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 comrade is not astray, neither errs, 2 and neither does he speak out of his own desire: 3 It is only an Inspiration that is inspired. 4 Bestowed on him by the Supreme Intellect, 5 Lord of power and wisdom. So he acquired poise and balance, 6 And reached the highest pinnacle. 7 Then he approached and descended 8 And was at a distance of two bows' length or (even) nearer, 9 And he revealed to His Servant what he revealed. 10 The heart [of the Prophet] did not misconstrue what he saw. 11 What! do you then dispute with him as to what he saw? 12 He certainly saw him (Gabriel) during his other ascent 13 by the lote tree beyond which none may pass 14 Near it is the Garden of Refuge - 15 When the lote-tree was being enveloped, by whatever around it. 16 His sight did not waver nor was it unduly bold. 17 for indeed he saw one of the greatest signs of his Lord. 18 Have you really considered al-Lat and al-"Uzza, 19 And Manat, the third, the last? 20 What! for you the males and for Him the females! 21 That indeed is a division most unfair! 22 These are nothing but names which ye have devised,- ye and your fathers,- for which Allah has sent down no authority (whatever). They follow nothing but conjecture and what their own souls desire!- Even though there has already come to them Guidance from their Lord! 23 Shall man have whatsoever he wisheth for! 24 Rather, to Allah belongs the Hereafter and the first [life]. 25