The Town (Al-Balad)
In the name of Allah, most benevolent, ever-merciful
۞ Nay! I swear by this city. 1 and you are dwelling in this city -- 2 by the begetter, and that he begot, 3 We created the human in fatigue. 4 Does he think that no one can overpower him? 5 He boasts, "I have spent wealth abundant!" 6 Does he, then, think that no one sees him? 7 Did We not assign unto him two eyes 8 One tongue, and two lips, 9 And showed him two highways (of good and evil)? 10 So he did not quickly enter the steep valley. 11 and what shall teach thee what is the steep? 12 To free a neck (from the burden of debt or slavery), 13 or giving food upon a day of hunger 14 of an orphaned relative 15 or some needy person in distress, 16 so that he becomes one of those who believe, charge each other to be patient, and charge each other to be merciful. 17 Their place will be on the right hand. 18 As for those who rejected Our Signs, they are the People of the Left Hand. 19 The Fire will vault them over. 20