The Town (Al-Balad)
In the name of God, The Most Gracious, The Dispenser of Grace
۞ I do not (need to) swear by this town (Mecca) 1 And thou art an indweller of this city - 2 and I swear by the parent and his offspring: 3 that We have created man into a life of toil and trial. 4 Does He think that no one will ever have control over him? 5 (He boasts and shows off) saying, "I have spent a great deal of money (for the cause of God)". 6 What, does he think none has seen him? 7 Did We not assign unto him two eyes 8 And a tongue, and a pair of lips?- 9 And shown him the two highways? 10 But he hath not attempted the Ascent - 11 How will you comprehend what the Steep ascent is? -- 12 The freeing of a slave! 13 or the feeding in times of famine 14 to an orphaned relative 15 or some needy person in distress, 16 Then will he be of those who believe, and enjoin patience, (constancy, and self-restraint), and enjoin deeds of kindness and compassion. 17 These are the People of the Right Hand. 18 But those who disbelieve in Our verses, they are the Companions of the Left, 19 [with] fire closing in upon them. 20