The Heights (Al-Ma'aarej)
In the Name of God, the Merciful, the Compassionate
A questioner asked about a Penalty to befall- 1 (a chastisement meant) for the unbelievers, one which none can avert; 2 from God, the Lord of the Stairways. 3 To Him ascend the angels and the Spirit in a day the measure of which is fifty thousand years. 4 So be thou patient with a sweet patience; 5 They think that it (the Day of Judgment) is far away. 6 while We think that it is near at hand. 7 On that Day the heavens shall become like molten brass, 8 The mountains like the tufts of (carded) wool, 9 and no bosom friend will enquire about any of his bosom friends 10 They will be shown each other. The criminal will wish that he could be ransomed from the punishment of that Day by his children 11 his wife, his brother, 12 and of all the kinsfolk who ever sheltered him, 13 And all who are on the earth; so that this might deliver him. 14 By no means! For the raging flames of the fire 15 A remover of exteriors. 16 It invites he who turned his back [on truth] and went away [from obedience] 17 who amassed and hoarded. 18 ۞ Indeed, the human was created grudging and impatient. 19 Very nervous when touched by misfortune. 20 and whenever good fortune comes to him, he selfishly withholds it [from others]. 21 Except those who closely follow (the Book of God), 22 Who are constant at their worship 23 In whose wealth a due share is included 24 For those who beg, and for the needy who cannot even ask. 25 And those who believe in the Day of Recompense, 26 And those who fear the displeasure of their Lord,- 27 Indeed, the punishment of their Lord is not that from which one is safe - 28 And those who guard their chastity, 29 Except from their wives or those their right hands possess, for indeed, they are not to be blamed - 30 but those who go beyond that limit are transgressors; 31 and those who are faithful to their trusts and to their pledges; 32 And those who are in their testimonies upright 33 and who observe their prayers. 34 Those shall be in Gardens, high-honoured. 35