The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful
ONE who is minded to ask might ask about the suffering which [in the hereafter] is bound to befall 1 those who deny the truth. [Know, then, that] nothing can ward it off, 2 [since it will come] from God, unto whom there are many ways of ascent: 3 To Him the angels and the Spirit (Gabriel) ascend in a day, the measure of which is fifty thousand years. 4 So, (O Prophet), persevere with gracious perseverance. 5 They see it [the Day of Judgement] to be far off, 6 Whereas We see it impending. 7 [It will take place] on a Day when the sky will be like molten lead, 8 and the mountains shall be as plucked wool-tufts, 9 even intimate friends will not inquire about their friends, 10 though they may see each other. A sinner will wish that he could save himself from the torment of that day by sacrificing his children, 11 his companion wife, his brother, 12 And his kin that sheltered him. 13 And all, all that is on earth,- so it could deliver him: 14 But never. It is pure white flame 15 that will strip off the scalp. 16 It shall call him who turneth back and backslideth. 17 And collect (wealth) and hide it (from spending it in the Cause of Allah). 18 ۞ Indeed, the human was created grudging and impatient. 19 Very nervous when touched by misfortune. 20 And niggardly when good touches him; 21 except those that pray, 22 and are constant in their Prayer; 23 And in whose wealth there is a right acknowledged 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 a thing to be unafraid of! 28 And those who guard their chastity, 29 Except with their wives and the (women slaves and captives) whom their right hands possess, for (then) they are not to be blamed, 30 But whosoever seeks beyond that, they are the transgressors. 31 And those who of their trusts and their covenant are keepers. 32 And those who stand firm in their testimonies. 33 and who are constant in their prayers. 34 These will dwell in Gardens, honoured. 35