The Human (Al-Insan)
In the Name of God, the Merciful, the Compassionate
Was there a period of time when man was not even worthy of a mention? 1 Surely We have created man from a small life-germ uniting (itself): We mean to try him, so We have made him hearing, seeing. 2 Indeed, We guided him to the way, be he grateful or be he ungrateful. 3 Surely We have prepared for the unbelievers chains and shackles and a burning fire. 4 [whereas,] behold, the truly virtuous shall drink from a cup flavoured with the calyx of sweet-smelling flowers: 5 A spring wherefrom the slaves of Allah will drink, causing it to gush forth abundantly. 6 The servants of God fulfill their vows and are afraid of the day in which there will be widespread terror. 7 They feed the destitute, orphans, and captives for the love of God, saying, 8 (Saying),"We feed you for the sake of Allah alone: no reward do we desire from you, nor thanks. 9 Indeed, We fear from our Lord a Day austere and distressful." 10 Therefor Allah hath warded off from them the evil of that day, and hath made them find brightness and joy; 11 And their recompense shall be Paradise, and silken garments, because they were patient. 12 Where they will recline on couches feeling neither heat of the sun nor intense cold. 13 The shadows will bend over them, and low will hang the clusters of grapes. 14 And amongst them will be passed round vessels of silver and goblets of crystal,- 15 crystal of silver that they have measured -- very exactly. 16 And they will be given to drink there of a Cup (of Wine) mixed with Zanjabil,- 17 from a fountain called Salsabila. 18 ۞ There boys of everlasting youth shall go about attending them: when you see them, you would think that they are scattered pearls. 19 When thou seest, thou wilt see there bliss and high estate. 20 On their bodies will be garments of the finest green silk and brocade, and they will be adorned with bracelets of silver; and their Lord will give them a purest draught to drink. 21 Behold, this is a recompense for you, and your striving is thanked.' 22