The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
Allah - beginning with the name of - the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
ONE who is minded to ask might ask about the suffering which [in the hereafter] is bound to befall 1 (a chastisement meant) for the unbelievers, one which none can avert; 2 From Allah, Lord of the Ascending Stairways 3 by which the angels and the Spirit will ascend to Him in one Day which will last for fifty thousand years. 4 Therefore be patient, with a beautiful patience; 5 Lo! they behold it afar off 6 But We see it (quite) near. 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 No loyal friend will ask another loyal friend 10 though they may see each other. A sinner will wish that he could save himself from the torment of that day by sacrificing his children, 11 his companion (wife), his brother, 12 And his nearest kindred who shelter him 13 And all those that are in the earth, (wishing) then (that) this might deliver him. 14 By no means! It will be the fierce flame 15 tearing away his skin! 16 Inviting (all) such as turn their backs and turn away their faces (from the Right). 17 and amassed wealth and hoarded it. 18 ۞ Indeed, man is born impatient: 19 Fretful when evil befalleth him 20 And when good touches him, withholding [of it], 21 except those who are steadfast 22 Who persevere in devotion, 23 And those in whose wealth there is a known right, 24 for the impoverished nonrequester and the requester, 25 And those who believe in the Day of Judgment, 26 and who stand in dread of their Sustainer's chastisement 27 Surely no one can be secure from the punishment of his Lord, -- 28 those who preserve their chastity 29 except from their spouses and those whom they rightfully possess [through wedlock], for which they incur no blame -- 30 But those who seek more than this will be transgressors; 31 and those who fulfil their trusts and their covenants, 32 and perform their witnessings, 33 and are steadfast in their prayers. 34 It is these who will be honoured in Gardens. 35