The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the name of Allah, most benevolent, ever-merciful
A beseecher besought the visitation of chastisement, 1 those who deny the truth. [Know, then, that] nothing can ward it off, 2 (A Penalty) from Allah, Lord of the Ways of Ascent. 3 The angels and the spirit ascend unto him in a Day the measure whereof is (as) fifty thousand years: 4 So, (O Prophet), persevere with gracious perseverance. 5 Lo! they behold it afar off 6 But We see it (quite) near. 7 On the day when the heavens become like molten metal. 8 And then the mountains shall become like unto wool dyed. 9 And no friend will ask concerning his friend. 10 They will be seeing them; the guilty will wish if only he could redeem himself from the punishment of that day, by offering his sons. 11 His wife and his brother, 12 And the family in which he was. 13 And all those that are in the earth, (wishing) then (that) this might deliver him. 14 By no means! for it would be the Fire of Hell!- 15 It snatches away by the scalps, 16 Inviting (all) such as turn their backs and turn away their faces (from the Right). 17 and amassed (riches) and hoarded. 18 ۞ Surely man is greedy by nature. 19 Fretful when evil touches him; 20 And niggardly when good befalls him 21 Except those who pray, 22 Those who remain constant in their Salat (prayers); 23 And those in whose wealth is a recognised right. 24 for such as ask [for help] and such as are deprived [of what is good in life]; 25 And those who believe in the Day of Judgement, 26 And those who fear the punishment of their Lord. 27 Surely the chastisement of their Lord is (a thing) not to be felt secure of-- 28 who guard their carnal desires 29 Except with their wives and the (captives) whom their right hands possess,- for (then) they are not to be blamed, 30 But those who trespass beyond this are transgressors;- 31 And those who keep their trusts and covenants; 32 And those who stand firm in their testimonies; 33 and who take due care of their Prayer: 34 They will live in gardens with honour. 35