The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the name of Allah, the Compassionate, the Merciful
ONE who is minded to ask might ask about the suffering which [in the hereafter] is bound to befall 1 the unbelievers which none can prevent. 2 From God, the Lord of the steps (of progression), 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 deem it to be remote. 6 but We see it near. 7 On the Day the sky will be like murky oil, 8 and the mountains shall be as plucked wool-tufts, 9 no loyal friend shall question loyal friend, 10 Though within sight of one another. The sinner would like to ransom himself from the torment of that Day by offering his sons, 11 and of his spouse, and of his brother, 12 and his kinsfolk who gave him shelter, 13 And whoever is on earth entirely [so] then it could save him. 14 But nay! Verily, all [that awaits him] is a raging flame, 15 Plucking out (his being) right to the skull!- 16 and it will claim all those who turned their backs [on the true faith] and turned away [from the truth], 17 and amassed wealth and covetously hoarded it. 18 ۞ Surely man is greedy by nature. 19 Fretful when evil touches him; 20 but when they are fortunate, they become niggardly 21 Not so are the prayerful. 22 and constant in their prayers. 23 And those in whose wealth there is a fixed portion. 24 For the beggar who asks, and for the unlucky who has lost his property and wealth, (and his means of living has been straitened); 25 And those who believe in the Day of Judgement, 26 and fear the chastisement of their Lord – 27 Verily! The torment of their Lord is that before which none can feel secure, 28 And those who guard their private parts, 29 except from their wives and what their right hands own, for these they are not blameworthy. 30 But those who trespass beyond this are transgressors;- 31 And those who respect their trusts and covenants; 32 And those who are firm upon their testimonies. 33 and (finally) those who do not miss their ritual - prayers at the prescribed times; 34 Those shall dwell in Gardens, honoured. 35