İngilizce Meal — Noor International Center — Al-Isra 17:1 – Ash-Shu'ara 26:227

(1) Exalted[722] is He who took His Servant [i.e., Prophet Muḥammad (ﷺ)] by night from al-Masjid al-Ḥarām to al-Masjid al-Aqṣā,[723] whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him of Our signs. Indeed, He is the Hearing,[724] the Seeing.[725] ——— [722]- Above any imperfection or failure to do as He wills. [723]- In Jerusalem. [724]- Who hears every sound, distinguishes every voice, understands every word, and accepts and responds to supplications. [725]- Who sees and understands all things apparent and unapparent, visible and invisible.

(2) And We gave Moses the Scripture and made it a guidance for the Children of Israel that you not take other than Me as Disposer of affairs,[726] ——— [726]- i.e., trust in Allāh, knowing that He (subḥānahu wa taʿālā) is responsible for every occurrence.

(3) O descendants of those We carried [in the ship] with Noah. Indeed, he was a grateful servant.

(4) And We conveyed[727] to the Children of Israel in the Scripture that, "You will surely cause corruption on the earth twice, and you will surely reach [a degree of] great haughtiness." ——— [727]- Foretold out of divine knowledge of what they would do.

(5) So when the [time of] promise came for the first of them,[728] We sent against you servants of Ours - those of great military might, and they probed [even] into the homes,[729] and it was a promise fulfilled. ——— [728]- i.e., the promised punishment for the first of their two transgressions. [729]- Violating their sanctity, to kill and plunder.

(6) Then We gave back to you a return victory over them. And We reinforced you with wealth and sons and made you more numerous in manpower.

(7) [And said], "If you do good, you do good for yourselves; and if you do evil, [you do it] to them [i.e., yourselves]." Then when the final [i.e., second] promise came, [We sent your enemies] to sadden your faces and to enter the masjid [i.e., the temple in Jerusalem], as they entered it the first time, and to destroy what they had taken over with [total] destruction.

(8) [Then Allāh said], "It is expected, [if you repent], that your Lord will have mercy upon you. But if you return [to sin], We will return [to punishment]. And We have made Hell, for the disbelievers, a prison-bed."

(9) Indeed, this Qur’ān guides to that which is most suitable and gives good tidings to the believers who do righteous deeds that they will have a great reward

(10) And that those who do not believe in the Hereafter - We have prepared for them a painful punishment.

(11) And man supplicates for evil [when angry] as he supplicates for good, and man is ever hasty.[730] ——— [730]- i.e., impatient, emotional, and acting without forethought.

(12) And We have made the night and day two signs, and We erased the sign of the night and made the sign of the day visible[731] that you may seek bounty from your Lord and may know the number of years and the account [of time]. And everything We have set out in detail. ——— [731]- Or "giving sight."

(13) And [for] every person We have imposed his fate upon his neck,[732] and We will produce for him on the Day of Resurrection a record which he will encounter spread open. ——— [732]- i.e., after having instructed him, We have made him responsible for his own destiny.

(14) [It will be said], "Read your record. Sufficient is yourself against you this Day as accountant."

(15) Whoever is guided is only guided for [the benefit of] his soul. And whoever errs only errs against it. And no bearer of burdens will bear the burden of another. And never would We punish until We sent a messenger.

(16) And when We intend to destroy a city, We command its affluent[733] but they defiantly disobey therein; so the word [i.e., deserved decree] comes into effect upon it, and We destroy it with [complete] destruction. ——— [733]- To obey Allāh.

(17) And how many have We destroyed from the generations after Noah. And sufficient is your Lord, concerning the sins of His servants, as Aware and Seeing.

(18) Whoever should desire the immediate[734] - We hasten for him from it what We will to whom We intend. Then We have made for him Hell, which he will [enter to] burn, censured and banished. ——— [734]- i.e., worldly gratifications.

(19) But whoever desires the Hereafter and exerts the effort due to it while he is a believer - it is those whose effort is ever appreciated [by Allāh].

(20) To each [category] We extend - to these and to those - from the gift of your Lord. And never has the gift of your Lord been restricted.

(21) Look how We have favored [in provision] some of them over others. But the Hereafter is greater in degrees [of difference] and greater in distinction.

(22) Do not make [as equal] with Allāh another deity and [thereby] become censured and forsaken.

(23) And your Lord has decreed that you worship not except Him, and to parents, good treatment. Whether one or both of them reach old age [while] with you, say not to them [so much as], "uff,"[735] and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word. ——— [735]- An expression of disapproval or irritation.

(24) And lower to them the wing of humility out of mercy and say, "My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up [when I was] small."

(25) Your Lord is most knowing of what is within yourselves. If you should be righteous [in intention] - then indeed He is ever, to the often returning [to Him], Forgiving.[736] ——— [736]- For those who intend righteousness, hastening to repent from sins and errors committed through human weakness, Allāh (subḥānahu wa taʿālā) promises forgiveness.

(26) And give the relative his right, and [also] the poor and the traveler, and do not spend wastefully.[737] ——— [737]- i.e., on that which is unlawful or in disobedience to Allāh.

(27) Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils, and ever has Satan been to his Lord ungrateful.

(28) And if you [must] turn away from them [i.e., the needy] awaiting mercy from your Lord which you expect,[738] then speak to them a gentle word. ——— [738]- i.e., if you have not the means to give them at present.

(29) And do not make your hand [as] chained to your neck[739] or extend it completely[740] and [thereby] become blamed and insolvent. ——— [739]- i.e., refusing to spend. [740]- i.e., being extravagant.

(30) Indeed, your Lord extends provision for whom He wills and restricts [it]. Indeed He is ever, concerning His servants, Aware and Seeing.

(31) And do not kill your children for fear of poverty. We provide for them and for you. Indeed, their killing is ever a great sin.

(32) And do not approach unlawful sexual intercourse.[741] Indeed, it is ever an immorality and is evil as a way. ——— [741]- i.e., avoid all situations that might possibly lead to it.

(33) And do not kill the soul [i.e., person] which Allāh has forbidden, except by right.[742] And whoever is killed unjustly - We have given his heir authority,[743] but let him not exceed limits in [the matter of] taking life. Indeed, he has been supported [by the law]. ——— [742]- i.e., through legal justice or during jihād. [743]- Grounds for legal action.

(34) And do not approach the property of an orphan, except in the way that is best,[744] until he reaches maturity. And fulfill [every] commitment. Indeed, the commitment is ever [that about which one will be] questioned. ——— [744]- i.e., to improve or increase it.

(35) And give full measure when you measure, and weigh with an even [i.e., honest] balance. That is the best [way] and best in result.

(36) And do not pursue[745] that of which you have no knowledge. Indeed, the hearing, the sight and the heart - about all those [one] will be questioned. ——— [745]- i.e., do not assume and do not say.

(37) And do not walk upon the earth exultantly. Indeed, you will never tear the earth [apart], and you will never reach the mountains in height.[746] ——— [746]- Man, for all his arrogance, is yet a weak and small creature.

(38) All that [i.e., the aforementioned] - its evil is ever, in the sight of your Lord, detested.

(39) That is from what your Lord has revealed to you, [O Muḥammad], of wisdom. And, [O mankind], do not make [as equal] with Allāh another deity, lest you be thrown into Hell, blamed and banished.

(40) Then, has your Lord chosen you for [having] sons and taken [i.e., adopted] from among the angels daughters? Indeed, you say a grave saying.

(41) And We have certainly diversified [the contents] in this Qur’ān that they [i.e., mankind] may be reminded, but it does not increase them [i.e., the disbelievers] except in aversion.

(42) Say, [O Muḥammad], "If there had been with Him [other] gods, as they say, then they [each] would have sought to the Owner of the Throne a way."[747] ——— [747]- To please Him, recognizing His superiority. Another interpretation is "...they would seek a way" to depose Him (subḥānahu wa taʿālā) and take over His Throne.

(43) Exalted is He and high above what they say by great sublimity.

(44) The seven heavens and the earth and whatever is in them exalt Him. And there is not a thing except that it exalts [Allāh] by His praise, but you do not understand their [way of] exalting. Indeed, He is ever Forbearing[748] and Forgiving. ——— [748]- Refer to footnote in 2:225.

(45) And when you recite the Qur’ān, We put between you and those who do not believe in the Hereafter a concealed partition.[749] ——— [749]- Preventing guidance from reaching them.

(46) And We have placed over their hearts coverings, lest they understand it, and in their ears deafness. And when you mention your Lord alone in the Qur’ān, they turn back in aversion.

(47) We are most knowing of how they listen to it when they listen to you and [of] when they are in private conversation, when the wrongdoers say, "You follow not but a man affected by magic."

(48) Look how they strike for you comparisons;[750] but they have strayed, so they cannot [find] a way. ——— [750]- Describing the Prophet (ﷺ) as a poet, a madman or one under the influence of sorcery.

(49) And they say, "When we are bones and crumbled particles, will we [truly] be resurrected as a new creation?"

(50) Say, "Be you stones or iron[751] ——— [751]- i.e., even if you should be stones or iron.

(51) Or [any] creation of that which is great[752] within your breasts." And they will say, "Who will restore us?" Say, "He who brought you forth the first time." Then they will nod their heads toward you[753] and say, "When is that?" Say, "Perhaps it will be soon - ——— [752]- Such as the heavens and earth. [753]- In disbelief and ridicule.

(52) On the Day He will call you and you will respond with praise of Him and think that you had not remained [in the world] except for a little."

(53) And tell My servants to say that which is best. Indeed, Satan induces [dissension] among them. Indeed Satan is ever, to mankind, a clear enemy.

(54) Your Lord is most knowing of you. If He wills, He will have mercy upon you; or if He wills, He will punish you. And We have not sent you, [O Muḥammad], over them as a manager.

(55) And your Lord is most knowing of whoever is in the heavens and the earth. And We have made some of the prophets exceed others [in various ways], and to David We gave the book [of Psalms].

(56) Say, "Invoke those you have claimed [as gods] besides Him, for they do not possess the [ability for] removal of adversity from you or [for its] transfer [to someone else]."

(57) Those whom they invoke[754] seek means of access to their Lord, [striving as to] which of them would be nearest, and they hope for His mercy and fear His punishment. Indeed, the punishment of your Lord is ever feared. ——— [754]- Among the righteous of Allāh's creation, such as angels, prophets, deceased scholars, etc.

(58) And there is no city but that We will destroy it[755] before the Day of Resurrection or punish it with a severe punishment. That has ever been in the Register[756] inscribed. ——— [755]- Because of the sins of its inhabitants. [756]- The Preserved Slate (al-Lawḥ al-Maḥfūẓ), which is with Allāh.

(59) And nothing has prevented Us from sending signs [i.e., miracles] except that the former peoples denied them. And We gave Thamūd the she-camel as a visible sign, but they wronged her. And We send not the signs except as a warning.

(60) And [remember, O Muḥammad], when We told you, "Indeed, your Lord has encompassed the people."[757] And We did not make the sight which We showed you[758] except as a trial for the people, as was the accursed tree [mentioned] in the Qur’ān. And We threaten [i.e., warn] them, but it increases them not except in great transgression. ——— [757]- In His knowledge and power, meaning that Allāh would protect him (ﷺ) from their harm. [758]- During the miʿrāj (ascension) into the heavens.

(61) And [mention] when We said to the angels, "Prostrate to Adam," and they prostrated, except for Iblees.[759] He said, "Should I prostrate to one You created from clay?" ——— [759]- See footnote to 2:34.

(62) [Iblees] said, "Do You see this one whom You have honored above me? If You delay me [i.e., my death] until the Day of Resurrection, I will surely destroy[760] his descendants, except for a few." ——— [760]- By tempting them and leading them astray.

(63) [Allāh] said, "Go, for whoever of them follows you, indeed Hell will be the recompense of [all of] you - an ample recompense.

(64) And incite [to senselessness] whoever you can among them with your voice and assault them with your horses and foot soldiers and become a partner in their wealth and their children and promise them." But Satan does not promise them except delusion.

(65) Indeed, over My [believing] servants there is for you no authority. And sufficient is your Lord as Disposer of affairs.[761] ——— [761]- Refer to footnote in 3: 173.

(66) It is your Lord who drives the ship for you through the sea that you may seek of His bounty. Indeed, He is ever, to you, Merciful.

(67) And when adversity touches you at sea, lost are [all] those you invoke except for Him. But when He delivers you to the land, you turn away [from Him]. And ever is man ungrateful.

(68) Then do you feel secure that [instead] He will not cause a part of the land to swallow you or send against you a storm of stones? Then you would not find for yourselves an advocate.

(69) Or do you feel secure that He will not send you back into it [i.e., the sea] another time and send upon you a hurricane of wind and drown you for what you denied?[762] Then you would not find for yourselves against Us an avenger.[763] ——— [762]- Or "for your disbelief." [763]- Or "someone to demand restitution."

(70) And We have certainly honored the children of Adam and carried them on the land and sea and provided for them of the good things and preferred them over much of what We have created, with [definite] preference.

(71) [Mention, O Muḥammad], the Day We will call forth every people with their record [of deeds].[764] Then whoever is given his record in his right hand - those will read their records, and injustice will not be done to them, [even] as much as a thread [inside the date seed]. ——— [764]- Other meanings are "with their leader" or "with that which they had followed."

(72) And whoever is blind[765] in this [life] will be blind in the Hereafter and more astray in way. ——— [765]- i.e., refusing to see the truth.

(73) And indeed, they were about to tempt you away from that which We revealed to you in order to [make] you invent about Us something else; and then they would have taken you as a friend.

(74) And if We had not strengthened you, you would have almost inclined to them a little.

(75) Then [if you had], We would have made you taste double [punishment in] life and double [after] death. Then you would not find for yourself against Us a helper.

(76) And indeed, they were about to provoke [i.e., drive] you from the land [i.e., Makkah] to evict you therefrom. And then [when they do], they will not remain [there] after you, except for a little.[766] ——— [766]- Only ten years after the Prophet's emigration, Makkah was completely cleared of his enemies.

(77) [That is Our] established way for those We had sent before you of Our messengers; and you will not find in Our way any alteration.

(78) Establish prayer at the decline of the sun [from its meridian] until the darkness of the night[767] and [also] the Qur’ān [i.e., recitation] of dawn.[768] Indeed, the recitation of dawn is ever witnessed. ——— [767]- i.e., the period which includes the ẓuhr, aṣr, maghrib, and ʿishā’ prayers. [768]- i.e., the fajr prayer, in which the recitation of the Qur’ān is prolonged.

(79) And from [part of] the night, pray[769] with it [i.e., recitation of the Qur’ān] as additional [worship] for you; it is expected that[770] your Lord will resurrect you to a praised station.[771] ——— [769]- Literally, "arise from sleep for prayer." [770]- This is a promise from Allāh (subḥānahu wa taʿālā) to Prophet Muḥammad (ﷺ). [771]- The position of intercession by permission of Allāh and the highest degree in Paradise.

(80) And say, "My Lord, cause me to enter a sound entrance[772] and to exit a sound exit[773] and grant me from Yourself a supporting authority." ——— [772]- Into Madīnah at the time of emigration, or into the grave. [773]- From Makkah, or from the grave at the time of resurrection.

(81) And say, "Truth has come, and falsehood has departed. Indeed is falsehood, [by nature], ever bound to depart."

(82) And We send down of the Qur’ān that which is healing and mercy for the believers, but it does not increase the wrongdoers except in loss.

(83) And when We bestow favor upon man [i.e., the disbeliever], he turns away and distances himself; and when evil touches him, he is ever despairing.

(84) Say, "Each works according to his manner, but your Lord is most knowing of who is best guided in way."

(85) And they ask you, [O Muḥammad], about the soul. Say, "The soul is of the affair [i.e., concern] of my Lord. And you [i.e., mankind] have not been given of knowledge except a little."

(86) And if We willed, We could surely do away with that which We revealed to you. Then you would not find for yourself concerning it an advocate against Us.

(87) Except [We have left it with you] as a mercy from your Lord. Indeed, His favor upon you has ever been great.

(88) Say, "If mankind and the jinn gathered in order to produce the like of this Qur’ān, they could not produce the like of it, even if they were to each other assistants."

(89) And We have certainly diversified for the people in this Qur’ān from every [kind of] example, but most of the people refused except disbelief.

(90) And they say, "We will not believe you until you break open for us from the ground a spring

(91) Or [until] you have a garden of palm trees and grapes and make rivers gush forth within them in force [and abundance]

(92) Or you make the heaven fall upon us in fragments as you have claimed or you bring Allāh and the angels before [us]

(93) Or you have a house of ornament [i.e., gold] or you ascend into the sky. And [even then], we will not believe in your ascension until you bring down to us a book we may read." Say, "Exalted is my Lord! Was I ever but a human messenger?"

(94) And what prevented the people from believing when guidance came to them except that they said, "Has Allāh sent a human messenger?"

(95) Say, "If there were upon the earth angels walking securely,[774] We would have sent down to them from the heaven an angel [as a] messenger." ——— [774]- i.e., who were settled and established there, as is man.

(96) Say, "Sufficient is Allāh as Witness between me and you. Indeed He is ever, concerning His servants, Aware and Seeing."

(97) And whoever Allāh guides - he is the [rightly] guided; and whoever He sends astray[775] - you will never find for them protectors besides Him, and We will gather them on the Day of Resurrection [fallen] on their faces - blind, dumb and deaf. Their refuge is Hell; every time it subsides, We increase [for] them blazing fire. ——— [775]- As a result of his own preference.

(98) That is their recompense because they disbelieved in Our verses and said, "When we are bones and crumbled particles, will we [truly] be resurrected [in] a new creation?"

(99) Do they not see that Allāh, who created the heavens and earth, is [the one] Able to create the likes of them? And He has appointed for them a term, about which there is no doubt. But the wrongdoers refuse except disbelief.

(100) Say [to them], "If you possessed the depositories of the mercy of my Lord, then you would withhold out of fear of spending." And ever has man been stingy.

(101) And We had certainly given Moses nine evident signs, so ask the Children of Israel [about] when he came to them and Pharaoh said to him, "Indeed I think, O Moses, that you are affected by magic."

(102) [Moses] said, "You have already known that none has sent down these [signs] except the Lord of the heavens and the earth as evidence, and indeed I think,[776] O Pharaoh, that you are destroyed." ——— [776]- i.e., I am certain.

(103) So he intended to drive them from the land, but We drowned him and those with him all together.

(104) And We said after him [i.e., Pharaoh] to the Children of Israel, "Dwell in the land, and when there comes the promise [i.e., appointment] of the Hereafter, We will bring you forth in [one] gathering."

(105) And with the truth We have sent it [i.e., the Qur’ān] down, and with the truth it has descended. And We have not sent you, [O Muḥammad], except as a bringer of good tidings and a warner.

(106) And [it is] a Qur’ān which We have separated [by intervals] that you might recite it to the people over a prolonged period. And We have sent it down progressively.

