The Town (Al-Balad)
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful
۞ I swear by this city -- 1 and thou art a lodger in this land; 2 And [by] the father and that which was born [of him], 3 indeed, We created man in trouble. 4 Does he think that never will anyone overcome him? 5 (He boasts and shows off) saying, "I have spent a great deal of money (for the cause of God)". 6 Thinketh he that none beholdeth him? 7 Did We not grant him two eyes, 8 And a tongue and two lips, 9 And did We not show him the two highroads (of good and evil)? 10 But he would not attempt the uphill road, 11 And what have you understood, what the valley is! 12 It is the freeing of a slave 13 or giving food upon a day of hunger 14 The orphan near in relationship, 15 and downtrodden destitute person, (so that he would be of) 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 On them will be Fire vaulted over (all round). 20