The Stars (Al-Najm)
In the name of Allah, most benevolent, ever-merciful
By the Star when it goes down,- 1 Your companion does not err, nor does he go astray; 2 Nor does he speak from [his own] inclination. 3 It is only an Inspiration that is inspired. 4 One of mighty powers hath taught it him. 5 Of might, he (Gabriel) stood firm 6 while he was in the highest horizon; 7 Then the Spectacle became closer, and came down in full view. 8 And was at a distance of two bows' length or (even) nearer, 9 And thus did [God] reveal unto His servant whatever He deemed right to reveal. 10 His heart did not falsify what he perceived. 11 Will ye then dispute with him concerning what he seeth? 12 And he certainly saw him in another descent 13 by the lote-tree of the farthest limit, 14 Nigh unto which is the Garden of Abode. 15 When that covered the lote-tree which did cover it! 16 Neither did sight falter nor exceed the bounds. 17 Assuredly he beheld of the sign of his Lord, the greatest. 18 Have you then considered the Lat and the Uzza, 19 And another, the third (goddess), Manat? 20 What! for you the male sex, and for Him, the female? 21 That indeed is a division most unfair! 22 These [allegedly divine beings] are nothing but empty names which you have invented - you and your forefathers - [and] for which God has bestowed no warrant from on high. They [who worship them] follow nothing but surmise and their own wishful thinking - although right guidance has now indeed come unto them from their Sustainer. 23 Or is there for man whatever he wishes? 24 To God belong the End and the Beginning. 25