(107) Say, "Believe in it or do not believe." Indeed, those who were given knowledge before it[777] - when it is recited to them, they fall upon their faces in prostration, ——— [777]- i.e., the righteous among the People of the Scriptures who recognize the truth contained in the Qur’ān.

(108) And they say, "Exalted is our Lord! Indeed, the promise of our Lord has been fulfilled."

(109) And they fall upon their faces weeping, and it [i.e., the Qur’ān] increases them in humble submission.

(110) Say, "Call upon Allāh or call upon the Most Merciful [ar-Raḥmān]. Whichever [name] you call - to Him belong the best names." And do not recite [too] loudly in your prayer or [too] quietly but seek between that an [intermediate] way.

(111) And say, "Praise to Allāh, who has not taken a son and has had no partner in [His] dominion and has no [need of a] protector out of weakness; and glorify Him with [great] glorification."

(1) [All] praise is [due] to Allāh, who has sent down upon His Servant [Muḥammad (ﷺ)] the Book and has not made therein any deviance.[779] ——— [779]- From the truth or the straight path.

(2) [He has made it] straight, to warn of severe punishment from Him and to give good tidings to the believers who do righteous deeds that they will have a good reward [i.e., Paradise]

(3) In which they will remain forever

(4) And to warn those who say, "Allāh has taken a son."

(5) They have no knowledge of it,[780] nor had their fathers. Grave is the word that comes out of their mouths; they speak not except a lie. ——— [780]- i.e., they could not have had knowledge of something which is not true.

(6) Then perhaps you would kill yourself through grief over them, [O Muḥammad], if they do not believe in this message, [and] out of sorrow.

(7) Indeed, We have made that which is on the earth adornment for it that We may test them [as to] which of them is best in deed.

(8) And indeed, We will make that which is upon it [into] a barren ground.

(9) Or have you thought that the companions of the cave and the inscription were, among Our signs, a wonder?[781] ——— [781]- Rather, it is only one of the many wonders of Allāh.

(10) [Mention] when the youths retreated to the cave and said, "Our Lord, grant us from Yourself mercy and prepare for us from our affair right guidance."

(11) So We cast [a cover of sleep] over their ears within the cave for a number of years.

(12) Then We awakened them that We might show which of the two factions was most precise in calculating what [extent] they had remained in time.

(13) It is We who relate to you, [O Muḥammad], their story in truth. Indeed, they were youths who believed in their Lord, and We increased them in guidance.

(14) And We bound [i.e., made firm] their hearts when they stood up and said, "Our Lord is the Lord of the heavens and the earth. Never will we invoke besides Him any deity. We would have certainly spoken, then, an excessive transgression.

(15) These, our people, have taken besides Him deities. Why do they not bring for [worship of] them a clear evidence? And who is more unjust than one who invents about Allāh a lie?"

(16) [The youths said to one another], "And when you have withdrawn from them and that which they worship other than Allāh, retreat to the cave. Your Lord will spread out for you of His mercy and will prepare for you from your affair facility."

(17) And [had you been present], you would see the sun when it rose, inclining away from their cave on the right, and when it set, passing away from them on the left, while they were [lying] within an open space thereof. That was from the signs of Allāh. He whom Allāh guides is the [rightly] guided, but he whom He sends astray - never will you find for him a protecting guide.

(18) And you would think them awake, while they were asleep. And We turned them to the right and to the left, while their dog stretched his forelegs at the entrance. If you had looked at them, you would have turned from them in flight and been filled by them with terror.

(19) And similarly,[782] We awakened them that they might question one another. Said a speaker from among them, "How long have you remained [here]?" They said, "We have remained a day or part of a day." They said, "Your Lord is most knowing of how long you remained. So send one of you with this silver coin of yours to the city and let him look to which is the best of food and bring you provision from it and let him be cautious. And let no one be aware of you. ——— [782]- By the will of Allāh.

(20) Indeed, if they come to know of you, they will stone you or return you to their religion. And never would you succeed, then - ever."

(21) And similarly, We caused them to be found that they [who found them] would know that the promise of Allāh is truth and that of the Hour there is no doubt. [That was] when they[783] disputed among themselves about their affair and [then] said, "Construct over them a structure. Their Lord is most knowing about them." Said those who prevailed in the matter, "We will surely take [for ourselves] over them a masjid."[784] ——— [783]- The people of the city. [784]- i.e., we will make this site a place of worship.

(22) They [i.e., people] will say there were three, the fourth of them being their dog; and they will say there were five, the sixth of them being their dog - guessing at the unseen; and they will say there were seven, and the eighth of them was their dog. Say, [O Muḥammad], "My Lord is most knowing of their number. None knows them except a few. So do not argue about them except with an obvious argument[785] and do not inquire about them among [the speculators] from anyone." ——— [785]- i.e., one from the Qur’ān, which is the only sure argument.

(23) And never say of anything, "Indeed, I will do that tomorrow,"

(24) Except [when adding], "If Allāh wills." And remember your Lord when you forget [it] and say, "Perhaps my Lord will guide me to what is nearer than this to right conduct."

(25) And they remained in their cave for three hundred years and exceeded by nine.[786] ——— [786]- i.e., 309 lunar years.

(26) Say, "Allāh is most knowing of how long they remained. He has [knowledge of] the unseen [aspects] of the heavens and the earth. How Seeing is He and how Hearing! They have not besides Him any protector, and He shares not His legislation with anyone."

(27) And recite, [O Muḥammad], what has been revealed to you of the Book of your Lord. There is no changer of His words, and never will you find in other than Him a refuge.

(28) And keep yourself patient [by being] with those who call upon their Lord in the morning and the evening, seeking His face [i.e., acceptance]. And let not your eyes pass beyond them, desiring adornments of the worldly life, and do not obey one whose heart We have made heedless of Our remembrance and who follows his desire and whose affair is ever [in] neglect.[787] ——— [787]- Or "in excess," exceeding the limits of Allāh.

(29) And say, "The truth is from your Lord, so whoever wills - let him believe; and whoever wills - let him disbelieve." Indeed, We have prepared for the wrongdoers a fire whose walls will surround them. And if they call for relief, they will be relieved with water like murky oil, which scalds [their] faces. Wretched is the drink, and evil is the resting place.

(30) Indeed, those who have believed and done righteous deeds - indeed, We will not allow to be lost the reward of any who did well in deeds.

(31) Those will have gardens of perpetual residence; beneath them rivers will flow. They will be adorned therein with bracelets of gold and will wear green garments of fine silk and brocade, reclining therein on adorned couches. Excellent is the reward, and good is the resting place.

(32) And present to them an example of two men: We granted to one of them two gardens of grapevines, and We bordered them with palm trees and placed between them [fields of] crops.

(33) Each of the two gardens produced its fruit and did not fall short thereof in anything. And We caused to gush forth within them a river.

(34) And he had fruit, so he said to his companion while he was conversing with him, "I am greater than you in wealth and mightier in [numbers of] men."

(35) And he entered his garden while he was unjust to himself.[788] He said, "I do not think that this will perish - ever. ——— [788]- i.e., proud and ungrateful to Allāh.

(36) And I do not think the Hour will occur. And even if I should be brought back to my Lord, I will surely find better than this as a return."

(37) His companion said to him while he was conversing with him, "Have you disbelieved in He who created you from dust and then from a sperm-drop and then proportioned you [as] a man?

(38) But as for me, He is Allāh, my Lord, and I do not associate with my Lord anyone.

(39) And why did you, when you entered your garden, not say, 'What Allāh willed [has occurred]; there is no power except in Allāh'? Although you see me less than you in wealth and children,

(40) It may be that my Lord will give me [something] better than your garden and will send upon it a [disastrous] penalty from the sky, and it will become a smooth, dusty ground,

(41) Or its water will become sunken [into the earth], so you would never be able to seek it."

(42) And his fruits were encompassed [by ruin], so he began to turn his hands about [in dismay] over what he had spent on it, while it had collapsed upon its trellises, and said, "Oh, I wish I had not associated with my Lord anyone."[789] ——— [789]- He attributed his prosperity to himself rather than to Allāh and disbelieved in the account of the Hereafter.

(43) And there was for him no company to aid him other than Allāh, nor could he defend himself.

(44) There[790] the authority is [completely] for Allāh, the Truth. He is best in reward and best in outcome. ——— [790]- i.e., at such a time or on the Day of Judgement.

(45) And present to them the example of the life of this world, [its being] like rain which We send down from the sky, and the vegetation of the earth mingles with it[791] and [then] it becomes dry remnants, scattered by the winds. And Allāh is ever, over all things, Perfect in Ability. ——— [791]- Absorbs it, growing lush and thick.

(46) Wealth and children are [but] adornment of the worldly life. But the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord[792] for reward and better for [one's] hope. ——— [792]- i.e., in His sight or evaluation.

(47) And [warn of] the Day when We will remove the mountains and you will see the earth exposed,[793] and We will gather them and not leave behind from them anyone. ——— [793]- i.e., flattened and bare.

(48) And they will be presented before your Lord in rows, [and He will say], "You have certainly come to Us just as We created you the first time. But you claimed that We would never make for you an appointment."

(49) And the record [of deeds] will be placed [open], and you will see the criminals fearful of that within it, and they will say, "Oh, woe to us! What is this book that leaves nothing small or great except that it has enumerated it?" And they will find what they did present [before them]. And your Lord does injustice to no one.

(50) And [mention] when We said to the angels, "Prostrate to Adam," and they prostrated, except for Iblees. He was of the jinn and departed from [i.e., disobeyed] the command of his Lord. Then will you take him and his descendants as allies other than Me while they are enemies to you? Wretched it is for the wrongdoers as an exchange.

(51) I did not make them witness to the creation of the heavens and the earth or to the creation of themselves, and I would not have taken the misguiders as assistants.

(52) And [warn of] the Day when He will say, "Call My 'partners' whom you claimed," and they will invoke them, but they will not respond to them. And We will put between them [a valley of] destruction.

(53) And the criminals will see the Fire and will be certain that they are to fall therein. And they will not find from it a way elsewhere.

(54) And We have certainly diversified in this Qur’ān for the people from every [kind of] example; but man has ever been, most of anything, [prone to] dispute.

(55) And nothing has prevented the people from believing when guidance came to them and from asking forgiveness of their Lord except that there [must] befall them the [accustomed] precedent of the former peoples[794] or that the punishment should come [directly] before them. ——— [794]- Who denied the truth brought by Allāh's messengers.

(56) And We send not the messengers except as bringers of good tidings and warners. And those who disbelieve dispute by [using] falsehood to [attempt to] invalidate thereby the truth and have taken My verses, and that of which they are warned, in ridicule.

(57) And who is more unjust than one who is reminded of the verses of his Lord but turns away from them and forgets what his hands have put forth? Indeed, We have placed over their hearts coverings, lest they understand it, and in their ears deafness. And if you invite them to guidance - they will never be guided, then - ever.

(58) And your Lord is the Forgiving, the possessor of mercy. If He were to impose blame upon them for what they earned, He would have hastened for them the punishment. Rather, for them is an appointment from which they will never find an escape.

(59) And those cities - We destroyed them when they wronged, and We made for their destruction an appointed time.

(60) And [mention] when Moses said to his boy [i.e., servant], "I will not cease [traveling] until I reach the junction of the two seas or continue for a long period."

(61) But when they reached the junction between them, they forgot their fish, and it took its course into the sea, slipping away.

(62) So when they had passed beyond it, [Moses] said to his boy, "Bring us our morning meal. We have certainly suffered in this, our journey, [much] fatigue."

(63) He said, "Did you see when we retired to the rock? Indeed, I forgot [there] the fish. And none made me forget it except Satan - that I should mention it. And it took its course into the sea amazingly."

(64) [Moses] said, "That is what we were seeking." So they returned, following their footprints.

(65) And they found a servant from among Our servants [i.e., al-Khiḍr] to whom We had given mercy from Us and had taught him from Us a [certain] knowledge.

(66) Moses said to him, "May I follow you on [the condition] that you teach me from what you have been taught of sound judgement?"

(67) He said, "Indeed, with me you will never be able to have patience.

(68) And how can you have patience for what you do not encompass in knowledge?"

(69) [Moses] said, "You will find me, if Allāh wills, patient, and I will not disobey you in [any] order."

(70) He said, "Then if you follow me, do not ask me about anything until I make to you about it mention [i.e., explanation]."

(71) So they set out, until when they had embarked on the ship, he [i.e., al-Khiḍr] tore it open. [Moses] said, "Have you torn it open to drown its people? You have certainly done a grave thing."

(72) [Al-Khiḍr] said, "Did I not say that with me you would never be able to have patience?"

(73) [Moses] said, "Do not blame me for what I forgot and do not overwhelm me in my matter with difficulty."

(74) So they set out, until when they met a boy, he [i.e., al-Khiḍr] killed him. [Moses] said, "Have you killed a pure soul for other than [having killed] a soul? You have certainly done a deplorable thing."

(75) [Al-Khiḍr] said, "Did I not tell you that with me you would never be able to have patience?"

(76) [Moses] said, "If I should ask you about anything after this, then do not keep me as a companion. You have obtained from me an excuse."

(77) So they set out, until when they came to the people of a town, they asked its people for food, but they refused to offer them hospitality. And they found therein a wall about to collapse, so he [i.e., al-Khiḍr] restored it. [Moses] said, "If you wished, you could have taken for it a payment."

(78) [Al-Khiḍr] said, "This is parting between me and you. I will inform you of the interpretation of that about which you could not have patience.

(79) As for the ship, it belonged to poor people working at sea. So I intended to cause defect in it as there was after them a king who seized every [good] ship by force.

(80) And as for the boy, his parents were believers, and we feared that he would overburden them by transgression and disbelief.

(81) So we intended that their Lord should substitute for them one better than him in purity and nearer to mercy.

(82) And as for the wall, it belonged to two orphan boys in the city, and there was beneath it a treasure for them, and their father had been righteous. So your Lord intended that they reach maturity and extract their treasure, as a mercy from your Lord. And I did it not of my own accord. That is the interpretation of that about which you could not have patience."

(83) And they ask you, [O Muḥammad], about Dhul-Qarnayn. Say, "I will recite to you about him a report."

(84) Indeed, We established him upon the earth, and We gave him from everything a way [i.e., means].

(85) So he followed a way

(86) Until, when he reached the setting of the sun [i.e., the west], he found it [as if] setting in a body of dark water,[795] and he found near it a people. We [i.e., Allāh] said, "O Dhul-Qarnayn, either you punish [them] or else adopt among them [a way of] goodness." ——— [795]- Another meaning is "a body of hot water."

(87) He said, "As for one who wrongs,[796] we will punish him. Then he will be returned to his Lord, and He will punish him with a terrible punishment [i.e., Hellfire]. ——— [796]- Persists in disbelief and rebellion.

(88) But as for one who believes and does righteousness, he will have a reward of the best [i.e., Paradise], and we [i.e., Dhul-Qarnayn] will speak to him from our command with ease."

(89) Then he followed a way

(90) Until, when he came to the rising of the sun [i.e., the east], he found it rising on a people for whom We had not made against it any shield.

(91) Thus.[797] And We had encompassed [all] that he had in knowledge. ——— [797]- Such was the affair of Dhul-Qarnayn.

(92) Then he followed a way

(93) Until, when he reached [a pass] between two mountains, he found beside them a people who could hardly understand [his] speech.

(94) They said, "O Dhul-Qarnayn, indeed Gog and Magog[798] are [great] corrupters in the land. So may we assign for you an expenditure that you might make between us and them a barrier?" ——— [798]- Savage tribes who had ravaged large parts of central Asia, committing every kind of atrocity.

(95) He said, "That in which my Lord has established me is better [than what you offer], but assist me with strength [i.e., manpower]; I will make between you and them a dam.

(96) Bring me bars of iron" - until, when he had leveled [them] between the two mountain walls, he said, "Blow [with bellows]," until when he had made it [like] fire, he said, "Bring me, that I may pour over it molten copper."

(97) So they [i.e., Gog and Magog] were unable to pass over it, nor were they able [to effect] in it any penetration.

(98) [Dhul-Qarnayn] said, "This is a mercy from my Lord; but when the promise of my Lord[799] comes [i.e., approaches], He will make it level, and ever is the promise of my Lord true." ——— [799]- i.e., the Hour of Resurrection.

(99) And We will leave them that day[800] surging over each other, and [then] the Horn will be blown, and We will assemble them in [one] assembly. ——— [800]- The day the dam is destroyed.

(100) And We will present Hell that Day to the disbelievers, on display -

(101) Those whose eyes had been within a cover [removed] from My remembrance,[801] and they were not able to hear.[802] ——— [801]- i.e., Allāh's signs or the Qur’ān. [802]- They refused to listen to the Qur’ān or to understand it.

(102) Then do those who disbelieve think that they can take My servants instead of Me as allies? Indeed, We have prepared Hell for the disbelievers as a lodging.

(103) Say, [O Muḥammad], "Shall we [believers] inform you of the greatest losers as to [their] deeds?

(104) [They are] those whose effort is lost in worldly life, while they think that they are doing well in work."

(105) Those are the ones who disbelieve in the verses of their Lord and in [their] meeting Him, so their deeds have become worthless; and We will not assign to them on the Day of Resurrection any weight [i.e., importance].

(106) That is their recompense - Hell - for what they denied and [because] they took My signs and My messengers in ridicule.

(107) Indeed, those who have believed and done righteous deeds - they will have the Gardens of Paradise[803] as a lodging, ——— [803]- i.e., the highest part of Paradise, al-Firdaus.

(108) Wherein they abide eternally. They will not desire from it any transfer.

(109) Say, "If the sea were ink for [writing] the words[804] of my Lord, the sea would be exhausted before the words of my Lord were exhausted, even if We brought the like of it in [continual] supplement." ——— [804]- The words of Allāh's unlimited knowledge or words describing His attributes and His grandeur or praise of Him (subḥānahu wa taʿālā).

(110) Say, "I am only a man like you, to whom has been revealed that your god is one God. So whoever would hope for the meeting with his Lord - let him do righteous work and not associate in the worship of his Lord anyone."

(1) Kāf, Hā, Yā, ʿAyn, Ṣād.[806] ——— [806]- See footnote to 2:1.

(2) [This is] a mention of the mercy of your Lord to His servant Zechariah

(3) When he called to his Lord a private call [i.e., supplication].

(4) He said, "My Lord, indeed my bones have weakened, and my head has filled[807] with white, and never have I been in my supplication to You, my Lord, unhappy [i.e., disappointed]. ——— [807]- Literally, "ignited." The spread of white hair throughout the head is likened to that of fire in the bush.

(5) And indeed, I fear the successors[808] after me, and my wife has been barren, so give me from Yourself an heir ——— [808]- Those relatives from the father's side who would inherit religious authority.

(6) Who will inherit me[809] and inherit from the family of Jacob. And make him, my Lord, pleasing [to You]." ——— [809]- Inherit from me religious knowledge and prophethood.

