The Human (Al-Insan)
In the name of God, The Most Gracious, The Dispenser of Grace
Was there a period of time when man was not even worthy of a mention? 1 Verily We created Man from a drop of mingled sperm, in order to try him: So We gave him (the gifts), of Hearing and Sight. 2 Surely We guided him upon the way whether he be thankful or unthankful. 3 [Now,] behold, for those who deny the truth We have readied chains and shackles, and a blazing flame 4 [whereas,] behold, the truly virtuous shall drink from a cup flavoured with the calyx of sweet-smelling flowers: 5 which flows from a spring from which the servants of God will drink. 6 they who keep their vows and fear a Day whose evil is spread; 7 And they give food out of love for Him to the poor and the orphan and the captive: 8 [saying, in their hearts,] "We feed you for the sake of God alone: we desire no recompense from you, nor thanks: 9 Truly, we fear from our Lord a woefully grim Day." 10 Therefor Allah hath warded off from them the evil of that day, and hath made them find brightness and joy; 11 And because they were patient and constant, He will reward them with a Garden and (garments of) silk. 12 Reclining therein on raised thrones, they will see there neither the excessive heat of the sun, nor the excessive bitter cold, (as in Paradise there is no sun and no moon). 13 near them shall be its shades, and its clusters hung meekly down, 14 Passed round will be silver flagons and goblets made of glass, 15 crystal-like, [but] of silver - the measure whereof they alone will determine. 16 And therein they shall be given to drink of a cup whereof the admixture will be ginger. 17 Which is a spring in Paradise called Salsabeel. 18 ۞ Immortal youths shall go about them; when thou seest them, thou supposest them scattered pearls, 19 If you were to see it, you would find it to be a great kingdom with great bounty. 20 Upon them there will be garments of green silk, rich brocade, and they will be adorned with bracelets of silver. Their Lord will give them a pure beverage to drink. 21 [And they will be told:] "Verily, all this is your reward since Your endeavour [in life] has met [God's] goodly acceptance!" 22