The Dunes (Al-Ahqaaf)
In the name of God, The Most Gracious, The Dispenser of Grace
۞ HaMeem. 1 The sending down of this Book is from Allah the Most Honourable, the Wise. 2 We have not created the heavens and the earth and all that is between them otherwise than in accordance with [an inner] truth, and for a term set [by Us]: and yet, they who are bent on denying the truth turn aside from the warning which has been conveyed unto them. 3 Proclaim, (O dear Prophet Mohammed – peace and blessings be upon him), “What is your opinion – regarding those whom you worship other than Allah – show me which part of the earth they have created, or do they own any portion of the heavens? Bring to me a Book preceding this (Qur’an), or some remnants of knowledge, if you are truthful.” 4 Who is more astray than he who calls on those, apart from God, who cannot answer their prayers till the Day of Resurrection, and are even unaware of being called. 5 When all men are gathered together (on that Day) they will become their enemies and deny their worship. 6 When Our enlightening revelations are recited to them, the disbelievers, of the truth which has come to them, say, "This is plain magic". 7 Or do they say: "He has invented all this"? Say [O Muhammad]: "Had I invented it, you would not be of the least help to me against God. He is fully aware of that [slander] into which you so recklessly plunge: enough is He as a witness between me and you! And [withal,] He alone is truly-forgiving, a true dispenser of grace." 8 Tell them: “I am not the first of the Messengers; and I do not know what shall be done with me or with you. I follow only what is revealed to me, and I am nothing but a plain warner.” 9 Say: "Have you given thought [to how you will fare] if this be truly [a revelation] from God and yet you deny its truth? - even though a witness from among the children of Israel has already borne witness to [the advent of] one like himself, and has believed [in him,] the while you glory in your arrogance [and reject his message]? Verily, God does not grace [such] evildoing folk with His guidance!" 10