(7) [He was told],[810] "O Zechariah, indeed We give you good tidings of a boy whose name will be John. We have not assigned to any before [this] name." ——— [810]- By Allāh (subḥānahu wa taʿālā) through the angels.

(8) He said, "My Lord, how will I have a boy when my wife has been barren and I have reached extreme old age?"

(9) [An angel] said, "Thus [it will be]; your Lord says, 'It is easy for Me, for I created you before, while you were nothing.'"

(10) [Zechariah] said, "My Lord, make for me a sign." He said, "Your sign is that you will not speak to the people for three nights, [being] sound."[811] ——— [811]- i.e., without illness or defect.

(11) So he came out to his people from the prayer chamber and signaled to them to exalt [Allāh] in the morning and afternoon.

(12) [Allāh said], "O John, take the Scripture [i.e., adhere to it] with determination." And We gave him judgement [while yet] a boy

(13) And affection from Us and purity, and he was fearing of Allāh

(14) And dutiful to his parents, and he was not a disobedient tyrant.

(15) And peace be upon him the day he was born and the day he dies and the day he is raised alive.

(16) And mention, [O Muḥammad], in the Book [the story of] Mary, when she withdrew from her family to a place toward the east.

(17) And she took, in seclusion from them, a screen. Then We sent to her Our Angel [i.e., Gabriel], and he represented himself to her as a well-proportioned man.

(18) She said, "Indeed, I seek refuge in the Most Merciful from you, [so leave me], if you should be fearing of Allāh."

(19) He said, "I am only the messenger of your Lord to give you [news of] a pure boy [i.e., son]."

(20) She said, "How can I have a boy while no man has touched me and I have not been unchaste?"

(21) He said, "Thus [it will be]; your Lord says, 'It is easy for Me, and We will make him a sign to the people and a mercy from Us. And it is a matter [already] decreed.'"

(22) So she conceived him, and she withdrew with him to a remote place.

(23) And the pains of childbirth drove her to the trunk of a palm tree. She said, "Oh, I wish I had died before this and was in oblivion, forgotten."

(24) But he[812] called her from below her, "Do not grieve; your Lord has provided beneath you a stream. ——— [812]- There is a difference of opinion among scholars as to whether "he" refers to the baby or to the angel.

(25) And shake toward you the trunk of the palm tree; it will drop upon you ripe, fresh dates.

(26) So eat and drink and be contented. And if you see from among humanity anyone, say, 'Indeed, I have vowed to the Most Merciful abstention, so I will not speak today to [any] man.'"

(27) Then she brought him to her people, carrying him. They said, "O Mary, you have certainly done a thing unprecedented.

(28) O sister [i.e., descendant] of Aaron, your father was not a man of evil, nor was your mother unchaste."

(29) So she pointed to him. They said, "How can we speak to one who is in the cradle a child?"

(30) [Jesus] said, "Indeed, I am the servant of Allāh. He has given me the Scripture and made me a prophet.

(31) And He has made me blessed wherever I am and has enjoined upon me prayer and zakāh as long as I remain alive

(32) And [made me] dutiful to my mother, and He has not made me a wretched tyrant.

(33) And peace is on me the day I was born and the day I will die and the day I am raised alive."

(34) That is Jesus, the son of Mary - the word of truth about which they are in dispute.

(35) It is not [befitting] for Allāh to take a son; exalted is He![813] When He decrees an affair, He only says to it, "Be," and it is. ——— [813]- i.e., far removed is He from any such need.

(36) [Jesus said], "And indeed, Allāh is my Lord and your Lord, so worship Him. That is a straight path."

(37) Then the factions differed [concerning Jesus] from among them, so woe to those who disbelieved - from the scene of a tremendous Day.

(38) How [clearly] they will hear and see the Day they come to Us, but the wrongdoers today are in clear error.

(39) And warn them, [O Muḥammad], of the Day of Regret, when the matter will be concluded;[814] and [yet], they are in [a state of] heedlessness, and they do not believe. ——— [814]- i.e., "judged" or "accomplished."

(40) Indeed, it is We who will inherit the earth and whoever is on it, and to Us they will be returned.

(41) And mention in the Book [the story of] Abraham. Indeed, he was a man of truth and a prophet.

(42) [Mention] when he said to his father, "O my father, why do you worship that which does not hear and does not see and will not benefit you at all?

(43) O my father, indeed there has come to me of knowledge that which has not come to you, so follow me; I will guide you to an even path.

(44) O my father, do not worship [i.e., obey] Satan. Indeed Satan has ever been, to the Most Merciful, disobedient.

(45) O my father, indeed I fear that there will touch you a punishment from the Most Merciful so you would be to Satan a companion [in Hellfire]."

(46) [His father] said, "Have you no desire for my gods, O Abraham? If you do not desist, I will surely stone you, so avoid me a prolonged time."

(47) [Abraham] said, "Peace [i.e., safety] will be upon you.[815] I will ask forgiveness for you of my Lord. Indeed, He is ever gracious to me. ——— [815]- Meaning "You are secure" or "I will not harm you."

(48) And I will leave you and those you invoke other than Allāh and will invoke[816] my Lord. I expect that I will not be in invocation to my Lord unhappy [i.e., disappointed]." ——— [816]- i.e., worship.

(49) So when he had left them and those they worshipped other than Allāh, We gave him Isaac and Jacob, and each [of them] We made a prophet.

(50) And We gave them of Our mercy, and We made for them a mention [i.e., reputation] of high honor.

(51) And mention in the Book, Moses. Indeed, he was chosen, and he was a messenger and a prophet.[817] ——— [817]- A messenger (rasūl) is one who was charged by Allāh to reform society. A prophet (nabī) is one who received revelation from Allāh, the latter being more numerous than the former.

(52) And We called him from the side of the mount[818] at [his] right and brought him near, confiding [to him]. ——— [818]- Mount Sinai.

(53) And We gave him out of Our mercy his brother Aaron as a prophet.

(54) And mention in the Book, Ishmael. Indeed, he was true to his promise, and he was a messenger and a prophet.

(55) And he used to enjoin on his people prayer and zakāh and was to his Lord pleasing [i.e., accepted by Him].

(56) And mention in the Book, Idrees. Indeed, he was a man of truth and a prophet.

(57) And We raised him to a high station.

(58) Those were the ones upon whom Allāh bestowed favor from among the prophets of the descendants of Adam and of those We carried [in the ship] with Noah, and of the descendants of Abraham and Israel [i.e., Jacob], and of those whom We guided and chose. When the verses of the Most Merciful were recited to them, they fell in prostration and weeping.

(59) But there came after them successors [i.e., later generations] who neglected prayer and pursued desires; so they are going to meet evil[819] - ——— [819]- Described as a valley in Hell or may be rendered "the consequence of error."

(60) Except those who repent, believe and do righteousness; for those will enter Paradise and will not be wronged at all.

(61) [Therein are] gardens of perpetual residence which the Most Merciful has promised His servants in the unseen. Indeed, His promise has ever been eminent.[820] ——— [820]- Literally, "that to which all will come."

(62) They will not hear therein any ill speech - only [greetings of] peace - and they will have their provision therein, morning and afternoon.

(63) That is Paradise, which We give as inheritance to those of Our servants who were fearing of Allāh.

(64) [Gabriel said],[821] "And we [angels] descend not except by the order of your Lord. To Him belongs that before us and that behind us and what is in between. And never is your Lord forgetful - ——— [821]- In answer to the Prophet's wish that Gabriel would visit him more often.

(65) Lord of the heavens and the earth and whatever is between them - so worship Him and have patience for His worship. Do you know of any similarity to Him?"

(66) And man [i.e., the disbeliever] says, "When I have died, am I going to be brought forth alive?"

(67) Does man not remember that We created him before, while he was nothing?

(68) So by your Lord, We will surely gather them and the devils; then We will bring them to be present around Hell upon their knees.[822] ——— [822]- i.e., fallen on their knees from terror or dragged there unwillingly on their knees.

(69) Then We will surely extract from every sect those of them who were worst against the Most Merciful in insolence.

(70) Then, surely it is We who are most knowing of those most worthy of burning therein.

(71) And there is none of you except he will come to it.[823] This is upon your Lord an inevitability decreed. ——— [823]- i.e., be exposed to it. However, the people of Paradise will not be harmed thereby.

(72) Then We will save those who feared Allāh and leave the wrongdoers within it, on their knees.

(73) And when Our verses are recited to them as clear evidences, those who disbelieve say to those who believe, "Which of [our] two parties is best in position and best in association?"[824] ——— [824]- In regard to worldly interests.

(74) And how many a generation have We destroyed before them who were better in possessions and [outward] appearance?

(75) Say, "Whoever is in error - let the Most Merciful extend for him an extension [in wealth and time] until, when they see that which they were promised - either punishment [in this world] or the Hour [of resurrection] - they will come to know who is worst in position and weaker in soldiers."

(76) And Allāh increases those who were guided, in guidance, and the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord[825] for reward and better for recourse. ——— [825]- i.e., in the sight or evaluation of Allāh.

(77) Then, have you seen he who disbelieved in Our verses and said, "I will surely be given wealth and children [in the next life]"?

(78) Has he looked into the unseen, or has he taken from the Most Merciful a promise?

(79) No! We will record what he says and extend [i.e., increase] for him from the punishment extensively.

(80) And We will inherit him [in] what he mentions,[826] and he will come to Us alone. ——— [826]- Instead of giving him wealth and children in the Hereafter, Allāh will take from him those he had in worldly life at the time of his death.

(81) And they have taken besides Allāh [false] deities that they would be for them [a source of] honor.

(82) No! They [i.e., those "gods"] will deny their worship of them and will be against them opponents [on the Day of Judgement].

(83) Do you not see that We have sent the devils upon the disbelievers, inciting them [to evil] with [constant] incitement?

(84) So be not impatient over them. We only count out [i.e., allow] to them a [limited] number.[827] ——— [827]- Of breaths, of days, or of evil deeds.

(85) On the Day We will gather the righteous to the Most Merciful as a delegation

(86) And will drive the criminals to Hell in thirst

(87) None will have [power of] intercession except he who had taken from the Most Merciful a covenant.[828] ——— [828]- Not to worship other than Him.

(88) And they say, "The Most Merciful has taken [for Himself] a son."

(89) You have done an atrocious thing.

(90) The heavens almost rupture therefrom and the earth splits open and the mountains collapse in devastation

(91) That they attribute to the Most Merciful a son.

(92) And it is not appropriate for the Most Merciful that He should take a son.

(93) There is no one in the heavens and earth but that he comes to the Most Merciful as a servant.

(94) He has enumerated them and counted them a [full] counting.

(95) And all of them are coming to Him on the Day of Resurrection alone.

(96) Indeed, those who have believed and done righteous deeds - the Most Merciful will appoint for them affection.[829] ——— [829]- From Himself and from among each other.

(97) So, [O Muḥammad], We have only made it [i.e., the Qur’ān] easy in your tongue [i.e., the Arabic language] that you may give good tidings thereby to the righteous and warn thereby a hostile people.

(98) And how many have We destroyed before them of generations? Do you perceive of them anyone or hear from them a sound?

(1) Ṭā, Hā.[831] ——— [831]- See footnote to 2:1.

(2) We have not sent down to you the Qur’ān that you be distressed

(3) But only as a reminder for those who fear [Allāh] -

(4) A revelation from He who created the earth and highest heavens,

(5) The Most Merciful [who is] above the Throne established.[832] ——— [832]- i.e., having ascendancy over all creation. See footnotes to 2:19 and 7:54.

(6) To Him belongs what is in the heavens and what is on the earth and what is between them and what is under the soil.

(7) And if you speak aloud - then indeed, He knows the secret and what is [even] more hidden.

(8) Allāh - there is no deity except Him. To Him belong the best names.

(9) And has the story of Moses reached you? -

(10) When he saw a fire and said to his family, "Stay here; indeed, I have perceived a fire; perhaps I can bring you a torch or find at the fire some guidance."

(11) And when he came to it, he was called, "O Moses,

(12) Indeed, I am your Lord, so remove your sandals. Indeed, you are in the blessed valley of Ṭuwā.

(13) And I have chosen you, so listen to what is revealed [to you].

(14) Indeed, I am Allāh. There is no deity except Me, so worship Me and establish prayer for My remembrance.

(15) Indeed, the Hour is coming - I almost conceal it[833] - so that every soul may be recompensed according to that for which it strives. ——— [833]- Meaning that Allāh (subḥānahu wa taʿālā) keeps knowledge of the Hour hidden from everyone except Himself.

(16) So do not let one avert you from it[834] who does not believe in it and follows his desire, for you [then] would perish. ——— [834]- From preparation for the Hour or for the Hereafter.

(17) And what is that in your right hand, O Moses?"

(18) He said, "It is my staff; I lean upon it, and I bring down leaves for my sheep and I have therein other uses."

(19) [Allāh] said, "Throw it down, O Moses."

(20) So he threw it down, and thereupon it was a snake, moving swiftly.

(21) [Allāh] said, "Seize it and fear not; We will return it to its former condition.

(22) And draw in your hand to your side; it will come out white without disease - another sign,

(23) That We may show you [some] of Our greater signs.

(24) Go to Pharaoh. Indeed, he has transgressed [i.e., tyrannized]."

(25) [Moses] said, "My Lord, expand [i.e., relax] for me my breast [with assurance]

(26) And ease for me my task

(27) And untie the knot from my tongue

(28) That they may understand my speech.

(29) And appoint for me a minister [i.e., assistant] from my family -

(30) Aaron, my brother.

(31) Increase through him my strength

(32) And let him share my task

(33) That we may exalt You much

(34) And remember You much.

(35) Indeed, You are of us ever Seeing."

(36) [Allāh] said, "You have been granted your request, O Moses.

(37) And We had already conferred favor upon you another time,

(38) When We inspired to your mother what We inspired,

(39) [Saying], 'Cast him into the chest and cast it into the river, and the river will throw it onto the bank; there will take him an enemy to Me and an enemy to him.' And I bestowed upon you love from Me[835] that you would be brought up under My eye [i.e., observation and care]. ——— [835]- Allāh put love of Moses into the hearts of the people.

(40) [And We favored you] when your sister went and said, 'Shall I direct you to someone who will be responsible for him?' So We restored you to your mother that she might be content and not grieve. And you killed someone,[836] but We saved you from retaliation and tried you with a [severe] trial. And you remained [some] years among the people of Madyan. Then you came [here] at the decreed time, O Moses. ——— [836]- The Copt who died after being struck by Moses.

(41) And I produced you for Myself.[837] ——— [837]- Allāh had already selected Moses and made him strong in body and character according to the requirements of his mission.

(42) Go, you and your brother, with My signs and do not slacken in My remembrance.

(43) Go, both of you, to Pharaoh. Indeed, he has transgressed.

(44) And speak to him with gentle speech that perhaps he may be reminded or fear [Allāh]."

(45) They said, "Our Lord, indeed we are afraid that he will hasten [punishment] against us or that he will transgress."

(46) [Allāh] said, "Fear not. Indeed, I am with you both; I hear and I see.

(47) So go to him and say, 'Indeed, we are messengers of your Lord, so send with us the Children of Israel and do not torment them. We have come to you with a sign from your Lord. And peace[838] will be upon he who follows the guidance. ——— [838]- i.e., safety and security from Allāh's punishment.

(48) Indeed, it has been revealed to us that the punishment will be upon whoever denies and turns away.'"

(49) [Pharaoh] said, "So who is the Lord of you two, O Moses?"

(50) He said, "Our Lord is He who gave each thing its form and then guided [it]."

(51) [Pharaoh] said, "Then what is the case of the former generations?"

(52) [Moses] said, "The knowledge thereof is with my Lord in a record. My Lord neither errs nor forgets."

(53) [It is He] who has made for you the earth as a bed [spread out] and inserted therein for you roadways and sent down from the sky, rain and produced thereby categories of various plants.

(54) Eat [therefrom] and pasture your livestock. Indeed in that are signs for those of intelligence.

(55) From it [i.e., the earth] We created you, and into it We will return you, and from it We will extract you another time.

(56) And We certainly showed him [i.e., Pharaoh] Our signs - all of them - but he denied and refused.

(57) He said, "Have you come to us to drive us out of our land with your magic, O Moses?

(58) Then we will surely bring you magic like it, so make between us and you an appointment, which we will not fail to keep and neither will you, in a place assigned."[839] ——— [839]- Literally, "marked," as to be known. Another meaning is "a place midway [between us]" or "a level place."

(59) [Moses] said, "Your appointment is on the day of the festival when the people assemble at mid-morning."[840] ——— [840]- So that the signs of Allāh would be seen clearly.

(60) So Pharaoh went away, put together his plan, and then came [to Moses].

(61) Moses said to them [i.e., the magicians summoned by Pharaoh], "Woe to you! Do not invent a lie against Allāh or He will exterminate you with a punishment; and he has failed who invents [such falsehood]."

(62) So they disputed over their affair among themselves and concealed their private conversation.

(63) They said, "Indeed, these are two magicians who want to drive you out of your land with their magic and do away with your most exemplary way [i.e., religion or tradition].

(64) So resolve upon your plan and then come [forward] in line. And he has succeeded today who overcomes."

(65) They said, "O Moses, either you throw or we will be the first to throw."

(66) He said, "Rather, you throw." And suddenly their ropes and staffs seemed to him from their magic that they were moving [like snakes].

(67) And he sensed within himself apprehension, did Moses.

(68) We [i.e., Allāh] said, "Fear not. Indeed, it is you who are superior.

(69) And throw what is in your right hand; it will swallow up what they have crafted. What they have crafted is but the trick of a magician, and the magician will not succeed wherever he is."

(70) So the magicians fell down in prostration.[841] They said, "We have believed in the Lord of Aaron and Moses." ——— [841]- After they had seen the miracles which Allāh had given Moses and that they were realities and not merely impressions of magic.

(71) [Pharaoh] said, "You believed him [i.e., Moses] before I gave you permission. Indeed, he is your leader who has taught you magic. So I will surely cut off your hands and your feet on opposite sides, and I will crucify you on the trunks of palm trees, and you will surely know which of us is more severe in [giving] punishment and more enduring."

(72) They said, "Never will we prefer you over what has come to us of clear proofs and [over] He who created us.[842] So decree whatever you are to decree. You can only decree for this worldly life. ——— [842]- This phrase has also been interpreted as an oath, i.e., "...by Him who created us."

(73) Indeed, we have believed in our Lord that He may forgive us our sins and what you compelled us [to do] of magic. And Allāh is better and more enduring."[843] ——— [843]- In reward and in punishment.

(74) Indeed, whoever comes to his Lord as a criminal - indeed, for him is Hell; he will neither die therein nor live.

(75) But whoever comes to Him as a believer having done righteous deeds - for those will be the highest degrees [in position]:

(76) Gardens of perpetual residence beneath which rivers flow, wherein they abide eternally. And that is the reward of one who purifies himself.[844] ——— [844]- From all uncleanliness, the greatest of which is worship and obedience to other than Allāh.

