İngilizce Meal — Noor International Center — Al-Haqqah 69:1 – An-Nas 114:6

(1) The Inevitable Reality -

(2) What is the Inevitable Reality?

(3) And what can make you know what is the Inevitable Reality?

(4) Thamūd and ʿAad denied the Striking Calamity [i.e., the Resurrection].

(5) So as for Thamūd, they were destroyed by the overpowering [blast].

(6) And as for ʿAad, they were destroyed by a screaming,[1737] violent wind ——— [1737]- Or "cold."

(7) Which He [i.e., Allāh] imposed upon them for seven nights and eight days in succession, so you would see the people therein fallen as if they were hollow trunks of palm trees.

(8) Then do you see of them any remains?

(9) And there came Pharaoh and those before him and the overturned cities[1738] with sin. ——— [1738]- Those to which Lot was sent (see 11:82-83) or generally, all cities which were destroyed due to their denial of a messenger from Allāh.

(10) And they disobeyed the messenger of their Lord, so He seized them with a seizure exceeding [in severity].

(11) Indeed, when the water overflowed, We carried you [i.e., your ancestors] in the sailing ship[1739] ——— [1739]- Which was constructed by Noah.

(12) That We might make it for you a reminder and [that] a conscious ear would be conscious of it.

(13) Then when the Horn is blown with one blast

(14) And the earth and the mountains are lifted and leveled with one blow [i.e., stroke] -

(15) Then on that Day, the Occurrence [i.e., Resurrection] will occur,

(16) And the heaven will split [open], for that Day it is infirm.[1740] ——— [1740]- i.e., weak, enfeebled and unstable.

(17) And the angels are at its edges. And there will bear the Throne of your Lord above them, that Day, eight [of them].

(18) That Day, you will be exhibited [for judgement]; not hidden among you is anything concealed.[1741] ——— [1741]- i.e., any person or any secret you might attempt to conceal.

(19) So as for he who is given his record in his right hand, he will say, "Here, read my record!

(20) Indeed, I was certain that I would be meeting my account."

(21) So he will be in a pleasant life -

(22) In an elevated garden,

(23) Its [fruit] to be picked hanging near.

(24) [They will be told], "Eat and drink in satisfaction for what you put forth[1742] in the days past." ——— [1742]- Literally, "advanced" in anticipation of reward in the Hereafter.

(25) But as for he who is given his record in his left hand, he will say, "Oh, I wish I had not been given my record

(26) And had not known what is my account.

(27) I wish it [i.e., my death] had been the decisive one.[1743] ——— [1743]- i.e., ending life rather than being the gateway to eternal life.

(28) My wealth has not availed me.

(29) Gone from me is my authority."[1744] ——— [1744]- i.e., I have no valid excuse to stand on.

(30) [Allāh will say], "Seize him and shackle him.

(31) Then into Hellfire drive him.

(32) Then into a chain whose length is seventy cubits insert him."

(33) Indeed, he did not used to believe in Allāh, the Most Great,

(34) Nor did he encourage the feeding of the poor.

(35) So there is not for him here this Day any devoted friend

(36) Nor any food except from the discharge of wounds;

(37) None will eat it except the sinners.

(38) So I swear by what you see

(39) And what you do not see

(40) [That] indeed, it [i.e., the Qur’ān] is the word of a noble Messenger.

(41) And it is not the word of a poet; little do you believe.

(42) Nor the word of a soothsayer; little do you remember.

(43) [It is] a revelation from the Lord of the worlds.

(44) And if he [i.e., Muḥammad] had made up about Us some [false] sayings,

(45) We would have seized him by the right hand;[1745] ——— [1745]- Another interpretation is "by [Our] right hand," i.e., Allāh would have exacted revenge with might and power.

(46) Then We would have cut from him the aorta.[1746] ——— [1746]- Causing immediate death.

(47) And there is no one of you who could prevent [Us] from him.

(48) And indeed, it [i.e., the Qur’ān] is a reminder for the righteous.

(49) And indeed, We know that among you are deniers.

(50) And indeed, it will be [a cause of] regret upon the disbelievers.

(51) And indeed, it is the truth of certainty.

(52) So exalt the name of your Lord, the Most Great.

(1) A supplicant asked for a punishment bound to happen[1748] ——— [1748]- In the Hereafter. Disbelievers had challenged the Prophet (ﷺ) by invoking Allāh to bring on His punishment. See 8:32.

(2) To the disbelievers; of it there is no preventer.

(3) [It is] from Allāh, owner of the ways of ascent.

(4) The angels and the Spirit [i.e., Gabriel] will ascend to Him during a Day the extent of which is fifty thousand years.

(5) So be patient with gracious patience.

(6) Indeed, they see it [as] distant,

(7) But We see it [as] near.

(8) On the Day the sky will be like murky oil,[1749] ——— [1749]- Or "molten metal."

(9) And the mountains will be like wool,[1750] ——— [1750]- i.e., in the process of disintegration.

(10) And no friend will ask [anything of] a friend,

(11) They will be shown each other. The criminal will wish that he could be ransomed from the punishment of that Day by his children

(12) And his wife and his brother

(13) And his nearest kindred who shelter him

(14) And whoever is on earth entirely [so] then it could save him.

(15) No![1751] Indeed, it is the Flame [of Hell], ——— [1751]- An emphatic refusal meaning "It is not to be."

(16) A remover of exteriors.[1752] ——— [1752]- This refers to the skin of the head or of the body or to the body extremities - which will be burned away.

(17) It invites he who turned his back [on truth] and went away [from obedience]

(18) And collected [wealth] and hoarded.

(19) Indeed, mankind was created anxious:

(20) When evil touches him, impatient,

(21) And when good touches him, withholding [of it],

(22) Except the observers of prayer -

(23) Those who are constant in their prayer

(24) And those within whose wealth is a known right[1753] ——— [1753]- i.e., a specified share, meaning the obligatory zakāh.

(25) For the petitioner and the deprived -

(26) And those who believe in the Day of Recompense

(27) And those who are fearful of the punishment of their Lord -

(28) Indeed, the punishment of their Lord is not that from which one is safe -

(29) And those who guard their private parts

(30) Except from their wives or those their right hands possess,[1754] for indeed, they are not to be blamed - ——— [1754]- i.e., female slaves.

(31) But whoever seeks beyond that, then they are the transgressors -

(32) And those who are to their trusts and promises attentive

(33) And those who are in their testimonies upright

(34) And those who [carefully] maintain their prayer:

(35) They will be in gardens,[1755] honored. ——— [1755]- In Paradise.

(36) So what is [the matter] with those who disbelieve, hastening [from] before you, [O Muḥammad],

(37) [To sit] on [your] right and [your] left in separate groups?[1756] ——— [1756]- They sat at a distance in order to oppose and mock the Prophet (ﷺ), claiming that they would enter Paradise before the believers.

(38) Does every person among them aspire to enter a garden of pleasure?

(39) No! Indeed, We have created them from that which they know.[1757] ——— [1757]- i.e., a liquid disdained. So how can they expect to enter Paradise except by the will of their Creator?

(40) So I swear by the Lord of [all] risings and settings[1758] that indeed We are able ——— [1758]- i.e., Allāh (subḥānahu wa taʿālā), who determines the point at which the sun, moon and stars rise and set according to season and every position of observation.

(41) To replace them with better than them; and We are not to be outdone.

(42) So leave them to converse vainly and amuse themselves until they meet their Day which they are promised -

(43) The Day they will emerge from the graves rapidly as if they were, toward an erected idol, hastening.[1759] ——— [1759]- i.e., just as they used to race, whenever an idol was newly appointed, to be the first of its worshippers.

(44) Their eyes humbled, humiliation will cover them. That is the Day which they had been promised.

(1) Indeed, We sent Noah to his people, [saying], "Warn your people before there comes to them a painful punishment."

(2) He said, "O my people, indeed I am to you a clear warner -

(3) To worship Allāh, fear Him and obey me.

(4) He [i.e., Allāh] will forgive you of your sins and delay you for a specified term. Indeed, the time [set by] Allāh, when it comes, will not be delayed, if you only knew."

(5) He said, "My Lord, indeed I invited my people [to truth] night and day.

(6) But my invitation increased them not except in flight [i.e., aversion].

(7) And indeed, every time I invited them that You may forgive them, they put their fingers in their ears, covered themselves with their garments,[1761] persisted, and were arrogant with [great] arrogance. ——— [1761]- Refusing to look or listen.

(8) Then I invited them publicly.

(9) Then I announced to them and [also] confided to them secretly

(10) And said, 'Ask forgiveness of your Lord. Indeed, He is ever a Perpetual Forgiver.

(11) He will send [rain from] the sky upon you in [continuing] showers

(12) And give you increase in wealth and children and provide for you gardens and provide for you rivers.

(13) What is [the matter] with you that you do not attribute to Allāh [due] grandeur

(14) While He has created you in stages?[1762] ——— [1762]- i.e., in various progressive states and conditions. See also 22:5 and 23:12-14 in reference to development of the embryo.

(15) Do you not consider how Allāh has created seven heavens in layers[1763] ——— [1763]- See footnote to 67:3.

(16) And made the moon therein a [reflected] light and made the sun a burning lamp?

(17) And Allāh has caused you to grow from the earth a [progressive] growth.

