S (Saad)
In the name of Allah, most benevolent, ever-merciful
Saad, by the Holy Reading (Koran) of the Remembrance. 1 Nay, but the unbelievers are steeped in arrogance and stubborn defiance. 2 How many ancient generations did We destroy? (On facing Our torment) they cried out for help, but it was too late for them to escape. 3 They are surprised that a warner should come to them from among themselves. They say, "This is a magician, a great liar. 4 Maketh he the gods One God? Verily that is a thing astounding! 5 And the Council of them depart, saying 'Go! Be steadfast to your gods; this is a thing to be desired. 6 We have not heard this in the religious community close to our time. This is nothing but a fabrication. 7 "What! has the Message been sent to him - (Of all persons) among us?"... but they are in doubt concerning My (Own) Message! Nay, they have not yet tasted My Punishment! 8 Do they have the stores of the mercy of your Lord, the mighty and munificent? 9 Or [that] the dominion over the heavens and the earth and all that is between them is theirs? Why, then, let them try to ascend [to God-like power] by all [conceivable] means! 10 (As they denied Allah's Message) they will be a defeated host like the confederates of the old times (who were defeated). 11 Before them the nations of Noah, Aad and Pharaoh, and he of the tentpegs belied, 12 And Thamud, and the people of Lut, and the Companions of the Wood; - such were the Confederates. 13 Of all these there was not one who did not deny the messengers. So My retribution was justified. 14