The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the Name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful
ONE who is minded to ask might ask about the suffering which [in the hereafter] is bound to befall 1 Upon the disbelievers, which none can repel, 2 (A punishment) from Allah, the Owner of the Elevated Passages. 3 all the angels and all the inspiration [ever granted to man] ascend unto Him [daily,] in a day the length whereof is [like] fifty thousand years… 4 So, (O Prophet), persevere with gracious perseverance. 5 Verily they think that the chastisement is far off, 6 but We see it to be very near. 7 On the day when the heavens become like molten metal. 8 And then the mountains shall become like unto wool dyed. 9 And no friend will ask concerning 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 and of his spouse, and of his brother, 12 and his kinsfolk who had stood by him, 13 And all those who are in the earth – then only if the redemption saves him! 14 By no means! For the raging flames of the fire 15 A remover of exteriors. 16 It calls out to him who reverted and turned away. 17 And amasses (wealth) then shuts it up. 18 ۞ Indeed, mankind was created anxious: 19 Being greatly grieved when evil afflicts him 20 If good comes to him he holds back his hand, 21 Save worshippers. 22 Those who remain constant in their Salat (prayers); 23 And those in whose wealth there is a known right, 24 for the impoverished nonrequester and the requester, 25 and those who believe in the Day of Judgement 26 and fear the chastisement of their Lord – 27 for none is secure from the punishment of their Lord, 28 And those who guard their private parts, 29 except from their wives and what their right hands own, for these they are not blameworthy. 30 but whoever goes beyond this is a transgressor; 31 And those who protect the property entrusted to them, and their agreements. 32 and those who are upright in their testimonies; 33 and who observe their prayers. 34 Such shall dwell in the Gardens (i.e. Paradise) honoured. 35