The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the name of Allah, the Entirely Merciful, the Especially Merciful
A questioner asked concerning a torment about to befall 1 those who deny the truth. [Know, then, that] nothing can ward it off, 2 No one can defend him against God, the Lord of the exalted positions. 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 (Muhammad), exercise patience with no complaints. 5 They see it [the Day of Judgement] to be far off, 6 Whereas We see it impending. 7 The Day that the sky will be like the boiling filth of oil, (or molten copper or silver or lead, etc.). 8 And the mountains will be like wool, 9 and no friend will ask about his friend, 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 of his spouse, and of his brother, 12 his kinsmen who gave him refuge (from hardship) 13 And all who are on the earth; so that this might deliver him. 14 But no! There is a raging blaze 15 It snatches away by the scalps, 16 It shall call him who turneth back and backslideth. 17 And collected [wealth] and hoarded. 18 ۞ Verily man is formed impatient. 19 Very nervous when touched by misfortune. 20 And, when good befalleth him, grudging; 21 Except those who pray, 22 Those who remain steadfast to their prayer; 23 And in whose wealth there is a right acknowledged 24 for the impoverished nonrequester and the requester, 25 And those who testify to the Day of Requital. 26 And those who are fearful of their Lord's torment 27 the punishment of their Lord is not something for them to feel secure of, 28 who guard their privates 29 Except with their wives and the (women slaves and captives) whom their right hands possess, for (then) they are not to be blamed, 30 but those who go beyond that limit are transgressors; 31 And those who keep their trusts and covenants; 32 and who stand firm whenever they bear witness; 33 And those who [carefully] maintain their prayer: 34 They will be in gardens, honored. 35