The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the name of Allah, most benevolent, ever-merciful
A questioner asked about a Penalty to befall- 1 those who deny the truth. [Know, then, that] nothing can ward it off, 2 [since it will come] from God, unto whom there are many ways of ascent: 3 The angels and the spirit ascend unto him in a Day the measure whereof is (as) fifty thousand years: 4 Therefore be patient, with a beautiful patience; 5 They think that it (the Day of Judgment) is far away. 6 Whereas We see it impending. 7 It shall befall on a Day whereon the heaven shall become like unto dregs of oil. 8 and the mountains will become like tufts of wool, 9 no loyal friend shall question loyal friend, 10 though they shall be within sight of each other. The guilty one will gladly ransom himself from the torment of that Day by sacrificing his own children, 11 his companion wife, his brother, 12 And the nearest of his kinsfolk who gave him shelter, 13 And all, all that is on earth,- so it could deliver him: 14 But nay! for lo! it is the fire of hell 15 that will strip off the scalp. 16 and it shall call him who withdrew and turned his back 17 And accumulated wealth and hoarded it. 18 ۞ Verily man is formed impatient. 19 If evil befalls him he is perturbed; 20 And when good toucheth him he is begrudging. 21 Not so are the prayerful. 22 who are constant in prayer; 23 and those in whose wealth there is a known right 24 for the needy and the deprived, 25 those who firmly believe in the Day of Recompense, 26 And those who are fearful of their Lord's doom - 27 for none may ever feel secure from the punishment of their Lord; 28 and guard their private parts 29 Except with their wives and the (women slaves and captives) whom their right hands possess, for (then) they 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 are upright in their testimonies; 33 And those who guard (the sacredness) of their worship;- 34 They will live in gardens with honour. 35