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 them two messengers, they rejected them both, so We strengthened them with a third. They said, "Truly, we have been sent to you [by God] as messengers." 14 The people of the town said: “You are only human beings like ourselves, and the Merciful Lord has revealed nothing. You are simply lying.” 15 They said, "Our Lord knows that we have been sent to you. 16 "And our duty is only to convey plainly (the Message)." 17 They said, 'We augur ill of you. If you give not over, we will stone you and there shall visit you from us a painful chastisement.' 18 They said: 'Your prediction is with you, if you are reminded. Surely, you are but a wayward nation' 19 And from the outermost part of the city came a man running; he said, “O my people! Obey those who have been sent.” 20 Follow those who ask no recompense of you and are rightly guided. 21 “And what is the matter with me that I should not worship Him Who created me, whereas it is towards Him that you are to return?” 22 What! Shall I take any deities apart from Him whose intercession will not avail me the least were the Merciful One to bring any adversity upon me, nor will they be able to rescue me? 23 Verily then I should be in error manifest. 24 Indeed, I have believed in your Lord, so listen to me." 25 It was said: Enter the garden. He said: O would that my people had known 26 (wherein he said), "Would that people knew how my Lord has granted me forgiveness and honor". 27 ۞ And after him, We did not send down any army from heaven against his people, nor did We intend to send down an army. 28 There was but a single Blast and suddenly they became silent and still. 29 Alas for My servants! Never does a Messenger come to them but they mock him. 30 Have they not considered how many generations We destroyed before them - that they to them will not return? 31 But all, without exception, will be brought before Us. 32