The Town (Al-Balad)
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful
۞ I do call to witness this City;- 1 And thou art a freeman of this City;- 2 And the parent and the offspring, 3 that We have created the human being to face a great deal of hardship. 4 Does he think then that no one has power over him? 5 He says, “I destroyed vast wealth.” 6 Does he think that none has observed him? 7 Did We not give him two eyes, 8 and a tongue, and two lips, 9 And showed him two highways (of good and evil)? 10 But he has made no effort to pass on the path that is steep. 11 Ah, what will convey unto thee what the Ascent is! - 12 (It is) the freeing of a slave, 13 Or giving food in a day of hunger (famine), 14 to an orphaned relative 15 and downtrodden destitute person, (so that he would be of) 16 and to be one of those who believe and urge one another to steadfastness and compassion. 17 Such are they that have attained to righteousness; 18 whereas those who are bent on denying the truth of Our messages - they are such as have lost themselves in evil, 19 On them will be Fire vaulted over (all round). 20