(18) Then He will return you into it and extract you [another] extraction.

(19) And Allāh has made for you the earth an expanse

(20) That you may follow therein roads of passage.'"

(21) Noah said, "My Lord, indeed they have disobeyed me and followed him whose wealth and children will not increase him except in loss.

(22) And they conspired an immense conspiracy

(23) And said, 'Never leave your gods and never leave Wadd or Suwāʿ or Yaghūth and Yaʿūq and Nasr.'[1764] ——— [1764]- These were the names of specific idols named after pious men of earlier generations.

(24) And already they have misled many. And, [my Lord], do not increase the wrongdoers except in error."

(25) Because of their sins they were drowned and put into the Fire, and they found not for themselves besides Allāh [any] helpers.

(26) And Noah said, "My Lord, do not leave upon the earth from among the disbelievers an inhabitant.

(27) Indeed, if You leave them, they will mislead Your servants and not beget except [every] wicked one and [confirmed] disbeliever.

(28) My Lord, forgive me and my parents and whoever enters my house a believer and the believing men and believing women. And do not increase the wrongdoers except in destruction."

(1) Say, [O Muḥammad], "It has been revealed to me that a group of the jinn listened and said, 'Indeed, we have heard an amazing Qur’ān [i.e., recitation].

(2) It guides to the right course, and we have believed in it. And we will never associate with our Lord anyone.

(3) And [it teaches] that exalted is the nobleness of our Lord; He has not taken a wife or a son

(4) And that our foolish one [i.e., Iblees][1766] has been saying about Allāh an excessive transgression. ——— [1766]- A plural form may also be understood, i.e., "the foolish ones among us."

(5) And we had thought that mankind and the jinn would never speak about Allāh a lie.

(6) And there were men from mankind who sought refuge in men from the jinn, so they [only] increased them in burden [i.e., sin].

(7) And they had thought, as you thought, that Allāh would never send anyone [as a messenger].

(8) And we have sought [to reach] the heaven but found it filled with powerful guards and burning flames.

(9) And we used to sit therein in positions for hearing,[1767] but whoever listens now will find a burning flame lying in wait for him. ——— [1767]- Before the prophethood of Muḥammad (ﷺ) the jinn used to collect information by eavesdropping on the angels and then pass it on to fortunetellers and soothsayers.

(10) And we do not know [therefore] whether evil is intended for those on earth or whether their Lord intends for them a right course.

(11) And among us are the righteous, and among us are [others] not so; we were [of] divided ways.[1768] ——— [1768]- In opinion, belief and religious practice.

(12) And we have become certain that we will never cause failure to Allāh upon earth, nor can we escape Him by flight.

(13) And when we heard the guidance [i.e., the Qur’ān], we believed in it. And whoever believes in his Lord will not fear deprivation or burden.[1769] ——— [1769]- In regard to his account in the Hereafter. Nothing of his good will be diminished, nor will the evil of another be placed upon him.

(14) And among us are Muslims [in submission to Allāh], and among us are the unjust.[1770] And whoever has become Muslim - those have sought out the right course. ——— [1770]- i.e., those who deviate from the truth and act tyrannically.

(15) But as for the unjust, they will be, for Hell, firewood.'

(16) And [Allāh revealed] that if they had remained straight on the way, We would have given them abundant rain [i.e., provision]

(17) So We might test them therein. And whoever turns away from the remembrance of his Lord[1771] He will put into arduous punishment. ——— [1771]- i.e., refuses obedience to Him.

(18) And [He revealed] that the masjids[1772] are for Allāh, so do not invoke[1773] with Allāh anyone. ——— [1772]- The term "masjid" here includes every place of worship or the earth in general. [1773]- Or "worship."

(19) And that when the Servant [i.e., Prophet] of Allāh stood up supplicating Him, they almost became about him a compacted mass."[1774] ——— [1774]- Crowding on top of each other in the manner of locusts in order to hear him (ﷺ). "They" may refer to the jinn or to the disbelievers among the Arabs.

(20) Say, [O Muḥammad], "I only invoke my Lord and do not associate with Him anyone."

(21) Say, "Indeed, I do not possess for you [the power of] harm or right direction."

(22) Say, "Indeed, there will never protect me from Allāh anyone [if I should disobey], nor will I find in other than Him a refuge.

(23) But [I have for you] only notification from Allāh, and His messages." And whoever disobeys Allāh and His Messenger - then indeed, for him is the fire of Hell; they will abide therein forever.

(24) [The disbelievers continue] until, when they see that which they are promised, then they will know who is weaker in helpers and less in number.

(25) Say, "I do not know if what you are promised is near or if my Lord will grant for it a [long] period."

(26) [He is] Knower of the unseen, and He does not disclose His [knowledge of the] unseen to anyone

(27) Except whom He has approved of messengers, and indeed, He sends before him [i.e., each messenger] and behind him observers[1775] ——— [1775]- Guardian angels to protect the messenger and the message.

(28) That he [i.e., Muḥammad (ﷺ)] may know[1776] that they have conveyed the messages of their Lord; and He has encompassed whatever is with them and has enumerated all things in number. ——— [1776]- This phrase may also be read: "So He [i.e., Allāh] may make evident."

(1) O you who wraps himself [in clothing],[1778] ——— [1778]- Allāh (subḥānahu wa taʿālā) addresses the Prophet (ﷺ), who was asleep, wrapped in his garments.

(2) Arise [to pray] the night, except for a little -

(3) Half of it - or subtract from it a little

(4) Or add to it, and recite the Qur’ān with measured recitation.

(5) Indeed, We will cast upon you a heavy word.[1779] ——— [1779]- i.e., the revelation, which when descending on the Prophet (ﷺ) bore down upon him with a great weight. Another meaning is "important ordinances."

(6) Indeed, the hours of the night are more effective for concurrence [of heart and tongue][1780] and more suitable for words.[1781] ——— [1780]- Another accepted interpretation of the same words is "Indeed, arising at night is more difficult...," meaning that it will only be done by sincere believers and not others. [1781]- i.e., for recitation of the Qur’ān and for hearing and understanding it.

(7) Indeed, for you by day is prolonged occupation.

(8) And remember the name of your Lord and devote yourself to Him with [complete] devotion.

(9) [He is] the Lord of the East and the West; there is no deity except Him, so take Him as Disposer of [your] affairs.[1782] ——— [1782]- i.e., trust in Allāh and rely upon Him.

(10) And be patient over what they say and avoid them with gracious avoidance.

(11) And leave Me with [the matter of] the deniers, those of ease [in life], and allow them respite a little.

(12) Indeed, with Us [for them] are shackles and burning fire

(13) And food that chokes and a painful punishment -

(14) On the Day the earth and the mountains will convulse and the mountains will become a heap of sand pouring down.

(15) Indeed, We have sent to you a Messenger as a witness upon you just as We sent to Pharaoh a messenger.

(16) But Pharaoh disobeyed the messenger, so We seized him with a ruinous seizure.

(17) Then how can you fear, if you disbelieve, a Day that will make the children white-haired?[1783] ——— [1783]- Another meaning is "How can you avoid [punishment]" on such a Day?

(18) The heaven will break apart therefrom;[1784] ever is His promise fulfilled. ——— [1784]- From the terror of that Day.

(19) Indeed, this is a reminder, so whoever wills may take to his Lord a way.

(20) Indeed, your Lord knows, [O Muḥammad], that you stand [in prayer] almost two thirds of the night or half of it or a third of it, and [so do] a group of those with you. And Allāh determines [the extent of] the night and the day. He has known that you [Muslims] will not be able to do it[1785] and has turned to you in forgiveness, so recite what is easy [for you] of the Qur’ān. He has known that there will be among you those who are ill and others traveling throughout the land seeking [something] of the bounty of Allāh and others fighting for the cause of Allāh. So recite what is easy from it and establish prayer and give zakāh and loan Allāh a goodly loan.[1786] And whatever good you put forward for yourselves - you will find it with Allāh. It is better and greater in reward. And seek forgiveness of Allāh. Indeed, Allāh is Forgiving and Merciful. ——— [1785]- Allāh has known that if they were to continue in such long periods of worship each night, the people would be caused much hardship. [1786]- In the form of charities and contributions to His cause.

(1) O you who covers himself [with a garment],[1788] ——— [1788]- Referring to the Prophet (ﷺ).

(2) Arise and warn

(3) And your Lord glorify

(4) And your clothing purify

(5) And uncleanliness[1789] avoid ——— [1789]- Specifically, idols or generally, bad conduct and morals.

(6) And do not confer favor to acquire more[1790] ——— [1790]- An alternative meaning is "Do not consider any favor you have conferred to be great."

(7) But for your Lord be patient.

(8) And when the trumpet is blown,

(9) That Day will be a difficult day

(10) For the disbelievers - not easy.

(11) Leave Me with the one I created alone[1791] ——— [1791]- i.e., without wealth or children. The reference is to al-Waleed bin al-Mugheerah, who after inclining toward the Qur’ān, denied it publicly in order to win the approval of the Quraysh.

(12) And to whom I granted extensive wealth

(13) And children present [with him]

(14) And spread [everything] before him, easing [his life].

(15) Then he desires that I should add more.

(16) No! Indeed, he has been toward Our verses obstinate.

