'Will you not be cautious? 124 I am a trustworthy messenger for you: 125 So keep your duty to Allah and obey me. 126 I do not ask for any payment for my preaching. I shall receive my reward from the Lord of the Universe. 127 "Will you, in your wanton folly, build [idolatrous] altars on every height, 128 "And do you get for yourselves palaces (fine buildings) as if you will live therein for ever. 129 When you lay hands upon anyone, you do so as tyrants. 130 So fear God, and obey me; 131 and fear Him who has succoured you with what you know, 132 Hath aided you with cattle and sons. 133 And gardens and fountains; 134 for, verily, I fear lest suffering befall you on an awesome day!" 135 They replied: 'It is the same to us whether you admonish or whether you are not one of the admonishers. 136 This is just a habit of antiquated people. 137 And we are not to be punished." 138 So they belied him, and We destroyed them. Verily! In this is indeed a sign, yet most of them are not believers. 139 And lo! thy Lord, He is indeed the Mighty, the Merciful. 140