The Town (Al-Balad)
In the name of Allah, the Entirely Merciful, the Especially Merciful
۞ Nay, I swear by this city - 1 and thou art a lodger in this land; 2 and I swear by the parent and his offspring: 3 that We have created the human being to face a great deal of hardship. 4 Does he think that never will anyone overcome him? 5 saying, 'I have consumed wealth abundant'? 6 Deemest he that none beholdeth him? 7 Have We not made for him a pair of eyes?- 8 One tongue, and two lips, 9 And showed him two highways (of good and evil)? 10 But he hath not attempted the Ascent - 11 What could let you know what the height is! 12 (It is) Freeing a neck (slave, etc.) 13 Or, feeding, in a day of privation, 14 Of a related orphan, 15 Or a poor man cleaving to the dust. 16 Then he became one of those who believed, and recommended one another to perseverance and patience, and (also) recommended one another to pity and compassion. 17 Such are they that have attained to righteousness; 18 But those who disbelieve Our revelations, their place will be on the left hand. 19 Over them will be fire closed in. 20