(17) I will cover him with arduous torment.

(18) Indeed, he thought and deliberated.[1792] ——— [1792]- About what he would say concerning the Qur’ān and how he might discredit the Prophet (ﷺ).

(19) So may he be destroyed [for] how he deliberated.

(20) Then may he be destroyed [for] how he deliberated.

(21) Then he considered [again];

(22) Then he frowned and scowled;

(23) Then he turned back and was arrogant

(24) And said, "This is not but magic imitated [from others].

(25) This is not but the word of a human being."

(26) I will drive him into Saqar.[1793] ——— [1793]- One of the proper names of Hell.

(27) And what can make you know what is Saqar?

(28) It lets nothing remain and leaves nothing [unburned],

(29) Altering [i.e., blackening] the skins.

(30) Over it are nineteen [angels].

(31) And We have not made the keepers of the Fire except angels. And We have not made their number except as a trial for those who disbelieve - that those who were given the Scripture will be convinced and those who have believed will increase in faith and those who were given the Scripture and the believers will not doubt and that those in whose hearts is disease [i.e., hypocrisy] and the disbelievers will say, "What does Allāh intend by this as an example?" Thus does Allāh send astray whom He wills and guide whom He wills. And none knows the soldiers of your Lord except Him. And it [i.e., mention of the Fire] is not but a reminder to humanity.

(32) No! By the moon

(33) And [by] the night when it departs

(34) And [by] the morning when it brightens,

(35) Indeed, it [i.e., the Fire] is of the greatest [afflictions]

(36) As a warning to humanity -

(37) To whoever wills among you to proceed[1794] or stay behind. ——— [1794]- To righteousness by acceptance of the warning.

(38) Every soul, for what it has earned, will be retained[1795] ——— [1795]- i.e., subject or held responsible.

(39) Except the companions of the right,[1796]. ——— [1796]- i.e., the righteous who receive their records in their right hands.

(40) [Who will be] in gardens, questioning each other

(41) About the criminals,

(42) [And asking them], "What put you into Saqar?"

(43) They will say, "We were not of those who prayed,

(44) Nor did we used to feed the poor.

(45) And we used to enter into vain discourse with those who engaged [in it],

(46) And we used to deny the Day of Recompense

(47) Until there came to us the certainty [i.e., death]."

(48) So there will not benefit them the intercession of [any] intercessors.

(49) Then what is [the matter] with them that they are, from the reminder, turning away

(50) As if they were alarmed donkeys

(51) Fleeing from a lion?

(52) Rather, every person among them desires that he[1797] would be given scriptures spread about.[1798] ——— [1797]- Instead of Muḥammad (ﷺ). [1798]- i.e., made public. Much of their refusal of his message was due to envy and jealousy of the Prophet (ﷺ).

(53) No! But they do not fear the Hereafter.

(54) No! Indeed, it [i.e., the Qur’ān] is a reminder

(55) Then whoever wills will remember it.

(56) And they will not remember except that Allāh wills. He is worthy of fear and adequate for [granting] forgiveness.

(1) I swear by the Day of Resurrection

(2) And I swear by the reproaching soul[1800] [to the certainty of resurrection]. ——— [1800]- i.e., that of the believer, which blames him when he falls into sin or error.

(3) Does man think that We will not assemble his bones?

(4) Yes. [We are] Able [even] to proportion his fingertips.

(5) But man desires to continue in sin.[1801] ——— [1801]- Literally, "to sin ahead of him." This refers to the disbeliever, who denies the Day of Account.

(6) He asks, "When is the Day of Resurrection?"

(7) So when vision is dazzled

(8) And the moon darkens

(9) And the sun and the moon are joined,

(10) Man will say on that Day, "Where is the [place of] escape?"

(11) No! There is no refuge.

(12) To your Lord, that Day, is the [place of] permanence.

(13) Man will be informed that Day of what he sent ahead[1802] and kept back.[1803] ——— [1802]- i.e., his deeds, which await him in the Hereafter. [1803]- i.e., that which he did not do or which he delayed.

(14) Rather, man, against himself, will be a witness,[1804] ——— [1804]- As described in 36:65 and 41:20-23.

(15) Even if he presents his excuses.

(16) Move not your tongue with it, [O Muḥammad], to hasten with it [i.e., recitation of the Qur’ān].

(17) Indeed, upon Us is its collection [in your heart] and [to make possible] its recitation.

(18) So when We have recited it [through Gabriel], then follow its recitation.

(19) Then upon Us is its clarification [to you].

(20) No! But you [i.e., mankind] love the immediate

(21) And leave [i.e., neglect] the Hereafter.

(22) [Some] faces, that Day, will be radiant,

(23) Looking at their Lord.[1805] ——— [1805]- The people of Paradise will actually see their Creator in the Hereafter.

(24) And [some] faces, that Day, will be contorted,

(25) Expecting that there will be done to them [something] backbreaking.

(26) No! When it [i.e., the soul] has reached the collar bones[1806] ——— [1806]- At the time it is about to leave the body when one is on the verge of death.

(27) And it is said, "Who will cure [him]?"

(28) And he [i.e., the dying one] is certain that it is the [time of] separation

(29) And the leg is wound about the leg,[1807] ——— [1807]- From the difficulties the person faces at death or his sudden awareness of the realities of both this world and the Hereafter. It may also refer to his shrouding after death.

(30) To your Lord, that Day, will be the procession.[1808] ——— [1808]- Literally, "driving" or "herding" or "the place to which one is driven."

(31) And he [i.e., the disbeliever] had not believed, nor had he prayed.

(32) But [instead], he denied and turned away.

(33) And then he went to his people, swaggering [in pride].

(34) Woe to you, and woe!

(35) Then woe to you, and woe!

(36) Does man think that he will be left neglected?[1809] ——— [1809]- i.e., to no end, without responsibility, or without being returned to the Creator for judgement.

(37) Had he not been a sperm from semen emitted?

(38) Then he was a clinging clot, and [Allāh] created [his form] and proportioned [him]

(39) And made of him two mates, the male and the female.

(40) Is not that [Creator] Able to give life to the dead?

(1) Has there [not] come upon man a period of time when he was not a thing [even] mentioned?

(2) Indeed, We created man from a sperm-drop mixture[1811] that We may try him; and We made him hearing and seeing. ——— [1811]- i.e., a combination of the male and female substance, within the womb.

(3) Indeed, We guided him to the way, be he grateful or be he ungrateful.

(4) Indeed, We have prepared for the disbelievers chains and shackles and a blaze.

(5) Indeed, the righteous will drink from a cup [of wine] whose mixture is of Kāfūr,[1812] ——— [1812]- A sweet-smelling spring in Paradise.

(6) A spring of which the [righteous] servants of Allāh will drink; they will make it gush forth in force [and abundance].

(7) They [are those who] fulfill [their] vows and fear a Day whose evil will be widespread.

(8) And they give food in spite of love for it[1813] to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, ——— [1813]- The meaning here may also be "out of love for Him," i.e., Allāh (subḥānahu wa taʿālā).

(9) [Saying], "We feed you only for the face [i.e., approval] of Allāh. We wish not from you reward or gratitude.

(10) Indeed, We fear from our Lord a Day austere and distressful."

(11) So Allāh will protect them from the evil of that Day and give them radiance and happiness

(12) And will reward them for what they patiently endured [with] a garden [in Paradise] and silk [garments].

(13) [They will be] reclining therein on adorned couches. They will not see therein any [burning] sun or [freezing] cold.

(14) And near above them are its shades, and its [fruit] to be picked will be lowered in compliance.

(15) And there will be circulated among them vessels of silver and cups having been [created] clear [as glass],

(16) Clear glasses [made] from silver of which they have determined the measure.

(17) And they will be given to drink a cup [of wine] whose mixture is of ginger

(18) [From] a fountain within it [i.e., Paradise] named Salsabeel.

(19) There will circulate among them young boys made eternal. When you see them, you would think them [as beautiful as] scattered pearls.

(20) And when you look there [in Paradise], you will see pleasure and great dominion.

(21) Upon them [i.e., the inhabitants] will be green garments of fine silk and brocade. And they will be adorned with bracelets of silver, and their Lord will give them a purifying drink.

(22) [And it will be said], "Indeed, this is for you a reward, and your effort has been appreciated."

(23) Indeed, it is We who have sent down to you, [O Muḥammad], the Qur’ān progressively.

(24) So be patient for the decision of your Lord and do not obey from among them a sinner or ungrateful [disbeliever].

(25) And mention the name of your Lord [in prayer] morning and evening

(26) And during the night prostrate to Him and exalt [i.e., praise] Him a long [part of the] night.

(27) Indeed, these [disbelievers] love the immediate and leave behind them[1814] a grave Day. ——— [1814]- i.e., neglect. The meaning may also be "leave ahead of them."

(28) We have created them and strengthened their forms, and when We will, We can change their likenesses with [complete] alteration.

(29) Indeed, this is a reminder, so he who wills may take to his Lord a way.

(30) And you do not will except that Allāh wills. Indeed, Allāh is ever Knowing and Wise.

(31) He admits whom He wills into His mercy; but the wrongdoers - He has prepared for them a painful punishment.

