And indeed We sent to Thamûd their
brother Sâlih, saying: "Worship Allâh (Alone and none else). Then look!
They became two parties (believers and disbelievers) quarreling with each
other." (45) He said: "O my people! Why do you seek to hasten the evil
(torment) before the good (Allâh's Mercy)? Why seek you not the Forgiveness of
Allâh, that you may receive mercy?" (46) They said: "We augur
ill omen from you and those with you." He said: "Your ill omen
is with Allâh; nay, but you are a people that are being tested." (47) And there were in the
city nine men (from the sons of their chiefs), who made mischief in the land,
and would not reform. (48) They said: "Swear one to another by Allâh that we
shall make a secret night attack on him and his household, and thereafter we
will surely say to his near relatives: 'We witnessed not the destruction of his
household, and verily, we are telling the truth.'" (49) So they plotted a
plot, and We plotted a plot, while they perceived not.
(50) Then see how was the end of their plot! Verily! We destroyed them and
their nation, all together. (51) These are their houses in utter ruin, for
they did wrong. Verily, in this is indeed an Ayâh (a lesson or a sign) for
people who know. (52) And We saved those who believed, and
used to fear Allâh, and keep their duty to Him. (53) And (remember) Lut (