(77) And We had inspired to Moses, "Travel by night with My servants and strike for them a dry path through the sea; you will not fear being overtaken [by Pharaoh] nor be afraid [of drowning]."

(78) So Pharaoh pursued them with his soldiers, and there covered them from the sea that which covered them,[845] ——— [845]- i.e., not only the water but that which only Allāh knows - terror, pain, regret, etc.

(79) And Pharaoh led his people astray and did not guide [them].

(80) O Children of Israel, We delivered you from your enemy, and We made an appointment with you[846] at the right side of the mount, and We sent down to you manna and quails, ——— [846]- i.e., with your prophet, to receive the scripture for you.

(81) [Saying], "Eat from the good things with which We have provided you and do not transgress [or oppress others] therein, lest My anger should descend upon you. And he upon whom My anger descends has certainly fallen [i.e., perished]."

(82) But indeed, I am the Perpetual Forgiver of whoever repents and believes and does righteousness and then continues in guidance.

(83) [Allāh said], "And what made you hasten from your people, O Moses?"

(84) He said, "They are close upon my tracks, and I hastened to You, my Lord, that You be pleased."

(85) [Allāh] said, "But indeed, We have tried your people after you [departed], and the Sāmirī[847] has led them astray." ——— [847]- Translated as "the Samaritan" (from Samaria), a hypocrite among them who led the Children of Israel into idol-worship.

(86) So Moses returned to his people, angry and grieved.[848] He said, "O my people, did your Lord not make you a good promise?[849] Then, was the time [of its fulfillment] too long for you, or did you wish that wrath from your Lord descend upon you, so you broke your promise [of obedience] to me?" ——— [848]- The meaning may also be "angry and enraged." [849]- That He would send down the Torah, containing guidance for you.

(87) They said, "We did not break our promise to you by our will, but we were made to carry burdens from the ornaments of the people [of Pharaoh], so we threw them [into the fire], and thus did the Sāmirī throw."

(88) And he extracted for them [the statue of] a calf which had a lowing sound, and they said, "This is your god and the god of Moses, but he forgot."

(89) Did they not see that it could not return to them any speech [i.e., response] and that it did not possess for them any harm or benefit?

(90) And Aaron had already told them before [the return of Moses], "O my people, you are only being tested by it, and indeed, your Lord is the Most Merciful, so follow me and obey my order."

(91) They said, "We will never cease being devoted to it [i.e., the calf] until Moses returns to us."

(92) [Moses] said, "O Aaron, what prevented you, when you saw them going astray,

(93) From following me? Then have you disobeyed my order?"

(94) [Aaron] said, "O son of my mother, do not seize [me] by my beard or by my head. Indeed, I feared that you would say, 'You caused division among the Children of Israel, and you did not observe [or await] my word.'"

(95) [Moses] said, "And what is your case, O Sāmirī?"

(96) He said, "I saw what they did not see, so I took a handful [of dust] from the track of the messenger[850] and threw it,[851] and thus did my soul entice me." ——— [850]- i.e., a hoof-print in the sand left by the angel Gabriel's horse. [851]- Into the fire upon the melted ornaments in order to form the calf.

(97) [Moses] said, "Then go. And indeed, it is [decreed] for you in [this] life to say, 'No contact.'[852] And indeed, you have an appointment [in the Hereafter] you will not fail to keep. And look at your 'god' to which you remained devoted. We will surely burn it and blow it [i.e., its ashes] into the sea with a blast. ——— [852]- i.e., Do not touch me. As chastisement, he was to be completely shunned by all people.

(98) Your god is only Allāh, except for whom there is no deity. He has encompassed all things in knowledge."

(99) Thus, [O Muḥammad], We relate to you from the news of what has preceded. And We have certainly given you from Us a message [i.e., the Qur’ān].

(100) Whoever turns away from it - then indeed, he will bear on the Day of Resurrection a burden [i.e., great sin],

(101) [Abiding] eternally therein,[853] and evil it is for them on the Day of Resurrection as a load - ——— [853]- i.e., in the state of sin.

(102) The Day the Horn will be blown. And We will gather the criminals, that Day, blue-eyed.[854] ——— [854]- From terror, or blinded completely.

(103) They will murmur among themselves, "You remained not but ten [days in the world]."

(104) We are most knowing of what they say when the best of them in manner [i.e., wisdom or speech] will say, "You remained not but one day."

(105) And they ask you about the mountains, so say, "My Lord will blow them away with a blast.[855] ——— [855]- Once they have been reduced to dust.

(106) And He will leave it [i.e., the earth] a level plain;

(107) You will not see therein a depression or an elevation."

(108) That Day, they [i.e., everyone] will follow [the call of] the Caller[856] [with] no deviation therefrom, and [all] voices will be stilled before the Most Merciful, so you will not hear except a whisper [of footsteps]. ——— [856]- To the gathering for judgement.

(109) That Day, no intercession will benefit except [that of] one to whom the Most Merciful has given permission and has accepted his word.

(110) He [i.e., Allāh] knows what is [presently] before them and what will be after them,[857] but they do not encompass it [i.e., what He knows] in knowledge. ——— [857]- Allāh’s knowledge encompasses every aspect of His creations in the past, present and future.

(111) And [all] faces will be humbled before the Ever-Living, the Self-Sustaining.[858] And he will have failed who carries injustice.[859] ——— [858]- See footnotes describing these attributes in 2:255. [859]- i.e., sin or wrongdoing towards Allāh or any of His creation.

(112) But he who does of righteous deeds while he is a believer - he will neither fear injustice nor deprivation.

(113) And thus We have sent it down as an Arabic Qur’ān[860] and have diversified therein the warnings that perhaps they will avoid [sin] or it would cause them remembrance. ——— [860]- i.e., revealed in the Arabic language.

(114) So high [above all] is Allāh, the Sovereign,[861] the Truth.[862] And, [O Muḥammad], do not hasten with [recitation of] the Qur’ān before its revelation is completed to you, and say, "My Lord, increase me in knowledge." ——— [861]- And owner of everything in existence. [862]- Or "the True Reality," i.e., the real and permanent existence upon which all other existence depends.

(115) And We had already taken a promise from Adam before, but he forgot; and We found not in him determination.[863] ——— [863]- To resist temptation.

(116) And [mention] when We said to the angels, "Prostrate to Adam," and they prostrated, except Iblees;[864] he refused. ——— [864]- See footnote to 2:34.

(117) So We said, "O Adam, indeed this is an enemy to you and to your wife. Then let him not remove you from Paradise so you would suffer.

(118) Indeed, it is [promised] for you not to be hungry therein or be unclothed.

(119) And indeed, you will not be thirsty therein or be hot from the sun."

(120) Then Satan whispered to him; he said, "O Adam, shall I direct you to the tree of eternity and possession that will not deteriorate?"

(121) And they [i.e., Adam and his wife] ate of it, and their private parts became apparent to them, and they began to fasten over themselves from the leaves of Paradise. And Adam disobeyed his Lord and erred.

(122) Then his Lord chose him and turned to him in forgiveness and guided [him].

(123) [Allāh] said, "Descend from it [i.e., Paradise] - all, [your descendants] being enemies to one another. And if there should come to you guidance from Me - then whoever follows My guidance will neither go astray [in the world] nor suffer [in the Hereafter].

(124) And whoever turns away from My remembrance - indeed, he will have a depressed [i.e., difficult] life, and We will gather [i.e., raise] him on the Day of Resurrection blind."

(125) He will say, "My Lord, why have you raised me blind while I was [once] seeing?"

(126) [Allāh] will say, "Thus did Our signs come to you, and you forgot [i.e., disregarded] them; and thus will you this Day be forgotten."

(127) And thus do We recompense he who transgressed and did not believe in the signs of his Lord. And the punishment of the Hereafter is more severe and more enduring.[865] ——— [865]- Than that of this world.

(128) Then, has it not become clear to them how many generations We destroyed before them as they walk among their dwellings? Indeed in that are signs for those of intelligence.

(129) And if not for a word[866] that preceded from your Lord, it [i.e., punishment] would have been an obligation [due immediately],[867] and [if not for] a specified term [decreed]. ——— [866]- See footnote to 10:19. [867]- Allāh would have punished the disbelievers in this world as He did with previous peoples.

(130) So be patient over what they say and exalt [Allāh] with praise of your Lord before the rising of the sun and before its setting; and during periods of the night [exalt Him] and at the ends of the day, that you may be satisfied.

(131) And do not extend your eyes toward that by which We have given enjoyment to [some] categories of them, [its being but] the splendor of worldly life by which We test them. And the provision of your Lord is better and more enduring.

(132) And enjoin prayer upon your family [and people] and be steadfast therein. We ask you not for provision; We provide for you, and the [best] outcome is for [those of] righteousness.

(133) And they say, "Why does he not bring us a sign from his Lord?" Has there not come to them evidence of what was in the former scriptures?[868] ——— [868]- Is not the Qur’ān an adequate proof of Muḥammad's prophethood and sufficient as a lasting miracle?

(134) And if We had destroyed them with a punishment before him,[869] they would have said, "Our Lord, why did You not send to us a messenger so we could have followed Your verses [i.e., teachings] before we were humiliated and disgraced?" ——— [869]- Prophet Muḥammad (ﷺ). Also interpreted as "before it," i.e., the Qur’ān.

(135) Say, "Each [of us] is waiting;[870] so wait. For you will know who are the companions of the sound path and who is guided." ——— [870]- For the outcome of this matter.

(1) [The time of] their account has approached for the people, while they are in heedlessness turning away.

(2) No mention [i.e., revelation] comes to them anew from their Lord except that they listen to it while they are at play

(3) With their hearts distracted. And those who do wrong conceal their private conversation, [saying], "Is this [Prophet] except a human being like you? So would you approach magic while you are aware [of it]?"

(4) He [the Prophet (ﷺ)] said, "My Lord knows whatever is said throughout the heaven and earth, and He is the Hearing, the Knowing."

(5) But they say, "[The revelation is but] a mixture of false dreams; rather, he has invented it; rather, he is a poet. So let him bring us a sign just as the previous [messengers] were sent [with miracles]."

(6) Not a [single] city which We destroyed believed before them,[872] so will they believe? ——— [872]- Even though they had witnessed signs and miracles.

(7) And We sent not before you, [O Muḥammad], except men to whom We revealed [the message], so ask the people of the message [i.e., former scriptures] if you do not know.

(8) And We did not make them [i.e., the prophets] forms not eating food,[873] nor were they immortal [on earth]. ——— [873]- Like the angels. Rather, they were human beings with human attributes.

(9) Then[874] We fulfilled for them the promise, and We saved them and whom We willed and destroyed the transgressors. ——— [874]- Once they had conveyed the message.

(10) We have certainly sent down to you a Book [i.e., the Qur’ān] in which is your mention.[875] Then will you not reason? ——— [875]- This implies the honor of having been mentioned or addressed. Another meaning is "your reminder."

(11) And how many a city which was unjust[876] have We shattered and produced after it another people. ——— [876]- i.e., its inhabitants persisting in wrongdoing.

(12) And when they [i.e., its inhabitants] perceived Our punishment, at once they fled from it.

(13) [Some angels said], "Do not flee but return to where you were given luxury and to your homes - perhaps you will be questioned."[877] ——— [877]- About what happened to you. This is said to them in sarcasm and ridicule.

(14) They said, "O woe to us! Indeed, we were wrongdoers."

(15) And that declaration of theirs did not cease until We made them [as] a harvest [mowed down], extinguished [like a fire].

(16) And We did not create the heaven and earth and that between them in play.

(17) Had We intended to take a diversion,[878] We could have taken it from [what is] with Us - if [indeed] We were to do so. ——— [878]- Such as a wife or a child.

(18) Rather, We dash the truth upon falsehood, and it destroys it,[879] and thereupon it departs. And for you is destruction from that which you describe.[880] ——— [879]- Literally, "strikes its brain," disabling or killing it. [880]- Of untruth concerning Allāh, particularly here, the claim that He has a son or other "partner" in divinity.

(19) To Him belongs whoever is in the heavens and the earth. And those near Him [i.e., the angels] are not prevented by arrogance from His worship, nor do they tire.

(20) They exalt [Him] night and day [and] do not slacken.

(21) Or have they [i.e., men] taken for themselves gods from the earth who resurrect [the dead]?

(22) Had there been within them [i.e., the heavens and earth] gods besides Allāh, they both would have been ruined. So exalted is Allāh, Lord of the Throne, above what they describe.

(23) He is not questioned about what He does, but they will be questioned.

(24) Or have they taken gods besides Him? Say, [O Muḥammad], "Produce your proof. This [Qur’ān] is the message for those with me and the message of those before me."[881] But most of them do not know the truth, so they are turning away. ——— [881]- All previous prophets called for the worship of Allāh alone.

(25) And We sent not before you any messenger except We revealed to him that, "There is no deity except Me, so worship Me."

(26) And they say, "The Most Merciful has taken a son." Exalted is He! Rather, they[882] are [but] honored servants. ——— [882]- Those they claim to be "children" of Allāh, such as the angels, Ezra, Jesus, etc.

(27) They cannot precede Him in word, and they act by His command.

(28) He knows what is [presently] before them and what will be after them,[883] and they cannot intercede except on behalf of one whom He approves. And they, from fear of Him, are apprehensive. ——— [883]- See footnote to 20:110.

(29) And whoever of them should say, "Indeed, I am a god besides Him" - that one We would recompense with Hell. Thus do We recompense the wrongdoers.

(30) Have those who disbelieved not considered that the heavens and the earth were a joined entity, and then We separated them and made from water every living thing? Then will they not believe?

(31) And We placed within the earth firmly set mountains, lest it should shift with them, and We made therein [mountain] passes [as] roads that they might be guided.

(32) And We made the sky a protected ceiling, but they, from its signs,[884] are turning away. ——— [884]- The signs present in the heavens.

(33) And it is He who created the night and the day and the sun and the moon; all [heavenly bodies] in an orbit are swimming.

(34) And We did not grant to any man before you eternity [on earth]; so if you die - would they be eternal?

(35) Every soul will taste death. And We test you with evil and with good as trial; and to Us you will be returned.

(36) And when those who disbelieve see you, [O Muḥammad], they take you not except in ridicule, [saying], "Is this the one who mentions [i.e., insults] your gods?" And they are, at the mention of the Most Merciful, disbelievers.

(37) Man was created of haste [i.e., impatience]. I will show you My signs [i.e., vengeance], so do not impatiently urge Me.

(38) And they say, "When is this promise, if you should be truthful?"

(39) If those who disbelieved but knew the time when they will not avert the Fire from their faces or from their backs and they will not be aided...[885] ——— [885]- The completion of the sentence is understood to be "...they would not be asking in disbelief and ridicule to be shown the punishment."

(40) Rather, it will come to them unexpectedly and bewilder them, and they will not be able to repel it, nor will they be reprieved.

(41) And already were messengers ridiculed before you, but those who mocked them were enveloped by what they used to ridicule.

(42) Say, "Who can protect you at night or by day from the Most Merciful?" But they are, from the remembrance of their Lord, turning away.

(43) Or do they have gods to defend them other than Us? They are unable [even] to help themselves, nor can they be protected from Us.

(44) But, [on the contrary], We have provided good things for these [disbelievers] and their fathers until life was prolonged for them. Then do they not see that We set upon the land, reducing it from its borders?[886] Is it they who will overcome? ——— [886]- See footnote to 13:41.

(45) Say, "I only warn you by revelation." But the deaf do not hear the call when they are warned.

(46) And if [as much as] a whiff of the punishment of your Lord should touch them, they would surely say, "O woe to us! Indeed, we have been wrongdoers."

(47) And We place the scales of justice for the Day of Resurrection, so no soul will be treated unjustly at all. And if there is [even] the weight of a mustard seed,[887] We will bring it forth. And sufficient are We as accountant. ——— [887]- i.e., anything as small or insignificant as a mustard seed.

(48) And We had already given Moses and Aaron the criterion and a light and a reminder[888] for the righteous ——— [888]- These are three qualities of the Torah.

(49) Who fear their Lord unseen,[889] while they are of the Hour apprehensive. ——— [889]- Which can mean "Him being unseen" by them or "though they are unseen" by others.

(50) And this [Qur’ān] is a blessed message which We have sent down. Then are you with it unacquainted?[890] ——— [890]- i.e., pretending ignorance, disapproving or refusing to acknowledge it?

(51) And We had certainly given Abraham his sound judgement before,[891] and We were of him well-Knowing ——— [891]- i.e., before Moses. Allāh had guided him from early youth.

(52) When he said to his father and his people, "What are these statues to which you are devoted?"

(53) They said, "We found our fathers worshippers of them."

(54) He said, "You were certainly, you and your fathers, in manifest error."

(55) They said, "Have you come to us with truth, or are you of those who jest?"

(56) He said, "[No], rather, your Lord is the Lord of the heavens and the earth who created them, and I, to that, am of those who testify.

(57) And [I swear] by Allāh, I will surely plan against your idols after you have turned and gone away."

(58) So he made them into fragments, except a large one among them, that they might return to it [and question].

(59) They said, "Who has done this to our gods? Indeed, he is of the wrongdoers."

(60) They said, "We heard a young man mention them who is called Abraham."

(61) They said, "Then bring him before the eyes of the people that they may testify."[892] ——— [892]- To what they had heard him say. It may also mean "...that they may witness [what will be done to him as punishment]."

(62) They said, "Have you done this to our gods, O Abraham?"

(63) He said, "Rather, this - the largest of them - did it, so ask them, if they should [be able to] speak."

(64) So they returned to [blaming] themselves and said [to each other], "Indeed, you are the wrongdoers."

(65) Then they reversed themselves,[893] [saying], "You have already known that these do not speak!" ——— [893]- After first admitting their error, they were seized by pride and obstinacy.

(66) He said, "Then do you worship instead of Allāh that which does not benefit you at all or harm you?

(67) Uff[894] to you and to what you worship instead of Allāh. Then will you not use reason?" ——— [894]- An exclamation of anger and displeasure.

(68) They said, "Burn him and support your gods - if you are to act."

(69) We [i.e., Allāh] said, "O fire, be coolness and safety upon Abraham."

(70) And they intended for him a plan [i.e., harm], but We made them the greatest losers.

(71) And We delivered him and Lot to the land which We had blessed for the worlds [i.e., peoples].

(72) And We gave him Isaac and Jacob in addition, and all [of them] We made righteous.

(73) And We made them leaders guiding by Our command. And We inspired to them the doing of good deeds, establishment of prayer, and giving of zakāh; and they were worshippers of Us.

(74) And to Lot We gave judgement and knowledge, and We saved him from the city that was committing wicked deeds. Indeed, they were a people of evil, defiantly disobedient.

(75) And We admitted him into Our mercy. Indeed, he was of the righteous.

