The Hijjr Valley (Al-Hijjr)
In the name of Allah, most benevolent, ever-merciful
۞ Alif-Lam-Ra. [These letters are one of the miracles of the Quran, and none but Allah (Alone) knows their meanings]. These are the Verses of the Book, and a plain Quran. 1 Oft times would those who disbelieve fain that they had been Muslims. 2 Leave them thou to eat and to enjoy, and let vain hope divert them; presently they will know. 3 And never did We destroy a township but there was a known decree for it. 4 No nation can outstrip its term nor can they lag behind. 5 And yet they say: "You, to whom this Exposition has been sent are surely possessed of the Devil. 6 Why do you not bring us the angels, if you should be among the truthful?" 7 But then We never send the angels down save with the purpose (of enforcing their doom), after which they will not be given more respite. 8 We have, without doubt, sent down the Message; and We will assuredly guard it (from corruption). 9 We sent messengers before you to the previous peoples, 10 and never yet came an apostle to them without their deriding him. 11 We place in the hearts of sinners (disbelief). 12 they believe not in it, though the wont of the ancients is already gone. 13 Though We opened to them a gate in heaven, and still they mounted through it, 14 They will say all the same: "Our eyes were dazed (and clouded over). We were a people ensorcelled." 15