(1) By those [winds] sent forth in gusts

(2) And the winds that blow violently

(3) And [by] the winds that spread [clouds]

(4) And those [angels] who bring criterion[1816] ——— [1816]- To Allāh's human messengers.

(5) And those [angels] who deliver a message

(6) As justification or warning,

(7) Indeed, what you are promised is to occur.

(8) So when the stars are obliterated

(9) And when the heaven is opened

(10) And when the mountains are blown away

(11) And when the messengers' time has come...[1817] ——— [1817]- i.e., when they are gathered to witness concerning their nations. The sentence's conclusion is understood to be "...the promised judgement will then take place."

(12) For what Day was it postponed?[1818] ——— [1818]- "It" may refer to either the aforementioned occurrences collectively or to the testimony of the messengers.

(13) For the Day of Judgement.

(14) And what can make you know what is the Day of Judgement?

(15) Woe,[1819] that Day, to the deniers. ——— [1819]- i.e., death and destruction.

(16) Did We not destroy the former peoples?

(17) Then We will follow them with the later ones.

(18) Thus do We deal with the criminals.

(19) Woe, that Day, to the deniers.

(20) Did We not create you from a liquid disdained?

(21) And We placed it in a firm lodging [i.e., the womb]

(22) For a known extent.

(23) And We determined [it], and excellent [are We] to determine.

(24) Woe, that Day, to the deniers.

(25) Have We not made the earth a container

(26) Of the living and the dead?

(27) And We placed therein lofty, firmly set mountains and have given you to drink sweet water.

(28) Woe, that Day, to the deniers.

(29) [They will be told], "Proceed to that which you used to deny.

(30) Proceed to a shadow [of smoke] having three columns

(31) [But having] no cool shade and availing not against the flame."

(32) Indeed, it throws sparks [as huge] as a fortress,

(33) As if they were yellowish [black] camels.

(34) Woe, that Day, to the deniers.

(35) This is a Day they will not speak,

(36) Nor will it be permitted for them to make an excuse.

(37) Woe, that Day, to the deniers.

(38) This is the Day of Judgement; We will have assembled you and the former peoples.

(39) So if you have a plan, then plan against Me.

(40) Woe, that Day, to the deniers.

(41) Indeed, the righteous will be among shades and springs

(42) And fruits from whatever they desire,

(43) [Being told], "Eat and drink in satisfaction for what you used to do."

(44) Indeed, We thus reward the doers of good.

(45) Woe, that Day, to the deniers.

(46) [O disbelievers], eat and enjoy yourselves a little; indeed, you are criminals.

(47) Woe, that Day, to the deniers.

(48) And when it is said to them, "Bow [in prayer]," they do not bow.

(49) Woe, that Day, to the deniers.

(50) Then in what statement after it [i.e., the Qur’ān] will they believe?

(1) About what are they asking one another?

(2) About the great news[1821] - ——— [1821]- i.e., the Resurrection.

(3) That over which they are in disagreement.

(4) No! They are going to know.

(5) Then, no! They are going to know.

(6) Have We not made the earth a resting place?

(7) And the mountains as stakes?[1822] ——— [1822]- To stabilize the land and balance the earth.

(8) And We created you in pairs

(9) And made your sleep [a means for] rest

(10) And made the night as clothing[1823] ——— [1823]- Covering you in darkness and providing rest.

(11) And made the day for livelihood

(12) And constructed above you seven strong [heavens]

(13) And made [therein] a burning lamp

(14) And sent down from the rain clouds pouring water

(15) That We may bring forth thereby grain and vegetation

(16) And gardens of entwined growth.

(17) Indeed, the Day of Judgement is an appointed time -

(18) The Day the Horn is blown and you will come forth in multitudes

(19) And the heaven is opened and will become gateways

(20) And the mountains are removed and will be [but] a mirage.

(21) Indeed, Hell has been lying in wait

(22) For the transgressors, a place of return,

(23) In which they will remain for ages [unending].

(24) They will not taste therein [any] coolness or drink.

(25) Except scalding water and [foul] purulence -

(26) An appropriate recompense.[1824] ——— [1824]- In proportion to and comparable with their crimes.

(27) Indeed, they were not expecting an account

(28) And denied Our verses with [emphatic] denial.

(29) But all things We have enumerated in writing.

(30) "So taste [the penalty], and never will We increase you except in torment."[1825] ——— [1825]- This announcement will be made to the companions of Hell.

(31) Indeed, for the righteous is attainment[1826] - ——— [1826]- Of security, success and reward, including escape and safety from Hell.

(32) Gardens and grapevines

(33) And young women [companions] of equal age.

(34) And a full cup.[1827] ——— [1827]- Of wine which is delicious and does not intoxicate.

(35) No ill speech will they hear therein or any falsehood -

(36) [As] reward from your Lord, [a generous] gift [made due by] account,[1828] ——— [1828]- i.e., as a result of both their own righteous deeds and the limitless generosity of Allāh (subḥānahu wa taʿālā) . Another meaning is "a gift calculated [to be adequate]."

(37) [From] the Lord of the heavens and the earth and whatever is between them, the Most Merciful. They possess not from Him [authority for] speech.[1829] ——— [1829]- None of Allāh's creatures can plead with Him on the Day of Judgement except by His permission.

(38) The Day that the Spirit [i.e., Gabriel] and the angels will stand in rows, they will not speak except for one whom the Most Merciful permits, and he will say what is correct.

(39) That is the True [i.e., certain] Day; so he who wills may take to his Lord a [way of] return.[1830] ——— [1830]- i.e., a direct route through correct beliefs and righteous deeds.

(40) Indeed, We have warned you of an impending punishment on the Day when a man will observe what his hands have put forth[1831] and the disbeliever will say, "Oh, I wish that I were dust!" ——— [1831]- i.e., the deeds he did in this world, which await him in the Hereafter.

(1) By those [angels] who extract with violence[1833] ——— [1833]- i.e., those who tear out the souls of those destined for Hell.

(2) And [by] those who remove with ease[1834] ——— [1834]- i.e., those angels who ease out the souls of those destined for Paradise.

(3) And [by] those who glide [as if] swimming[1835] ——— [1835]- Speeding to execute Allāh's commands.

(4) And those who race each other in a race[1836] ——— [1836]- Racing to deliver the souls of the believers to Paradise.

(5) And those who arrange [each] matter,[1837] ——— [1837]- According to Allāh's decree.

(6) On the Day the blast [of the Horn] will convulse [creation],

(7) There will follow it the subsequent [one].

(8) Hearts,[1838] that Day, will tremble, ——— [1838]- Those of the disbelievers who denied the Resurrection.

(9) Their eyes[1839] humbled. ——— [1839]- Those of the disbelievers.

(10) They are [presently] saying, "Will we indeed be returned to [our] former state [of life]?

(11) Even if we should be decayed bones?"[1840] ——— [1840]- The disbelievers say this in ridicule of the warning.

(12) They say, "That, then, would be a losing return."[1841] ——— [1841]- i.e., "If that were so, we would not be able to escape punishment."

(13) Indeed, it will be but one shout,

(14) And suddenly they will be [alert] upon the earth's surface.

(15) Has there reached you the story of Moses? -

(16) When his Lord called to him in the sacred valley of Ṭuwā,

(17) "Go to Pharaoh. Indeed, he has transgressed.

(18) And say to him, 'Would you [be willing to] purify yourself

(19) And let me guide you to your Lord so you would fear [Him]?'"

(20) And he showed him the greatest sign,[1842] ——— [1842]- i.e., the miracle of his staff becoming a great snake.

(21) But he [i.e., Pharaoh] denied and disobeyed.

(22) Then he turned his back, striving [i.e., plotting].[1843] ——— [1843]- An alternative meaning is "running [from the snake]."

(23) And he gathered [his people] and called out

(24) And said, "I am your most exalted lord."

(25) So Allāh seized him in exemplary punishment for the last and the first [transgression].[1844]. ——— [1844]- i.e., for Pharaoh's setting himself up as a deity and for his previous oppression of the people and denial of Moses.

(26) Indeed in that is a lesson [i.e., warning] for whoever would fear [Allāh].

(27) Are you a more difficult creation or is the heaven? He [i.e., Allāh] constructed it.

(28) He raised its ceiling and proportioned it.

(29) And He darkened its night and extracted its brightness.[1845] ——— [1845]- i.e., created the day from within the surrounding darkness.

(30) And after that He spread the earth.

(31) He extracted from it its water and its pasture,

(32) And the mountains He set firmly

(33) As enjoyment [i.e., provision] for you and your grazing livestock.

(34) But when there comes the greatest Overwhelming Calamity[1846] - ——— [1846]- i.e., the Day of Resurrection.

(35) The Day when man will remember that for which he strove,

(36) And Hellfire will be exposed for [all] those who see -

(37) So as for he who transgressed

(38) And preferred the life of the world,

(39) Then indeed, Hellfire will be [his] refuge.

(40) But as for he who feared the position of his Lord[1847] and prevented the soul from [unlawful] inclination, ——— [1847]- See footnote to 55:46.

(41) Then indeed, Paradise will be [his] refuge.

(42) They ask you, [O Muḥammad], about the Hour: when is its arrival?[1848] ——— [1848]- Literally, "resting" or "establishment."

(43) In what [position] are you that you should mention it?[1849] ——— [1849]- Meaning that Muḥammad (ﷺ) had no knowledge of it, so how could he inform them?