(76) And [mention] Noah, when he called [to Allāh][895] before [that time], so We responded to him and saved him and his family from the great affliction [i.e., the flood]. ——— [895]- i.e., supplicated against his people who had persisted in denial and animosity. See 71:26-28.

(77) And We aided [i.e., saved] him from the people who denied Our signs. Indeed, they were a people of evil, so We drowned them, all together.

(78) And [mention] David and Solomon, when they judged concerning the field - when the sheep of a people overran it [at night],[896] and We were witness to their judgement. ——— [896]- Eating and destroying the crops.

(79) And We gave understanding of it [i.e., the case] to Solomon, and to each [of them] We gave judgement and knowledge. And We subjected the mountains to exalt [Us], along with David and [also] the birds. And We were doing [that].[897] ——— [897]- Meaning that Allāh has always been capable of accomplishing whatever He wills.

(80) And We taught him the fashioning of coats of armor to protect you from your [enemy in] battle. So will you then be grateful?

(81) And to Solomon [We subjected] the wind, blowing forcefully, proceeding by his command toward the land which We had blessed. And We are ever, of all things, Knowing.

(82) And of the devils [i.e., jinn] were those who dived for him and did work other than that. And We were of them a guardian.[898] ——— [898]- Preventing any disobedience or deviation by them from Solomon's instructions and protecting him from being harmed by them.

(83) And [mention] Job, when he called to his Lord, "Indeed, adversity has touched me, and You are the most merciful of the merciful."

(84) So We responded to him and removed what afflicted him of adversity. And We gave him [back] his family and the like thereof with them as mercy from Us and a reminder for the worshippers [of Allāh].

(85) And [mention] Ishmael and Idrees and Dhul-Kifl; all were of the patient.

(86) And We admitted them into Our mercy. Indeed, they were of the righteous.

(87) And [mention] the man of the fish [i.e., Jonah], when he went off in anger[899] and thought that We would not decree [anything] upon him.[900] And he called out within the darknesses,[901] "There is no deity except You; exalted are You. Indeed, I have been of the wrongdoers." ——— [899]- At the disbelief of his people. [900]- Or "would not restrict him" in the belly of the fish. [901]- That of the night, of the sea, and of the fish's interior.

(88) So We responded to him and saved him from the distress. And thus do We save the believers.

(89) And [mention] Zechariah, when he called to his Lord, "My Lord, do not leave me alone [with no heir], while You are the best of inheritors."

(90) So We responded to him, and We gave to him John, and amended for him his wife. Indeed, they used to hasten to good deeds and supplicate[902] Us in hope and fear, and they were to Us humbly submissive. ——— [902]- i.e., worship.

(91) And [mention] the one who guarded her chastity [i.e., Mary], so We blew into her [garment] through Our angel [i.e., Gabriel], and We made her and her son a sign for the worlds.

(92) Indeed this, your religion, is one religion,[903] and I am your Lord, so worship Me. ——— [903]- i.e., a collective way of life or course of conduct followed by a community.

(93) And [yet] they divided their affair [i.e., that of their religion] among themselves,[904] [but] all to Us will return. ——— [904]- Becoming sects and denominations.

(94) So whoever does righteous deeds while he is a believer - no denial will there be for his effort,[905] and indeed We [i.e., Our angels], of it, are recorders. ——— [905]- Such a person will not be deprived of his due reward.

(95) And it is prohibited to [the people of] a city which We have destroyed that they will [ever] return[906] ——— [906]- They cannot return to this world, nor can they repent to Allāh.

(96) Until when [the dam of] Gog and Magog has been opened and they, from every elevation, descend

(97) And [when] the true promise [i.e., the resurrection] has approached; then suddenly the eyes of those who disbelieved will be staring [in horror, while they say], "O woe to us; we had been unmindful of this; rather, we were wrongdoers."

(98) Indeed, you [disbelievers] and what you worship other than Allāh are the firewood of Hell. You will be coming to [enter] it.

(99) Had these [false deities] been [actual] gods, they would not have come to it, but all are eternal therein.

(100) For them therein is heavy sighing, and they therein will not hear.

(101) Indeed, those for whom the best [reward] has preceded from Us - they are from it far removed.

(102) They will not hear its sound, while they are, in that which their souls desire, abiding eternally.

(103) They will not be grieved by the greatest terror,[907] and the angels will meet them, [saying], "This is your Day which you have been promised" - ——— [907]- The events of the Last Hour or of the Resurrection.

(104) The Day when We will fold the heaven like the folding of a [written] sheet for the records. As We began the first creation, We will repeat it. [That is] a promise binding upon Us. Indeed, We will do it.[908] ——— [908]- More literally, "Indeed, We are ever doers" of what We will.

(105) And We have already written in the book [of Psalms][909] after the [previous] mention[910] that the land [of Paradise] is inherited by My righteous servants. ——— [909]- Az-Zabūr can also mean "scriptures" in general. [910]- i.e., the Torah. The "mention" may also refer to the original inscription with Allāh, i.e., the Preserved Slate (al-Lawḥ al-Maḥfūẓ).

(106) Indeed, in this [Qur’ān] is notification for a worshipping people.

(107) And We have not sent you, [O Muḥammad], except as a mercy to the worlds.

(108) Say, "It is only revealed to me that your god is but one God; so will you be Muslims [in submission to Him]?"

(109) But if they turn away, then say, "I have announced to [all of] you equally.[911] And I know not whether near or far is that which you are promised. ——— [911]- The Prophet (ﷺ) made this message known to all people, not concealing any of it from anyone or preferring any group over another.

(110) Indeed, He knows what is declared of speech, and He knows what you conceal.

(111) And I know not; perhaps it[912] is a trial for you and enjoyment for a time." ——— [912]- The postponement of punishment.

(112) [The Prophet (ﷺ)] has said, "My Lord, judge [between us] in truth. And our Lord is the Most Merciful, the one whose help is sought against that which you describe."[913] ——— [913]- i.e., their lies and disbelief.

(1) O mankind, fear your Lord. Indeed, the convulsion of the [final] Hour is a terrible thing.

(2) On the Day you see it every nursing mother will be distracted from that [child] she was nursing, and every pregnant woman will abort her pregnancy, and you will see the people [appearing] intoxicated while they are not intoxicated; but the punishment of Allāh is severe.

(3) And of the people is he who disputes about Allāh without knowledge and follows every rebellious devil.

(4) It has been decreed for him [i.e., every devil] that whoever turns to him - he will misguide him and will lead him to the punishment of the Blaze.

(5) O people, if you should be in doubt about the Resurrection, then [consider that] indeed, We created you from dust, then from a sperm-drop, then from a clinging clot, and then from a lump of flesh, formed and unformed[915] - that We may show you.[916] And We settle in the wombs whom We will for a specified term, then We bring you out as a child, and then [We develop you] that you may reach your [time of] maturity. And among you is he who is taken in [early] death, and among you is he who is returned to the most decrepit [old] age so that he knows, after [once having] knowledge, nothing. And you see the earth barren, but when We send down upon it rain, it quivers and swells and grows [something] of every beautiful kind. ——— [915]- That which is incomplete. This may include what is aborted at that stage. [916]- Our power and creative ability.

(6) That is because Allāh is the True Reality and because He gives life to the dead and because He is over all things competent

(7) And [that they may know] that the Hour is coming - no doubt about it - and that Allāh will resurrect those in the graves.

(8) And of the people is he who disputes about Allāh without knowledge or guidance or an enlightening book [from Him],

(9) Twisting his neck [in arrogance] to mislead [people] from the way of Allāh. For him in the world is disgrace, and We will make him taste on the Day of Resurrection the punishment of the Burning Fire [while it is said],

(10) "That is for what your hands have put forth and because Allāh is not ever unjust to [His] servants."

(11) And of the people is he who worships Allāh on an edge.[917] If he is touched by good, he is reassured by it; but if he is struck by trial, he turns on his face [to unbelief]. He has lost [this] world and the Hereafter. That is what is the manifest loss. ——— [917]- At the edge of his religion, so to speak, i.e., with uncertainty, hypocrisy or heedlessness.

(12) He invokes instead of Allāh that which neither harms him nor benefits him. That is what is the extreme error.

(13) He invokes one whose harm is closer than his benefit - how wretched the protector and how wretched the associate.

(14) Indeed, Allāh will admit those who believe and do righteous deeds to gardens beneath which rivers flow. Indeed, Allāh does what He intends.

(15) Whoever should think that Allāh will not support him [i.e., Prophet Muḥammad (ﷺ)] in this world and the Hereafter - let him extend a rope to the ceiling, then cut off [his breath],[918] and let him see: will his effort remove that which enrages [him]? ——— [918]- i.e., strangle himself.

(16) And thus have We sent it [i.e., the Qur’ān] down as verses of clear evidence and because Allāh guides whom He intends.

(17) Indeed, those who have believed and those who were Jews and the Sabeans and the Christians and the Magians and those who associated with Allāh - Allāh will judge between them on the Day of Resurrection. Indeed Allāh is, over all things, Witness.[919] ——— [919]- See footnote of 4:79.

(18) Do you not see [i.e., know] that to Allāh prostrates whoever is in the heavens and whoever is on the earth and the sun, the moon, the stars, the mountains, the trees, the moving creatures and many of the people? But upon many the punishment has been justified.[920] And he whom Allāh humiliates - for him there is no bestower of honor. Indeed, Allāh does what He wills. ——— [920]- And therefore decreed.

(19) These[921] are two adversaries who have disputed over their Lord. But those who disbelieved will have cut out for them garments of fire. Poured upon their heads will be scalding water ——— [921]- i.e., the believers and the disbelievers.

(20) By which is melted that within their bellies and [their] skins.

(21) And for [striking] them are maces of iron.

(22) Every time they want to get out of it [i.e., Hellfire] from anguish, they will be returned to it, and [it will be said], "Taste the punishment of the Burning Fire!"

(23) Indeed, Allāh will admit those who believe and do righteous deeds to gardens beneath which rivers flow. They will be adorned therein with bracelets of gold and pearl, and their garments therein will be silk.

(24) And they had been guided [in worldly life] to good speech, and they were guided to the path of the Praiseworthy.

(25) Indeed, those who have disbelieved and avert [people] from the way of Allāh and [from] al-Masjid al-Ḥarām, which We made for the people - equal are the resident therein and one from outside - and [also] whoever intends [a deed] therein[922] of deviation [in religion] by wrongdoing - We will make him taste of a painful punishment. ——— [922]- Whether inside its boundaries or intending from afar to do evil therein. The Ḥaram is unique in that the mere intention of sin therein (whether or not it is actually carried out) is sufficient to bring punishment from Allāh.

(26) And [mention, O Muḥammad], when We designated for Abraham the site of the House, [saying], "Do not associate anything with Me and purify My House for those who perform ṭawāf[923] and those who stand [in prayer] and those who bow and prostrate. ——— [923]- See footnote to 2:125.

(27) And proclaim to the people the ḥajj [pilgrimage]; they will come to you on foot and on every lean camel; they will come from every distant pass -

(28) That they may witness [i.e., attend] benefits for themselves and mention the name of Allāh on known [i.e., specific] days over what He has provided for them of [sacrificial] animals.[924] So eat of them and feed the miserable and poor. ——— [924]- Al-anʿām: camels, cattle, sheep and goats.

(29) Then let them end their untidiness and fulfill their vows and perform ṭawāf around the ancient House."

(30) That [has been commanded], and whoever honors the sacred ordinances of Allāh - it is best for him in the sight of his Lord. And permitted to you are the grazing livestock, except what is recited to you.[925] So avoid the uncleanliness of idols and avoid false statement, ——— [925]- See 5:3.

(31) Inclining [only] to Allāh, not associating [anything] with Him. And he who associates with Allāh - it is as though he had fallen from the sky and was snatched by the birds or the wind carried him down into a remote place.

(32) That [is so]. And whoever honors the symbols [i.e., rites] of Allāh - indeed, it is from the piety of hearts.

(33) For you therein [i.e., the animals marked for sacrifice] are benefits for a specified term;[926] then their place of sacrifice is at the ancient House.[927] ——— [926]- i.e., they may be milked or ridden (in the case of camels) before the time of slaughter. [927]- i.e., within the boundaries of the Ḥaram, which includes Minā.

(34) And for every [religious] community We have appointed a rite [of sacrifice][928] that they may mention the name of Allāh over what He has provided for them of [sacrificial] animals. For your god is one God, so to Him submit. And, [O Muḥammad], give good tidings to the humble [before their Lord] ——— [928]- i.e., the rite of sacrifice has always been a part of Allāh's revealed religion.

(35) Who, when Allāh is mentioned, their hearts are fearful, and [to] the patient over what has afflicted them, and the establishers of prayer and those who spend from what We have provided them.

(36) And the camels and cattle We have appointed for you as among the symbols [i.e., rites] of Allāh; for you therein is good. So mention the name of Allāh upon them when lined up [for sacrifice]; and when they are [lifeless] on their sides, then eat from them and feed the needy [who does not seek aid] and the beggar. Thus have We subjected them to you that you may be grateful.

(37) Their meat will not reach Allāh, nor will their blood, but what reaches Him is piety from you. Thus have We subjected them to you that you may glorify Allāh for that [to] which He has guided you; and give good tidings to the doers of good.

(38) Indeed, Allāh defends those who have believed. Indeed, Allāh does not like everyone treacherous and ungrateful.

(39) Permission [to fight] has been given to those who are being fought,[929] because they were wronged. And indeed, Allāh is competent to give them victory. ——— [929]- Referring here to the Prophet's companions.

(40) [They are] those who have been evicted from their homes without right - only because they say, "Our Lord is Allāh." And were it not that Allāh checks the people, some by means of others, there would have been demolished monasteries, churches, synagogues, and mosques in which the name of Allāh is much mentioned [i.e., praised]. And Allāh will surely support those who support Him [i.e., His cause]. Indeed, Allāh is Powerful and Exalted in Might.

(41) [And they are] those who, if We give them authority in the land, establish prayer and give zakāh and enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong. And to Allāh belongs the outcome of [all] matters.

(42) And if they deny you, [O Muḥammad] - so, before them, did the people of Noah and ʿAad and Thamūd deny [their prophets],

(43) And the people of Abraham and the people of Lot

(44) And the inhabitants of Madyan. And Moses was denied, so I prolonged enjoyment for the disbelievers; then I seized them, and how [terrible] was My reproach.

(45) And how many a city did We destroy while it was committing wrong - so it is [now] fallen into ruin[930] - and [how many] an abandoned well and [how many] a lofty palace.[931] ——— [930]- Literally, "fallen in upon its roofs," i.e., after the roofs of its buildings had caved in, the walls collapsed over them. [931]- i.e., How many wells have been left inoperative, and how many palaces have been emptied of their occupants in the past.

(46) So have they not traveled through the earth and have hearts by which to reason and ears by which to hear? For indeed, it is not eyes that are blinded, but blinded are the hearts which are within the breasts.

(47) And they urge you to hasten the punishment. But Allāh will never fail in His promise. And indeed, a day with your Lord is like a thousand years of those which you count.

(48) And for how many a city did I prolong enjoyment while it was committing wrong. Then I seized it, and to Me is the [final] destination.

(49) Say, "O people, I am only to you a clear warner."

(50) And those who have believed and done righteous deeds - for them is forgiveness and noble provision.

(51) But the ones who strove against Our verses, [seeking] to cause failure[932] - those are the companions of Hellfire. ——— [932]- i.e., trying to undermine their credibility and thereby defeat the Prophet (ﷺ).

(52) And We did not send before you any messenger or prophet except that when he spoke [or recited], Satan threw into it [some misunderstanding]. But Allāh abolishes that which Satan throws in; then Allāh makes precise His verses.[933] And Allāh is Knowing and Wise. ——— [933]- Clarifying those issues which were misunderstood to remove any doubt.

(53) [That is] so He may make what Satan throws in [i.e., asserts] a trial for those within whose hearts is disease[934] and those hard of heart. And indeed, the wrongdoers are in extreme dissension. ——— [934]- See footnote to 2:10.

(54) And so those who were given knowledge may know that it is the truth from your Lord and [therefore] believe in it, and their hearts humbly submit to it. And indeed is Allāh the Guide of those who have believed to a straight path.

(55) But those who disbelieve will not cease to be in doubt of it until the Hour comes upon them unexpectedly or there comes to them the punishment of a barren Day.[935] ——— [935]- One which will not be followed by night and therefore will not give birth to a new day, referring to the Day of Resurrection.

(56) [All] sovereignty that Day is for Allāh;[936] He will judge between them. So they who believed and did righteous deeds will be in the Gardens of Pleasure. ——— [936]- None will compete with Him for authority at that time.

(57) And they who disbelieved and denied Our signs - for those there will be a humiliating punishment.

(58) And those who emigrated for the cause of Allāh and then were killed or died - Allāh will surely provide for them a good provision. And indeed, it is Allāh who is the best of providers.

(59) He will surely cause them to enter an entrance with which they will be pleased, and indeed, Allāh is Knowing and Forbearing.

(60) That [is so]. And whoever responds [to injustice] with the equivalent of that with which he was harmed and then is tyrannized - Allāh will surely aid him. Indeed, Allāh is Pardoning and Forgiving.[937] ——— [937]- In spite of His ability to take vengeance. The statement contains a suggestion that the believers pardon as well.

(61) That[938] is because Allāh causes the night to enter the day and causes the day to enter the night and because Allāh is Hearing and Seeing. ——— [938]- i.e., Allāh's capability to give assistance or victory to the oppressed.

(62) That is because Allāh is the True Reality, and that which they call upon other than Him is falsehood, and because Allāh is the Most High, the Grand.

(63) Do you not see that Allāh has sent down rain from the sky and the earth becomes green? Indeed, Allāh is Subtle[939] and Aware.[940] ——— [939]- Refer to footnote of 6:103. [940]- Of His creation and of the needs of His creatures.

(64) To Him belongs what is in the heavens and what is on the earth. And indeed, Allāh is the Free of need, the Praiseworthy.

(65) Do you not see that Allāh has subjected to you whatever is on the earth and the ships which run through the sea by His command? And He restrains the sky from falling upon the earth, unless by His permission. Indeed Allāh, to the people, is Kind and Merciful.

(66) And He is the one who gave you life; then He causes you to die and then will [again] give you life. Indeed, mankind is ungrateful.

(67) For every [religious] community We have appointed rites which they perform. So, [O Muḥammad], let them [i.e., the disbelievers] not contend with you over the matter but invite [them] to your Lord. Indeed, you are upon straight guidance.

(68) And if they dispute with you, then say, "Allāh is most knowing of what you do.

(69) Allāh will judge between you on the Day of Resurrection concerning that over which you used to differ."

(70) Do you not know that Allāh knows what is in the heaven and earth? Indeed, that is in a Record.[941] Indeed that, for Allāh, is easy. ——— [941]- The Preserved Slate (al-Lawḥ al-Maḥfūẓ), which is with Allāh.

(71) And they worship besides Allāh that for which He has not sent down authority and that of which they have no knowledge. And there will not be for the wrongdoers any helper.

