The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the Name of God, the Merciful, the Compassionate
A questioner asked concerning a torment about to befall 1 those who deny the truth. [Know, then, that] nothing can ward it off, 2 From Allah, Owner of the ascending steps. 3 To Him the angels and the Spirit (Gabriel) ascend in a day, the measure of which is fifty thousand years. 4 Therefore be patient, with a beautiful patience; 5 Surely they think it to be far off, 6 but We see it near at hand. 7 Upon the day when heaven shall be as molten copper 8 and the mountains shall be as plucked wool-tufts, 9 And no familiar friend will ask a question of his friend 10 They will be seeing them; the guilty will wish if only he could redeem himself from the punishment of that day, by offering his sons. 11 his wife, his brother, 12 and his kinsfolk who gave him shelter, 13 And all those who are in the earth – then only if the redemption saves him! 14 By no means! It will be the fierce flame 15 Flaying off the scalp-skin. 16 It will summon whoever turns his back and flees, 17 And collect (wealth) and hide it (from use)! 18 ۞ Indeed man is created very impatient, greedy. 19 when misfortune touches him he starts lamenting, 20 but when good comes upon him, he is grudging 21 except those that pray, 22 and continue at their prayers, 23 And those in whose wealth exists a recognised right, 24 to those who ask [for help] and to the destitute; 25 And those who believe in the Day of Recompense, 26 and go in fear of the chastisement of their Lord 27 Surely no one can be secure from the punishment of his Lord, -- 28 And those who guard their chastity (i.e. private parts from illegal sexual acts). 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 respect their trusts and covenants; 32 And those who are upright in their testimonies, 33 And those who protect their prayers. 34 Those shall be in Gardens, high-honoured. 35