The Night (Al-Layl)
In the name of Allah, most benevolent, ever-merciful
By the night when it enshrouds, 1 and the day as it rises bright! 2 Consider the creation of the male and the female! 3 Verily, [O men,] you aim at most divergent ends! 4 As for him who gives and is godfearing 5 and believes in the truth of the ultimate good 6 We will make smooth for him the path of ease (goodness). 7 And as for him who is niggardly and considers himself free from need (of Allah), 8 and rejects what is right, 9 We shall facilitate for him the way to Hardship, 10 And his riches will not avail him when he falls headlong (into the Abyss). 11 Surely Ours is it to show the way, 12 and to Us belong the Last and the First. 13 and so I warn you of the raging fire 14 Which only the most wretched must endure, 15 even he who cried lies, and turned away; 16 And avoid it shall the most pious, 17 Who gives his wealth in order to be pure. 18 And who hath no favour from anyone to recompense. 19 He desires only to please his Lord, the Supreme. 20 Will surely be gratified. 21