The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the Name of God, the Merciful, the Compassionate
Someone has (needlessly) demanded to experience the torment (of God), 1 the unbelievers which none can prevent. 2 from punishing them. He is the Lord of the Ascending Stairways, 3 all the angels and all the inspiration [ever granted to man] ascend unto Him [daily,] in a day the length whereof is [like] fifty thousand years… 4 Therefore, [O believer,] endure all adversity with goodly patience: 5 behold, they see it as if far off; 6 But We see it (quite) near. 7 On the day when the heavens become like molten metal. 8 and the mountains shall be as plucked wool-tufts, 9 even intimate friends will not inquire about their friends, 10 Though within sight of one another. The sinner would like to ransom himself from the torment of that Day by offering his sons, 11 And his wife and his brother 12 the kinsmen who gave him shelter, 13 And all who are on the earth; so that this might deliver him. 14 No! Indeed, it is the Flame [of Hell], 15 Eager to roast; 16 It calls out to him who reverted and turned away. 17 And hoarded (wealth) and withheld it. 18 ۞ Indeed man is created very impatient, greedy. 19 When evil touches him, impatient, 20 And niggardly when good reaches him;- 21 Not so, however, those who consciously turn towards God in prayer. 22 Those who remain steadfast to their prayer; 23 And those in whose wealth there is a fixed portion. 24 For those who beg, and for the needy who cannot even ask. 25 who confirm the Day of Doom 26 And those who fear the punishment of their Lord. 27 Indeed, the punishment of their Lord is not that from which one is safe - 28 who guard their carnal desires 29 Save with their wives and those whom their right hands possess, for thus they are not blameworthy; 30 but whoever goes beyond this is a transgressor; 31 And those who protect the property entrusted to them, and their agreements. 32 And those who are upright in their testimonies, 33 And those who guard their Salat (prayers) well. 34 Those shall be in Gardens, high-honoured. 35