The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the name of Allah, most benevolent, ever-merciful
AN INQUIRER ASKED for the affliction that is to come 1 those who deny the truth. [Know, then, that] nothing can ward it off, 2 From Allah, Lord of the Ascending Stairways 3 On that Day (of Judgment), long as fifty thousand years, the angels and the Spirit will ascend to Him. 4 So, (O Prophet), persevere with gracious perseverance. 5 Verily they behold it afar off. 6 But We see it (quite) near. 7 The day when the sky will be like molten silver. 8 And the hills become as flakes of wool, 9 even intimate friends will not inquire about their friends, 10 as they are given sight of them. The sinner will wish that he might ransom himself from the chastisement of that day even by his sons, 11 And his wife and his brother. 12 And his family who had stood by him, 13 And all those who are in the earth – then only if the redemption saves him! 14 By no means! Verily, it will be the Fire of Hell! 15 will strip-off the flesh 16 It will claim all such as turn their backs [on what is right,] and turn away [from the truth,] 17 And amasses (wealth) then shuts it up. 18 ۞ Indeed, the human was created grudging and impatient. 19 Being greatly grieved when evil afflicts him 20 And when good toucheth him he is begrudging. 21 Except those who establish prayer. 22 Those who remain steadfast to their prayer; 23 And those in whose wealth there is a fixed portion. 24 For the needy and those dispossessed, 25 who confirm the Day of Doom 26 And those who fear the displeasure of their Lord,- 27 Surely no one can be secure from the punishment of his Lord, -- 28 and those who guard their private parts, 29 [not giving way to their desires] with any but their spouses - that is, those whom they rightfully possess [through wedlock]: for then, behold, they are free of all blame, 30 But whosoever seeks beyond that, they are the transgressors. 31 and those who fulfil their trusts and their covenants, 32 And those who stand by their testimony 33 and are steadfast in their prayers. 34 They will live in gardens with honour. 35