As it is, man [often] prays for things that are bad as if he were praying for something that is good: for man is prone to be hasty [in his judgments]. 11 We have created night and day as two signs, then We efface the sign of the night, and make the sign of the day resplendent that you may seek the bounty of your Lord, and know the computation of years and numbers. We have expounded most distinctly everything. 12 And every man -- We have fastened to him his bird of omen upon his neck; and We shall bring forth for him, on the Day of Resurrection, a book he shall find spread wide open. 13 We will tell him, "Read it and judge for yourself." 14 One who follows guidance does so for himself and one who goes astray does so against his soul. No one will suffer for the sins of others. We have never punished anyone without sending them Our Messenger first. 15 And when We intend to destroy a city, We command its affluent but they defiantly disobey therein; so the word comes into effect upon it, and We destroy it with [complete] destruction. 16 Many a generation has been destroyed by Our command since Noah's time. Your Lord is well aware and fully observant of the sins of His servants. 17 Whosoever intendeth the quick passing world, We hasten to him therein whatsoever We please unto whomsoever We intend; thereafter We shall appoint for him Hell wherein he shall roast, reproved, rejected. 18 And whosoever desires the world to come and strives after it as he should, being a believer -- those, their striving shall be thanked. 19 All do We aid-- these as well as those-- out of the bounty of your Lord, and the bounty of your Lord is not confined. 20 Behold, how We prefer some of them over others! And surely the world to come is greater in ranks, greater in preferment. 21 "Do not set up another god with God, or you will remain disgraced and destitute. 22