The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the name of God, The Most Gracious, The Dispenser of Grace
AN INQUIRER ASKED for the affliction that is to come 1 (a chastisement meant) for the unbelievers, one which none can avert; 2 a chastisement from Allah, the Lord of the ascending steps, 3 Whereby the angels ascend unto Him and also the spirit, On a Day whereof the measure is fifty thousand years. 4 But be patient (O Muhammad) with a patience fair to see. 5 They think that it (the Day of Judgment) is far away. 6 but We see it near. 7 The Day that the sky will be like molten brass, 8 and the mountains become like wool, 9 and no bosom friend will enquire about any of his bosom friends 10 although they shall be within sight of one another. The guilty one would fain ransom himself from the torment of that Day by offering his children, 11 his wife, his brother, 12 his kinsmen who gave him refuge (from hardship) 13 And all those that are in the earth, (wishing) then (that) this might deliver him. 14 By no means! for it would be the Fire of Hell!- 15 that will strip off the scalp. 16 Inviting (all) such as turn their backs and turn away their faces (from the Right). 17 And collect (wealth) and hide it (from use)! 18 ۞ Verily man is formed impatient. 19 Being greatly grieved when evil afflicts him 20 And niggardly when good reaches him;- 21 except those that pray, 22 Those who remain constant in their Salat (prayers); 23 And those in whose wealth there is a fixed portion. 24 to those who ask [for help] and to the destitute; 25 And those who believe the Day of Judgement to be true. 26 And those who are fearful of the punishment of their Lord - 27 (from their Lord's chastisement none feels secure) 28 those who preserve their chastity 29 Save with their wives and those whom their right hands possess, for thus they are not blameworthy; 30 But those who trespass beyond this are transgressors;- 31 And those who keep their pledges and their covenant, 32 Who uphold their testimonies, 33 And those who are attentive at their worship. 34 These it is who in the gardens [of paradise] shall be honoured! 35