The Town (Al-Balad)
In the name of Allah, the Merciful, the Compassionate
۞ I do not (need to) swear by this town (Mecca) 1 And thou shalt be allowed in yonder city 2 And by oath of your forefather Ibrahim, and by you – his illustrious son! 3 that We have created the human being to face a great deal of hardship. 4 Does he think that no one has power over him? 5 He says, "I have spent wealth in abundance." 6 Does he think that no one sees him? 7 Have We not made for him a pair of eyes? 8 a tongue, and two lips, 9 and guided him on the two paths (of good and evil)? 10 But he hath made no haste on the path that is steep. 11 Would that you knew what Aqaba is! 12 (It is) Freeing a neck (slave, etc.) 13 Or the giving of food in a day of hunger 14 Of a related orphan, 15 or of a needy [stranger] lying in the dust 16 and being, withal, of those who have attained to faith, and who enjoin upon one another patience in adversity, and enjoin upon one another compassion. 17 Such are they that have attained to righteousness; 18 And those who disbelieve in Our signs, they are the Companions of the Left Hand; 19 Upon them shall be a Fire that will hem them in. 20