The Stars (Al-Najm)
In the name of Allah, most benevolent, ever-merciful
By oath of the beloved shining star when he returned from the Ascent. 1 Your companion [Muhammad] has not strayed, nor has he erred, 2 nor does he speak out of his desire. 3 It is naught save an inspiration that is inspired, 4 Taught to him by one intense in strength - 5 The Lord of Strength; so he attained completion, 6 standing poised at the highest point on the horizon, 7 Then he drew near and drew closer 8 And was at a distance of but two bow-lengths or (even) nearer; 9 When He revealed to His votary what He revealed. 10 The heart did not lie [about] what it saw. 11 So will you dispute with him over what he saw? 12 And indeed he did see the Spectacle again. 13 At the Lote Tree of the Utmost Boundary - 14 Nigh thereto is the Garden of Abode. 15 when the lote tree was covered in mystic splendour. 16 (Muhammad's) eyes did not deceive him, nor did they lead him to falsehood. 17 truly did he see some of the most profound of his Sustainer's symbols. 18 Have ye seen Lat. and 'Uzza, 19 and your third idol al-Manat (whom you considered as God's daughters)? 20 What! for you the males and for Him the females! 21 that, lo and behold, is an unfair division! 22 They are naught but names yourselves have named, and your fathers; God has sent down no authority touching them. They follow only surmise, and what the souls desire; and yet guidance has come to them from their Lord. 23 What! Will man get whatever he dreams of? 24 To God belong the End and the Beginning. 25