(44) To your Lord is its finality.[1850] ——— [1850]- i.e., its destination and termination. And to Him belongs ultimate knowledge of it.

(45) You are only a warner for those who fear it.

(46) It will be, on the Day they see it,[1851] as though they had not remained [in the world] except for an afternoon or a morning thereof. ——— [1851]- i.e., the Hour, the Resurrection.

(1) He [i.e., the Prophet (ﷺ) ] frowned and turned away

(2) Because there came to him the blind man,[1853] [interrupting]. ——— [1853]- ʿAbdullāh, the son of Umm Maktūm.

(3) But what would make you perceive, [O Muḥammad], that perhaps he might be purified[1854] ——— [1854]- As a result of what he learns from you.

(4) Or be reminded and the remembrance would benefit him?

(5) As for he who thinks himself without need,[1855] ——— [1855]- i.e., without need of faith or need of Allāh (subḥānahu wa taʿālā) . Here it is in reference to a certain influential member of the Quraysh whom the Prophet (ﷺ) had hoped to bring to Islām.

(6) To him you give attention.

(7) And not upon you [is any blame] if he will not be purified.[1856] ——— [1856]- The Prophet (ﷺ) was responsible only for conveying the message, not for ultimate guidance.

(8) But as for he who came to you striving [for knowledge]

(9) While he fears [Allāh],

(10) From him you are distracted.

(11) No! Indeed, they [i.e., these verses] are a reminder;

(12) So whoever wills may remember it.[1857] ——— [1857]- The revelation. Or "Him," i.e., Allāh (subḥānahu wa taʿālā) .

(13) [It is recorded] in honored sheets,

(14) Exalted and purified,

(15) [Carried] by the hands of messenger-angels,

(16) Noble and dutiful.

(17) Destroyed [i.e., cursed] is man;[1858] how disbelieving is he. ——— [1858]- i.e., those who deny Allāh's message.

(18) From what thing [i.e., substance] did He create him?

(19) From a sperm-drop He created him and destined for him;[1859] ——— [1859]- His proportions, provisions, life span, etc.

(20) Then He eased the way for him;[1860] ——— [1860]- Into this world (i.e., his birth) . It may also refer to life itself, which has been made easier by Allāh's guidance.

(21) Then He causes his death and provides a grave for him.[1861] ——— [1861]- To conceal his decaying body.

(22) Then when He wills, He will resurrect him.

(23) No! He [i.e., man] has not yet accomplished what He commanded him.

(24) Then let mankind look at his food -

(25) How We poured down water in torrents,

(26) Then We broke open the earth, splitting [it with sprouts],

(27) And caused to grow within it grain

(28) And grapes and herbage

(29) And olive and palm trees

(30) And gardens of dense shrubbery

(31) And fruit and grass -

(32) [As] enjoyment [i.e., provision] for you and your grazing livestock.

(33) But when there comes the Deafening Blast[1862] ——— [1862]- The piercing blast of the Horn which signals resurrection. Aṣ-Ṣākhkhah is also a name for the Day of Resurrection.

(34) On the Day a man will flee from his brother

(35) And his mother and his father

(36) And his wife and his children,

(37) For every man, that Day, will be a matter adequate for him.[1863] ——— [1863]- i.e., to occupy him. He will be concerned only with himself, thus forgetting all others.

(38) [Some] faces, that Day, will be bright -

(39) Laughing, rejoicing at good news.

(40) And [other] faces, that Day, will have upon them dust.

(41) Blackness will cover them.

(42) Those are the disbelievers, the wicked ones.

(1) When the sun is wrapped up [in darkness]

(2) And when the stars fall, dispersing,

(3) And when the mountains are removed

(4) And when full-term she-camels[1865] are neglected ——— [1865]- Those ten months pregnant and nearing delivery. This verse alludes to distraction from the most valued of possessions.

(5) And when the wild beasts are gathered

(6) And when the seas are filled with flame[1866] ——— [1866]- Or "when the seas have overflowed [into each other]."

(7) And when the souls are paired[1867] ——— [1867]- With another like soul. It can also mean "joined" (with their groups or sects) .

(8) And when the girl [who was] buried alive is asked

(9) For what sin she was killed

(10) And when the pages[1868] are spread [i.e., made public] ——— [1868]- On which are recorded the deeds of all people.

(11) And when the sky is stripped away

(12) And when Hellfire is set ablaze

(13) And when Paradise is brought near,

(14) A soul will [then] know what it has brought [with it].[1869] ——— [1869]- i.e., all of one's deeds from worldly life, which have accompanied the soul to the Hereafter.

(15) So I swear by the retreating stars -

(16) Those that run [their courses] and disappear [i.e., set]

(17) And by the night as it closes in[1870] ——— [1870]- An alternative meaning is "as it departs."

(18) And by the dawn when it breathes [i.e., stirs]

(19) [That] indeed, it [i.e., the Qur’ān] is a word [conveyed by] a noble messenger [i.e., Gabriel]

(20) [Who is] possessed of power and with the Owner of the Throne, secure [in position],

(21) Obeyed there [in the heavens] and trustworthy.

(22) And your companion [i.e., Prophet Muḥammad (ﷺ) ] is not [at all] mad.[1871] ——— [1871]- Literally, "possessed by jinn."

(23) And he has already seen him [i.e., Gabriel] in the clear horizon.[1872] ——— [1872]- i.e., the eastern horizon, where the sun rises. See footnote to 53:6.

(24) And he [i.e., Muḥammad (ﷺ)] is not a withholder of [knowledge of] the unseen.[1873] ——— [1873]- Prophet Muḥammad (ﷺ) did not withhold that knowledge of the unseen which Allāh had revealed to him in the Qur’ān.

(25) And it [i.e., the Qur’ān] is not the word of a devil, expelled [from the heavens].

(26) So where are you going?[1874] ——— [1874]- In your denial of the Qur’ān and in your accusations against the Prophet (ﷺ) . The meaning is essentially "Surely, you have strayed far from Allāh's path."

(27) It is not except a reminder to the worlds

(28) For whoever wills among you to take a right course.

(29) And you do not will except that Allāh wills - Lord of the worlds.

(1) When the sky breaks apart

(2) And when the stars fall, scattering,

(3) And when the seas are erupted

(4) And when the [contents of] graves are scattered [i.e., exposed],

(5) A soul will [then] know what it has put forth and kept back.

(6) O mankind, what has deceived you concerning your Lord, the Generous,

(7) Who created you, proportioned you, and balanced you?

(8) In whatever form He willed has He assembled you.

(9) No! But you deny the Recompense.

(10) And indeed, [appointed] over you are keepers,[1876] ——— [1876]- Angels who preserve the deeds of men in records.

(11) Noble and recording;

(12) They know whatever you do.

(13) Indeed, the righteous will be in pleasure,

(14) And indeed, the wicked will be in Hellfire.

(15) They will [enter to] burn therein on the Day of Recompense,

(16) And never therefrom will they be absent.

(17) And what can make you know what is the Day of Recompense?

(18) Then, what can make you know what is the Day of Recompense?

(19) It is the Day when a soul will not possess for another soul [power to do] a thing; and the command, that Day, is [entirely] with Allāh.

(1) Woe to those who give less [than due],[1878] ——— [1878]- i.e., those who cheat people by giving them less than what they paid for when weighing or measuring - an amount so little as to hardly be noticed.

(2) Who, when they take a measure from people, take in full.

(3) But if they give by measure or by weight to them, they cause loss.

(4) Do they not think that they will be resurrected

(5) For a tremendous Day -

(6) The Day when mankind will stand before the Lord of the worlds?

(7) No! Indeed, the record of the wicked is in sijjeen.

(8) And what can make you know what is sijjeen?

(9) It is [their destination[1879] recorded in] a register inscribed. ——— [1879]- The lowest depths of Hell.

(10) Woe, that Day, to the deniers,

(11) Who deny the Day of Recompense.

(12) And none deny it except every sinful transgressor.

(13) When Our verses are recited to him, he says, "Legends of the former peoples."

(14) No! Rather, the stain has covered their hearts of that which they were earning.[1880] ——— [1880]- i.e., their sins.

(15) No! Indeed, from their Lord, that Day, they will be partitioned.[1881] ——— [1881]- i.e., they will not be able to see Him.

(16) Then indeed, they will [enter and] burn in Hellfire.

(17) Then it will be said [to them], "This is what you used to deny."

(18) No! Indeed, the record of the righteous is in ʿilliyyūn.

(19) And what can make you know what is ʿilliyyūn?

(20) It is [their destination[1882] recorded in] a register inscribed ——— [1882]- The highest elevations of Paradise.

(21) Which is witnessed by those brought near [to Allāh].

(22) Indeed, the righteous will be in pleasure

(23) On adorned couches, observing.

(24) You will recognize in their faces the radiance of pleasure.

(25) They will be given to drink [pure] wine[1883] [which was] sealed. ——— [1883]- Which is delicious and does not intoxicate.

(26) The last of it[1884] is musk. So for this let the competitors compete. ——— [1884]- i.e., its lingering odor.

(27) And its mixture is of Tasneem,[1885] ——— [1885]- The highest spring in Paradise and the most favored drink of its inhabitants.

