a multitude of the ancients, 39 And a multitude of those of later time. 40 BUT AS FOR those who have persevered in evil - what of those who have persevered in evil? 41 In scorching wind and scalding water 42 and the shadow of a smoking blaze 43 neither cool nor good. 44 For, behold, in times gone by they were wont to abandon themselves wholly to the pursuit of pleasures, 45 and would persist in heinous sinning, 46 and constantly said: 'What, when we are dead and become dust and bones, shall we then be restored to life? 47 And our forefathers [as well]?" 48 Say, "Indeed, the earlier ones and the later ones 49 will be brought together for an appointment on an appointed day. 50 Then verily ye, O ye erring, denying people. 51 shall eat the fruit of the tree of Zaqqum, 52 And filling with it your bellies 53 And drink over it scalding water, 54 Drinking even as the camel drinketh. 55 That will be their entertainment on the Day of Recompense! 56 We have created you, then why would you not confirm it? 57 Have you considered the seed you spill? 58 Do you yourselves create it, or are We the Creators? 59 We have decreed death among you, and We are not to be outdone 60 from replacing you by others like yourselves or changing your forms and re-creating you in forms that you know nothing of. 61 You have certainly known the first creation. Why, then, do you not take heed? 62 Ponder upon the soil you till, 63 Do you give it its increase, or are We the giver? 64 [For,] were it Our will, We could indeed turn it into chaff, and you would be left to wonder [and to lament,] 65 Surely we are burdened with debt: 66 nay, we have been robbed!' 67 Have you considered the water that you drink? 68 Do ye bring it down (in rain) from the cloud or do We? 69 If We willed, surely We would make it brackish. Wherefore give ye not thanks? 70 And have you seen the fire that you ignite? 71 Is it you who have produced its tree or is it We who have produced it? 72 It is We who have made it a means to remind [you of Us,] and a comfort for all who are lost and hungry in the wilderness [of their lives]. 73 Therefore glorify the name of your Lord, the Great. 74