The Stars (Al-Najm)
In the Name of God, the Merciful, the Compassionate
By the star when it goes down, (or vanishes). 1 Your companion [Muhammad] has not strayed, nor has he erred, 2 nor does he speak out of his desire. 3 It is but a revelation revealed. 4 taught by One who is Stern in power. 5 by the great mighty one (Gabriel), 6 the strong one who appeared on the uppermost horizon. 7 Then the Spectacle became closer, and came down in full view. 8 Till he was two bows length off or yet nearer. 9 And He revealed to His servant what He revealed. 10 The heart [of the Prophet] did not misconstrue what he saw. 11 What! So do you dispute with him regarding what he saw? 12 Indeed he saw him a second time, 13 by the lote tree beyond which none may pass 14 Close to which is the Garden of Tranquility, 15 When that covered the lote-tree which covered it. 16 His sight did not waver nor was it unduly bold. 17 He certainly saw of the greatest signs of his Lord. 18 Have you then considered Al-Lat, and Al-'Uzza (two idols of the pagan Arabs). 19 and, another, the third manat? 20 "What! For you the males and for Him the females?" 21 Behold, such would be indeed a division most unfair! 22 They are but names which ye have named, ye and your fathers, for which Allah hath sent down no authority. They follow but their fancy, and that which pleaseth their souls; whereas assuredly there hath come unto them from their Lord the guidance. 23 Nay, shall man have (just) anything he hankers after? 24 And to God belongs the First and the Last. 25