The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
A questioner asked of a chastisement about to fall 1 which will inevitably seize the disbelievers. 2 from God, the Lord of the Stairways. 3 To Him the angels and the Spirit mount up, in a day whereof the measure is fifty thousand years. 4 Therefore, [O believer,] endure all adversity with goodly patience: 5 behold, they see it as if far off; 6 while We think that it is near at hand. 7 The day when the sky will become as molten copper, 8 and the mountains will become like dyed tufts of wool, 9 and no friend will ask about his 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 wife and 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 A fire that melts the hide. 16 calling him who drew back and turned away, 17 And collected [wealth] and hoarded. 18 ۞ Lo! man was created anxious, 19 [As a rule,] whenever misfortune touches him, he is filled with self-pity; 20 and whenever good fortune comes to him, he selfishly withholds it [from others]. 21 But not so the worshippers 22 Who are constant at their worship 23 And those within whose wealth is a known right 24 for the needy and the deprived, 25 and those who believe in the Day of Judgement 26 and go in fear of the punishment of their Lord, 27 for none is secure from the punishment of their Lord, 28 And those who protect their private organs (from adultery). 29 Save in regard to their spouses or those whom their right hands own; so verily they are not blameworthy 30 But whoever seeks beyond that, then they are the transgressors - 31 And those who are to their trusts and promises attentive 32 And those who stand firm in their testimonies. 33 And those who keep a guard on their prayer, 34 They will be honoured in the Gardens of Bliss. 35