The Human (Al-Insan)
In the name of Allah, the Entirely Merciful, the Especially Merciful
WAS THERE NOT a time in the life of man when he was not even a mentionable thing? 1 Verily We! We created man from a sperm of mixtures, that We might prove him, wherefore We made him hearing, seeing. 2 We have indeed shown him the way – whether he is grateful or ingrate. 3 We have prepared for unbelievers chains and collars and a blazing fire. 4 [whereas,] behold, the truly virtuous shall drink from a cup flavoured with the calyx of sweet-smelling flowers: 5 A spring wherefrom the slaves of Allah drink, making it gush forth abundantly, 6 (Because) they perform the vow and fear a day whereof the evil is wide-spreading, 7 They feed the destitute, orphans, and captives for the love of God, saying, 8 They say to them, “We give you food, only for the sake of Allah – we do not seek any reward or thanks from you.” 9 “Indeed we fear from our Lord a day which is extremely bitter, most severe.” 10 So Allah saved them from the evil of that day, and gave them freshness and joy. 11 And will reward them for what they patiently endured [with] a garden [in Paradise] and silk [garments]. 12 Reclining therein upon couches, they shall behold therein neither sun nor hurting cold. 13 Near them shall be its shades with its clusters hung gently down, 14 Vessels of silver and goblets of pure crystal will be passed round among them 15 crystal-like, [but] of silver - the measure whereof they alone will determine. 16 And therein they shall be given to drink a cup whose mixture is ginger, 17 from a flowing spring called Salsabil. 18 ۞ Immortal youths will go about them, when you see them, you would suppose them to be scattered pearls. 19 And when thou lookest, it is there thou wilt see a Bliss and a Realm Magnificent. 20 Upon them shall be garments of fine green silk and of brocades. And adorned they shall be with bracelets of silver: and their Lord shall give them drink a beverage pure. 21 [And it will be said], "Indeed, this is for you a reward, and your effort has been appreciated." 22