The Town (Al-Balad)
Allah - beginning with the name of - the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
۞ Nay! I swear by this city. 1 And thou art an indweller of this city - 2 And by the begetter (i.e. Adam) and that which he begot (i.e. his progeny); 3 We have certainly created man into hardship. 4 Does he think that no one can overpower him? 5 He says: "I have wasted a great deal of wealth." 6 Does he think that no one sees him? 7 Have We not made for him two eyes 8 And a tongue and two lips, 9 And showed him two highways (of good and evil)? 10 But he hath not attempted the Ascent - 11 What will explain to you what the ascent is? 12 (It is:) freeing the bondman; 13 Or to feed in times of famine 14 To an orphan near of kin. 15 or to a needy person in distress; 16 Then will he be of those who believe, and enjoin patience, (constancy, and self-restraint), and enjoin deeds of kindness and compassion. 17 They are the people of the right hand (and will succeed). 18 But those who disbelieve Our revelations, their place will be on the left hand. 19 Upon them is a fire, in which they are imprisoned, closed and shut above them. 20