The Stars (Al-Najm)
In the name of Allah, the Merciful, the Compassionate
CONSIDER this unfolding [of God's message,] as it comes down from on high! 1 Your companion hath not gone astray, nor hath he erred. 2 nor does he speak out of his desire. 3 It is naught save an inspiration that is inspired, 4 Taught to him by one intense in strength - 5 One vigorous; and he grew clear to view 6 being on the higher horizon. 7 Then he drew near and hung above suspended, 8 Until a space of two bow (arcs) or even less remained, 9 and revealed to God's servant what he revealed. 10 The (Prophet's) (mind and) heart in no way falsified that which he saw. 11 Will ye then dispute with him concerning what he seeth? 12 And certainly he saw him descend a second time: 13 At the Lote Tree of the Utmost Boundary - 14 Close to which is the Everlasting Paradise. 15 Behold, the Lote-tree was shrouded (in mystery unspeakable!) 16 his eyes did not swerve, nor did they stray 17 for indeed he saw one of the greatest signs of his Lord. 18 HAVE YOU, then, ever considered [what you are worshipping in] Al-Lat and Al-Uzza, 19 And Manat, the third, the other? 20 Are there sons for you, and daughters for Him? 21 This indeed is an unjust division! 22 These are nothing but names which ye have devised,- ye and your fathers,- for which Allah has sent down no authority (whatever). They follow nothing but conjecture and what their own souls desire!- Even though there has already come to them Guidance from their Lord! 23 Shall man have whatsoever he wisheth for! 24 To Allah belong both the Next World and the present. 25