The Stars (Al-Najm)
In the name of Allah, the Entirely Merciful, the Especially Merciful
CONSIDER this unfolding [of God's message,] as it comes down from on high! 1 your companion is not in error nor has he gone astray. 2 Neither does he speak of his own will. 3 It is only an Inspiration that is inspired. 4 He was taught by one Mighty in Power, 5 very strong; he stood poised, 6 While he was in the higher [part of the] horizon. 7 Then he drew near and hung above suspended, 8 Till he was two bows length off or yet nearer. 9 And thus did [God] reveal unto His servant whatever He deemed right to reveal. 10 The heart did not deny, what it saw. (The Holy Prophet was bestowed with seeing Allah – see also preceding verses 8, 9, 10.) 11 Will ye then dispute with him concerning what he seeth? 12 And indeed he (Muhammad SAW) saw him [Jibrael (Gabriel)] at a second descent (i.e. another time). 13 Nigh unto the lote-tree at the boundary. 14 Nigh unto which is the Garden of Abode. 15 (This was) when the lote-tree was covered with that which covered it. 16 His eye did not waver, nor did it stray, 17 He saw some of the greatest signs of his Lord. 18 HAVE YOU, then, ever considered [what you are worshipping in] Al-Lat and Al-Uzza, 19 And Manat, the third, the other? 20 What! For you the son, and for Him the daughter? 21 That is indeed an unfair division! 22 They are naught but names yourselves have named, and your fathers; God has sent down no authority touching them. They follow only surmise, and what the souls desire; and yet guidance has come to them from their Lord. 23 Nay, shall man have (just) anything he hankers after? 24 Rather, to Allah belongs the Hereafter and the first [life]. 25