(28) A spring from which those near [to Allāh] drink.

(29) Indeed, those who committed crimes used to laugh at those who believed.

(30) And when they passed by them, they would exchange derisive glances.

(31) And when they returned to their people, they would return jesting.

(32) And when they saw them, they would say, "Indeed, those are truly lost."

(33) But they had not been sent as guardians over them.

(34) So Today[1886] those who believed are laughing at the disbelievers, ——— [1886]- On the Day of Judgement.

(35) On adorned couches, observing.

(36) Have the disbelievers [not] been rewarded [this Day] for what they used to do?

(1) When the sky has split [open]

(2) And has listened [i.e., responded][1888] to its Lord and was obligated [to do so] ——— [1888]- It will have heard Allāh's command and will have inclined immediately to compliance and willing obedience.

(3) And when the earth has been extended[1889] ——— [1889]- i.e., stretched flat and spread out.

(4) And has cast out that within it[1890] and relinquished [it] ——— [1890]- Of the dead and all else buried therein.

(5) And has listened [i.e., responded] to its Lord and was obligated [to do so] –

(6) O mankind, indeed you are laboring toward your Lord with [great] exertion[1891] and will meet it.[1892] ——— [1891]- i.e., striving throughout your life until you meet your Lord, hastening toward death. [1892]- i.e., you will find all that you intended and accomplished awaiting you in the Hereafter. Another meaning is "And will meet Him [i.e., your Lord]" and be recompensed in full by Him.

(7) Then as for he who is given his record in his right hand,

(8) He will be judged with an easy account

(9) And return to his people in happiness.

(10) But as for he who is given his record behind his back,

(11) He will cry out for destruction

(12) And [enter to] burn in a Blaze.

(13) Indeed, he had [once] been among his people in happiness;

(14) Indeed, he had thought he would never return [to Allāh].

(15) But yes! Indeed, his Lord was ever, of him, Seeing.

(16) So I swear by the twilight glow

(17) And [by] the night and what it envelops

(18) And [by] the moon when it becomes full

(19) [That] you will surely embark upon [i.e., experience] state after state.[1893] ——— [1893]- i.e., various stages, both in this life and in the Hereafter.

(20) So what is [the matter] with them [that] they do not believe,

(21) And when the Qur’ān is recited to them, they do not prostrate [to Allāh]?

(22) But those who have disbelieved deny,

(23) And Allāh is most knowing of what they keep within themselves.

(24) So give them tidings of a painful punishment,

(25) Except for those who believe and do righteous deeds. For them is a reward uninterrupted.

(1) By the sky containing great stars

(2) And [by] the promised Day

(3) And [by] the witness and what is witnessed,

(4) Destroyed [i.e., cursed] were the companions of the trench[1895] ——— [1895]- Or "May they be destroyed" or "cursed." The "companions of the trench" (or ditch) were agents of a tyrannical king who refused to allow his people to believe in Allāh. Their evil deed in obedience to their ruler earned for them the curse of Allāh (subḥānahu wa taʿālā) .

(5) [Containing] the fire full of fuel,

(6) When they were sitting near it.

(7) And they, to what they were doing against the believers, were witnesses. [1896] ——— [1896]- After casting the believers into a trench filled with fire, they sat at its edge, watching them burn to death. This event occurred before the time of Prophet Muḥammad (ﷺ) .

(8) And they resented them not except because they believed in Allāh, the Exalted in Might, the Praiseworthy,

(9) To whom belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth. And Allāh, over all things, is Witness.[1897] ——— [1897]- See footnote to 4:79.

(10) Indeed, those who have tortured[1898] the believing men and believing women and then have not repented will have the punishment of Hell, and they will have the punishment of the Burning Fire. ——— [1898]- Or, in this instance, the literal meaning of "burned" is also appropriate.

(11) Indeed, those who have believed and done righteous deeds will have gardens beneath which rivers flow. That is the great attainment.

(12) Indeed, the assault [i.e., vengeance] of your Lord is severe.

(13) Indeed, it is He who originates [creation] and repeats.

(14) And He is the Forgiving, the Affectionate,

(15) Honorable Owner of the Throne,

(16) Effecter of what He intends.

(17) Has there reached you the story of the soldiers -

(18) [Those of] Pharaoh and Thamūd?

(19) But they who disbelieve are in [persistent] denial,

(20) While Allāh encompasses them from behind.[1899] ——— [1899]- See footnote to 2:19

(21) But this is an honored Qur’ān

(22) [Inscribed] in a Preserved Slate.

(1) By the sky and the knocker

(2) And what can make you know what is the knocker?

(3) It is the piercing star[1901]. ——— [1901]- Whose light pierces through the darkness.

(4) There is no soul but that it has over it a protector.

(5) So let man observe from what he was created.

(6) He was created from a fluid, ejected,

(7) Emerging from between the backbone and the ribs.

(8) Indeed, He [i.e., Allāh], to return him [to life], is Able.

(9) The Day when secrets will be put on trial,[1902] ——— [1902]- i.e., exposed, examined and judged.

(10) Then he [i.e., man] will have no power or any helper.

(11) By the sky which sends back[1903] ——— [1903]- Rain, heat, sound waves, etc.

(12) And [by] the earth which splits,[1904] ——— [1904]- With plant growth or from geological rifts.

(13) Indeed, it [i.e., the Qur’ān] is a decisive statement,

(14) And it is not amusement.

(15) Indeed, they are planning a plan,

(16) But I am planning a plan.

(17) So allow time for the disbelievers. Leave them awhile.[1905] ——— [1905]- i.e., Do not be in haste for revenge, for you will see what will become of them.

(1) Exalt the name of your Lord, the Most High,

(2) Who created and proportioned

(3) And who destined and [then] guided

(4) And who brings out the pasture

(5) And [then] makes it black stubble.

(6) We will make you recite, [O Muḥammad], and you will not forget,

(7) Except what Allāh should will. Indeed, He knows what is declared and what is hidden.

(8) And We will ease you toward ease.[1907] ——— [1907]- To the path of Allāh's religion, which is easy and natural, or toward Paradise, by giving opportunities for righteous deeds.

(9) So remind, if the reminder should benefit;[1908] ——— [1908]- i.e., wherever it will be heard and understood.

(10) He who fears [Allāh] will be reminded.

(11) But the wretched one will avoid it –

(12) [He] who will [enter and] burn in the greatest Fire,

(13) Neither dying therein nor living.

(14) He has certainly succeeded who purifies himself

(15) And mentions the name of his Lord and prays.

(16) But you prefer the worldly life,

(17) While the Hereafter is better and more enduring.

(18) Indeed, this is in the former scriptures,

(19) The scriptures of Abraham and Moses.

(1) Has there reached you the report of the Overwhelming [event]?

(2) [Some] faces, that Day, will be humbled,

(3) Working [hard] and exhausted.[1910] ——— [1910]- Another accepted meaning is "They were working hard and exhausted," i.e., doing deeds during worldly life which did not benefit them since they were not accompanied by faith or done for the acceptance of Allāh (subḥānahu wa taʿālā) .

(4) They will [enter to] burn in an intensely hot Fire.

(5) They will be given drink from a boiling spring.

(6) For them there will be no food except from a poisonous, thorny plant

(7) Which neither nourishes nor avails against hunger.

(8) [Other] faces, that Day, will show pleasure.

(9) With their effort [they are] satisfied

(10) In an elevated garden,

(11) Wherein they will hear no unsuitable speech.[1911] ——— [1911]- i.e., any insult, falsehood, immorality, idle or vain talk, etc.

(12) Within it is a flowing spring.

(13) Within it are couches raised high

(14) And cups put in place

(15) And cushions lined up

(16) And carpets spread around.

(17) Then do they not look at the camels - how they are created?

(18) And at the sky - how it is raised?

(19) And at the mountains - how they are erected?

(20) And at the earth - how it is spread out?

(21) So remind, [O Muḥammad]; you are only a reminder.

(22) You are not over them a controller.

(23) However, he who turns away and disbelieves –

(24) Then Allāh will punish him with the greatest punishment.

(25) Indeed, to Us is their return.

(26) Then indeed, upon Us is their account.

(1) By the dawn

(2) And [by] ten nights[1913] ——— [1913]- Usually interpreted as the first ten nights of the month of Dhul-Ḥijjah.

(3) And [by] the even [number] and the odd

(4) And [by] the night when it passes,

(5) Is there [not] in [all] that an oath [sufficient] for one of perception?[1914] ——— [1914]- Based upon the following verses, what has been sworn to by Allāh is that He will certainly punish the disbelievers.

(6) Have you not considered how your Lord dealt with ʿAad -

(7) [With] Iram[1915] - who had lofty pillars,[1916] ——— [1915]- Another name for the first people of ʿAad, to whom Prophet Hūd was sent. [1916]- Supporting their tents or buildings.

(8) The likes of whom had never been created in the land?

(9) And [with] Thamūd, who carved out the rocks in the valley?

(10) And [with] Pharaoh, owner of the stakes?[1917] ——— [1917]- By which he tortured people.

(11) [All of] whom oppressed within the lands

(12) And increased therein the corruption.

(13) So your Lord poured upon them a scourge of punishment.

(14) Indeed, your Lord is in observation.

