The Stars (Al-Najm)
In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful
CONSIDER this unfolding [of God's message,] as it comes down from on high! 1 your comrade is not astray, neither errs, 2 and neither does he speak out of his own desire: 3 It is only an Inspiration that is inspired. 4 He was taught by [an angel] who is mighty in power, 5 Endued with Wisdom: for he appeared (in stately form); 6 While he [Jibrael (Gabriel)] was in the highest part of the horizon, 7 and then drew near, and came close, 8 until he was two bow-lengths away or even closer 9 He revealed to God's servant whatever he wanted. 10 His heart added no untruth to what he saw. 11 Will ye therefore dispute with him concerning that which he hath seen? 12 And verily he saw him yet another time 13 At the farthest lote-tree; 14 nigh which is the Garden of the Refuge, 15 when the lote tree was covered in mystic splendour. 16 (His) sight never swerved, nor did it go wrong! 17 Assuredly he beheld of the sign of his Lord, the greatest. 18 HAVE YOU, then, ever considered [what you are worshipping in] Al-Lat and Al-Uzza, 19 And subsequently the third, the Manat? 20 Are yours the males and His the females? 21 That indeed is a division most unfair! 22 They are but names which ye have named, ye and your fathers, for which Allah hath sent down no authority. They follow but their fancy, and that which pleaseth their souls; whereas assuredly there hath come unto them from their Lord the guidance. 23 Can ever man get what he desires? 24 But unto Allah belongeth the after (life), and the former. 25