The Stars (Al-Najm)
In the Name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful
CONSIDER this unfolding [of God's message,] as it comes down from on high! 1 This fellow-man of yours has not gone astray, nor is he deluded, 2 Nor does he speak from [his own] inclination. 3 It is but a revelation revealed. 4 taught him by one terrible in power, 5 and endowed with wisdom; who in time manifested himself; 6 And reached the highest pinnacle. 7 and then drew near, and came close, 8 So the distance between the Spectacle and the beloved was only two arms’ length, or even less. (The Heavenly Journey of Prophet Mohammed – peace and blessings be upon him – was with body and soul.) 9 He revealed to God's servant whatever he wanted. 10 His heart lies not of what he saw; 11 will you, then, contend with him as to what he saw? 12 Indeed, he saw him in another descent 13 Near the Lote-tree beyond which none may pass: 14 by the Garden of [Eternal] Repose, 15 Behold, the Lote-tree was shrouded (in mystery unspeakable!) 16 his eyes did not swerve, nor did they stray 17 truly did he see some of the most profound of his Sustainer's symbols. 18 Have ye seen Lat. and 'Uzza, 19 and Manat the third, the other? 20 What, have you males, and He females! 21 This is certainly an unjust apportioning. 22 These are only names which you and your fathers have invented. No authority was sent down by God for them. They only follow conjecture and wish-fulfilment, even though guidance had come to them already from their Lord. 23 Can the human being have whatever he wishes? 24 But to Allah belongs the last (Hereafter) and the first (the world). 25