13 And set out to them a parable of the people of the town, when apostles came to it.

14 When We sent to them two, they rejected them both; then We strengthened (them) with a third, so they said: Surely we are sent to you.

15 They said: You are only mortals like ourselves, nor has the Beneficent revealed anything — you only lie.

16 They said: Our Lord knows that we are surely sent to you.

17 And our duty is only a clear deliverance (of the message).

18 They said: Surely we augur evil from you. If you desist not, we will surely stone you, and a painful chastisement from us will certainly afflict you.

19 They said: Your evil fortune is with you. What! If you are reminded! Nay, you are an extravagant people.

20 And from the remote part of the city there came a man running. He said: O my people, follow the apostles.

21 Follow him who asks of you no reward, and they are on the right course.

Part 23

22 And what reason have I that I should not serve Him Who created me and to Whom you will be brought back.

23 Shall I take besides Him gods whose intercession, if the Beneficent should desire to afflict me with harm, will avail me naught, nor can they deliver me?

24 Then I shall surely be in clear error.

25 Surely I believe in your Lord, so hear me.

26 It was said: Enter the Garden. He said: Would that my people knew,

27 How my Lord has forgiven me and made me of the honoured ones!

28 And We sent not down upon his people after him any host from heaven, nor do We ever send.

29 It was naught but a single cry, and lo! they were still.