The Stars (Al-Najm)
In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful
By the star when it setteth. 1 your companion has neither strayed nor is he misguided, 2 And he does not say anything by his own desire. 3 It is but a divine revelation, which is revealed to him. 4 Which one of mighty powers hath taught him, 5 [an angel] endowed with surpassing power, who in time manifested himself in his true shape and nature, 6 being on the higher horizon, 7 Then he [Jibrael (Gabriel)] approached and came closer, 8 until he was two bows' length away, or nearer. 9 and revealed to God's servant what he revealed. 10 The [servant's] heart did not give the lie to what he saw: 11 What, will you dispute with him about what he sees! 12 He certainly saw him (Gabriel) during his other ascent 13 At the farthest lote-tree; 14 Near it is the Paradise of Abode. 15 when the lote tree was covered in mystic splendour. 16 The sight [of the Prophet] did not swerve, nor did it transgress [its limit]. 17 He certainly saw of the greatest signs of his Lord. 18 (Among the idols) have you considered allat and al'uzza, 19 and your third idol al-Manat (whom you considered as God's daughters)? 20 Why - for yourselves [you would choose only] male offspring, whereas to Him [you assign] female: 21 That indeed is a division most unfair! 22 These are nothing but names that you and your forefathers have invented, for which Allah has sent down no authority. They are merely following their conjectures and their carnal desires although guidance has come to them from their Lord. 23 Or shall man have what he wishes? 24 Nay! for Allah is the hereafter and the former (life). 25