The Town (Al-Balad)
In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful
۞ I swear by this city (Mecca) – 1 in which you are now living 2 And by the giver of birth, and whom he fathered, 3 Verily, We have created man into [a life of] pain, toil and trial. 4 Thinks he that none can overcome him? 5 He will say: 'I have destroyed a vast wealth' 6 Does he think that no one sees him? 7 Have We not given him two eyes, 8 and a tongue and two lips? 9 and guided him on the two paths (of good and evil)? 10 But he would not try to ascend the steep uphill road... 11 What could let you know what the height is! 12 The freeing of a slave! 13 Or the feeding on a day of hunger. 14 to an orphan near of kin 15 Or some poor wretch in misery, 16 Then will he be of those who believe, and enjoin patience, (constancy, and self-restraint), and enjoin deeds of kindness and compassion. 17 Such are the Companions of the Right Hand. 18 But those who reject Our Signs, they are the (unhappy) Companions of the Left Hand. 19 who will be engulfed in the fire. 20