The Town (Al-Balad)
In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful
۞ Nay! I swear by this city. 1 in which you are now living 2 and by parent and offspring, 3 that We have created the human being to face a great deal of hardship. 4 Thinks he that none can overcome him? 5 (He boasts and shows off) saying, "I have spent a great deal of money (for the cause of God)". 6 Does he, then, think that no one sees him? 7 Have We not made for him two eyes 8 And a tongue, and a pair of lips?- 9 And did We not guide him to the two elevated things? 10 Yet, he has not entered into Aqaba 11 And what could make thee conceive what it is, that steep uphill road? 12 (It is) the setting free of a slave, 13 And to feed in the day of hunger. 14 Of a related orphan, 15 Or some poor wretch in misery, 16 and to be one of those who believe and urge one another to steadfastness and compassion. 17 These are the fellows of the righthand. 18 But those who disbelieve Our revelations, their place will be on the left hand. 19 Fire will be an awning over them. 20