The Human (Al-Insan)
In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
HAS THERE [not] been an endless span of time before man [appeared - a time] when he was not yet a thing to be thought of? 1 We created the human being from the union of sperm and egg to test him. We gave him hearing and vision. 2 We showed him the way, whether he be grateful or ungrateful. 3 We have indeed kept prepared chains, and shackles and a blazing fire for the disbelievers. 4 [whereas,] behold, the truly virtuous shall drink from a cup flavoured with the calyx of sweet-smelling flowers: 5 a fountain at which the worshipers of Allah drink and make it gush forth 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 They feed the destitute, orphans, and captives for the love of God, saying, 8 [saying, in their hearts,] "We feed you for the sake of God alone: we desire no recompense from you, nor thanks: 9 Indeed, We fear from our Lord a Day austere and distressful." 10 So Allah will protect them from the evil of that Day and give them radiance and happiness 11 and recompense them for their patience with a Garden, and robes of silk. 12 Reclining therein on raised couches, they shall find therein neither (the severe heat of) the sun nor intense cold. 13 The shade thereof is close upon them and the clustered fruits thereof bow down. 14 And amongst them will be passed round vessels of silver and cups of crystal, 15 crystal-like, [but] of silver - the measure whereof they alone will determine. 16 And they will be given to drink a cup [of wine] whose mixture is of ginger 17 therein a fountain whose name is called Salsabil. 18 ۞ There wait on them immortal youths, whom, when thou seest, thou wouldst take for scattered pearls. 19 And when you look towards it, you will see serenity and a great kingdom. 20 Upon them there will be garments of green silk, rich brocade, and they will be adorned with bracelets of silver. Their Lord will give them a pure beverage to drink. 21 This is your reward. Your endeavour is fully acknowledged. 22