The Town (Al-Balad)
In the name of Allah, most benevolent, ever-merciful
۞ Nay, I swear by this city - 1 in which you are now living 2 And by the begetter and that which he begat, 3 We have indeed created man surrounded by hardships. 4 Does he think that no one can overpower him? 5 He shall say: I have wasted much wealth. 6 Does he think that no one sees him? 7 Have We not given him two eyes, 8 And a tongue and two lips? 9 and guided him on the two paths (of good and evil)? 10 But he has not attempted the ascent. 11 What will explain to you what the ascent is? 12 (It is) the freeing of a slave, 13 Or giving food in a day of hunger (famine), 14 The orphan near in relationship, 15 Or of a homeless needy person! 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 Those who do so are the people of the right hand, 18 As for those who disbelieve in Our revelations, they are the people of the left 19 The Fire will vault them over. 20