The Town (Al-Balad)
In the name of Allah, the Compassionate, the Merciful
۞ Nay, I swear by this city - 1 and you are a lodger in this country. 2 and I swear by the parent and his offspring: 3 that We have created man into a life of toil and trial. 4 Does man think that no one will ever have power over him? 5 He says: “I have squandered enormous wealth.” 6 Does man think that no one saw him? 7 Have We not made for him two eyes 8 and a tongue and two lips? 9 And guide him to the parting of the mountain ways? 10 But he would not try to ascend the steep uphill road... 11 And what will make you know the path that is steep? 12 [It is] the freeing of one's neck [from the burden of sin,] 13 or giving food on a day of hunger 14 of an orphan near of kin, 15 Or the poor in distress; 16 Then will he be of those who believe, and enjoin patience, (constancy, and self-restraint), and enjoin deeds of kindness and compassion. 17 These are the fellows of the righthand. 18 And (as for) those who disbelieve in our communications, they are the people of the left hand. 19 Over them shall be Fire closing round. 20