The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the name of Allah, most benevolent, ever-merciful
A questioner asked of a chastisement about to fall 1 (a chastisement meant) for the unbelievers, one which none can avert; 2 from punishing them. He is the Lord of the Ascending Stairways, 3 The angels and Jibreel, ascend towards Him – the punishment will befall on a day which spans fifty thousand years. 4 So be patient with gracious patience. 5 behold, they see it as if far off; 6 but We see it is nigh. 7 It shall befall on a Day whereon the heaven shall become like unto dregs of oil. 8 and the mountains will be like tufts of wool, 9 And no friend will ask of a friend, 10 Though within sight of one another. The sinner would like to ransom himself from the torment of that Day by offering his sons, 11 And his wife and his brother. 12 and his kinsfolk who had stood by him, 13 and all those on earth. 14 By no means! Surely it is a flaming fire 15 Plucking out (his being) right to the skull!- 16 It shall claim him who turned and fled (from truth), 17 and who accumulated wealth without spending it for a good purpose. 18 ۞ Indeed, the human was created grudging and impatient. 19 [As a rule,] whenever misfortune touches him, he is filled with self-pity; 20 And when good toucheth him he is begrudging. 21 Except those devoted to Salat (prayers) 22 Who are constant at their worship 23 who, from their wealth is a known right 24 For the petitioner and the deprived - 25 who confirm the Day of Doom 26 and are fearful of the punishment of their Lord; 27 for none may ever feel secure from the punishment of their Lord; 28 those who preserve their chastity 29 Except in the case of their wives or those whom their right hands possess-- for these surely are not to be blamed, 30 but whoever goes beyond this is a transgressor; 31 And those who keep their trusts and covenants; 32 and those who stand by their testimony 33 And those who keep a guard on their prayer, 34 They will live in gardens with honour. 35