The Human (Al-Insan)
In the name of Allah, the Compassionate, the Merciful
WAS THERE NOT a time in the life of man when he was not even a mentionable thing? 1 Verily We created man from a sperm yoked (to the ovum) to bring out his real substance, then gave him hearing and sight. 2 We have indeed shown him the way – whether he is grateful or ingrate. 3 Surely We have prepared for the unbelievers chains and shackles and a burning fire. 4 [whereas,] behold, the truly virtuous shall drink from a cup flavoured with the calyx of sweet-smelling flowers: 5 From a fountain whence the bondmen of Allah will drink, causing it to gush abundantly. 6 They fulfill their vow and dread a Day the evil whereof shall be widespreading. 7 And they give food, inspite of their love for it (or for the love of Him), to Miskin (poor), the orphan, and the captive, 8 [Saying], "We feed you only for the countenance of Allah. We wish not from you reward or gratitude. 9 for we fear from our Lord a frowning day, inauspicious. 10 So God will protect them from the evil of that day, and grant them happiness and joy, 11 and their reward for being patient will be a Garden and silk [clothing]. 12 Reclining therein upon couches, they shall behold therein neither sun nor hurting cold. 13 the shading branches of trees will come down low over them, and their clusters of fruit, will hang down where they are the easiest to reach. 14 And there shall be made to go round about them vessels of silver and goblets which are of glass, 15 Also there will be crystal clear goblets of silver containing the exact measure of drink which they desire. 16 and they will be given a cup to drink flavoured with ginger, 17 from a spring named salsabil. 18 ۞ There boys of everlasting youth shall go about attending them: when you see them, you would think that they are scattered pearls. 19 And when you see there, you shall see blessings and a great kingdom. 20 They will have fine green silk and brocade, and they will be decked with bracelets of silver. Their Lord will provide them with a drink of pure wine. 21 Verily this is for you by way of recompense, and your endeavour hath been accepted. 22