The Arrangers (Al-Saaffaat)
In the Name of Allah, the Merciful, the Most Merciful
CONSIDER these [messages] ranged in serried ranks, 1 by those who reprove severely, 2 And those who recite the Reminder, 3 Indeed, your God is One, 4 Lord of the heavens and of the earth and all that is between them, and Lord of the sun's risings. 5 We have decked the lower heavens with stars 6 and guarded it against all rebellious devils: 7 The devils cannot hear those high above. They would be struck from all sides 8 and driven away to suffer the necessary torment. 9 But if anyone does succeed in snatching a glimpse [of such knowledge], he shall be pursued by a piercing flame. 10 Ask them thou: are they stronger in structure or those others whom We have created? Verily We! We have created them of a sticky clay. 11 Nay! you wonder while they mock, 12 When they are reminded, they do not remember. 13 and, when they see a sign, would scoff; 14 and say: 'This is nothing but clear sorcery' 15 When we are dead and turned to dust and bones, how can we be raised again, 16 "And also our fathers of old?" 17 You say: "Yes; and you will be lowly made." 18 There will be a single stern rebuff and lo, they will be observing with their own eyes (all that they had been warned against). 19 and they say, 'Woe, alas for us! This is the Day of Doom.' 20 This is the Day of Decision which you belied. 21