The Dunes (Al-Ahqaaf)
In the name of God, The Most Gracious, The Dispenser of Grace
۞ Ha. Mim. 1 THE BESTOWAL from on high of this divine writ issues from God, the Almighty, the Wise. 2 We have not created the heavens and the earth and all that is between them otherwise than in accordance with [an inner] truth, and for a term set [by Us]: and yet, they who are bent on denying the truth turn aside from the warning which has been conveyed unto them. 3 Say: "Have you [really] given thought to what it is that you invoke instead of God? Show me what these [beings or forces] have created anywhere on earth! Or had they, perchance, a share in [creating] the heavens? [If so,] bring me any divine writ preceding this one, or any [other] vestige of knowledge - if what you claim is true!" 4 And who is more astray than one who worships those, instead of Allah, who cannot listen to their prayer until* the Day of Resurrection, and who do not even know of their worship! (Will never listen.) 5 And when mankind are gathered together (at the Resurrection), they will be hostile to them and reject their worship (altogether)! 6 And when Our clear revelations are recited unto them, those who disbelieve say of the Truth when it reacheth them: This is mere magic. 7 Or say they: He hath invented it? Say (O Muhammad): If I have invented it, still ye have no power to support me against Allah. He is Best Aware of what ye say among yourselves concerning it. He sufficeth for a witness between me and you. And He is the Forgiving, the Merciful. 8 Say thou: I am not an innovator among the apostles, nor I know whatsoever shall be done with me or with you; I only follow that which is revealed unto me, and am but a warner manifest. 9 Say: "Have you given thought [to how you will fare] if this be truly [a revelation] from God and yet you deny its truth? - even though a witness from among the children of Israel has already borne witness to [the advent of] one like himself, and has believed [in him,] the while you glory in your arrogance [and reject his message]? Verily, God does not grace [such] evildoing folk with His guidance!" 10