The Town (Al-Balad)
In the Name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful
۞ I swear by yonder city 1 And you, [O Muhammad], are free of restriction in this city - 2 or by the great father and his wonderful son (Abraham and Ishmael) 3 We have indeed created man surrounded by hardships. 4 Does he think that no one has power over him? 5 He says: "I have wasted a great deal of wealth." 6 Deemest he that none beholdeth him? 7 Did We not assign unto him two eyes 8 a tongue, and two lips? 9 and guided him on the two paths (of good and evil)? 10 But he hath not attempted the Ascent - 11 And what will make you comprehend what the uphill road is? 12 (It is) the freeing of a slave, 13 or, in a day of famine, the feeding of 14 Of a related orphan, 15 or to a needy person in distress; 16 Then will he be of those who believe, and enjoin patience, (constancy, and self-restraint), and enjoin deeds of kindness and compassion. 17 These are the people of the right hand. 18 And (as for) those who disbelieve in our communications, they are the people of the left hand. 19 The Fire will be shut over them (i.e. they will be enveloped by the Fire without any opening or window or outlet. 20