The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful
A questioner asked concerning a torment about to befall 1 (a chastisement meant) for the unbelievers, one which none can avert; 2 from punishing them. He is the Lord of the Ascending Stairways, 3 (Whereby) the angels and the Spirit ascend unto Him in a Day whereof the span is fifty thousand years. 4 Therefore patiently endure, in the best manner (O dear Prophet Mohammed – peace and blessings be upon him). 5 they see it as being far off; 6 And We behold it nigh. 7 Upon the day when heaven shall be as molten copper 8 and the mountains become like wool, 9 no loyal friend shall question loyal friend, 10 as they are given sight of them. The sinner will wish that he might ransom himself from the chastisement of that day even by his sons, 11 and his spouse and his brother, 12 His kindred who sheltered him, 13 and whosoever is in the earth, all together, so that then it might deliver him. 14 By no means! Surely it is a flaming fire 15 Flaying off the scalp-skin. 16 calling him who drew back and turned away, 17 And collect (wealth) and hide it (from spending it in the Cause of Allah). 18 ۞ Indeed, mankind was created anxious: 19 when misfortune touches him he starts lamenting, 20 but when they are fortunate, they become niggardly 21 Except the observers of prayer - 22 and continue at their prayers, 23 And those in whose wealth exists a recognised right, 24 For the (needy) who asks and him who is prevented (for some reason from asking); 25 those who firmly believe in the Day of Recompense, 26 And those who are fearful of their Lord's doom - 27 Indeed, the punishment of their Lord is not that from which one is safe - 28 And those who guard their chastity, 29 Except with their wives and the bondwomen in their possession, for there is no reproach on them. 30 But whosoever seeks beyond that, they are the transgressors. 31 (Those) who keep their trusts and their covenant, 32 And those who stand firm in their testimonies; 33 And those who are mindful of their moral obligations. 34 such people will receive due honor in Paradise. 35