(72) And when Our verses are recited to them as clear evidences, you recognize in the faces of those who disbelieve disapproval. They are almost on the verge of assaulting those who recite to them Our verses. Say, "Then shall I inform you of [what is] worse than that?[942] [It is] the Fire which Allāh has promised those who disbelieve, and wretched is the destination." ——— [942]- i.e., worse than the rage you feel against those who recite Allāh's verses or worse than your threats against them.

(73) O people, an example is presented, so listen to it. Indeed, those you invoke besides Allāh will never create [as much as] a fly, even if they gathered together for it [i.e., that purpose]. And if the fly should steal from them a [tiny] thing, they could not recover it from him. Weak are the pursuer and pursued.[943] ——— [943]- A comparison is made here to the worshipper of a false deity and that which he worships.

(74) They have not appraised Allāh with true appraisal.[944] Indeed, Allāh is Powerful and Exalted in Might. ——— [944]- They have not assessed Him with the assessment due to Him, meaning that they did not take into account His perfect attributes.

(75) Allāh chooses from the angels messengers and from the people. Indeed, Allāh is Hearing and Seeing.

(76) He knows what is [presently] before them and what will be after them.[945] And to Allāh will be returned [all] matters. ——— [945]- See footnote to 20:110.

(77) O you who have believed, bow and prostrate and worship your Lord and do good - that you may succeed.

(78) And strive for Allāh with the striving due to Him. He has chosen you and has not placed upon you in the religion any difficulty. [It is] the religion of your father, Abraham. He [i.e., Allāh] named you "Muslims" before [in former scriptures] and in this [revelation] that the Messenger may be a witness over you and you may be witnesses over the people. So establish prayer and give zakāh and hold fast to Allāh. He is your protector; and excellent is the protector, and excellent is the helper.

(1) Certainly will the believers have succeeded:

(2) They who are during their prayer humbly intent

(3) And they who turn away from ill speech

(4) And they who are observant of zakāh

(5) And they who guard their private parts

(6) Except from their wives or those their right hands possess,[947] for indeed, they will not be blamed - ——— [947]- Female slaves or captives under their ownership.

(7) But whoever seeks beyond that, then those are the transgressors -

(8) And they who are to their trusts and their promises attentive

(9) And they who carefully maintain their prayers -

(10) Those are the inheritors

(11) Who will inherit al-Firdaus.[948] They will abide therein eternally. ——— [948]- The highest part of Paradise.

(12) And certainly did We create man from an extract of clay.

(13) Then We placed him as a sperm-drop[949] in a firm lodging [i.e., the womb]. ——— [949]- Or "as a zygote."

(14) Then We made the sperm-drop into a clinging clot, and We made the clot into a lump [of flesh], and We made [from] the lump, bones, and We covered the bones with flesh; then We developed him into another creation. So blessed is Allāh, the best of creators.[950] ——— [950]- i.e., the most skillful and only true Creator.

(15) Then indeed, after that you are to die.

(16) Then indeed you, on the Day of Resurrection, will be resurrected.

(17) And We have created above you seven layered heavens, and never have We been of [Our] creation unaware.

(18) And We have sent down rain from the sky in a measured amount and settled it in the earth. And indeed, We are Able to take it away.

(19) And We brought forth for you thereby gardens of palm trees and grapevines in which for you are abundant fruits and from which you eat.

(20) And [We brought forth] a tree issuing from Mount Sinai which produces oil and food [i.e., olives] for those who eat.

(21) And indeed, for you in livestock is a lesson. We give you drink from that which is in their bellies, and for you in them are numerous benefits, and from them you eat.

(22) And upon them and on ships you are carried.

(23) And We had certainly sent Noah to his people, and he said, "O my people, worship Allāh; you have no deity other than Him; then will you not fear Him?"

(24) But the eminent among those who disbelieved from his people said, "This is not but a man like yourselves who wishes to take precedence over you; and if Allāh had willed [to send a messenger], He would have sent down angels. We have not heard of this among our forefathers.

(25) He is not but a man possessed with madness, so wait concerning him for a time."

(26) [Noah] said, "My Lord, support me because they have denied me."

(27) So We inspired to him, "Construct the ship under Our observation and Our inspiration, and when Our command comes and the oven overflows,[951] put into it [i.e., the ship] from each [creature] two mates and your family, except him for whom the decree [of destruction] has proceeded. And do not address Me concerning those who have wronged; indeed, they are to be drowned. ——— [951]- See footnote to 11:40.

(28) And when you have boarded the ship, you and those with you, then say, 'Praise to Allāh who has saved us from the wrongdoing people.'

(29) And say, 'My Lord, let me land at a blessed landing place, and You are the best to accommodate [us].'"

(30) Indeed in that are signs, and indeed, We are ever testing [Our servants].

(31) Then We produced after them a generation of others.

(32) And We sent among them a messenger[952] from themselves, [saying], "Worship Allāh; you have no deity other than Him; then will you not fear Him?" ——— [952]- Prophet Hūd, who was sent to the tribe of ʿAad.

(33) And the eminent among his people who disbelieved and denied the meeting of the Hereafter while We had given them luxury in the worldly life said, "This is not but a man like yourselves. He eats of that from which you eat and drinks of what you drink.

(34) And if you should obey a man like yourselves, indeed, you would then be losers.

(35) Does he promise you that when you have died and become dust and bones that you will be brought forth [once more]?

(36) How far, how far, is that which you are promised.[953] ——— [953]- i.e., how distant and improbable it is.

(37) It [i.e., life] is not but our worldly life - we die and live, but we will not be resurrected.

(38) He is not but a man who has invented a lie about Allāh, and we will not believe him."

(39) He said, "My Lord, support me because they have denied me."

(40) [Allāh] said, "After a little, they will surely become regretful."

(41) So the shriek[954] seized them in truth,[955] and We made them as [plant] stubble. Then away with the wrongdoing people. ——— [954]- See footnote to 11:67. [955]- i.e., by right or in justice.

(42) Then We produced after them other generations.

(43) No nation will precede its time [of termination], nor will they remain [thereafter].

(44) Then We sent Our messengers in succession. Every time there came to a nation its messenger, they denied him, so We made them follow one another [to destruction], and We made them narrations.[956] So away with a people who do not believe. ——— [956]- i.e., history or lessons for mankind.

(45) Then We sent Moses and his brother Aaron with Our signs and a clear authority[957] ——— [957]- i.e., evidences from Allāh.

(46) To Pharaoh and his establishment, but they were arrogant and were a haughty people.

(47) They said, "Should we believe two men like ourselves while their people are for us in servitude?"

(48) So they denied them and were of those destroyed.

(49) And We certainly gave Moses the Scripture that perhaps they[958] would be guided. ——— [958]- The Children of Israel.

(50) And We made the son of Mary and his mother a sign and sheltered them within a high ground having level [areas] and flowing water.

(51) [Allāh said], "O messengers, eat from the good foods and work righteousness. Indeed I, of what you do, am Knowing.

(52) And indeed this, your religion, is one religion,[959] and I am your Lord, so fear Me." ——— [959]- See footnote to 21:92.

(53) But they [i.e., the people] divided their religion among them into portions [i.e., sects] - each faction, in what it has,[960] rejoicing. ——— [960]- Of beliefs, opinions, customs, etc.

(54) So leave them in their confusion for a time.

(55) Do they think that what We extend to them of wealth and children

(56) Is [because] We hasten for them good things? Rather, they do not perceive.[961] ——— [961]- That the good things given to them in this world are but a trial for them.

(57) Indeed, they who are apprehensive from fear of their Lord

(58) And they who believe in the signs of their Lord

(59) And they who do not associate anything with their Lord

(60) And they who give what they give while their hearts are fearful[962] because they will be returning to their Lord - ——— [962]- Lest their deeds not be acceptable.

(61) It is those who hasten to good deeds, and they outstrip [others] therein.

(62) And We charge no soul except [with that within] its capacity, and with Us is a record which speaks with truth; and they will not be wronged.

(63) But their hearts are covered with confusion over this, and they have [evil] deeds besides that [i.e., disbelief] which they are doing,

(64) Until when We seize their affluent ones with punishment,[963] at once they are crying [to Allāh] for help. ——— [963]- In worldly life, before the punishment of the Hereafter. Although general, the description includes specifically the punishment of the Quraysh by famine.

(65) Do not cry out today. Indeed, by Us you will not be helped.

(66) My verses had already been recited to you, but you were turning back on your heels

(67) In arrogance regarding it,[964] conversing by night, speaking evil. ——— [964]- The revelation. Or "him," i.e., the Prophet (ﷺ).

(68) Then have they not reflected over the word [i.e., the Qur’ān], or has there come to them that which had not come to their forefathers?

(69) Or did they not know their Messenger, so they are toward him disacknowledging?

(70) Or do they say, "In him is madness"? Rather, he brought them the truth, but most of them, to the truth, are averse.

(71) But if the Truth [i.e., Allāh] had followed their inclinations, the heavens and the earth and whoever is in them would have been ruined. Rather, We have brought them their message,[965] but they, from their message, are turning away. ——— [965]- Or "reminder."

(72) Or do you, [O Muḥammad], ask them for payment? But the reward of your Lord is best, and He is the best of providers.

(73) And indeed, you invite them to a straight path.

(74) But indeed, those who do not believe in the Hereafter are deviating from the path.

(75) And even if We gave them mercy and removed what was upon them of affliction, they would persist in their transgression, wandering blindly.

(76) And We had gripped them with suffering [as a warning], but they did not yield to their Lord, nor did they humbly supplicate, [and will continue thus]

(77) Until when We have opened before them a door of severe punishment, immediately they will be therein in despair.

(78) And it is He who produced for you hearing and vision and hearts [i.e., intellect]; little are you grateful.

(79) And it is He who has multiplied you throughout the earth, and to Him you will be gathered.

(80) And it is He who gives life and causes death, and His is the alternation of the night and the day. Then will you not reason?

(81) Rather,[966] they say like what the former peoples said. ——— [966]- Instead of understanding or reasoning.

(82) They said, "When we have died and become dust and bones, are we indeed to be resurrected?

(83) We have been promised this, we and our forefathers, before; this is not but legends of the former peoples."

(84) Say, [O Muḥammad], "To whom belongs the earth and whoever is in it, if you should know?"

(85) They will say, "To Allāh." Say, "Then will you not remember?"

(86) Say, "Who is Lord of the seven heavens and Lord of the Great Throne?"

(87) They will say, "[They belong] to Allāh." Say, "Then will you not fear Him?"

(88) Say, "In whose hand is the realm of all things - and He protects while none can protect against Him - if you should know?"

(89) They will say, "[All belongs] to Allāh." Say, "Then how are you deluded?"

(90) Rather, We have brought them the truth, and indeed they are liars.

(91) Allāh has not taken any son, nor has there ever been with Him any deity. [If there had been], then each deity would have taken what it created, and some of them would have [sought to] overcome others. Exalted is Allāh above what they describe [concerning Him].

(92) [He is] Knower of the unseen and the witnessed, so high is He above what they associate [with Him].

(93) Say, [O Muḥammad], "My Lord, if You should show me that which they are promised,

(94) My Lord, then do not place me among the wrongdoing people."

(95) And indeed, We are Able to show you what We have promised them.

(96) Repel, by [means of] what is best, [their] evil. We are most knowing of what they describe.

(97) And say, "My Lord, I seek refuge in You from the incitements of the devils,

(98) And I seek refuge in You, my Lord, lest they be present with me."

(99) [For such is the state of the disbelievers] until, when death comes to one of them, he says, "My Lord, send me back

(100) That I might do righteousness in that which I left behind."[967] No! It is only a word he is saying; and behind them is a barrier until the Day they are resurrected. ——— [967]- Or "in that which I neglected."

(101) So when the Horn is blown, no relationship will there be among them that Day, nor will they ask about one another.

(102) And those whose scales are heavy [with good deeds] - it is they who are the successful.

(103) But those whose scales are light - those are the ones who have lost their souls, [being] in Hell, abiding eternally.

(104) The Fire will sear their faces, and they therein will have taut smiles.[968] ——— [968]- Their lips having been contracted by scorching until the teeth are exposed.

(105) [It will be said], "Were not My verses recited to you and you used to deny them?"

(106) They will say, "Our Lord, our wretchedness overcame us, and we were a people astray.

(107) Our Lord, remove us from it, and if we were to return [to evil], we would indeed be wrongdoers."

(108) He will say, "Remain despised therein and do not speak to Me.

(109) Indeed, there was a party of My servants who said, 'Our Lord, we have believed, so forgive us and have mercy upon us, and You are the best of the merciful.'

(110) But you took them in mockery to the point that they made you forget My remembrance, and you used to laugh at them.

(111) Indeed, I have rewarded them this Day for their patient endurance - that they are the attainers [of success]."

(112) [Allāh] will say, "How long did you remain on earth in number of years?"

(113) They will say, "We remained a day or part of a day; ask those who enumerate."

(114) He will say, "You stayed not but a little - if only you had known.

(115) Then did you think that We created you uselessly and that to Us you would not be returned?"

(116) So exalted is Allāh, the Sovereign,[969] the Truth;[970] there is no deity except Him, Lord of the Noble Throne. ——— [969]- And owner of everything in existence. [970]- Or "the True Reality."

(117) And whoever invokes besides Allāh another deity for which he has no proof - then his account is only with his Lord. Indeed, the disbelievers will not succeed.

(118) And, [O Muḥammad], say, "My Lord, forgive and have mercy, and You are the best of the merciful."

(1) [This is] a sūrah which We have sent down and made [that within it] obligatory and revealed therein verses of clear evidence that you might remember.

(2) The [unmarried] woman or [unmarried] man found guilty of sexual intercourse[972] - lash each one of them with a hundred lashes,[973] and do not be taken by pity for them in the religion [i.e., law] of Allāh,[974] if you should believe in Allāh and the Last Day. And let a group of the believers witness their punishment. ——— [972]- Either by voluntary confession of the offender or the testimony of four male witnesses to having actually seen the act take place. Otherwise, there can be no conviction. [973]- The ruling in this verse is applicable to unmarried fornicators. Execution by stoning is confirmed in the sunnah for convicted adulterers. [974]- i.e., Do not let sympathy for a guilty person move you to alter anything ordained by Allāh, for in His law is protection of society as a whole.

(3) The fornicator does not marry except a [female] fornicator or polytheist, and none marries her except a fornicator[975] or a polytheist, and that [i.e., marriage to such persons] has been made unlawful to the believers. ——— [975]- Included in this ruling is the adulterer as well. Such persons cannot be married to believers unless they have repented and reformed.

(4) And those who accuse chaste women and then do not produce four witnesses - lash them with eighty lashes and do not accept from them testimony ever after. And those are the defiantly disobedient,

(5) Except for those who repent thereafter and reform, for indeed, Allāh is Forgiving and Merciful.

(6) And those who accuse their wives [of adultery] and have no witnesses except themselves - then the witness of one of them[976] [shall be] four testimonies [swearing] by Allāh that indeed, he is of the truthful. ——— [976]- The husbands who have been betrayed.

(7) And the fifth [oath will be] that the curse of Allāh be upon him if he should be of the liars.

(8) But it will prevent punishment from her if she gives four testimonies [swearing] by Allāh that indeed, he is of the liars.

(9) And the fifth [oath will be] that the wrath of Allāh be upon her if he was of the truthful.

(10) And if not for the favor of Allāh upon you and His mercy...[977] and because Allāh is Accepting of Repentance and Wise. ——— [977]- The phrase omitted is estimated to be "...you would have surely been punished, destroyed or scandalized," or "...you would have suffered many difficult situations."

(11) Indeed, those who came with falsehood[978] are a group among you. Do not think it bad for you; rather, it is good for you. For every person among them is what [punishment] he has earned from the sin, and he who took upon himself the greater portion thereof[979] - for him is a great punishment [i.e., Hellfire]. ——— [978]- Referring to the incident when the Prophet's wife ʿĀ’ishah was falsely accused by the hypocrites. [979]- i.e., ʿAbdullāh bin ʿUbayy, leader of the hypocrites.

(12) Why, when you heard it, did not the believing men and believing women think good of themselves [i.e., one another] and say, "This is an obvious falsehood"?

(13) Why did they [who slandered] not produce for it four witnesses? And when they do not produce the witnesses, then it is they, in the sight of Allāh, who are the liars.

(14) And if it had not been for the favor of Allāh upon you and His mercy in this world and the Hereafter, you would have been touched for that [lie] in which you were involved by a great punishment

(15) When you received it with your tongues[980] and said with your mouths that of which you had no knowledge and thought it was insignificant while it was, in the sight of Allāh, tremendous. ——— [980]- Rather than your ears, i.e., not thinking about what you had heard but hastening to repeat it carelessly.

(16) And why, when you heard it, did you not say, "It is not for us to speak of this. Exalted are You, [O Allāh]; this is a great slander"?

(17) Allāh warns you against returning to the likes of this [conduct], ever, if you should be believers.

(18) And Allāh makes clear to you the verses [i.e., His rulings], and Allāh is Knowing and Wise.

(19) Indeed, those who like that immorality[981] should be spread [or publicized] among those who have believed will have a painful punishment in this world and the Hereafter. And Allāh knows[982] and you do not know. ——— [981]- Specifically, unlawful sexual relations. [982]- The hidden aspects of all things: what is beneficial and what is harmful.

(20) And if it had not been for the favor of Allāh upon you and His mercy...[983] and because Allāh is Kind and Merciful. ——— [983]- See footnote to verse 10.

(21) O you who have believed, do not follow the footsteps of Satan. And whoever follows the footsteps of Satan - indeed, he enjoins immorality and wrongdoing. And if not for the favor of Allāh upon you and His mercy, not one of you would have been pure, ever, but Allāh purifies whom He wills, and Allāh is Hearing and Knowing.

(22) And let not those of virtue among you and wealth swear not to give [aid] to their relatives and the needy and the emigrants for the cause of Allāh, and let them pardon and overlook. Would you not like that Allāh should forgive you? And Allāh is Forgiving and Merciful.

(23) Indeed, those who [falsely] accuse chaste, unaware and believing women are cursed in this world and the Hereafter; and they will have a great punishment

(24) On a Day when their tongues, their hands and their feet will bear witness against them as to what they used to do.

(25) That Day, Allāh will pay them in full their true [i.e., deserved] recompense, and they will know that it is Allāh who is the manifest Truth [i.e., perfect in justice].

(26) Evil words are for evil men, and evil men are [subjected] to evil words. And good words are for good men, and good men are [an object] of good words.[984] Those [good people] are declared innocent of what they [i.e., slanderers] say. For them is forgiveness and noble provision. ——— [984]- Another accepted interpretation is "Evil women are for evil men, and evil men are for evil women. And good women are for good men, and good men are for good women."

(27) O you who have believed, do not enter houses other than your own houses until you ascertain welcome and greet[985] their inhabitants. That is best for you; perhaps you will be reminded [i.e., advised]. ——— [985]- By the words "As-salāmu ʿalaykum" ("Peace be upon you").

