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 companion did not err, nor did he go astray. 2 And he speaketh not of his own desire. 3 This is only revelation communicated, 4 Bestowed on him by the Supreme Intellect, 5 One strong of make. Then he stood straight. 6 while he was in the highest horizon; 7 then came down close 8 until he was but two bow-lengths away, or even nearer. 9 And he revealed to His Servant what he revealed. 10 His heart added no untruth to what he saw. 11 What! do you then dispute with him as to what he saw? 12 And certainly he saw him in another descent, 13 By the Lote-tree beyond which none can pass, 14 Close to which is the Everlasting Paradise. 15 When that which covers covered the lote-tree; 16 His sight did not waver nor was it unduly bold. 17 for indeed he saw one of the greatest signs of his Lord. 18 Have you considered Lat and 'Uzza, 19 and the third one, Manat? -- 20 Shall you have the male issues, and He the female issues? 21 That, then, is an unjust division. 22 They are but names which you have named, you and your fathers, for which Allah has sent down no authority. They follow but a guess and that which they themselves desire, whereas there has surely come to them the Guidance from their Lord! 23 Or is there for man whatever he wishes? 24 All that is in the life to come and all that is in this life belongs only to God. 25