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	Part XXIII 22. `What reason have I not to worship Him Who has created me, and to Whom you all shall be brought back? 23. `Shall I take apart from Him others as gods whose intercession, if the Most Gracious (God) should decide to do me some harm, will be of no avail to me, nor will they be able (even) to rescue me (from that harm)? 24. `Surely, in case (I do anything of the kind) I should be (falling) in (to) a clear error. 25. `I have believed in your (true) Lord, therefore listen to me.' 26. It was said (to him by God), `Enter Paradise (while you are still living).' He said, `O, would that my people knew, 27. `For what reason has my Lord granted me protection (from pitfalls in this life) and included me among the honoured (servants of His)!' 28. We sent no contingent (of force) from heaven, against his people (to destroy them), after that (he has believed) nor do We ever command (any of such things). 29. It was just a single blast and behold! they were all (extinct) like a (spark of) fire extinguished. 30. Alas for (My) servants! not a single Messenger comes to (reform) them but they treat him lightly. 31. Have they not seen how many generations We have ruined before them, and that those (generations) never come back to them (after their ruination)? 32. Indeed, they, one and all, shall most certainly, be brought before Us. SECTION 3 33. The dead earth which We bring to life and from which We bring forth (a large variety of) grains, of which they eat, is an important sign for them. 34. And We have made to grow there on (the earth) gardens of date-palms and vine, and We have caused springs to gush forth from it; 35. So that they may enjoy its fruit and (enjoy) that which their hands have worked for. Will they then render (Us) no thanks (and follow Our guidance)? 36. Glory be to Him Who has created pairs of all type of the thing that the earth grows and of their own species and of the things yet unknown to them. 37. The night from which We strip off (the last vestige) of the day, so that (afterwards) they are left in pitch darkness, is a (great) sign for them. 38. And the sun is moving (on its ordained course) towards the goal determined for it. That is the determining of the All-Mighty, the Possessor of perfect knowledge. 39. And (think over the phase of) the moon, We have determined its various mansions, so that (after traversing these mansions) it returns (to the stage when it appears) like an old dry twig of a palm-tree. 40. It is not given to the sun to attain to (the purpose ordained for) the moon, nor is it given to the night to outstrip the day. All of these (luminaries) go on floating smoothly in an orbit (of their own). 41. And it is a sign for these people that We carry their children in the fully laden ships. 42. And We will make for them other (means of transport) such things as they will board. 43. If We (so) willed, We would drown them, then they would have no (one to) succour (them), nor would they be rescued. 44. It is only through mercy from Us (that We save them) and (let them have) an enjoyment of worldly gains for a while. 45. And when it is said to them, `Guard yourself against that (punishment) which is (impending) before you and that which is behind you (and may befall you as a consequence of your evil past) so that you may be shown mercy (they turn away).' 46. There never comes to them a Message from the Messages of their Lord but they always turn away from it. 47. And when it is said to them, `Spend out of that which Allâh has provided for you,' those who disbelieve say to those who believe, `Shall we feed those whom, if Allâh so will, He could feed? You are only steeped in obvious error.' 48. They (also) say, `(Tell us) if indeed you are truthful when this warning (about punishment) shall come to pass.' 49. They are (thus) only waiting for one sudden onslaught of calamity which will overtake them while they are yet disputing (about it) among themselves. 50. And so (sudden will be their end) that they will not be able to leave instructions about their affairs nor to their own people will they return.



