The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the Name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful
A questioner questioned concerning the doom about to fall 1 (a chastisement meant) for the unbelievers, one which none can avert; 2 From Allah, Owner of the ascending steps. 3 Whereby the angels ascend unto Him and also the spirit, On a Day whereof the measure is fifty thousand years. 4 So be thou patient with a sweet patience; 5 They see the (Day) indeed as a far-off (event): 6 But We see it very near. 7 Upon the day when heaven shall be as molten copper 8 and the mountains shall be like puffs of wool. 9 and no bosom friend will enquire about any of his bosom friends 10 They will be shown each other. The criminal will wish that he could be ransomed from the punishment of that Day by his children 11 his wife, his brother, 12 and his kinsfolk who gave him shelter, 13 and of whoever [else] lives on earth, all of them - so that he could but save himself. 14 No! Indeed, it is the Flame [of Hell], 15 snatching away the scalp, 16 It calleth him who turned and fled (from truth), 17 and amassed (riches) and hoarded. 18 ۞ Lo! man was created anxious, 19 When evil comes upon him he is impatient; 20 And niggardly when good touches him; 21 Not so are the prayerful. 22 who are constant in prayer; 23 And those in whose wealth exists a recognised right, 24 For the (needy) who asks and him who is prevented (for some reason from asking); 25 who acknowledge the Day of Judgment, 26 who are afraid of the torment of their Lord, 27 Surely no one can be secure from the punishment of his Lord, -- 28 who guard their privates 29 [not giving way to their desires] with any but their spouses - that is, those whom they rightfully possess [through wedlock]: for then, behold, they are free of all blame, 30 (but whoso seeks after more than that, they are the transgressors), 31 who honor their trust and promises, 32 and those who are upright in their testimonies; 33 and are steadfast in their prayers. 34 Such shall dwell in the Gardens (i.e. Paradise) honoured. 35