The Hidden Secret (Al-Muddath-thir)
In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful
O THOU [in thy solitude] enfolded! 1 Arise, and warn. 2 and magnify the glory of your Lord, 3 And thy garments keep free from stain! 4 And all abomination shun! 5 do not bestow a favour in the expectation of receiving more in return; 6 And for the sake of your Lord, be patient. 7 So when the Trumpet will be blown. 8 That Day will be a difficult day 9 It will not be easy for those who deny the truth. 10 Leave Me with him whom I created alone, 11 And gave him vast wealth. 12 And gave him sons present before him. 13 And made several preparations for him. 14 After all that he desires that I should give more; 15 Never! For he is an enemy to Our signs! 16 Soon I shall mount him on Saood, the hill of fire. 17 He reflected, and then determined 18 So accursed be he, how evilly did he decide! 19 Again, ruin seize him, how did he hatch a scheme? 20 Then he considered [again]; 21 Then frowned he and scowled. 22 Then turned his back and waxed proud, 23 And said: "This is nothing but the magic of old, 24 These are only words from a mere mortal". 25 Him shall I fling unto the burning. 26 And what will make you realize what hell is? 27 It spares not, neither leaves alone 28 Burning the skins! 29 over it are nineteen. 30 We have made only angels as the keepers of the fire (for they are the strongest in carrying out Our commands). Our informing (people) of the numbers of these angels is a trial for the disbelievers. It gives more certainty to the people of the Book and strengthens the faith of the believers. The people of the Book and the believers have no doubt about it. We have fixed the number to make the disbelievers and those whose hearts are sick say, "What does God mean by such a parable?" Thus, God guides and causes to go astray whomever He wants. No one knows about the army of your Lord except He Himself. This parable is a reminder for mankind. 31