AND SET FORTH unto them a parable - [the story of how] the people of a township [behaved] when [Our] message-bearers came unto them. 13 When We sent to them two, they rejected both of them, then We strengthened (them) with a third, so they said: Surely we are apostles to you. 14 They said, “You are nothing but mortals like us; the Most Gracious has not sent down anything – you are nothing but liars.” 15 They said: 'Our Lord knows that we are Messengers to you. 16 who have been sent to you. Our only duty is to preach clearly to you". 17 but they answered, "We see an evil omen in you. If you do not stop, we shall certainly stone you, and you will suffer a painful punishment at our hands." 18 They said, 'Your augury is with you; if you are reminded? But you are a prodigal people.' 19 Then came a man from the furthest part of the city, running; he said, 'My people, follow the Envoys! 20 Follow those who do not ask you for any reward and who are rightly guided. 21 Why should I not serve the One Who created me and to Whom all of you shall be sent back? 22 Shall I take (other) gods in place of Him when, if the Beneficent should wish me any harm, their intercession will avail me naught, nor can they save? 23 In that case I would surely be in clear error. 24 “Indeed I have believed in your Lord, so heed me.” 25 We said to him, "Enter paradise," and he exclaimed: "Would that my people knew 26 how my Lord has forgiven me and placed me among the honoured ones!" 27 ۞ And We sent not against his people after him a host from heaven, nor do We send (such a thing). 28 It was only one Cry and lo, they were silent and still. 29 Ah, the anguish for the bondmen! Never came there unto them a messenger but they did mock him! 30 Do they not see how many of the generations We have destroyed before them? Verily, they will not return to them. 31 And surely all, every one of them, shall be brought before Us. 32