And present to them an example: the people of the city, when the messengers came to it - 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 They said: ye are but human beings like ourselves; the Compassionate hath not sent down aught; ye are only lying. 15 They said: "Our Lord doth know that we have been sent on a mission to you: 16 And we are not responsible except for clear notification." 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 omen is with yourselves. Is it because you were reminded? Rather, you are a transgressing people." 19 Then, from the furthest part of the city, a man came running. He said, "My people, follow the messengers. 20 Follow those who ask no 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 (other) gods besides Him? If (Allah) Most Gracious should intend some adversity for me, of no use whatever will be their intercession for me, nor can they deliver me. 23 “Undoubtedly, I am then in open error.” 24 I believe in your Lord, so hear me' 25 It was said to him, “Enter Paradise”; he said, “If only my people knew!” 26 Of that on account of which my Lord has forgiven me and made me of the honored ones! 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 only one Shout and they were silent, still. 29 Ah the misery of the bondmen! there cometh not unto them an apostle, but him they have been mocking. 30 Have they not seen how many generations We destroyed before them, which will not return to them? 31 All of them shall (one day) be gathered before Us. 32