۞ IT IS GOD who creates you [all in a states of weakness, and then, after weakness, ordains strength [for you,] and then, after [a period of] strength, ordains [old-age] weakness and grey hair. He creates what He wills; and He alone is all-knowing, infinite in His power. 54 Upon the day when the Hour is come, the sinners shall swear they have not tarried above an hour; so they were perverted. 55 But those who were given the knowledge and belief will say: "You have tarried, according to the Book of God, as long as the Day of Resurrection, and this is the Day of Resurrection, but 'you do not know." 56 Their excuses will be of no avail to the sinners on that day, and they will not be allowed to beg for favour. 57 And assuredly We have propounded for mankind, in this Qur'an, every kind of similitude; and if thou bringest unto them a sign, those who disbelieve are sure to say: ye are but followers of falsehood. 58 As such Allah seals the hearts of those who do not know. 59 so have patience [O Muhammad]! God's promise is true; let not those who will not be convinced make you discouraged. 60