	SECTION 4 51. And the trumpet shall be blown, and behold! (rising) from their graves they will hasten on to their Lord. 52. They will say (to one an other), `O woe be on us! Who has aroused us from our sleeping place?' `This is the same thing as the Most Gracious (God) had promised and the Messengers (of God) did indeed speak the truth' (will be the reply they receive). 53. It will only be a single blast, and behold! they shall all be brought before Us. 54. So on this Day no injustice whatsoever shall be done to any soul. You shall reap the fruit of your deeds. 55. On this Day, the owners of Paradise will be occupied (in their pursuits), rejoicing. 56. They and their companions will be in (pleasant) shades, reclining on raised couches. 57. Therein they shall have fruits, and they will have all that they ask for. 58. `Peace (be upon you)' (shall be) the word (of greeting to them) from the Ever Merciful Lord. 59. And (it will be said to the sinners), `O guilty ones! remain apart (as distinguished from the righteous) this day. 60. `O Children of Adam! did I not enjoin on you never to worship satan, for he is to you an enemy severing (your) ties (with Me). 61. `And (did I not charge you) to worship Me, (for) this is the straight and right path? 62. `Yet he (- satan) has certainly led astray a number of people from among you. Why do you not even then make use of your understanding (so as to rectify your error)? 63. `This is the Gehenna you were warned against. 64. `Enter it this day, because of your disbelief.' 65. On that day We shall seal the mouths of these (disbelievers). Their hands will speak to Us (about the actions they wrought), and their feet shall bear witness to all their (sinful) doings. 66. If We had (so) willed, We could certainly have deprived these (disbelievers) of their eyesight so that they would have gone ahead on their path (unseeing). But, how should they find (the path) now (in this state of their blindness). 67. If We had (so) willed, We could have surely destroyed them where they were, so that they would not be able to move forward nor turn back. SECTION 5 68. We reverse the mechanism of the person to whom We grant (extraordinary) long life by making the state of his constitution weak. Do they not (even then) make use of their understanding? 69. We have not taught him (- the Prophet Muhammad the art of composing) verses, nor does it become him (to be a poet). This (Qur'ân) is but a means to attain to eminence; a (Book) that is widely read, and tells the right from the wrong. 70. (It has been revealed) so that he (- the Prophet) may warn those who are still (somewhat spiritually) alive (and so capable of receiving and responding to the call of truth), and (that) the verdict (of condemnation) be justified against the disbelievers. 71. Do they not see that among the things that We have made with Our power are the cattle which We have created for them, and of which they are masters (now). 72. And We have subdued these (cattle) for their use and benefit. So that some of them serve as their riding (beasts) and through others they obtain their food. 73. They have many other uses in them. They provide them with drinks (of various kinds). Will they still give (Us) no thanks? 74. (Inspite of all this) they worship other gods apart from Allâh (falsely) that they may find some help through them. 75. These (false gods) are not capable of helping them. On the contrary these (gods) will (turn out for them to) be a host (of rebels) brought (before the Almighty to receive their due punishment). 76. And do not let their words cause you grief. Verily, We know what they conceal and what they profess (and they will be paid back in their own coins). 77. Has not a human being seen how We have created him out of a (very insignificant) sperm drop? Yet behold! he is an open adversary (to Us). 78. And he coins strange things about Us and forgets his own creation. He says, `Who will quicken the dead bones to life when they are decayed?' 79. Say, `He Who evolved them the first time will again raise them to life. He is fully conversant with all (types and methods of) creation. 80. `It is He Who produces fire for you out of the green tree, that you kindle (another fire) from it (even so new faith



