The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful
A doubter once demanded that punishment be immediately meted out, 1 The unbelievers-- there is none to avert it-- 2 from punishing them. He is the Lord of the Ascending Stairways, 3 by which the angels and the Spirit will ascend to Him in one Day which will last for fifty thousand years. 4 (Muhammad), exercise patience with no complaints. 5 Verily they think that the chastisement is far off, 6 while We think that it is near at hand. 7 On the day when the heavens become like molten metal. 8 And the mountains will be like flakes of wool, 9 And no friend inquires after friend 10 although they shall be within sight of one another. The guilty one would fain ransom himself from the torment of that Day by offering his children, 11 his wife, his brother, 12 and his kinsfolk who gave him shelter, 13 And all that are in the earth, so that it might save him. 14 No! Indeed, it is the Flame [of Hell], 15 A remover of exteriors. 16 Inviting (all) such as turn their backs and turn away their faces (from the Right). 17 and amassed wealth and hoarded it. 18 ۞ Surely man was created fretful, 19 Very nervous when touched by misfortune. 20 And when good touches him, withholding [of it], 21 Save worshippers. 22 Who persevere in devotion, 23 And in whose wealth there is a right acknowledged 24 to those who ask [for help] and to the destitute; 25 who confirm the Day of Doom 26 And those who are fearful of their Lord's doom - 27 Verily! The torment of their Lord is that before which none can feel secure, 28 And those who guard their private parts, 29 except from their wives and what their right hands own, for these they are not blameworthy. 30 but whoever goes beyond this is a transgressor; 31 And those who protect the property entrusted to them, and their agreements. 32 and those who stand by their testimony 33 And those who protect their prayers. 34 such people will receive due honor in Paradise. 35