(15) And as for man, when his Lord tries him and [thus] is generous to him and favors him, he says, "My Lord has honored me."[1918] ——— [1918]- He is proud rather than grateful, attributing the favor to his own merit.

(16) But when He tries him and restricts his provision, he says, "My Lord has humiliated me."

(17) No![1919] But you do not honor the orphan ——— [1919]- It is not like you imagine. Rather, Allāh tries people through prosperity and hardship and rewards both gratitude and patience with honor in the Hereafter.

(18) And you do not encourage one another to feed the poor.

(19) And you consume inheritance, devouring [it] altogether,[1920] ——— [1920]- Not caring whether it is lawful or unlawful.

(20) And you love wealth with immense love.

(21) No! When the earth has been leveled - pounded and crushed

(22) And your Lord has come[1921] and the angels, rank upon rank, ——— [1921]- To pass judgement. See footnote to 2:19.

(23) And brought [within view], that Day, is Hell - that Day, man will remember, but how [i.e., what good] to him will be the remembrance?

(24) He will say, "Oh, I wish I had sent ahead [some good] for my life."[1922] ——— [1922]- The everlasting life of the Hereafter.

(25) So on that Day, none will punish [as severely] as His punishment,

(26) And none will bind [as severely] as His binding [of the evildoers].

(27) [To the righteous it will be said], "O reassured soul,

(28) Return to your Lord, well-pleased and pleasing [to Him],

(29) And enter among My [righteous] servants

(30) And enter My Paradise."

(1) I swear by this city [i.e., Makkah] –

(2) And you, [O Muḥammad], are free of restriction in this city –

(3) And [by] the father[1924] and that which was born [of him], ——— [1924]- Said to be Adam (upon him be peace) .

(4) We have certainly created man into hardship.

(5) Does he think that never will anyone overcome him?

(6) He says, "I have spent wealth in abundance."

(7) Does he think that no one has seen him?

(8) Have We not made for him two eyes?

(9) And a tongue and two lips?

(10) And have shown him the two ways?[1925] ——— [1925]- Of good and evil.

(11) But he has not broken through the difficult pass.[1926] ——— [1926]- i.e., the steep incline or obstacle. In other words, he has not spent in the cause of Allāh but only boasts of spending in front of others.

(12) And what can make you know what is [breaking through] the difficult pass?

(13) It is the freeing of a slave

(14) Or feeding on a day of severe hunger

(15) An orphan of near relationship

(16) Or a needy person in misery

(17) And then being among those who believed and advised one another to patience and advised one another to compassion.

(18) Those are the companions of the right.[1927] ——— [1927]- Or "the companions of good fortune," i.e., those who receive their records in their right hands and proceed to Paradise.

(19) But they who disbelieved in Our signs - those are the companions of the left.[1928] ——— [1928]- Or "the companions of ill fortune," i.e., those who receive their records in their left hands and proceed to Hell.

(20) Over them will be fire closed in.[1929] ——— [1929]- The cover over Hell will be sealed and locked, containing its fire and its inhabitants.

(1) By the sun and its brightness

(2) And [by] the moon when it follows it

(3) And [by] the day when it displays it[1931] ——— [1931]- The earth. Also interpreted as the sun. The same applies to the following verse.

(4) And [by] the night when it covers [i.e., conceals] it

(5) And [by] the sky and He who constructed it

(6) And [by] the earth and He who spread it

(7) And [by] the soul and He who proportioned it[1932] ——— [1932]- i.e., balanced and refined it, creating in it sound tendencies and consciousness.

(8) And inspired it [with discernment of] its wickedness and its righteousness,

(9) He has succeeded who purifies it,

(10) And he has failed who instills it [with corruption].

(11) Thamūd denied [their prophet] by reason of their transgression,

(12) When the most wretched of them was sent forth.[1933] ——— [1933]- To hamstring the she-camel which had been sent by Allāh as a sign to them.

(13) And the messenger of Allāh [i.e., Ṣāliḥ] said to them, "[Do not harm] the she-camel of Allāh or [prevent her from] her drink."

(14) But they denied him and hamstrung[1934] her. So their Lord brought down upon them destruction for their sin and made it equal [upon all of them]. ——— [1934]- And then killed.

(15) And He does not fear the consequence thereof.[1935] ——— [1935]- Allāh is not asked about what He does, but His servants will be asked. See 21:23.

(1) By the night when it covers[1937] ——— [1937]- With darkness.

(2) And [by] the day when it appears

(3) And [by] He who created the male and female,

(4) Indeed, your efforts are diverse.

(5) As for he who gives and fears Allāh

(6) And believes in the best [reward].

(7) We will ease him toward ease.

(8) But as for he who withholds and considers himself free of need

(9) And denies the best [reward],

(10) We will ease him toward difficulty.

(11) And what will his wealth avail him when he falls?[1938] ——— [1938]- i.e., when he dies or is destroyed. It can also mean when he falls into the Hellfire.

(12) Indeed, [incumbent] upon Us is guidance.

(13) And indeed, to us belongs the Hereafter and the first [life].

(14) So I have warned you of a Fire which is blazing.

(15) None will [enter to] burn therein except the most wretched one

(16) Who had denied and turned away.

(17) But the righteous one will avoid it –

(18) [He] who gives [from] his wealth to purify himself

(19) And not [giving] for anyone who has [done him] a favor to be rewarded[1939] – ——— [1939]- i.e., without intending reciprocation for some benefit to himself.

(20) But only seeking the face [i.e., acceptance] of his Lord, Most High.

(21) And he is going to be satisfied.

(1) By the morning brightness

(2) And [by] the night when it covers with darkness,[1941] ——— [1941]- And becomes still.

(3) Your Lord has not taken leave of you, [O Muḥammad], nor has He detested [you].

(4) And the Hereafter is better for you than the first [life].

(5) And your Lord is going to give you, and you will be satisfied.

(6) Did He not find you an orphan and give [you] refuge?

(7) And He found you lost and guided [you],

(8) And He found you poor and made [you] self-sufficient.

(9) So as for the orphan, do not oppress [him].

(10) And as for the petitioner,[1942] do not repel [him]. ——— [1942]- Anyone who seeks aid or knowledge.

(11) But as for the favor of your Lord, report [it].

(1) Did We not expand for you, [O Muḥammad], your breast?[1944] ——— [1944]- i.e., enlighten, assure and gladden your heart with guidance.

(2) And We removed from you your burden[1945] ——— [1945]- By forgiving any errors which you may have committed previously or might commit consequently. "Burden" can also refer to the anxiety experienced by the Prophet (ﷺ) at the beginning of his mission.

(3) Which had weighed upon your back

(4) And raised high for you your repute.

(5) For indeed, with hardship [will be] ease [i.e., relief].

(6) Indeed, with hardship [will be] ease.

(7) So when you have finished [your duties], then stand up [for worship].

(8) And to your Lord direct [your] longing.

(1) By the fig and the olive[1947] ——— [1947]- Referring to the places known for their production, i.e., Damascus and Jerusalem, respectively. It could also refer to the fig and olive trees or to the fruits themselves.

(2) And [by] Mount Sinai

(3) And [by] this secure city [i.e., Makkah],

(4) We have certainly created man in the best of stature;[1948] ——— [1948]- i.e., upright, symmetrical, and balanced in form and nature.

(5) Then We return him to the lowest of the low,[1949] ——— [1949]- This can refer to the depths of Hell, to decrepit old age or to immorality.

(6) Except for those who believe and do righteous deeds, for they will have a reward uninterrupted.

(7) So what yet causes you to deny the Recompense?[1950] ——— [1950]- More literally, "What makes you lie concerning it?"

(8) Is not Allāh the most just of judges?

(1) Recite in the name of your Lord who created –

(2) Created man from a clinging substance.

(3) Recite, and your Lord is the most Generous -

(4) Who taught by the pen –

(5) Taught man that which he knew not.

(6) No! [But] indeed, man transgresses

(7) Because he sees himself self-sufficient.

(8) Indeed, to your Lord is the return.

(9) Have you seen the one who forbids

(10) A servant when he prays?

(11) Have you seen if he is upon guidance

(12) Or enjoins righteousness?

(13) Have you seen if he denies and turns away -

(14) Does he not know that Allāh sees?

(15) No! If he does not desist, We will surely drag him by the forelock[1952] – ——— [1952]- It may also mean "slap him" or "blacken his face at the forelock."

(16) A lying, sinning forelock.

(17) Then let him call his associates;

(18) We will call the angels of Hell.[1953] ——— [1953]- Those who push the wicked into the Fire.

(19) No! Do not obey him. But prostrate and draw near [to Allāh].

(1) Indeed, We sent it [i.e., the Qur’ān] down during the Night of Decree.

(2) And what can make you know what is the Night of Decree?

(3) The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.

(4) The angels and the Spirit [i.e., Gabriel] descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter.[1955] ——— [1955]- Bringing the exact measures apportioned for everything by Allāh in the course of the coming year.

(5) Peace it is[1956] until the emergence of dawn. ——— [1956]- Upon the believers.

(1) Those who disbelieved among the People of the Scripture and the polytheists were not to be parted [from misbelief][1958] until there came to them clear evidence – ——— [1958]- i.e., from their erroneous beliefs and superstitions.