(28) And if you do not find anyone therein, do not enter them until permission has been given you. And if it is said to you, "Go back,"[986] then go back; it is purer for you. And Allāh is Knowing of what you do. ——— [986]- Or a similar expression showing that the occupants are not prepared to receive visitors (which should be respected).

(29) There is no blame upon you for entering houses not inhabited in which there is convenience[987] for you. And Allāh knows what you reveal and what you conceal. ——— [987]- Some benefit such as rest, shelter, commodities, one's personal belongings, etc.

(30) Tell the believing men to reduce [some] of their vision[988] and guard their private parts.[989] That is purer for them. Indeed, Allāh is [fully] Aware of what they do. ——— [988]- Looking only at what is lawful and averting their eyes from what is unlawful. [989]- From being seen and from unlawful acts.

(31) And tell the believing women to reduce [some] of their vision[990] and guard their private parts and not expose their adornment[991] except that which [necessarily] appears thereof[992] and to wrap [a portion of] their headcovers over their chests and not expose their adornment [i.e., beauty] except to their husbands, their fathers, their husbands' fathers, their sons, their husbands' sons, their brothers, their brothers' sons, their sisters' sons, their women, that which their right hands possess [i.e., slaves], or those male attendants having no physical desire,[993] or children who are not yet aware of the private aspects of women. And let them not stamp their feet to make known what they conceal of their adornment. And turn to Allāh in repentance, all of you, O believers, that you might succeed. ——— [990]- Looking only at what is lawful and averting their eyes from what is unlawful. [991]- Both natural beauty, such as hair or body shape, and that with which a woman beautifies herself of clothing, jewelry, etc. [992]- i.e., the outer garments or whatever might appear out of necessity, such as a part of the face or the hands. [993]- Referring to an abnormal condition in which a man is devoid of sexual feeling.

(32) And marry the unmarried among you and the righteous among your male slaves and female slaves. If they should be poor, Allāh will enrich them from His bounty, and Allāh is all-Encompassing and Knowing.

(33) But let them who find not [the means for] marriage abstain [from sexual relations] until Allāh enriches them from His bounty. And those who seek a contract [for eventual emancipation] from among whom your right hands possess[994] - then make a contract with them if you know there is within them goodness and give them from the wealth of Allāh which He has given you. And do not compel your slave girls to prostitution, if they desire chastity, to seek [thereby] the temporary interests of worldly life. And if someone should compel them, then indeed, Allāh is [to them], after their compulsion, Forgiving and Merciful. ——— [994]- i.e., those slaves who desire to purchase their freedom from their owners for a price agreed upon by both.

(34) And We have certainly sent down to you distinct verses[995] and examples from those who passed on before you and an admonition for those who fear Allāh. ——— [995]- i.e., rulings and ordinances, in particular those in this sūrah.

(35) Allāh is the Light[996] of the heavens and the earth. The example of His light[997] is like a niche within which is a lamp;[998] the lamp is within glass, the glass as if it were a pearly [white] star lit from [the oil of] a blessed olive tree, neither of the east nor of the west, whose oil would almost glow even if untouched by fire. Light upon light. Allāh guides to His light whom He wills. And Allāh presents examples for the people, and Allāh is Knowing of all things. ——— [996]- i.e., the source and bestower of light and enlightenment. [997]- His guidance in the heart of a believing servant. [998]- Literally, "a burning wick," which is the essence of a lamp.

(36) [Such niches are] in houses [i.e., mosques] which Allāh has ordered to be raised and that His name be mentioned [i.e., praised] therein; exalting Him within them in the morning and the evenings[999] ——— [999]- The term used here can refer to either afternoon or evening.

(37) [Are] men whom neither commerce nor sale distracts from the remembrance of Allāh and performance of prayer and giving of zakāh. They fear a Day in which the hearts and eyes will [fearfully] turn about -

(38) That Allāh may reward them [according to] the best of what they did and increase them from His bounty. And Allāh gives provision to whom He wills without account [i.e., limit].

(39) But those who disbelieved - their deeds are like a mirage in a lowland which a thirsty one thinks is water until, when he comes to it, he finds it is nothing but finds Allāh before him, and He will pay him in full his due; and Allāh is swift in account.

(40) Or [they are] like darknesses within an unfathomable sea which is covered by waves, upon which are waves, over which are clouds - darknesses, some of them upon others. When one puts out his hand [therein], he can hardly see it. And he to whom Allāh has not granted light - for him there is no light.

(41) Do you not see that Allāh is exalted by whomever is within the heavens and the earth and [by] the birds with wings spread [in flight]? Each [of them] has known his [means of] prayer and exalting [Him], and Allāh is Knowing of what they do.

(42) And to Allāh belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth, and to Allāh is the destination.

(43) Do you not see that Allāh drives clouds? Then He brings them together; then He makes them into a mass, and you see the rain emerge from within it. And He sends down from the sky, mountains [of clouds] within which is hail, and He strikes with it whom He wills and averts it from whom He wills. The flash of its lightning almost takes away the eyesight.

(44) Allāh alternates the night and the day. Indeed in that is a lesson for those who have vision.

(45) Allāh has created every [living] creature from water. And of them are those that move on their bellies, and of them are those that walk on two legs, and of them are those that walk on four. Allāh creates what He wills. Indeed, Allāh is over all things competent.

(46) We have certainly sent down distinct verses. And Allāh guides whom He wills to a straight path.

(47) But they [i.e., the hypocrites] say, "We have believed in Allāh and in the Messenger, and we obey"; then a party of them turns away after that. And those are not believers.

(48) And when they are called to [the words of] Allāh and His Messenger to judge between them, at once a party of them turns aside [in refusal].

(49) But if the right is theirs, they come to him in prompt obedience.

(50) Is there disease in their hearts? Or have they doubted? Or do they fear that Allāh will be unjust to them, or His Messenger? Rather, it is they who are the wrongdoers [i.e., the unjust].

(51) The only statement of the [true] believers when they are called to Allāh and His Messenger to judge between them is that they say, "We hear and we obey." And those are the successful.

(52) And whoever obeys Allāh and His Messenger and fears Allāh and is conscious of Him - it is those who are the attainers.

(53) And they swear by Allāh their strongest oaths that if you ordered them, they would go forth [in Allāh's cause]. Say, "Do not swear. [Such] obedience is known.[1000] Indeed, Allāh is [fully] Aware of that which you do." ——— [1000]- i.e., the hypocrites' pretense of obedience is known to be a lie.

(54) Say, "Obey Allāh and obey the Messenger; but if you turn away - then upon him is only that [duty] with which he has been charged, and upon you is that with which you have been charged. And if you obey him, you will be [rightly] guided. And there is not upon the Messenger except the [responsibility for] clear notification."

(55) Allāh has promised those who have believed among you and done righteous deeds that He will surely grant them succession [to authority] upon the earth just as He granted it to those before them and that He will surely establish for them [therein] their religion which He has preferred for them and that He will surely substitute for them, after their fear, security, [for] they worship Me, not associating anything with Me. But whoever disbelieves[1001] after that - then those are the defiantly disobedient. ——— [1001]- i.e., denies the favor of Allāh or does not live by His ordinance.

(56) And establish prayer and give zakāh and obey the Messenger - that you may receive mercy.

(57) Never think that the disbelievers are causing failure [to Allāh] upon the earth. Their refuge will be the Fire - and how wretched the destination.

(58) O you who have believed, let those whom your right hands possess and those who have not [yet] reached puberty among you ask permission of you [before entering] at three times: before the dawn prayer and when you put aside your clothing [for rest] at noon and after the night prayer. [These are] three times of privacy[1002] for you. There is no blame upon you nor upon them beyond these [periods], for they continually circulate among you - some of you, among others. Thus does Allāh make clear to you the verses [i.e., His ordinances]; and Allāh is Knowing and Wise. ——— [1002]- Literally, "exposure" or "being uncovered."

(59) And when the children among you reach puberty, let them ask permission [at all times] as those before them have done. Thus does Allāh make clear to you His verses; and Allāh is Knowing and Wise.

(60) And women of post-menstrual age who have no desire for marriage - there is no blame upon them for putting aside their outer garments [but] not displaying adornment. But to modestly refrain [from that] is better for them. And Allāh is Hearing and Knowing.

(61) There is not upon the blind [any] constraint nor upon the lame constraint nor upon the ill constraint nor upon yourselves when you eat from your [own] houses or the houses of your fathers or the houses of your mothers or the houses of your brothers or the houses of your sisters or the houses of your father's brothers or the houses of your father's sisters or the houses of your mother's brothers or the houses of your mother's sisters or [from houses] whose keys you possess or [from the house] of your friend. There is no blame upon you whether you eat together or separately. But when you enter houses, give greetings of peace[1003] upon each other - a greeting from Allāh, blessed and good. Thus does Allāh make clear to you the verses [of ordinance] that you may understand. ——— [1003]- Saying, "As-salāmu ʿalaykum" ("Peace be upon you").

(62) The believers are only those who believe in Allāh and His Messenger and, when they are [meeting] with him for a matter of common interest, do not depart until they have asked his permission. Indeed, those who ask your permission, [O Muḥammad] - those are the ones who believe in Allāh and His Messenger. So when they ask your permission due to something of their affairs, then give permission to whom you will among them and ask forgiveness for them of Allāh. Indeed, Allāh is Forgiving and Merciful.

(63) Do not make [your] calling of the Messenger among yourselves as the call of one of you to another. Already Allāh knows those of you who slip away, concealed by others. So let those beware who dissent from his [i.e., the Prophet's] order,[1004] lest fitnah[1005] strike them or a painful punishment. ——— [1004]- Meaning also his way or his sunnah. [1005]- Trials, affliction, dissension, strife, etc.

(64) Unquestionably, to Allāh belongs whatever is in the heavens and earth. Already He knows that upon which you [stand][1006] and [knows] the Day[1007] when they will be returned to Him and He will inform them of what they have done. And Allāh is Knowing of all things. ——— [1006]- i.e., your position - the basis for your actions (whether sincere faith or hypocrisy) and the condition of your souls. [1007]- The meaning can also be rendered "...and [let them beware of] the Day..."

(1) Blessed is He who sent down the Criterion upon His Servant that he may be to the worlds a warner -

(2) He to whom belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth and who has not taken a son and has not had a partner in dominion and has created each thing and determined it with [precise] determination.

(3) But they have taken besides Him gods which create nothing, while they are created, and possess not for themselves any harm or benefit and possess not [power to cause] death or life or resurrection.

(4) And those who disbelieve say, "This [Qur’ān] is not except a falsehood he invented, and another people assisted him in it." But they have committed an injustice and a lie.

(5) And they say, "Legends of the former peoples which he has written down, and they are dictated to him morning and afternoon."

(6) Say, [O Muḥammad], "It has been revealed by He who knows [every] secret within the heavens and the earth. Indeed, He is ever Forgiving and Merciful."

(7) And they say, "What is this messenger that eats food and walks in the markets? Why was there not sent down to him an angel so he would be with him a warner?

(8) Or [why is not] a treasure presented to him [from heaven], or does he [not] have a garden from which he eats?" And the wrongdoers say, "You follow not but a man affected by magic."

(9) Look how they strike for you comparisons;[1009] but they have strayed, so they cannot [find] a way. ——— [1009]- From their own imaginations in order to deny and discredit you.

(10) Blessed is He who, if He willed, could have made for you [something] better than that - gardens beneath which rivers flow - and could make for you palaces.

(11) But they have denied the Hour, and We have prepared for those who deny the Hour a Blaze.

(12) When it [i.e., the Hellfire] sees them from a distant place, they will hear its fury and roaring.

(13) And when they are thrown into a narrow place therein bound in chains, they will cry out thereupon for destruction.

(14) [They will be told], "Do not cry this Day for one destruction but cry for much destruction."

(15) Say, "Is that better or the Garden of Eternity which is promised to the righteous? It will be for them a reward and destination.

(16) For them therein is whatever they wish, [while] abiding eternally. It is ever upon your Lord a promise [worthy to be] requested.[1010] ——— [1010]- Or "...a promise requested [for them by the angels]."

(17) And [mention] the Day He will gather them and that which they worship besides Allāh and will say, "Did you mislead these, My servants, or did they [themselves] stray from the way?"

(18) They will say, "Exalted are You! It was not for us to take besides You any allies [i.e., protectors]. But You provided comforts for them and their fathers until they forgot the message and became a people ruined."

(19) So they will deny you, [disbelievers], in what you say,[1011] and you cannot avert [punishment] or [find] help. And whoever commits injustice[1012] among you - We will make him taste a great punishment. ——— [1011]- At the time of Judgement the false objects of worship will betray their worshippers and deny them. [1012]- Specifically, association of others with Allāh.

(20) And We did not send before you, [O Muḥammad], any of the messengers except that they ate food and walked in the markets. And We have made some of you [people] as trial for others - will you have patience? And ever is your Lord, Seeing.

(21) And those who do not expect the meeting with Us say, "Why were not angels sent down to us, or [why] do we [not] see our Lord?" They have certainly become arrogant within themselves[1013] and [become] insolent with great insolence. ——— [1013]- Additional meanings are "among themselves" and "over [the matter of] themselves."

(22) The day they see the angels[1014] - no good tidings will there be that day for the criminals, and [the angels] will say, "Prevented and inaccessible."[1015] ——— [1014]- i.e., at the time of death. [1015]- Referring to any good tidings.

(23) And We will approach [i.e., regard][1016] what they have done of deeds and make them as dust dispersed. ——— [1016]- On the Day of Judgement.

(24) The companions of Paradise, that Day, are [in] a better settlement and better resting place.

(25) And [mention] the Day when the heaven will split open with [emerging] clouds,[1017] and the angels will be sent down in successive descent. ——— [1017]- Within which are the angels.

(26) True sovereignty, that Day, is for the Most Merciful. And it will be upon the disbelievers a difficult Day.

(27) And the Day the wrongdoer will bite on his hands [in regret] he will say, "Oh, I wish I had taken with the Messenger a way.[1018] ——— [1018]- i.e., followed the Prophet (ﷺ) on a path of guidance.

(28) Oh, woe to me! I wish I had not taken that one[1019] as a friend. ——— [1019]- The person who misguided him.

(29) He led me away from the remembrance[1020] after it had come to me. And ever is Satan, to man, a deserter."[1021] ——— [1020]- i.e., the Qur’ān or the remembrance of Allāh. [1021]- Forsaking him once he has led him into evil.

(30) And the Messenger has said, "O my Lord, indeed my people have taken this Qur’ān as [a thing] abandoned."[1022] ——— [1022]- i.e., avoiding it, not listening to or understanding it, not living by it, or preferring something else to it.

(31) And thus have We made for every prophet an enemy from among the criminals. But sufficient is your Lord as a guide and a helper.

(32) And those who disbelieve say, "Why was the Qur’ān not revealed to him all at once?" Thus [it is] that We may strengthen thereby your heart. And We have spaced it distinctly.[1023] ——— [1023]- Also, "recited it with distinct recitation."

(33) And they do not come to you with an example [i.e., argument] except that We bring you the truth and the best explanation.

(34) The ones who are gathered on their faces to Hell - those are the worst in position and farthest astray in [their] way.

(35) And We had certainly given Moses the Scripture and appointed with him his brother Aaron as an assistant.

(36) And We said, "Go both of you to the people who have denied Our signs." Then We destroyed them with [complete] destruction.

(37) And the people of Noah - when they denied the messengers,[1024] We drowned them, and We made them for mankind a sign. And We have prepared for the wrongdoers a painful punishment. ——— [1024]- Their denial of Noah was as if they had denied all those who brought the same message from Allāh.

(38) And [We destroyed] ʿAad and Thamūd and the companions of the well[1025] and many generations between them. ——— [1025]- Said to be a people who denied Prophet Shuʿayb or possibly those mentioned in Sūrah Yā Seen, 36:13-29.

(39) And for each We presented examples [as warnings], and each We destroyed with [total] destruction.

(40) And they have already come upon the town which was showered with a rain of evil [i.e., stones]. So have they not seen it? But they are not expecting resurrection.[1026] ——— [1026]- So they do not benefit from lessons of the past.

(41) And when they see you, [O Muḥammad], they take you not except in ridicule, [saying], "Is this the one whom Allāh has sent as a messenger?

(42) He almost would have misled us from our gods had we not been steadfast in [worship of] them." But they are going to know, when they see the punishment, who is farthest astray in [his] way.

(43) Have you seen the one who takes as his god his own desire? Then would you be responsible for him?

(44) Or do you think that most of them hear or reason? They are not except like livestock.[1027] Rather, they are [even] more astray in [their] way. ——— [1027]- i.e., cattle or sheep, that follow without question wherever they are led.

(45) Have you not considered your Lord - how He extends the shadow, and if He willed, He could have made it stationary? Then We made the sun for it an indication.[1028] ——— [1028]- i.e., showing the existence of a shadow or making it apparent by contrast.

(46) Then We [retract and] hold it with Us for a brief grasp.[1029] ——— [1029]- i.e., when the sun is overhead at noon.

(47) And it is He who has made the night for you as clothing[1030] and sleep [a means for] rest and has made the day a resurrection.[1031] ——— [1030]- Covering you in darkness and providing rest. [1031]- For renewal of life and activity.

(48) And it is He who sends the winds as good tidings before His mercy [i.e., rainfall], and We send down from the sky pure water

(49) That We may bring to life thereby a dead land and give it as drink to those We created of numerous livestock and men.

(50) And We have certainly distributed it among them that they might be reminded,[1032] but most of the people refuse except disbelief. ——— [1032]- Of Allāh's ability to bring the dead to life.

(51) And if We had willed, We could have sent into every city a warner.[1033] ——— [1033]- However, Allāh willed that Prophet Muḥammad (ﷺ) be sent as the final messenger for all peoples of the earth until the Day of Resurrection.

(52) So do not obey the disbelievers, and strive against them with it [i.e., the Qur’ān] a great striving.

(53) And it is He who has released [simultaneously] the two seas [i.e., bodies of water], one fresh and sweet and one salty and bitter, and He placed between them a barrier and prohibiting partition.

(54) And it is He who has created from water [i.e., semen] a human being and made him [a relative by] lineage and marriage. And ever is your Lord competent [concerning creation].

(55) But they worship rather than Allāh that which does not benefit them or harm them, and the disbeliever is ever, against his Lord, an assistant [to Satan].

(56) And We have not sent you, [O Muḥammad], except as a bringer of good tidings and a warner.

(57) Say, "I do not ask of you for it any payment - only that whoever wills might take to his Lord a way."

(58) And rely upon the Ever-Living who does not die, and exalt [Allāh] with His praise. And sufficient is He to be, with the sins of His servants, [fully] Aware -

(59) He who created the heavens and the earth and what is between them in six days and then established Himself above the Throne[1034] - the Most Merciful, so ask about Him one well informed [i.e., the Prophet (ﷺ)]. ——— [1034]- See footnotes to 2:19 and 7:54.

