The Town (Al-Balad)
In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful
۞ Nay! I swear by this city 1 this land in which thou art free to dwell 2 or by the great father and his wonderful son (Abraham and Ishmael) 3 We created the human in fatigue. 4 Does he think that no one has power over him? 5 He says: “I have squandered enormous wealth.” 6 Does man think that no one saw him? 7 Have We not made for him a pair of eyes? 8 One tongue, and two lips, 9 And guide him to the parting of the mountain ways? 10 So he did not quickly enter the steep valley. 11 And what will make you know the path that is steep? 12 It is freeing the neck, 13 or giving food upon a day of hunger 14 An orphan near of kin, 15 Or some poor wretch in misery, 16 Then he became one of those who believed, and recommended one another to perseverance and patience, and (also) recommended one another to pity and compassion. 17 These are the people of the right hand. 18 And those who disbelieve in Our signs, they are the Companions of the Left Hand; 19 On them is fire closed over. 20