The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the name of Allah, most benevolent, ever-merciful
AN INQUIRER ASKED for the affliction that is to come 1 (a chastisement meant) for the unbelievers, one which none can avert; 2 From Allah, Owner of the ascending steps. 3 To Him the angels and the Spirit mount up, in a day whereof the measure is fifty thousand years. 4 But be patient (O Muhammad) with a patience fair to see. 5 they see it as being far off; 6 But We see it [as] near. 7 The Day that the sky will be like the boiling filth of oil, (or molten copper or silver or lead, etc.). 8 and the mountains shall be as plucked wool-tufts, 9 And no friend will ask [anything of] a friend, 10 Though within sight of one another. The sinner would like to ransom himself from the torment of that Day by offering his sons, 11 and his spouse and his brother, 12 And his nearest kindred who shelter him 13 and whosoever is in the earth, all together, so that then it might deliver him. 14 But nay! for lo! it is the fire of hell 15 Plucking out (his being) right to the skull!- 16 It will claim all such as turn their backs [on what is right,] and turn away [from the truth,] 17 And collect (wealth) and hide it (from spending it in the Cause of Allah). 18 ۞ Truly man was created very impatient;- 19 bewailing when evil befalls him, 20 And when good toucheth him he is begrudging. 21 save those that pray 22 Those who are regular in their prayers. 23 And those in whose wealth there is a known right, 24 For the beggar who asks, and for the unlucky who has lost his property and wealth, (and his means of living has been straitened); 25 And those who believe in the Day of Judgement, 26 And those who fear the displeasure of their Lord,- 27 surely the chastisement of their Lord is a thing none can feel secure from – 28 And those who of their private parts are guards. 29 except from their spouses and those whom they rightfully possess [through wedlock], for which they incur no blame -- 30 But those who trespass beyond this are transgressors;- 31 And those who protect the property entrusted to them, and their agreements. 32 And those who are firm upon their testimonies. 33 And those who guard (the sacredness) of their worship;- 34 They will live in gardens with honour. 35