The Town (Al-Balad)
In the Name of Allah, the Merciful, the Most Merciful
۞ I CALL THIS earth to witness -- 1 And you, [O Muhammad], are free of restriction in this city - 2 And the parent and the offspring, 3 We have indeed created man surrounded by hardships. 4 Thinks he that none can overcome him? 5 He says, "I have spent enormous wealth." 6 Does he believe that none has seen him? 7 Have We not given him two eyes, 8 And a tongue and two lips, 9 and guided him on the two paths (of good and evil)? 10 But he would not attempt the uphill road, 11 And what will make you know the path that is steep? 12 (It is:) freeing the bondman; 13 Or the feeding on a day of hunger. 14 An orphan, of kin, 15 or a needy man in misery; 16 Then will he be of those who believe, and enjoin patience, (constancy, and self-restraint), and enjoin deeds of kindness and compassion. 17 Those who do so are the people of the right hand, 18 And those who disbelieve in Our signs, they are the Companions of the Left Hand; 19 with the Fire closed above them. 20