The Stars (Al-Najm)
In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
I CALL TO witness the star of the pleiades when it has dipped 1 Your Companion is neither astray nor being misled. 2 Neither does he speak of his own will. 3 This is only revelation communicated, 4 He was taught by [an angel] who is mighty in power, 5 and endowed with wisdom; who in time manifested himself; 6 the strong one who appeared on the uppermost horizon. 7 Then he approached and came closer, 8 until he was but two bow-lengths away, or even nearer. 9 He revealed to God's servant whatever he wanted. 10 His (Muhammad's) heart did not lie to him about what his eyes had seen. 11 Will ye then dispute with him concerning what he saw? 12 And indeed, he saw him a second time 13 At the farthest lote-tree; 14 by the Garden of [Eternal] Repose, 15 When that which covers covered the lote-tree; 16 [And withal,] the eye did not waver, nor yet did it stray: 17 and he certainly saw some of the greatest Signs of His Lord. 18 Have you considered El-Lat and El-'Uzza 19 and your third idol al-Manat (whom you considered as God's daughters)? 20 What! for you the male sex, and for Him, the female? 21 Behold, such would be indeed a division most unfair! 22 They are naught but names yourselves have named, and your fathers; God has sent down no authority touching them. They follow only surmise, and what the souls desire; and yet guidance has come to them from their Lord. 23 Or shall man have what he coveteth? 24 But it is to God that the Hereafter and this world belong. 25