The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the name of Allah, most benevolent, ever-merciful
A beseecher besought the visitation of chastisement, 1 Upon the disbelievers, which none can repel, 2 [since it will come] from God, unto whom there are many ways of ascent: 3 by which the angels and the Spirit will ascend to Him in one Day which will last for fifty thousand years. 4 But be patient (O Muhammad) with a patience fair to see. 5 Verily they think that the chastisement is far off, 6 But We see it very near. 7 The day the sky becomes like molten brass, 8 And the hills will be light as wool. 9 and no friend will ask about his 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 the kinsmen who gave him shelter, 13 And all who are on the earth; so that this might deliver him. 14 But never. It is pure white flame 15 A remover of exteriors. 16 It shall insistently summon him who turned his back and retreated, 17 and amassed wealth and covetously hoarded it. 18 ۞ Verily man is formed impatient. 19 Very nervous when touched by misfortune. 20 when good visits him, grudging, 21 except those that pray 22 who are steadfast in prayer; 23 And in whose wealth there is a right acknowledged 24 For him who begs and for him who is denied (good) 25 And those who hold to the truth of the Day of Judgment; 26 And those who are fearful of their Lord's torment 27 Indeed, the punishment of their Lord is not that from which one is safe - 28 And those who preserve their chastity 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 So those who desire more than this – it is they who are the transgressors. 31 and who are faithful to their trusts and to their pledges: 32 And those who are firm upon their testimonies. 33 and who guard their prayers [from all worldly intent]. 34 They will live in gardens with honour. 35