The Stars (Al-Najm)
In the name of Allah, most benevolent, ever-merciful
By the Star when it setteth, 1 This fellow-man of yours has not gone astray, nor is he deluded, 2 nor does he speak out of his desire. 3 It is no less than inspiration sent down to him: 4 taught him by one terrible in power, 5 The Lord of Strength; so he attained completion, 6 while he was in the highest horizon; 7 Then he drew nigh and came down 8 until he was as close to him as the distance of two bows, or even less. 9 And thus did [God] reveal unto His servant whatever He deemed right to reveal. 10 The heart lied not (in seeing) what it saw. 11 Will you then dispute with him as to what he saw? 12 He saw Him indeed another time 13 Near Sidrat-ul-Muntaha [lote-tree of the utmost boundary (beyond which none can pass)], 14 nigh which is the Garden of the Refuge, 15 with the lote-tree veiled in a veil of nameless splendour 16 The sight did not shift, nor did it cross the limits. 17 Assuredly he beheld of the sign of his Lord, the greatest. 18 So did you observe the idols Lat and Uzza? 19 and your third idol al-Manat (whom you considered as God's daughters)? 20 What, have you males, and He females! 21 This is an unfair distinction! 22 They are nothing but some names that you have coined, you and your forefathers – Allah has not sent any proof for them; they follow only guesses and their own desires; whereas the guidance from their Lord has come to them. 23 Can the human being have whatever he wishes? 24 To God belong the End and the Beginning. 25