The Human (Al-Insan)
In the Name of Allah, the Merciful, the Most Merciful
Was there not a period of time when man was nothing worth mentioning? 1 Verily We created man from a sperm yoked (to the ovum) to bring out his real substance, then gave him hearing and sight. 2 Surely We have shown him the way: he may be thankful or unthankful. 3 We have indeed kept prepared chains, and shackles and a blazing fire for the disbelievers. 4 [whereas,] behold, the truly virtuous shall drink from a cup flavoured with the calyx of sweet-smelling flowers: 5 A spring of which the [righteous] servants of Allah will drink; they will make it gush forth in force [and abundance]. 6 They fulfil their vows, and fear a day whose evil is upon the wing; 7 And feed the needy for the love of Him, and the orphans and the captives, 8 (saying): 'We feed you only desirous of the Face of Allah; we seek of you neither recompense nor thanks, 9 “Indeed we fear from our Lord a day which is extremely bitter, most severe.” 10 And so, God will preserve them from the woes of that Day, and will bestow on them brightness and joy, 11 And reward them, because they were patient, with garden and silk, 12 In that [garden] they will on couches recline, and will know therein neither [burning] sun nor cold severe, 13 And close upon them will be the shades thereof, and low will hang the clusters thereof greatly. 14 And there will be circulated among them vessels of silver and cups having been [created] clear [as glass], 15 (Transparent as) glass, made of silver; they have measured them according to a measure. 16 And they will be given to drink there a cup (of wine) mixed with Zanjabil (ginger, etc.), 17 drawn from a spring (in Paradise) called Salsabil. 18 ۞ Immortal youths shall go about them; when thou seest them, thou supposest them scattered pearls, 19 And when thou lookest, it is there thou wilt see a Bliss and a Realm Magnificent. 20 Their raiment will be fine green silk and gold embroidery. Bracelets of silver will they wear. Their Lord will slake their thirst with a pure drink. 21 'See, this is your recompense, your striving is thanked' 22