The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the name of God, The Most Gracious, The Dispenser of Grace
A questioner asked concerning a torment about to befall 1 which will inevitably seize the disbelievers. 2 From Allah, Owner of the ascending steps. 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 They see the (Day) indeed as a far-off (event): 6 but We see it near at hand. 7 The Day that the sky will be like the boiling filth of oil, (or molten copper or silver or lead, etc.). 8 and the mountains will become like dyed tufts of wool, 9 no loyal friend shall question loyal friend, 10 Though they shall be made to see one another [(i.e. on the Day of Resurrection), there will be none but see his father, children and relatives, but he will neither speak to them nor will ask them for any help)], - the Mujrim, (criminal, sinner, disbeliever, etc.) would desire to ransom himself from the punishment of that Day by his children. 11 His wife and his brother, 12 And his nearest kindred who shelter him 13 and all persons of the earth, if only he could thus save himself. 14 By no means! for it would be the Fire of Hell!- 15 will strip-off the flesh 16 It will claim all such as turn their backs [on what is right,] and turn away [from the truth,] 17 and amassed wealth and hoarded it. 18 ۞ Surely man was created fretful, 19 Fretful when evil touches him; 20 If good comes to him he holds back his hand, 21 except those who are steadfast 22 who are steadfast in prayer; 23 And those within whose wealth is a known right 24 for those that ask and those that are dispossessed, 25 And those who hold to the truth of the Day of Judgment; 26 and fear the chastisement of their Lord – 27 Indeed the punishment of their Lord is not a thing to be unafraid of! 28 and who are mindful of their chastity, 29 Except with their wives and the bondwomen in their possession, for there is no reproach on them. 30 but whoever goes beyond this is a transgressor; 31 And those who fulfil their trusts and covenants, 32 And those who stand firm in their testimonies; 33 and who observe their prayers. 34 These it is who in the gardens [of paradise] shall be honoured! 35