The Dunes (Al-Ahqaaf)
In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
۞ HaMeem. 1 This Book is sent down from God, the Almighty, the Wise One. 2 We have not created the heavens and the earth and all that is between them otherwise than in accordance with [an inner] truth, and for a term set [by Us]: and yet, they who are bent on denying the truth turn aside from the warning which has been conveyed unto them. 3 Proclaim, (O dear Prophet Mohammed – peace and blessings be upon him), “What is your opinion – regarding those whom you worship other than Allah – show me which part of the earth they have created, or do they own any portion of the heavens? Bring to me a Book preceding this (Qur’an), or some remnants of knowledge, if you are truthful.” 4 And who is more astray than he who calleth beside Allah, unto such as will answer it not till the Day of Resurrection and who are of their call unaware. 5 And when mankind are gathered together (at the Resurrection), they will be hostile to them and reject their worship (altogether)! 6 And whenever Our clear revelations are recited to them and the Truth is brought to them, those who deny the truth say, "This is plain magic." 7 Or do they say: "He has invented all this"? Say [O Muhammad]: "Had I invented it, you would not be of the least help to me against God. He is fully aware of that [slander] into which you so recklessly plunge: enough is He as a witness between me and you! And [withal,] He alone is truly-forgiving, a true dispenser of grace." 8 Say, “I am not something new* among the Noble Messengers, nor do I know (on my own) what will happen to me** or with you; I only follow that which is divinely revealed to me, and I am purely a Herald of clear warning. (* I am like the earlier ones. ** My knowledge comes due to divine revelations.) 9 Say, "Have you thought: what if this Quran really is from God and you reject it? What if one of the Children of Israel testifies to its similarity to earlier scripture and believes in it, and yet you are too arrogant to do the same? God certainly does not guide evil-doers." 10