The Town (Al-Balad)
In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful
۞ I CALL THIS earth to witness -- 1 And you shall be made free from obligation in this city-- 2 and I swear by the parent and his offspring: 3 that We have created man into a life of toil and trial. 4 Thinks he that none can overcome him? 5 He says, “I destroyed vast wealth.” 6 Thinks he that none sees him? 7 Have We not given him two eyes, 8 a tongue, and two lips, 9 And shown unto him the two highways? 10 But he has made no effort to pass on the path that is steep. 11 And what can make you know what is [breaking through] the difficult pass? 12 It is freeing someone's neck from slavery; 13 Or giving food in a day of hunger (famine), 14 To the orphan with claims of relationship, 15 Or of a homeless needy person! 16 Then will he be of those who believe, and enjoin patience, (constancy, and self-restraint), and enjoin deeds of kindness and compassion. 17 Such are they that have attained to righteousness; 18 But those who disbelieve in Our verses, they are the Companions of the Left, 19 Fire will be an awning over them. 20