The Town (Al-Balad)
In the name of Allah, the Compassionate, the Merciful
۞ I do not (need to) swear by this town (Mecca) 1 and you are dwelling in this city -- 2 and I swear by the parent and his offspring: 3 indeed, We created man in trouble. 4 Does he think then that no one has power over him? 5 He says: "I have wasted a great deal of wealth." 6 Does he think that none has observed him? 7 Have We not given him two eyes, 8 and a tongue and two lips? 9 And shown unto him the two highways? 10 But he has not attempted the ascent. 11 And what will explain to thee the path that is steep?- 12 (It is:) freeing the bondman; 13 or giving food upon a day of hunger 14 of 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 fellows of the righthand. 18 But those who deny Our revelations are the people of the left hand: 19 Over them shall be Fire closing round. 20