The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the Name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful
A doubter once demanded that punishment be immediately meted out, 1 (a chastisement meant) for the unbelievers, one which none can avert; 2 a chastisement from Allah, the Lord of the ascending steps, 3 by which the angels and the Spirit ascend to Him in one Day the duration of which is fifty thousand years. 4 Therefore patiently endure, in the best manner (O dear Prophet Mohammed – peace and blessings be upon him). 5 They see the (Day) indeed as a far-off (event): 6 but, We see it as near! 7 Upon the day when heaven shall be as molten copper 8 and the mountains will be like tufts of wool, 9 And no friend will ask of a friend, 10 Though they shall be made to see one another. Fain would the guilty ransom himself from the torment of that Day by his children. 11 And his spouse and his brother. 12 the kinsmen who gave him shelter, 13 and all the people of the earth, if that could deliver him. 14 Nay, verily it is a furnace 15 will strip-off the flesh 16 Inviting (all) such as turn their backs and turn away their faces (from the Right). 17 and amassed wealth and hoarded it. 18 ۞ Verily man is formed impatient. 19 Fretful when evil befalleth him 20 If good comes to him he holds back his hand, 21 except those who are steadfast 22 Those who remain steadfast to their prayer; 23 And those in whose wealth exists a recognised right, 24 For the needy and those dispossessed, 25 who confirm the Day of Reckoning 26 And those who are fearful of the chastisement of their Lord-- 27 Indeed, the punishment of their Lord is not that from which one is safe - 28 And those who guard their private parts 29 except in regard to their spouses and those whom their right hands possess, for in regard to them they are not reproachable, 30 (but whoso seeks after more than that, they are the transgressors), 31 who honor their trust and promises, 32 And those who are firm upon their testimonies. 33 and are steadfast in their prayers. 34 Such shall dwell in the Gardens (i.e. Paradise) honoured. 35