The Town (Al-Balad)
Allah - beginning with the name of - the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
۞ I swear by this city -- 1 And you shall be made free from obligation in this city-- 2 or by the great father and his wonderful son (Abraham and Ishmael) 3 We have indeed created man surrounded by hardships. 4 Does he think then that no one has power over him? 5 He saith: I have wasted riches plenteous. 6 Does he think that no one sees him? 7 Did We not assign unto him two eyes 8 And a tongue and two lips, 9 And did We not guide him to the two elevated things? 10 But he has made no effort to pass on the path that is steep. 11 Ah, what will convey unto thee what the Ascent is! - 12 To free a neck (from the burden of debt or slavery), 13 or giving food upon a day of hunger 14 an orphaned relative 15 or a needy man in misery; 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 the Companions of the Right Hand. 18 whereas those who are bent on denying the truth of Our messages - they are such as have lost themselves in evil, 19 Upon them is a fire, in which they are imprisoned, closed and shut above them. 20