Recite to them, as a case in point, the story of the people of the town when the Messengers came to them. 13 What time We sent unto them two, then they belied the twain, wherefore We strengthened them with a third, and they said: verily we are unto you the sent ones. 14 The people said, "You are mere mortals like us and the Beneficent God has sent nothing. You are only liars." 15 (The messengers) said: "Our Lord knows that we have been sent to you. 16 "And our duty is only to proclaim the clear Message." 17 They said: verily we augur ill of you; if ye desist not, we shall surely stone you, and there will befall you from us a torment afflictive. 18 The Messengers said, "This ill omen lies within yourselves. Will you then take heed? In fact, you are a transgressing people." 19 Then a man came running from the other side of the city. "O my people," he said, "follow the messengers. 20 follow those who ask no wage of you and are rightly guided. 21 And why should I not serve Him who originated me, and unto whom you shall be returned? 22 "Shall I take besides Him aliha (gods), if the Most Beneficent (Allah) intends me any harm, their intercession will be of no use for me whatsoever, nor can they save me? 23 Indeed, I would then be in manifest error. 24 Indeed, I have believed in your Lord, so listen to me." 25 It was said (unto him): Enter paradise. He said: Would that my people knew 26 How my Lord has forgiven me and made me one of those who are honoured!" 27 ۞ After him, We did not send down any hosts from the heaven; We stood in no need to send down any host. 28 It was no more than a single mighty Blast, and behold! they were (like ashes) quenched and silent. 29 Alas for human beings! They ridicule every messenger that comes to them. 30 Behold they not how many We have destroyed before them of the generations! verily unto them they shall not return. 31 And surely, all, everyone of them will be brought before Us. 32