The Human (Al-Insan)
In the name of Allah, the Merciful, the Compassionate
Has there not been over man a period of time, when he was nothing to be mentioned? 1 Verily, it is We who have created man out of a drop of sperm intermingled, so that We might try him [in his later life]: and therefore We made him a being endowed with hearing and sight. 2 We showed him the way, whether he be grateful or ungrateful. 3 Surely We have prepared for the unbelievers chains and shackles and a burning fire. 4 [whereas,] behold, the truly virtuous shall drink from a cup flavoured with the calyx of sweet-smelling flowers: 5 From a fountain whence the bondmen of Allah will drink, causing it to gush abundantly. 6 [The truly virtuous are] they [who] fulfil their vows, and stand in awe of a Day the woe of which is bound to spread far and wide, 7 And they give food out of love for Him to the poor and the orphan and the captive: 8 'We feed you only for the Face of God; we desire no recompense from you, no thankfulness; 9 "We only fear a Day of distressful Wrath from the side of our Lord." 10 God will certainly rescue them from the terror of that day and will meet them with joy and pleasure. 11 And reward them for their perseverence Paradise and silken robes, 12 In that [garden] they will on couches recline, and will know therein neither [burning] sun nor cold severe, 13 And the shade thereof is close upon them, and the bunches of fruit thereof will hang low within their reach. 14 Vessels of silver and goblets of pure crystal will be passed round among them 15 and gleaming silver goblets which have been filled to the exact measure, 16 And in Paradise they will be given to drink cups, filled with a mixture of ginger. 17 (The water of) a spring therein, named Salsabil. 18 ۞ There wait on them immortal youths, whom, when thou seest, thou wouldst take for scattered pearls. 19 And when you look there [in Paradise], you will see pleasure and great dominion. 20 Upon them shall be garments of fine green silk and of brocades. And adorned they shall be with bracelets of silver: and their Lord shall give them drink a beverage pure. 21 Behold, this is your recompense and your endeavour has been appreciated. 22