People pray as earnestly to gain evil as one should to gain virtue. But people are hasty. 11 We have made the day and night each as evidence (of Our existence). The night is invisible and the day is visible so that you may seek favors from your Lord and determine the number of years and mark the passing of time. For everything We have given a detailed explanation. 12 And every human being's destiny have We tied to his neck; and on the Day of Resurrection We shall bring forth for him a record which he will find wide open; 13 Read your book; your own self is sufficient as a reckoner against you this day. 14 One who follows guidance does so for himself and one who goes astray does so against his soul. No one will suffer for the sins of others. We have never punished anyone without sending them Our Messenger first. 15 When We decide to destroy a town We command the affluent among them, whereupon they commit sins in it, then the decree (of chastisement) becomes due against them and thereafter We destroy that town utterly. 16 How many generations have We destroyed since Noah's time. Your Lord is well aware of the sins of His servants and observes them all. 17 If anyone desires immediate benefits, We hasten to grant whatever benefits We will in the present life to whomsoever We please, but thereafter We decree for him Hell wherein he shall burn, condemned and rejected. 18 Whosoever, being a believer, desires the Everlasting Life and strives for it as he should; those their striving will be thanked. 19 To each - these and those - We extend of the bestowment of thy Lord; and the bestowment of thy Lord is never restrained. 20 Look how We have favored [in provision] some of them over others. But the Hereafter is greater in degrees [of difference] and greater in distinction. 21 O listener, do not set up another God with Allah, for you will then remain seated condemned, helpless. 22