The Stars (Al-Najm)
In the name of Allah, most benevolent, ever-merciful
By the star when it sets: 1 This fellow-man of yours has not gone astray, nor is he deluded, 2 Nor does he speak of (his own) desire. 3 It is not but a revelation revealed, 4 taught by One who is Stern in power. 5 One vigorous; and he grew clear to view 6 the strong one who appeared on the uppermost horizon. 7 Then he drew near and hung above suspended, 8 Till he was two bows length off or yet nearer. 9 and revealed to God's servant what he revealed. 10 His heart did not lie of what he saw. 11 So will you dispute with him over what he saw? 12 Indeed, he saw him in another descent 13 Near Sidrat-ul-Muntaha [lote-tree of the utmost boundary (beyond which none can pass)], 14 Close to which is the Everlasting Paradise. 15 When that which covers covered the lote-tree; 16 The eye did not turn aside, nor did it exceed the limit. 17 and he certainly saw some of the greatest Signs of His Lord. 18 Have you really considered al-Lat and al-"Uzza, 19 and the third one, Manat? -- 20 Are yours the males and His the females? 21 This is an unfair distinction! 22 These are only names which you and your fathers have invented. No authority was sent down by God for them. They only follow conjecture and wish-fulfilment, even though guidance had come to them already from their Lord. 23 What! Will man get whatever he dreams of? 24 To God belong the End and the Beginning. 25