a multitude of the ancients, 39 And a large group from the latter. 40 BUT AS FOR those who have persevered in evil - what of those who have persevered in evil? 41 Amidst scorching wind and scalding water. 42 and the shadow of a smoking blaze 43 neither cold nor graceful in shape. 44 They had lived in luxury before this 45 And they used to persist in the great violation, 46 and they used to say, "What! After we have died and become dust and bones, shall we indeed be raised up again? 47 And also our forefathers? 48 Say (unto them, O Muhammad): Lo! those of old and those of later time 49 shall be gathered to the appointed time of a known day. 50 Then indeed you, O those astray [who are] deniers, 51 Ye verily will eat of a tree called Zaqqum 52 filling your bellies, with it 53 and will thereupon have to drink [many a draught] of burning despair 54 Drinkers even as the drinking of thirsty camels. 55 This will be their welcome on the Day of Judgment. 56 We created you. Will ye then admit the truth? 57 Did you ever consider the sperm that you emit? 58 Do you create it, or We are its creator? 59 It is We who have ordained death for all of you; and We cannot be prevented 60 That We may substitute others like unto you and produce you into that which ye know not. 61 And you have already known the first creation, so will you not remember? 62 Have you thought about what crops you plant? 63 Do you give it its increase, or are We the giver? 64 If We pleased, We should have certainly made it broken down into pieces, then would you begin to lament: 65 Surely we are burdened with debt: 66 nay, we have been robbed!' 67 Consider the water that you drink. 68 Is it you who cause it to come down from the clouds - or are We the cause of its coming down? 69 If We so pleased, We certainly could make it salty. Why, then, are you not grateful? 70 Consider the fire that you strike. 71 Have you raised its tree, or We have raised it? 72 We have made it as a reminder and convenience for the needy. 73 (Muhammad), glorify your Lord, the Great One. 74