The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the name of Allah, the Merciful, the Compassionate
ONE who is minded to ask might ask about the suffering which [in the hereafter] is bound to befall 1 Upon the disbelievers – the punishment that none can avert. 2 No one can defend him against God, the Lord of the exalted positions. 3 Whereby the angels ascend unto Him and also the spirit, On a Day whereof the measure is fifty thousand years. 4 Therefore do thou hold Patience,- a Patience of beautiful (contentment). 5 Surely they think it to be far off, 6 While we behold it nigh: 7 It shall befall on a Day whereon the heaven shall become like unto dregs of oil. 8 And then the mountains shall become like unto wool dyed. 9 and [when] no friend will ask about his friend, 10 Though they will be put in sight of each other,- the sinner's desire will be: Would that he could redeem himself from the Penalty of that Day by (sacrificing) his children, 11 and of his spouse, and of his brother, 12 And the nearest of his kinsfolk who gave him shelter, 13 and whosoever is in the earth, altogether, so that it might save him. 14 By no means! Surely it is a flaming fire 15 It snatches away by the scalps, 16 It calls out to him who reverted and turned away. 17 and amassed (riches) and hoarded. 18 ۞ Lo! man was created anxious, 19 when misfortune touches him he starts lamenting, 20 And when good toucheth him he is begrudging. 21 Except those who establish prayer. 22 and are constant in their Prayer; 23 who, from their wealth is a known right 24 For the beggar and the destitute. 25 And those who believe the Day of Judgement to be true. 26 And those who fear the punishment of their Lord, -- 27 Indeed the punishment of their Lord is not a thing to be unafraid of! 28 And those who protect their private organs (from adultery). 29 Except with their wives and the (women slaves and captives) whom their right hands possess, for (then) they are not to be blamed, 30 but those who go beyond that limit are transgressors; 31 and those who fulfil their trusts and their covenants, 32 and perform their witnessings, 33 And those who are mindful of their moral obligations. 34 all these shall live honourably in the Gardens. 35