The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the name of Allah, the Compassionate, the Merciful
A doubter once demanded that punishment be immediately meted out, 1 Upon the infidels -- which none would be able to repel -- 2 from punishing them. He is the Lord of the Ascending Stairways, 3 The angels and the Spirit will ascend to Him during a Day the extent of which is fifty thousand years. 4 Therefore patiently endure, in the best manner (O dear Prophet Mohammed – peace and blessings be upon him). 5 behold, they see it as if far off; 6 but We see it near. 7 On that Day the heavens shall become like molten brass, 8 And the mountains will be like wool, 9 And no familiar friend will ask a question of his friend 10 though they may see each other. A sinner will wish that he could save himself from the torment of that day by sacrificing his children, 11 His wife and his brother, 12 and of all the kinsfolk who ever sheltered him, 13 and of whoever [else] lives on earth, all of them - so that he could but save himself. 14 By no means! For the raging flames of the fire 15 Eager to roast; 16 It invites he who turned his back [on truth] and went away [from obedience] 17 And collect (wealth) and hide it (from spending it in the Cause of Allah). 18 ۞ Indeed, mankind was created anxious: 19 When evil touches him, impatient, 20 and tight-fisted when good fortune visits him, 21 Save worshippers. 22 Those who are constant in their prayer 23 and in whose possessions there is a due share, acknowledged [by them,] 24 For him who begs and for him who is denied (good) 25 and those who believe in the Day of Judgement 26 And those who are fearful of their Lord's doom - 27 Surely no one can be secure from the punishment of his Lord, -- 28 and guard their private parts 29 [not giving way to their desires] with any but their spouses - that is, those whom they rightfully possess [through wedlock]: for then, behold, they are free of all blame, 30 But whoever seeks beyond that, then they are the transgressors - 31 and who preserve their trusts and their covenant, 32 And those who are in their testimonies upright 33 And those who are attentive at their worship. 34 Those shall dwell in Gardens, honoured. 35