The Town (Al-Balad)
Allah - beginning with the name of - the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
۞ Nay! I swear by this city. 1 this land in which thou art free to dwell 2 and I swear by the parent and his offspring: 3 We have indeed created man surrounded by hardships. 4 Does he think that no one has power over him? 5 He says: "I have wasted a great deal of wealth." 6 Does he then think that no one sees him? 7 Did We not give him two eyes, 8 And a tongue and two lips? 9 And guide him to the parting of the mountain ways? 10 But he hath not attempted the Ascent - 11 And what will explain to thee the path that is steep?- 12 It is the freeing of a slave; 13 Or the giving of food in a day of privation 14 to an orphaned relative 15 Or of a homeless needy person! 16 and to be one of those who believe and urge one another to steadfastness and compassion. 17 Such are they that have attained to righteousness; 18 But those who disbelieve in Our verses, they are the Companions of the Left, 19 Upon them is a fire, in which they are imprisoned, closed and shut above them. 20