The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the Name of Allah, the Merciful, the Most Merciful
A questioner asked of a chastisement about to fall 1 (a chastisement meant) for the unbelievers, one which none can avert; 2 From God, the Lord of the steps (of progression), 3 (Whereby) the angels and the Spirit ascend unto Him in a Day whereof the span is fifty thousand years. 4 So be thou patient with a sweet patience; 5 They deem it to be remote. 6 but, We see it as near! 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 no friend will ask [anything of] a friend, 10 They will be shown each other. The criminal will wish that he could be ransomed from the punishment of that Day by his children 11 His wife and his brother, 12 And his kin that sheltered him. 13 and all the people of the earth, if that could deliver him. 14 Never! That is indeed a blazing fire. 15 Taking away (burning completely) the head skin! 16 It shall claim him who turned and fled (from truth), 17 And collect (wealth) and hide it (from use)! 18 ۞ Indeed, the human was created grudging and impatient. 19 If evil befalls him he is perturbed; 20 and whenever good fortune comes to him, he selfishly withholds it [from others]. 21 Not so those devoted to Prayer;- 22 Who persevere in devotion, 23 and those in whose wealth there is a known right 24 For those who beg, and for the needy who cannot even ask. 25 And those who believe the Day of Judgement to be true. 26 And those who are fearful of their Lord's torment 27 for, behold, of their Sustainer's chastisement none may ever feel [wholly] secure; 28 And those who guard their chastity, 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 whoso seeks after more than that, they are the transgressors), 31 And those who respect their trusts and covenants; 32 And those who stand firm in their testimonies; 33 and who guard their prayers [from all worldly intent]. 34 Those are highly honored in the Gardens. 35