The Human (Al-Insan)
In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
WAS THERE NOT a time in the life of man when he was not even a mentionable thing? 1 Indeed, We created man from a sperm-drop mixture that We may try him; and We made him hearing and seeing. 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 devotees will drink cups flavoured with palm blossoms 5 A spring wherefrom the slaves of Allah drink, making it gush forth abundantly, 6 They fulfill their vow and dread a Day the evil whereof shall be widespreading. 7 And they give food, inspite of their love for it (or for the love of Him), to Miskin (poor), the orphan, and the captive, 8 'We feed you only for the Face of God; we desire no recompense from you, no thankfulness; 9 for we fear from our Lord a stern, frownful Day' 10 So Allah will protect them from the evil of that Day and give them radiance and happiness 11 and will reward them for all their patience in adversity with a garden [of bliss] and with [garments of] silk. 12 Reclining upon couches, they will find therein neither the heat of the sun nor bitter, biting cold, 13 And near above them are its shades, and its [fruit] to be picked will be lowered in compliance. 14 Passed round will be silver flagons and goblets made of glass, 15 Crystal-clear, made of silver. They will determine the measure thereof according to their wishes. 16 And in that [paradise] they will be given to drink of a cup flavoured with ginger, 17 Which is a spring in Paradise called Salsabeel. 18 ۞ And round about them will (serve) youths of perpetual (freshness): If thou seest them, thou wouldst think them scattered Pearls. 19 And when thou lookest, it is there thou wilt see a Bliss and a Realm Magnificent. 20 They [i.e., the virtuous] shall be attired in garments of fine green silk and rich brocade and will be adorned with bracelets of silver. Their Lord will give them a pure wine to drink. 21 This is your reward. Your endeavour is fully acknowledged. 22