The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the Name of God, the Merciful, the Compassionate
A questioner questioned concerning the doom about to fall 1 Upon the infidels -- which none would be able to repel -- 2 From God, the Lord of the steps (of progression), 3 To Him the angels and the Spirit (Gabriel) ascend in a day, the measure 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 Indeed, they see it [as] distant, 6 while We think that it is near at hand. 7 The Day that the sky will be like molten brass, 8 and the mountains shall be as plucked wool-tufts, 9 no loyal friend shall question loyal friend, 10 Though they will be put in sight of each other,- the sinner's desire will be: Would that he could redeem himself from the Penalty of that Day by (sacrificing) his children, 11 His wife and his brother, 12 And the nearest of his kinsfolk who gave him shelter, 13 And all those who are on the earth, to save himself. 14 But nay! Verily, all [that awaits him] is a raging flame, 15 will strip-off the flesh 16 It shall call him who turneth back and backslideth. 17 And collected [wealth] and hoarded. 18 ۞ Indeed, man is born impatient: 19 [As a rule,] whenever misfortune touches him, he is filled with self-pity; 20 And, when good befalleth him, grudging; 21 But not so the worshippers 22 Those who remain constant in their Salat (prayers); 23 and those in whose wealth there is a known right 24 For the beggar and the destitute. 25 who confirm the Day of Doom 26 who are afraid of the torment of their Lord, 27 (from their Lord's chastisement none feels secure) 28 who guard their privates 29 except from their spouses and those whom they rightfully possess [through wedlock], for which they incur no blame -- 30 So those who desire more than this – it is they who are the transgressors. 31 And those who of their trusts and their covenant are keepers. 32 and perform their witnessings, 33 and who guard their prayers [from all worldly intent]. 34 Those shall be in Gardens, high-honoured. 35