(2) A Messenger from Allāh, reciting purified[1959] scriptures ——— [1959]- i.e., containing no falsehood.

(3) Within which are correct writings [i.e., rulings and laws].

(4) Nor did those who were given the Scripture become divided[1960] until after there had come to them clear evidence. ——— [1960]- Into sects and denominations.

(5) And they were not commanded except to worship Allāh, [being] sincere to Him in religion, inclining to truth, and to establish prayer and to give zakāh. And that is the correct religion.

(6) Indeed, they who disbelieved among the People of the Scripture and the polytheists will be in the fire of Hell, abiding eternally therein. Those are the worst of creatures.

(7) Indeed, they who have believed and done righteous deeds - those are the best of creatures.

(8) Their reward with their Lord will be gardens of perpetual residence beneath which rivers flow, wherein they will abide forever, Allāh being pleased with them and they with Him. That is for whoever has feared his Lord.

(1) When the earth is shaken with its [final] earthquake

(2) And the earth discharges its burdens[1962] ——— [1962]- See verse 84:4.

(3) And man says,[1963] "What is [wrong] with it?" - ——— [1963]- In terror and amazement.

(4) That Day, it will report its news

(5) Because your Lord has inspired [i.e., commanded] it.

(6) That Day, the people will depart[1964] separated [into categories] to be shown [the result of] their deeds. ——— [1964]- From the place of Judgement to their final abode. Another interpretation is "emerge separately" (from the graves) .

(7) So whoever does an atom's weight[1965] of good will see it, ——— [1965]- Or "the weight of a small ant."

(8) And whoever does an atom's weight of evil will see it.

(1) By the racers, panting,[1967] ——— [1967]- i.e., the horses bearing riders as they race to attack the enemy.

(2) And the producers of sparks [when] striking[1968] ——— [1968]- Their hoofs while galloping over rocky terrain.

(3) And the chargers at dawn,[1969] ——— [1969]- While the enemy is unaware.

(4) Stirring up thereby [clouds of] dust,

(5) Arriving thereby in the center[1970] collectively, ——— [1970]- i.e., penetrating into the enemy ranks during a surprise attack.

(6) Indeed mankind, to his Lord, is ungrateful.

(7) And indeed, he is to that a witness.[1971] ——— [1971]- Through his speech and his actions.

(8) And indeed he is, in love of wealth, intense.

(9) But does he not know that when the contents of the graves are scattered

(10) And that within the breasts is obtained,[1972] ——— [1972]- i.e., when all secrets are made known.

(11) Indeed, their Lord with them, that Day, is [fully] Aware.[1973] ——— [1973]- Fully acquainted and familiar with everything about each one of them.

(1) The Striking Calamity -

(2) What is the Striking Calamity?

(3) And what can make you know what is the Striking Calamity?

(4) It is the Day when people will be like moths, dispersed,[1975] ——— [1975]- The people will be as such after having been expelled from their graves.

(5) And the mountains will be like wool, fluffed up.[1976] ——— [1976]- i.e., beginning to disintegrate.

(6) Then as for one whose scales are heavy [with good deeds],

(7) He will be in a pleasant life.

(8) But as for one whose scales are light,

(9) His refuge[1977] will be an abyss.[1978] ——— [1977]- Literally, "mother" (a man's original refuge) , which will envelop him as in an embrace. [1978]- i.e., the pit of Hellfire.

(10) And what can make you know what that is?

(11) It is a Fire, intensely hot.

(1) Competition in [worldly] increase diverts you

(2) Until you visit the graveyards.[1980] ——— [1980]- i.e., remain in them temporarily, meaning until the Day of Resurrection.

(3) No! You are going to know.

(4) Then, no! You are going to know.

(5) No! If you only knew with knowledge of certainty...[1981] ——— [1981]- The conclusion of this verse is estimated to be "...you would not have been distracted from preparing for the Hereafter."

(6) You will surely see the Hellfire.

(7) Then you will surely see it with the eye of certainty.[1982] ——— [1982]- i.e., with actual eyesight.

(8) Then you will surely be asked that Day about pleasure.[1983] ——— [1983]- i.e., the comforts of worldly life and whether you were grateful to Allāh for His blessings.

(1) By time,[1985] ——— [1985]- An oath in which Allāh swears by time throughout the ages.

(2) Indeed, mankind is in loss,

(3) Except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.

(1) Woe to every scorner and mocker

(2) Who collects wealth and [continuously] counts it.[1987] ——— [1987]- Rather than spending in the way of Allāh.

(3) He thinks that his wealth will make him immortal.

(4) No! He will surely be thrown into the Crusher.[1988] ——— [1988]- i.e., Hellfire, which crushes and destroys all that enters it.

(5) And what can make you know what is the Crusher?

(6) It is the fire of Allāh, [eternally] fueled,

(7) Which mounts directed at the hearts.[1989] ——— [1989]- Covering them and penetrating them.

(8) Indeed, it [i.e., Hellfire] will be closed down upon them

(9) In extended columns.[1990] ——— [1990]- Interpreted to be either columns of fire or columns of iron to which are chained the inmates of Hell.

(1) Have you not considered, [O Muḥammad], how your Lord dealt with the companions of the elephant?[1992] ——— [1992]- i.e., the army under the command of Abrahah al-Ashram which was accompanied by a huge elephant and came with the intention of destroying the Kaʿbah at Makkah.

(2) Did He not make their plan into misguidance?[1993] ——— [1993]- Causing them to perish.

(3) And He sent against them birds in flocks,

(4) Striking them with stones of hard clay,

(5) And He made them like eaten straw.[1994] ——— [1994]- i.e., husks which have been chewed by cattle. This event took place in the year of the Prophet's birth.

(1) For the accustomed security of the Quraysh[1996] - ——— [1996]- i.e., the honor and reputation Allāh had given them as guardians of the Holy Kaʿbah, which allowed them to travel without fear of being harmed.

(2) Their accustomed security [in] the caravan of winter and summer[1997] - ——— [1997]- i.e., the trading caravans that traveled south in winter and north in summer.

(3) Let them worship the Lord of this House,[1998] ——— [1998]- i.e., the Kaʿbah.

(4) Who has fed them, [saving them] from hunger and made them safe, [saving them] from fear.

(1) Have you seen the one who denies the Recompense?

(2) For that is the one who drives away the orphan

(3) And does not encourage the feeding of the poor.

(4) So woe to those who pray

(5) [But] who are heedless of their prayer[2000] - ——— [2000]- i.e., the hypocrites who are unconcerned if they miss prayers when no one sees them.

(6) Those who make show [of their deeds]

(7) And withhold [simple] assistance.

(1) Indeed, We have granted you, [O Muḥammad], al-Kawthar.

(2) So pray to your Lord and offer sacrifice [to Him alone].

(3) Indeed, your enemy is the one cut off.[2002] ——— [2002]- From all good in this world and the Hereafter.

(1) Say, "O disbelievers,

(2) I do not worship what you worship.

(3) Nor are you worshippers of what I worship.

(4) Nor will I be a worshipper of what you worship.

(5) Nor will you be worshippers of what I worship.

(6) For you is your religion, and for me is my religion."

(1) When the victory of Allāh has come and the conquest,[2005] ——— [2005]- The conquest of Makkah.

(2) And you see the people entering into the religion of Allāh in multitudes,

(3) Then exalt [Him] with praise of your Lord and ask forgiveness of Him. Indeed, He is ever Accepting of Repentance.[2006] ——— [2006]- Refer to footnote of 2:37.

(1) May the hands of Abū Lahab be ruined, and ruined is he.[2008] ——— [2008]- Abū Lahab (the Prophet's uncle) , who was an enemy of Islām.

(2) His wealth will not avail him or that which he gained.

(3) He will [enter to] burn in a Fire of [blazing] flame

(4) And his wife [as well] - the carrier of firewood.[2009] ——— [2009]- She used to put thorns in the Prophet's path and slander him (ﷺ) . The word "firewood" was used by the Arabs to allude to slander and backbiting.

(5) Around her neck is a rope of [twisted] fiber.

(1) Say, "He is Allāh, [who is] One,[2011] ——— [2011]- Alone, without another, indivisible with absolute and permanent unity and distinct from all else. The one and only true deity, unique in His essence, attributes and deeds.

(2) Allāh, the Eternal Refuge.[2012] ——— [2012]- He who is absolute, perfect, complete, essential, self-sufficient and sufficient to meet the needs of all creation; the one eternally and constantly required and sought, depended upon by all existence and to whom all matters will ultimately return.

(3) He neither begets nor is born,

(4) Nor is there to Him any equivalent."

(1) Say, "I seek refuge in the Lord of daybreak

(2) From the evil of that which He created

(3) And from the evil of darkness when it settles

(4) And from the evil of the blowers in knots[2014] ——— [2014]- i.e., those who practice magic.

(5) And from the evil of an envier when he envies."

(1) Say, "I seek refuge in the Lord of mankind,

(2) The Sovereign of mankind,

(3) The God of mankind,

(4) From the evil of the retreating whisperer[2016] - ——— [2016]- i.e., a devil who makes evil suggestions to man but disappears when one remembers Allāh.

(5) Who whispers [evil] into the breasts of mankind -

(6) From among the jinn and mankind."[2017] ——— [2017]- Evil prompters may be from men as well as from jinn.