The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the Name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful
A doubter once demanded that punishment be immediately meted out, 1 the unbelievers which none can prevent. 2 From Allah, the Lord of the ways of ascent. 3 The angels and the Ruh [Jibrael (Gabriel)] ascend to Him in a Day the measure whereof is fifty thousand years, 4 Therefore do thou hold Patience,- a Patience of beautiful (contentment). 5 Surely they think it to be far off, 6 but We see it near at hand. 7 The day when the sky will become as molten copper, 8 and the mountains shall be as plucked wool-tufts, 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 spouse and his brother 12 And his kin that harboured him 13 and all those on earth. 14 No! Indeed, it is the Flame [of Hell], 15 A fire that melts the hide. 16 It calls out to him who reverted and turned away. 17 Who amasses and then hoards. 18 ۞ Verily, man (disbeliever) was created very impatient; 19 bewailing when evil befalls him, 20 If good comes to him he holds back his hand, 21 Not so are the prayerful. 22 who are constant in prayer; 23 those who give a due share of their wealth 24 For him who begs and for him who is denied (good) 25 And those who believe in the Day of Recompense, 26 And those who are fearful of the chastisement of their Lord-- 27 Verily! The torment of their Lord is that before which none can feel secure, 28 And those who of their private parts are guards. 29 except in regard to their spouses and those whom their right hands possess, for in regard to them they are not reproachable, 30 but those who go beyond that limit are transgressors; 31 And those who are to their trusts and promises attentive 32 And those who are in their testimonies upright 33 and who observe their prayers. 34 Such shall dwell in the Gardens (i.e. Paradise) honoured. 35