(60) And when it is said to them, "Prostrate to the Most Merciful," they say, "And what is the Most Merciful? Should we prostrate to that which you order us?" And it increases them in aversion.

(61) Blessed is He who has placed in the sky great stars and placed therein a [burning] lamp and luminous moon.

(62) And it is He who has made the night and the day in succession for whoever desires to remember or desires gratitude.

(63) And the servants of the Most Merciful are those who walk upon the earth easily,[1035] and when the ignorant address them [harshly], they say [words of] peace,[1036] ——— [1035]- i.e., gently, with dignity but without arrogance. [1036]- Or "safety," i.e., words free from fault or evil.

(64) And those who spend [part of] the night to their Lord prostrating and standing [in prayer]

(65) And those who say, "Our Lord, avert from us the punishment of Hell. Indeed, its punishment is ever adhering;

(66) Indeed, it is evil as a settlement and residence."

(67) And [they are] those who, when they spend, do so not excessively or sparingly but are ever, between that, [justly] moderate

(68) And those who do not invoke[1037] with Allāh another deity or kill the soul which Allāh has forbidden [to be killed], except by right, and do not commit unlawful sexual intercourse. And whoever should do that will meet a penalty. ——— [1037]- Or "worship."

(69) Multiplied for him is the punishment on the Day of Resurrection, and he will abide therein humiliated -

(70) Except for those who repent, believe and do righteous work. For them Allāh will replace their evil deeds with good. And ever is Allāh Forgiving and Merciful.

(71) And he who repents and does righteousness does indeed turn to Allāh with [accepted] repentance.

(72) And [they are] those who do not testify to falsehood, and when they pass near ill speech, they pass by with dignity.

(73) And those who, when reminded of the verses of their Lord, do not fall upon them deaf and blind.

(74) And those who say, "Our Lord, grant us from among our wives and offspring comfort to our eyes[1038] and make us a leader [i.e., example] for the righteous." ——— [1038]- i.e., a source of happiness due to their righteousness.

(75) Those will be awarded the Chamber[1039] for what they patiently endured, and they will be received therein with greetings and [words of] peace, ——— [1039]- The most elevated portion of Paradise.

(76) Abiding eternally therein. Good is the settlement and residence.

(77) Say, "What would my Lord care for you if not for your supplication?"[1040] For you [disbelievers] have denied, so it [i.e., your denial] is going to be adherent.[1041] ——— [1040]- i.e., faith and worship. An alternative meaning is "What would my Lord do with you..." [1041]- It will remain with them, causing punishment to be required and imperative upon them.

(1) Ṭā, Seen, Meem.[1043] ——— [1043]- See footnote to 2:1.

(2) These are the verses of the clear Book.

(3) Perhaps, [O Muḥammad], you would kill yourself with grief that they will not be believers.

(4) If We willed, We could send down to them from the sky a sign for which their necks would remain humbled.[1044] ——— [1044]- i.e., they would be compelled to believe.

(5) And no mention [i.e., revelation] comes to them anew from the Most Merciful except that they turn away from it.

(6) For they have already denied, but there will come to them the news of that which they used to ridicule.

(7) Did they not look at the earth - how much We have produced therein from every noble kind?

(8) Indeed in that is a sign, but most of them were not to be believers.

(9) And indeed, your Lord - He is the Exalted in Might, the Merciful.

(10) And [mention] when your Lord called Moses, [saying], "Go to the wrongdoing people -

(11) The people of Pharaoh. Will they not fear Allāh?"

(12) He said, "My Lord, indeed I fear that they will deny me

(13) And that my breast will tighten and my tongue will not be fluent, so send for Aaron.

(14) And they have upon me a [claim due to] sin, so I fear that they will kill me."

(15) [Allāh] said, "No. Go both of you with Our signs; indeed, We are with you, listening.

(16) Go to Pharaoh and say, 'We are the messengers[1045] of the Lord of the worlds, ——— [1045]- The singular form in Arabic indicates that both were sent with a single message.

(17) [Commanded to say], "Send with us the Children of Israel."'"

(18) [Pharaoh] said, "Did we not raise you among us as a child, and you remained among us for years of your life?

(19) And [then] you did your deed which you did,[1046] and you were of the ungrateful." ——— [1046]- i.e., striking the Copt, who died as a result.

(20) [Moses] said, "I did it, then, while I was of those astray [i.e., ignorant].

(21) So I fled from you when I feared you. Then my Lord granted me judgement [i.e., wisdom and prophethood] and appointed me [as one] of the messengers.

(22) And is this a favor of which you remind me - that you have enslaved the Children of Israel?"

(23) Said Pharaoh, "And what is the Lord of the worlds?"

(24) [Moses] said, "The Lord of the heavens and earth and that between them, if you should be convinced."

(25) [Pharaoh] said to those around him, "Do you not hear?"

(26) [Moses] said, "Your Lord and the Lord of your first forefathers."

(27) [Pharaoh] said,[1047] "Indeed, your 'messenger' who has been sent to you is mad." ——— [1047]- Angrily addressing those present.

(28) [Moses] said, "Lord of the east and the west and that between them, if you were to reason."

(29) [Pharaoh] said, "If you take a god other than me, I will surely place you among those imprisoned."

(30) [Moses] said, "Even if I brought you something [i.e., proof] manifest?"

(31) [Pharaoh] said, "Then bring it, if you should be of the truthful."

(32) So [Moses] threw his staff, and suddenly it was a serpent manifest.[1048] ——— [1048]- i.e., clearly genuine.

(33) And he drew out his hand; thereupon it was white for the observers.

(34) [Pharaoh] said to the eminent ones around him, "Indeed, this is a learned magician.

(35) He wants to drive you out of your land by his magic, so what do you advise?"

(36) They said, "Postpone [the matter of] him and his brother and send among the cities gatherers

(37) Who will bring you every learned, skilled magician."

(38) So the magicians were assembled for the appointment of a well-known day.[1049] ——— [1049]- i.e., the morning of the day of festival. See 20:58-59.

(39) And it was said to the people, "Will you congregate

(40) That we might follow the magicians if they are the predominant?"

(41) And when the magicians arrived, they said to Pharaoh, "Is there indeed for us a reward if we are the predominant?"

(42) He said, "Yes, and indeed, you will then be of those near [to me]."

(43) Moses said to them, "Throw whatever you will throw."

(44) So they threw their ropes and their staffs and said, "By the might of Pharaoh, indeed it is we who are predominant."

(45) Then Moses threw his staff, and at once it devoured what they falsified.

(46) So the magicians fell down in prostration [to Allāh].

(47) They said, "We have believed in the Lord of the worlds,

(48) The Lord of Moses and Aaron."

(49) [Pharaoh] said, "You believed him [i.e., Moses] before I gave you permission. Indeed, he is your leader who has taught you magic, but you are going to know. I will surely cut off your hands and your feet on opposite sides, and I will surely crucify you all."

(50) They said, "No harm. Indeed, to our Lord we will return.

(51) Indeed, we aspire that our Lord will forgive us our sins because we were the first of the believers."

(52) And We inspired to Moses, "Travel by night with My servants; indeed, you will be pursued."

(53) Then Pharaoh sent among the cities gatherers[1050] ——— [1050]- Recruiters of an army to prevent the emigration of the Children of Israel.

(54) [And said], "Indeed, those are but a small band,

(55) And indeed, they are enraging us,

(56) And indeed, we are a cautious society..."

(57) So We removed them from gardens and springs

(58) And treasures and honorable station[1051] - ——— [1051]- Allāh (subḥānahu wa taʿālā) caused them to abandon their wealth and property in pursuit of the Israelites.

(59) Thus. And We caused to inherit it the Children of Israel.

(60) So they pursued them at sunrise.

(61) And when the two companies saw one another, the companions of Moses said, "Indeed, we are to be overtaken!"

(62) [Moses] said, "No! Indeed, with me is my Lord; He will guide me."

(63) Then We inspired to Moses, "Strike with your staff the sea," and it parted, and each portion was like a great towering mountain.

(64) And We advanced thereto the others [i.e., the pursuers].

(65) And We saved Moses and those with him, all together.

(66) Then We drowned the others.

(67) Indeed in that is a sign, but most of them were not to be believers.

(68) And indeed, your Lord - He is the Exalted in Might, the Merciful.

(69) And recite to them the news of Abraham,

(70) When he said to his father and his people, "What do you worship?"

(71) They said, "We worship idols and remain to them devoted."

(72) He said, "Do they hear you when you supplicate?

(73) Or do they benefit you, or do they harm?"

(74) They said, "But we found our fathers doing thus."

(75) He said, "Then do you see what you have been worshipping,

(76) You and your ancient forefathers?

(77) Indeed, they are enemies to me, except the Lord of the worlds,[1052] ——— [1052]- The people worshipped idols in addition to Allāh.

(78) Who created me, and He [it is who] guides me.

(79) And it is He who feeds me and gives me drink.

(80) And when I am ill, it is He who cures me

(81) And who will cause me to die and then bring me to life

(82) And who I aspire that He will forgive me my sin on the Day of Recompense."

(83) [And he said], "My Lord, grant me authority and join me with the righteous.

(84) And grant me a mention [i.e., reputation] of honor among later generations.

(85) And place me among the inheritors of the Garden of Pleasure.

(86) And forgive my father. Indeed, he has been of those astray.

(87) And do not disgrace me on the Day they are [all] resurrected -

(88) The Day when there will not benefit [anyone] wealth or children

(89) But only one who comes to Allāh with a sound heart."

(90) And Paradise will be brought near [that Day] to the righteous.

(91) And Hellfire will be brought forth for the deviators,

(92) And it will be said to them, "Where are those you used to worship

(93) Other than Allāh? Can they help you or help themselves?"

(94) So they will be overturned into it [i.e., Hellfire], they and the deviators

(95) And the soldiers of Iblees, all together.

(96) They will say while they dispute therein,

(97) "By Allāh, we were indeed in manifest error

(98) When we equated you with the Lord of the worlds.

(99) And no one misguided us except the criminals.

(100) So now we have no intercessors

(101) And not a devoted friend.

(102) Then if we only had a return [to the world] and could be of the believers..."[1053] ——— [1053]- The conclusion of this verse is estimated as "...we would do this or that."

(103) Indeed in that is a sign, but most of them were not to be believers.

(104) And indeed, your Lord - He is the Exalted in Might, the Merciful.

(105) The people of Noah denied the messengers[1054] ——— [1054]- See footnote to 25:37.

(106) When their brother Noah said to them, "Will you not fear Allāh?

(107) Indeed, I am to you a trustworthy messenger.

(108) So fear Allāh and obey me.

(109) And I do not ask you for it any payment. My payment is only from the Lord of the worlds.

(110) So fear Allāh and obey me."

(111) They said, "Should we believe you while you are followed by the lowest [class of people]?"

(112) He said, "And what is my knowledge of what they used to do?

(113) Their account is only upon my Lord, if you [could] perceive.

(114) And I am not one to drive away the believers.

(115) I am only a clear warner."

(116) They said, "If you do not desist, O Noah, you will surely be of those who are stoned."

(117) He said, "My Lord, indeed my people have denied me.

(118) Then judge between me and them with decisive judgement and save me and those with me of the believers."

(119) So We saved him and those with him in the laden ship.

(120) Then We drowned thereafter the remaining ones.

(121) Indeed in that is a sign, but most of them were not to be believers.

(122) And indeed, your Lord - He is the Exalted in Might, the Merciful.

(123) ʿAad denied the messengers

(124) When their brother Hūd said to them, "Will you not fear Allāh?

(125) Indeed, I am to you a trustworthy messenger.

(126) So fear Allāh and obey me.

(127) And I do not ask you for it any payment. My payment is only from the Lord of the worlds.

(128) Do you construct on every elevation a sign,[1055] amusing yourselves, ——— [1055]- i.e., a symbol or indication of their wealth and power. They used to build lofty structures along the road to be seen by all who passed by.

(129) And take for yourselves constructions [i.e., palaces and fortresses] that you might abide eternally?

(130) And when you strike, you strike as tyrants.

(131) So fear Allāh and obey me.

(132) And fear He who provided you with that which you know,

(133) Provided you with grazing livestock and children

(134) And gardens and springs.

(135) Indeed, I fear for you the punishment of a terrible day."

(136) They said, "It is all the same to us whether you advise or are not of the advisors.

(137) This is not but the custom of the former peoples,

(138) And we are not to be punished."

(139) And they denied him, so We destroyed them. Indeed in that is a sign, but most of them were not to be believers.

(140) And indeed, your Lord - He is the Exalted in Might, the Merciful.

(141) Thamūd denied the messengers

(142) When their brother Ṣāliḥ said to them, "Will you not fear Allāh?

(143) Indeed, I am to you a trustworthy messenger.

(144) So fear Allāh and obey me.

(145) And I do not ask you for it any payment. My payment is only from the Lord of the worlds.

(146) Will you be left in what is here, secure [from death],

(147) Within gardens and springs

(148) And fields of crops and palm trees with softened fruit?

(149) And you carve out of the mountains, homes, with skill.

(150) So fear Allāh and obey me.

(151) And do not obey the order of the transgressors,

(152) Who cause corruption in the land and do not amend."

(153) They said, "You are only of those affected by magic.

(154) You are but a man like ourselves, so bring a sign, if you should be of the truthful."

(155) He said, "This is a she-camel.[1056] For her is a [time of] drink, and for you is a [time of] drink, [each] on a known day. ——— [1056]- Miraculously sent to them as a sign by Allāh.

(156) And do not touch her with harm, lest you be seized by the punishment of a terrible day."

(157) But they hamstrung her and so became regretful.

(158) And the punishment seized them. Indeed in that is a sign, but most of them were not to be believers.

(159) And indeed, your Lord - He is the Exalted in Might, the Merciful.

(160) The people of Lot denied the messengers

(161) When their brother Lot said to them, "Will you not fear Allāh?

(162) Indeed, I am to you a trustworthy messenger.

(163) So fear Allāh and obey me.

(164) And I do not ask you for it any payment. My payment is only from the Lord of the worlds.

(165) Do you approach males among the worlds[1057] ——— [1057]- i.e., Are there, out of all Allāh's creatures, any besides you who commit this unnatural act?

(166) And leave what your Lord has created for you as mates? But you are a people transgressing."

(167) They said, "If you do not desist, O Lot, you will surely be of those evicted."

(168) He said, "Indeed, I am, toward your deed, of those who detest [it].

(169) My Lord, save me and my family from [the consequence of] what they do."

(170) So We saved him and his family, all,

(171) Except an old woman[1058] among those who remained behind. ——— [1058]- Lot's wife, who had collaborated with the evildoers.

(172) Then We destroyed the others.

(173) And We rained upon them a rain [of stones], and evil was the rain of those who were warned.

(174) Indeed in that is a sign, but most of them were not to be believers.

(175) And indeed, your Lord - He is the Exalted in Might, the Merciful.

(176) The companions of the thicket [i.e., the people of Madyan] denied the messengers

(177) When Shuʿayb said to them, "Will you not fear Allāh?

(178) Indeed, I am to you a trustworthy messenger.

(179) So fear Allāh and obey me.

(180) And I do not ask you for it any payment. My payment is only from the Lord of the worlds.

(181) Give full measure and do not be of those who cause loss.

(182) And weigh with an even [i.e., honest] balance.

(183) And do not deprive people of their due and do not commit abuse on earth, spreading corruption.

(184) And fear He who created you and the former creation."[1059] ——— [1059]- i.e., previous generations.

(185) They said, "You are only of those affected by magic.

(186) You are but a man like ourselves, and indeed, we think you are among the liars.

(187) So cause to fall upon us fragments of the sky, if you should be of the truthful."

(188) He said, "My Lord is most knowing of what you do."

(189) And they denied him, so the punishment of the day of the black cloud seized them. Indeed, it was the punishment of a terrible day.

(190) Indeed in that is a sign, but most of them were not to be believers.

(191) And indeed, your Lord - He is the Exalted in Might, the Merciful.

(192) And indeed, it [i.e., the Qur’ān] is the revelation of the Lord of the worlds.

(193) The Trustworthy Spirit [i.e., Gabriel] has brought it down

(194) Upon your heart, [O Muḥammad] - that you may be of the warners

(195) In a clear Arabic language.

(196) And indeed, it is [mentioned] in the scriptures of former peoples.

(197) And has it not been a sign to them that it is recognized by the scholars of the Children of Israel?

(198) And even if We had revealed it to one among the foreigners[1060] ——— [1060]- i.e., the non-Arabs or those who are not fluent in the Arabic language.

(199) And he had recited it to them [perfectly],[1061] they would [still] not have been believers in it. ——— [1061]- As a miracle from Allāh.

(200) Thus have We inserted it [i.e., disbelief] into the hearts of the criminals.

(201) They will not believe in it until they see the painful punishment.

(202) And it will come to them suddenly while they perceive [it] not.

(203) And they will say, "May we be reprieved?"

(204) So for Our punishment are they impatient?

(205) Then have you considered if We gave them enjoyment for years

(206) And then there came to them that which they were promised?

(207) They would not be availed by the enjoyment with which they were provided.

(208) And We did not destroy any city except that it had warners

(209) As a reminder; and never have We been unjust.

(210) And the devils have not brought it [i.e., the revelation] down.[1062] ——— [1062]- As was asserted by the disbelievers. Rather, it was brought by Gabriel, the Trustworthy Spirit.

(211) It is not allowable for them, nor would they be able.

(212) Indeed they, from [its] hearing, are removed.[1063] ——— [1063]- As mentioned in 72:9.

(213) So do not invoke[1064] with Allāh another deity and [thus] be among the punished. ——— [1064]- Or "worship."

(214) And warn, [O Muḥammad], your closest kindred.

(215) And lower your wing [i.e., show kindness] to those who follow you of the believers.

(216) And if they disobey you, then say, "Indeed, I am disassociated from what you are doing."

(217) And rely upon the Exalted in Might, the Merciful,

(218) Who sees you when you arise[1065] ——— [1065]- From your bed at night for prayer while you are alone.

(219) And your movement among those who prostrate.[1066] ——— [1066]- i.e., among those who pray with you in congregation.

(220) Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Knowing.

(221) Shall I inform you upon whom the devils descend?

(222) They descend upon every sinful liar.

(223) They pass on what is heard,[1067] and most of them are liars. ——— [1067]- This was before they were prevented, as described in 72:8-9.

(224) And the poets - [only] the deviators follow them.

(225) Do you not see that in every valley they roam[1068] ——— [1068]- Speaking lies indiscriminately and praising and disparaging others according to whim.

(226) And that they say what they do not do? -

(227) Except those [poets] who believe and do righteous deeds and remember Allāh often and defend [the Muslims][1069] after they were wronged. And those who have wronged are going to know to what [kind of] return they will be returned. ——— [1069]- By replying through poetry to the attacks of hostile poets.