The Stars (Al-Najm)
In the name of Allah, most benevolent, ever-merciful
CONSIDER this unfolding [of God's message,] as it comes down from on high! 1 This fellow-man of yours has not gone astray, nor is he deluded, 2 nor does he speak out of desire. 3 This is only revelation communicated, 4 He was taught by [an angel] who is mighty in power, 5 by the great mighty one (Gabriel), 6 While he was on the uppermost horizon. 7 Then he drew nigh and came down 8 until he was but two bow-lengths away, or even nearer. 9 and revealed to God's servant what he revealed. 10 The heart [of the Prophet] did not misconstrue what he saw. 11 What! do you then dispute with him as to what he saw? 12 For indeed he saw him at a second descent, 13 At the Lote Tree of the Utmost Boundary - 14 Near it is the Garden of Refuge - 15 (This was) when the lote-tree was covered with that which covered it. 16 The sight turned not aside, nor it exceeded. 17 He saw some of the greatest signs of his Lord. 18 Have you considered El-Lat and El-'Uzza 19 And Manat, the other third (of the pagan deities)? 20 Do sons belong to you and daughters to God? 21 That indeed is an unfair division -- 22 They are but names, named by you and your fathers. Allah has not sent down any authority for them. They follow conjecture and their soul's desire, eventhough the guidance of their Lord has come to them. 23 Shall man have whatever he craves? 24 To God belong the End and the Beginning. 25