The Human (Al-Insan)
In the name of Allah, the Merciful, the Compassionate
Was there not a period of time when man was nothing worth mentioning? 1 Surely We have created man from a small life-germ uniting (itself): We mean to try him, so We have made him hearing, seeing. 2 We have indeed shown him the way – whether he is grateful or ingrate. 3 [Now,] behold, for those who deny the truth We have readied chains and shackles, and a blazing flame 4 [whereas,] behold, the truly virtuous shall drink from a cup flavoured with the calyx of sweet-smelling flowers: 5 The Kafoor is a spring, from which the chosen bondmen of Allah will drink, causing it to flow wherever they wish inside their palaces. 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 give food, despite their love for it, to the poor and orphans and captives, 8 [Saying], "We feed you only for the countenance of Allah. We wish not from you reward or gratitude. 9 "We only fear a Day of distressful Wrath from the side of our Lord." 10 Therefor Allah hath warded off from them the evil of that day, and hath made them find brightness and joy; 11 And shall recompense them for that which they patiently bare with a Garden and silken garment. 12 Where they will recline on couches feeling neither heat of the sun nor intense cold. 13 The shades of the garden will be closely spread over them and it will be easy for them to reach the fruits. 14 And amongst them will be passed round vessels of silver and goblets of crystal,- 15 goblets bright as crystal but made of silver, filled to exact measure. 16 There will they drink a cup flavoured with ginger 17 drawn from a spring (in Paradise) called Salsabil. 18 ۞ And boys of everlasting youth will go about attending them. Looking at them you would think that they were pearls dispersed. 19 and when thou seest [anything that is] there thou wilt see [only] bliss and a realm transcendent 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 Behold, this is your recompense and your endeavour has been appreciated. 22