The Stars (Al-Najm)
In the Name of God, the Merciful, the Compassionate
CONSIDER this unfolding [of God's message,] as it comes down from on high! 1 your companion has neither strayed nor is he misguided, 2 and neither does he speak out of his own desire: 3 This is naught but a revelation revealed, 4 something that a very mighty one has imparted to him: 5 Of might, he (Gabriel) stood firm 6 While he was in the highest part of the horizon: 7 Then he drew near and drew closer 8 So the distance between the Spectacle and the beloved was only two arms’ length, or even less. (The Heavenly Journey of Prophet Mohammed – peace and blessings be upon him – was with body and soul.) 9 So did (Allah) convey the inspiration to His Servant- (conveyed) what He (meant) to convey. 10 The heart lied not in that which he saw. 11 Will you then dispute with him as to what he saw? 12 And certainly he saw him descend a second time: 13 By the lote-tree of the utmost boundary, 14 Close to which is the Everlasting Paradise. 15 Behold, the Lote-tree was shrouded (in mystery unspeakable!) 16 The sight [of the Prophet] did not swerve, nor did it transgress [its limit]. 17 truly did he see some of the most profound of his Sustainer's symbols. 18 So did you observe the idols Lat and Uzza? 19 and the third one, Manat? -- 20 Are yours the males and His the females? 21 This is an unfair distinction! 22 They are but names which ye have named, ye and your fathers, for which Allah hath revealed no warrant. They follow but a guess and that which (they) themselves desire. And now the guidance from their Lord hath come unto them. 23 What! Will man get whatever he dreams of? 24 And to God belongs the First and the Last. 25