The Human (Al-Insan)
In the name of Allah, most benevolent, ever-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 man from a drop of mingled fluid so that We might try him; We gave him hearing and sight; 2 Surely We guided him upon the way whether he be thankful or unthankful. 3 We have prepared for unbelievers chains and collars and a blazing fire. 4 Surely the pious shall drink of a cup whose mixture is camphor, 5 a source [of bliss] whereof God's servants shall drink, seeing it flow in a flow abundant. 6 They [are those who] fulfill [their] vows and fear a Day whose evil will be widespread. 7 they give food, for the love of Him, to the needy, the orphan, the captive: 8 'We feed you only for the Face of God; we desire no recompense from you, no thankfulness; 9 Lo! we fear from our Lord a day of frowning and of fate. 10 God will certainly rescue them from the terror of that day and will meet them with joy and pleasure. 11 and recompense them for their patience with a Garden, and robes of silk. 12 Reclining in it, upon thrones; they will not see the hot sunshine in it, nor the bitter cold. 13 And near above them are its shades, and its [fruit] to be picked will be lowered in compliance. 14 Rounds of silver cups and silver beakers, looking like glass, will be presented upon them. 15 Godblets of silver, they shall have filled them to exact measure. 16 and they will be given a cup to drink flavoured with ginger, 17 [derived from] a source [to be found] therein, whose name is "Seek Thy Way". 18 ۞ And round about them will (serve) youths of perpetual (freshness): If thou seest them, thou wouldst think them scattered Pearls. 19 And when you see there, you shall see blessings and a great kingdom. 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 "This in truth is your recompense, and acceptance of your endeavours." 22