The Stars (Al-Najm)
In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful
By the star when it sets: 1 Your companion does not err, nor does he go astray; 2 Nor does he speak from [his own] inclination. 3 It is no less than inspiration sent down to him: 4 Which one of mighty powers hath taught him, 5 Endued with Wisdom: for he appeared (in stately form); 6 appearing in the horizon's loftiest part, 7 Then he approached and descended 8 until he was two bows' length away, or nearer. 9 then revealed to his servant that he revealed. 10 The heart did not deny, what it saw. (The Holy Prophet was bestowed with seeing Allah – see also preceding verses 8, 9, 10.) 11 What, will you dispute with him about what he sees! 12 For indeed he saw him at a second descent, 13 by the lote-tree at the farthest boundary, 14 near which is the Garden of Abode. 15 Behold, the Lote-tree was shrouded (in mystery unspeakable!) 16 The sight [of the Prophet] did not swerve, nor did it transgress [its limit]. 17 Certainly he saw of the greatest signs of his Lord. 18 Have you ever thought about al-Lat and al-Uzza, 19 and, another, the third manat? 20 Is it for you the males and for Him the females? 21 Behold, such would be indeed a division most unfair! 22 These [allegedly divine beings] are nothing but empty names which you have invented - you and your forefathers - [and] for which God has bestowed no warrant from on high. They [who worship them] follow nothing but surmise and their own wishful thinking - although right guidance has now indeed come unto them from their Sustainer. 23 Or shall man have whatever he fancies? 24 All that is in the life to come and all that is in this life belongs only to God. 25