The Hijjr Valley (Al-Hijjr)
In the Name of God, the Merciful, the Compassionate
۞ Alif-Lam-Ra; these are verses of the Book and the bright Qur’an. 1 Oft times would those who disbelieve fain that they had been Muslims. 2 Leave them alone, to enjoy (the good things of this life) and to please themselves: let (false) hope amuse them: soon will knowledge (undeceive them). 3 Whenever We destroyed a town, a definite term had previously been decreed for it. 4 [but remember that] no community can ever forestall [the end of] its term - and neither can they delay [it]. 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 We do not send down angels except for a genuine purpose, at which time none will be given any further respite. 8 Behold, it is We Ourselves who have bestowed from on high, step by step, this reminder; and behold, it is We who shall truly guard it [from all corruption]. 9 And indeed We sent Noble Messengers before you, to the former nations. 10 And no messenger would come to them except that they ridiculed him. 11 thus We cause this [habit of mocking] to enter into the hearts of the sinful. 12 They do not believe in it, and indeed the example of the former people has already passed. 13 And [even] if We opened to them a gate from the heaven and they continued therein to ascend, 14 yet would they say, 'Our eyes have been dazzled; nay, we are a people bewitched!' 15