The Town (Al-Balad)
In the name of Allah, the Compassionate, the Merciful
۞ Nay! I swear by this city. 1 And thou art a freeman of this City;- 2 And [by] the father and that which was born [of him], 3 Verily, We have created man in toil. 4 What, does he think none has power over him, 5 He says, “I destroyed vast wealth.” 6 Does he think that no one sees him? 7 Did We not grant him two eyes, 8 a tongue, and two lips? 9 and guided him on the two paths (of good and evil)? 10 But he hath not attempted the Ascent - 11 And what will explain to thee the path that is steep?- 12 (It is:) freeing the bondman; 13 or the feeding in times of famine 14 To the orphan with claims of relationship, 15 Or to a Miskin (poor) afflicted with misery. 16 Then he became one of those who believed, and recommended one another to perseverance and patience, and (also) recommended one another to pity and compassion. 17 These are the fellows of the righthand. 18 But those who reject Our Signs, they are the (unhappy) Companions of the Left Hand. 19 Over them shall be Fire closing round. 20