The Human (Al-Insan)
In the name of Allah, the Compassionate, the Merciful
HAS THERE [not] been an endless span of time before man [appeared - a time] when he was not yet a thing to be thought of? 1 We created man from a drop of mingled fluid so that We might try him; We gave him hearing and sight; 2 Indeed, We guided him to the way, be he grateful or be he ungrateful. 3 Verily, We have prepared for the disbelievers iron chains, iron collars, and a blazing Fire. 4 [whereas,] behold, the truly virtuous shall drink from a cup flavoured with the calyx of sweet-smelling flowers: 5 A Fountain where the Devotees of Allah do drink, making it flow in unstinted abundance. 6 They fulfill vows and fear a day the evil of which shall be spreading far and wide. 7 And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, 8 (Saying): "We feed you seeking Allah's Countenance only. We wish for no reward, nor thanks from you. 9 Indeed, We fear from our Lord a Day austere and distressful." 10 So God will protect them from the evil of that day, and grant them happiness and joy, 11 And will reward them for what they patiently endured [with] a garden [in Paradise] and silk [garments]. 12 They will recline therein on couches and they will find neither excessive heat nor cold. 13 And the shade thereof is close upon them, and the bunches of fruit thereof will hang low within their reach. 14 Passed round will be silver flagons and goblets made of glass, 15 (Bright as) glass but (made) of silver, which they (themselves) have measured to the measure (of their deeds). 16 And they will be given to drink a cup [of wine] whose mixture is of ginger 17 A fountain there, called Salsabil. 18 ۞ And round about them will (serve) boys of everlasting youth. If you see them, you would think them scattered pearls. 19 And when you look towards it, you will see serenity and a great kingdom. 20 Upon them shall be garments of fine green silk and thick silk interwoven with gold, and they shall be adorned with bracelets of silver, and their Lord shall make them drink a pure drink. 21 Verily this is for you by way of recompense, and your endeavour hath been accepted. 22