The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the name of Allah, the Compassionate, the Merciful
ONE who is minded to ask might ask about the suffering which [in the hereafter] is bound to befall 1 (a chastisement meant) for the unbelievers, one which none can avert; 2 No one can defend him against God, the Lord of the exalted positions. 3 To Him the angels and the Spirit (Gabriel) ascend in a day, the measure of which is fifty thousand years. 4 (Muhammad), exercise patience with no complaints. 5 behold, they see it as if far off; 6 while We think that it is near at hand. 7 On the day when the heavens become like molten metal. 8 And the hills will be light as wool. 9 and no friend will ask about his friend, 10 though they may see each other. A sinner will wish that he could save himself from the torment of that day by sacrificing his children, 11 And his wife and his brother. 12 his kin who sheltered him, 13 And all those who are in the earth – then only if the redemption saves him! 14 No! Indeed, it is the Flame [of Hell], 15 snatching away the scalp, 16 It invites he who turned his back [on truth] and went away [from obedience] 17 And accumulated wealth and hoarded it. 18 ۞ Surely man is created of a hasty temperament 19 If evil befalls him he is perturbed; 20 And when good touches him, withholding [of it], 21 except those that pray 22 and constant in their prayers. 23 And those in whose wealth there is a known right, 24 for such as ask [for help] and such as are deprived [of what is good in life]; 25 and who accept as true the [coming of the] Day of Judgment; 26 And those who fear the punishment of their Lord. 27 for, behold, of their Sustainer's chastisement none may ever feel [wholly] secure; 28 And those who guard their private parts 29 Except in the case of their wives or those whom their right hands possess-- for these surely are not to be blamed, 30 So those who desire more than this – it is they who are the transgressors. 31 and who are faithful to their trusts and to their pledges: 32 and who stand firm whenever they bear witness; 33 And those who [carefully] maintain their prayer: 34 Those shall dwell in Gardens, honoured. 35