The Town (Al-Balad)
In the name of Allah, the Compassionate, the Merciful
۞ I swear by this city -- 1 And you are free to live upon it, -- 2 And by the begetter and that which he begat, 3 We have certainly created man into hardship. 4 Does he think that never will anyone overcome him? 5 He says: “I have squandered enormous wealth.” 6 Thinks he that none sees him? 7 Did We not give him two eyes, 8 And a tongue and two lips, 9 And shown unto him the two highways? 10 But he hath not attempted the Ascent - 11 And what will explain to thee the path that is steep?- 12 To free a neck (from the burden of debt or slavery), 13 or giving food on a day of hunger 14 Of a related orphan, 15 Or to the indigent (down) in the dust. 16 Then will he be of those who believe, and enjoin patience, (constancy, and self-restraint), and enjoin deeds of kindness and compassion. 17 Their place will be on the right hand. 18 As for those who rejected Our Signs, they are the People of the Left Hand. 19 Over them shall be Fire closing round. 20