The Town (Al-Balad)
In the name of Allah, most benevolent, ever-merciful
۞ I CALL THIS earth to witness -- 1 And you, [O Muhammad], are free of restriction in this city - 2 And by the begetter (i.e. Adam) and that which he begot (i.e. his progeny); 3 Verily We have created man into toil and struggle. 4 Does He think that no one will ever have control over him? 5 He says: "I have wasted a great deal of wealth." 6 Does he think that no one sees him? 7 Have We not appointed to him two eyes, 8 One tongue, and two lips, 9 and guided him on the two paths (of good and evil)? 10 But he has made no effort to pass on the path that is steep. 11 and what shall teach thee what is the steep? 12 The freeing of a slave, 13 Or giving food in a day of hunger (famine), 14 An orphan, of kin, 15 or to a needy person in distress; 16 and to be one of those who believe and urge one another to steadfastness and compassion. 17 Such are they that have attained to righteousness; 18 And those who disbelieve Our signs - they are the fellows of the lefthand. 19 The Fire will vault them over. 20