The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the name of Allah, most benevolent, ever-merciful
A doubter once demanded that punishment be immediately meted out, 1 The unbelievers-- there is none to avert it-- 2 From God, the Lord of the steps (of progression), 3 The angels and Jibreel, ascend towards Him – the punishment will befall on a day which spans fifty thousand years. 4 So be patient with gracious patience. 5 behold, they see it as if far off; 6 but We see it is nigh. 7 Upon the day when heaven shall be as molten copper 8 and the mountains will be like tufts of wool, 9 And no friend will ask concerning his friend. 10 Though they will be put in sight of each other,- the sinner's desire will be: Would that he could redeem himself from the Penalty of that Day by (sacrificing) his children, 11 his wife, his brother, 12 And his kindred who sheltered him, 13 And all, all that is on earth,- so it could deliver him: 14 Nay, verily it is a furnace 15 Taking away (burning completely) the head skin! 16 It will summon whoever turns his back and flees, 17 and amassed (riches) and hoarded. 18 ۞ Verily man is impatient by nature: 19 Irritable (discontented) when evil touches him; 20 when good visits him, grudging, 21 Save worshippers. 22 Those who are constant in their prayer 23 And those in whose wealth there is a known right, 24 For the beggar and the destitute. 25 who confirm the Day of Doom 26 And those who fear the punishment of their Lord. 27 For their Lord's displeasure is the opposite of Peace and Tranquillity;- 28 And those who guard their chastity, 29 Save in regard to their spouses or those whom their right hands own; so verily they are not blameworthy 30 But whosoever seeks beyond that, then it is those who are trespassers. 31 And those who respect their trusts and covenants; 32 And those who are upright in their testimonies, 33 And those who protect their prayers. 34 They will live in gardens with honour. 35