The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the Name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful
A doubter once demanded that punishment be immediately meted out, 1 for the unbelievers, which none may avert, 2 From Allah, Owner of the ascending steps. 3 On that Day (of Judgment), long as fifty thousand years, the angels and the Spirit will ascend to Him. 4 Therefore endure with a goodly patience. 5 they see it as being far off; 6 And We behold it nigh. 7 On that Day the heaven shall become like molten copper, 8 And the mountains will be like wool, 9 no loyal friend shall question loyal friend, 10 Though within sight of one another. The sinner would like to ransom himself from the torment of that Day by offering his sons, 11 And his wife and his brother 12 and of all the kinsfolk who ever sheltered him, 13 And whoever is on earth entirely [so] then it could save him. 14 But nay! for lo! it is the fire of hell 15 tearing away his skin! 16 and it shall call him who withdrew and turned his back 17 And collect (wealth) and hide it (from spending it in the Cause of Allah). 18 ۞ VERILY, man is born with a restless disposition. 19 bewailing when evil befalls him, 20 and whenever good fortune comes to him, he selfishly withholds it [from others]. 21 Except those devoted to Salat (prayers) 22 Who are constant at their worship 23 and in whose possessions there is a due share, acknowledged [by them,] 24 For the petitioner and the deprived - 25 and those who believe in the Day of Judgement 26 and fear the chastisement of their Lord – 27 Lo! the doom of their Lord is that before which none can feel secure - 28 and who are mindful of their chastity, 29 Except with their wives and the (women slaves and captives) whom their right hands possess, for (then) they are not to be blamed, 30 but whoever goes beyond this is a transgressor; 31 who honor their trust and promises, 32 And those who are upright in their testimonies, 33 And those who are attentive at their worship. 34 Such shall dwell in the Gardens (i.e. Paradise) honoured. 35