The Cave (Al-Kahf)
In the name of Allah, most benevolent, ever-merciful
Praise belongs to God who has sent down upon His servant the Book and has not assigned unto it any crookedness; 1 A just Book, to warn of Allah’s severe punishment, and to give glad tidings to the believers who do good deeds, that for them is an excellent reward. 2 [a state of bliss] in which they shall dwell beyond the count of time. 3 And to warn those who say “Allah has chosen a child.” 4 Surely, of this they have no knowledge, neither they nor their fathers; it is a monstrous word that comes from their mouths, they say nothing but a lie. 5 Then perhaps you would kill yourself through grief over them, [O Muhammad], if they do not believe in this message, [and] out of sorrow. 6 That which is on earth we have made but as a glittering show for the earth, in order that We may test them - as to which of them are best in conduct. 7 And verily We are going to make whatsoever is thereon a soil bare. 8 Or deemest thou that the People of the Cave and the Inscription are a wonder among Our portents? 9 When the young men took refuge in the Cave – then said, “Our Lord! Give us mercy from Yourself, and arrange guidance for us in our affair.” 10 Wherefore We put a covering over their ears in the cave for a number of years. 11 Then roused them to ascertain which of the two groups could account for the period they had stayed. 12