The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the Name of Allah, the Merciful, the Most Merciful
A beseecher besought the visitation of chastisement, 1 (a chastisement meant) for the unbelievers, one which none can avert; 2 from God, the Lord of the Stairways. 3 To Him the angels and the Spirit (Gabriel) ascend in a day, the measure of which is fifty thousand years. 4 So be thou patient with a sweet patience; 5 Verily! They see it (the torment) afar off, 6 But We see it (quite) near. 7 It shall befall on a Day whereon the heaven shall become like unto dregs of oil. 8 And the hills will be light as wool. 9 And no friend will ask concerning his friend. 10 Though they shall be made to see one another [(i.e. on the Day of Resurrection), there will be none but see his father, children and relatives, but he will neither speak to them nor will ask them for any help)], - the Mujrim, (criminal, sinner, disbeliever, etc.) would desire to ransom himself from the punishment of that Day by his children. 11 And his wife and his brother 12 his kin who sheltered him, 13 And all those that are in the earth, (wishing) then (that) this might deliver him. 14 But nay! Verily, all [that awaits him] is a raging flame, 15 Taking away (burning completely) the head skin! 16 Inviting (all) such as turn their backs and turn away their faces (from the Right). 17 and amassed wealth and hoarded it. 18 ۞ Surely man was created fretful, 19 when misfortune touches him he starts lamenting, 20 but when they are fortunate, they become niggardly 21 Not so are the prayerful. 22 and continue at their prayers, 23 those who give a due share of their wealth 24 For those who beg, and for the needy who cannot even ask. 25 and those who believe in the Day of Judgement 26 And those who are fearful of their Lord's torment 27 Surely the chastisement of their Lord is (a thing) not to be felt secure of-- 28 those who preserve their chastity 29 Except with their wives and the (women slaves and captives) whom their right hands possess, for (then) they are not to be blamed, 30 but those who go beyond that limit are transgressors; 31 And those who respect their trusts and covenants; 32 and who stand firm whenever they bear witness; 33 and are steadfast in their prayers. 34 Those are highly honored in the Gardens. 35