The Human (Al-Insan)
In the name of Allah, the Entirely Merciful, the Especially Merciful
WAS THERE NOT a time in the life of man when he was not even a mentionable thing? 1 Indeed We have created man from mixed semen; in order to test him – We therefore made him hearing, knowing. 2 We showed him the way, whether he be grateful or ungrateful. 3 [Now,] behold, for those who deny the truth We have readied chains and shackles, and a blazing flame 4 Surely the pious shall drink of a cup whose mixture is camphor, 5 a spring from which God's servants will drink, making it gush forth in branches. 6 (Because) they perform the vow and fear a day whereof the evil is wide-spreading, 7 And feed with food the needy wretch, the orphan and the prisoner, for love of Him, 8 (Saying): "We feed you for the sake of God, desiring neither recompense nor thanks. 9 Surely we fear from our Lord a stern, distressful day. 10 Wherefore Allah shall preserve them from the evil of that Day, and shall cause them to meet brightness and joy. 11 And will reward them for what they patiently endured [with] a garden [in Paradise] and silk [garments]. 12 Reclining upon couches, they will find therein neither the heat of the sun nor bitter, biting cold, 13 The shades of the garden will be closely spread over them and it will be easy for them to reach the fruits. 14 And there shall be made to go round about them vessels of silver and goblets which are of glass, 15 (Bright as) glass but (made) of silver, which they (themselves) have measured to the measure (of their deeds). 16 And in that [paradise] they will be given to drink of a cup flavoured with ginger, 17 A fountain there, called Salsabil. 18 ۞ They will be attended by youths who will not age -- when you see them you will think them to be like sprinkled pearls -- 19 When thou seest, thou wilt see there bliss and high estate. 20 They will have fine green silk and brocade, and they will be decked with bracelets of silver. Their Lord will provide them with a drink of pure wine. 21 [And it will be said], "Indeed, this is for you a reward, and your effort has been appreciated." 22