Narrate to them the example of the people of the city when the messengers came to it. 13 When We (first) sent to them two messengers, they rejected them: But We strengthened them with a third: they said, "Truly, we have been sent on a mission to you." 14 They said: ye are but human beings like ourselves; the Compassionate hath not sent down aught; ye are only lying. 15 Said [the apostles]: "Our Sustainer knows that we have indeed been sent unto you; 16 but we are not bound to do more than clearly deliver the message [entrusted to us]." 17 They said, "Indeed, we consider you a bad omen. If you do not desist, we will surely stone you, and there will surely touch you, from us, a painful punishment." 18 They said, "Your evil augury be with you! Is it because you are admonished about the truth? Surely, you are a people transgressing all bounds!" 19 And there came from the uttermost part of the city a man running. He cried: O my people! Follow those who have been sent! 20 Follow those who do not ask for any recompense 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 beside Him gods when, if the Compassionate should intend me any harm, their intercession will avail me not at all, nor would they save me? 23 Then truly I should be in error manifest. 24 Messengers, listen to me. I believe in your Lord." 25 We said to him, "Enter paradise," and he exclaimed: "Would that my people knew 26 that my Lord has forgiven me, and caused me to be amongst the receivers of generosity' 27 ۞ We did not send an army against his people from the heaven after his death nor did We need to send one. 28 It was no more than a single mighty Blast, and behold! they were (like ashes) quenched and silent. 29 Alas for the servants! there comes not to them an apostle but they mock at him. 30 Have they not considered how many generations We destroyed before them - that they to them will not return? 31 They will all be brought into Our presence together. 32