The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
Allah - beginning with the name of - the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
A doubter once demanded that punishment be immediately meted out, 1 those who deny the truth. [Know, then, that] nothing can ward it off, 2 from God, the Lord of the Stairways. 3 The angels and the Ruh [Jibrael (Gabriel)] ascend to Him in a Day the measure whereof is fifty thousand years, 4 Therefore patiently endure, in the best manner (O dear Prophet Mohammed – peace and blessings be upon him). 5 They think that it (the Day of Judgment) is far away. 6 But We see it very near. 7 The Day that the sky will be like molten brass, 8 and the mountains will become like dyed tufts of wool, 9 And no familiar friend will ask a question of his friend 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 And his spouse and his brother. 12 His kindred who sheltered him, 13 and all the people of the earth, if that could deliver him. 14 By no means! It will be the fierce flame 15 stripping away his skin, 16 Inviting (all) such as turn their backs and turn away their faces (from the Right). 17 And accumulated wealth and hoarded it. 18 ۞ Indeed man is created very impatient, greedy. 19 Being greatly grieved when evil afflicts him 20 and whenever good fortune comes to him, he selfishly withholds it [from others]. 21 Not so those devoted to Prayer;- 22 Those who are regular in their prayers. 23 In whose wealth a due share is included 24 to those who ask [for help] and to the destitute; 25 And those who believe the Day of Judgement to be true. 26 And those who are fearful of the chastisement of their Lord-- 27 Surely no one can be secure from the punishment of his Lord, -- 28 and guard their private parts 29 Save in regard to their spouses or those whom their right hands own; so verily they are not blameworthy 30 but those who go beyond that limit are transgressors; 31 and who are faithful to their trusts and to their pledges: 32 and those who are upright in their testimonies; 33 and who observe their prayers. 34 It is these who will be honoured in Gardens. 35