The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the name of God, The Most Gracious, The Dispenser of Grace
Someone has (needlessly) demanded to experience the torment (of God), 1 Upon the disbelievers, which none can avert, 2 [since it will come] from God, unto whom there are many ways of ascent: 3 The angels and the Spirit will ascend to Him during a Day the extent of which is fifty thousand years. 4 Therefore endure with a goodly patience. 5 They see the (Day) indeed as a far-off (event): 6 but We see it near. 7 The Day that the sky will be like molten brass, 8 The mountains like the tufts of (carded) wool, 9 even intimate friends will not inquire about their friends, 10 Though within sight of one another. The sinner would like to ransom himself from the torment of that Day by offering his sons, 11 his wife, his brother, 12 And the nearest of his kinsfolk who gave him shelter, 13 and whosoever is in the earth, all together, so that then it might deliver him. 14 No, in truth, it is a Furnace! 15 Taking away (burning completely) the head skin! 16 It will claim all such as turn their backs [on what is right,] and turn away [from the truth,] 17 And masseth and then hoardeth. 18 ۞ Lo! man was created anxious, 19 Fretful when evil touches him; 20 And, when good befalleth him, grudging; 21 Not so those devoted to Prayer;- 22 Those who are constant in their prayer 23 those in whose wealth is a right known 24 For the petitioner and the deprived - 25 who confirm the Day of Doom 26 And those who fear the punishment of their Lord. 27 Verily the torment of their Lord is not a thing to feel secure from. 28 and guard their private parts 29 Are free of blame, 30 But whoever seeks beyond that, then they are the transgressors - 31 And those who are faithful to their trusts and their covenant 32 And those who stand firm in their testimonies; 33 and (finally) those who do not miss their ritual - prayers at the prescribed times; 34 These it is who in the gardens [of paradise] shall be honoured! 35