The people of Thamud lived in places which had beautiful gardens. There were springs, date palms and trees which had plenty of fruit. The people were skilled in building and planning and their houses were carved into rocks and mountains. Because of all this, they started to become proud and arrogant and believed that they were the most powerful people on earth and that they could do anything they wanted.

The people of Thamud started worshipping many idols and even gave them names. Allah (SWT) decided to send a Prophet to them and He sent Prophet Salih (AS).

Prophet Salih (AS) said to his people “There is no God but Allah (SWT). He is the only one that we should worship. He has created us and settled us on this earth. We should ask Him for help.” There were only a small number of people who followed Prophet Salih but most of them did not pay attention.

The rich and powerful people of Thamud asked Prophet Salih (AS) to show them a sign so that they can believe him.

Prophet Salih (AS) brought a she-camel and said: "This camel will be a sign for you from Allah. Let her graze on Allah's land and do not harm her or Allah (SWT) will send a terrible punishment to you.

But after a short while they did a terrible thing and killed her breaking Allah’s command.

Afterwards, they called Salih and said: "Now bring us the punishment of which you have been warning us, or we shall not believe that you are the Prophet of Allah." Prophet Salih (AS) told them that they should enjoy the last three days at home and then the promise of the disaster came true.

After three days, there was a terrible earthquake and all the evil-doers were killed. Such was their punishment because they did not obey Allah.

Prophet Salih (AS) and his followers moved to another place and worshipped Allah (SWT) in peace and harmony.