	is kindled when the spiritually weak come in contact with the Divine Reformer).' 81. Has He, Who has created the heavens and the earth, not the power of creating (other people) like them? Why not! He is the Supreme Creator (and) Possessor of all knowledge. 82. Verily, His command, when He intends (to evolve) a thing, is (only) that He says to it, `Be' and it comes into being (at proper time). 83. Therefore, glory be to Him in Whose hand lies the perfect control of every thing, and towards Whom you shall all be made to return. Chapter 37 Al-Sâffât (Those Ranging in Ranks) (Revealed before Hijrah) With the name of Allâh, the Most Gracious, the Ever Merciful (I commence to read Sûrah Al-Sâffât). 1. Cited as witness are those who range themselves in close ranks (in various fields of life), 2. And those who drive away (the forces of evil) vigorously, 3. And those who recite and follow the Reminder (- the Qur'ân), 4. Verily, your God is One, 5. Lord of the heavens and the earth and all that lies between them and Lord of the places of the rising and spreading of light. 6. Verily, We have beautified and embellished the nearer space (- the heaven visible to you) with an excellent embellishment, the stars and planets. 7. And (We have placed therein) an effective safeguard against every insolently disobedient satan. 8. They (having no access to the source of prophecy) cannot listen to (what goes on in) the exalted assembly (of the arch angels). They are reproached (for their false conjectures) from every side, 9. They are repulsed. A perpetual punishment awaits them. 10. Yet if anyone of them snatches away but once (to find out something), he is pursued by a bright shining flame. 11. Therefore, ask them (- your opponents) whether it is they (- the worldly people) who are harder in creation or those (spiritual beings) whom We have created. Them We have created out of adhesive sticking clay (so of firm and strong character). 12. Whereas you marvel (at this mighty spiritual revelation) they hold you in low estimation. 13. When they are admonished they pay no heed; 14. And when they see a sign they seek to scoff (at it), 15. And they say, `This is nothing but an enchantment; (a device) causing a split (among the people). 16. `Well (can it be possible that) when we are dead and reduced to dust and bones we shall be raised to life (again)? 17. `And shall our forefathers of earlier times be (also)?' 18. Say, `Yes, and you shall then be disgraced.' 19. Then there shall be but a single driving shout and behold! they will be (up and) looking on. 20. And they will say, `O woe be on us! this is the Day of Requital.' 21. (They will be told,) `This is the Day of the (last) judgment, (yes) the very day you used to cry lies to.' SECTION 2 22. (Angels will be commanded,) `Round up those who acted unjustly and their companions and the things they used to worship 23. `Beside Allâh, then lead them towards the way of Hell. 24. `And hold them up for a while for they have to be questioned.' 25. (They will be asked,) `What is the matter with you that you do not help one another (this day)?'



	26. Rather they will on that day (being ashamed) be completely submissive (bending their heads low). 27. Some of them will turn to the others, questioning to one another (reproachingly). 28. They (the seduced ones) will say (to the seducers), `Surely, you used to approach us with great force swearing ( your sincerity to guide us aright).' 29. They (- seducers) will reply, `It was not so. Rather you yourselves were not (inclined to be) the believers. 30. `And we had no authority over you (to seduce you). The truth is that you yourselves were an unrestrained people (and given to excesses). 31. `So (today) we all deserve the judgment of our Lord. We are the sufferers (of the punishment for our own evil deeds). 32. `So (it is) we (who) led you astray, for we ourselves had indeed gone astray.' 33. On that day all of them shall surely share the punishment. 34. Surely, that is how We deal with the guilty. 35. For when it was said to them, `There is no other, cannot be and will never be One worthy of worship but Allâh,' they ever turned away in disdain. 36. And they used to say, `Are we to forsake our gods for the sake of a mad poet?' 37. Nay, (this Prophet is neither insane nor a poet,) the fact is that he brought the everlasting truth and has testified to the truth of (all) the Messengers (gone before him). 38. (Disbelievers!) you will suffer the woeful punishment, most certainly. 39. You shall be made to reap the fruit of your own deeds. 40. Different however is the case of the (chosen) servants of Allâh, the true and purified ones. 41. It is they for whom there awaits a provision (especially) earmarked, 42. Fruits, moreover they shall be the honored ones (and generously treated) 43. In the Gardens of Bliss. 44. (They shall be seated) on thrones (of happiness and dignity), face to face. 45. They will be served in a round with a bowl containing pure drink filled at a limpid flowing fountain, 46 (Sparkling) white, delicious to the drinkers, (as a reward for their leading pure sweet and flawless lives). 47. Neither these (drinks) will cause any ruinous effect, nor they will be deprived of intellectual faculties thereby. 48. And they will have (chaste wives) by their sides, damsels, with restrained and modest looks (and) with large beautiful eyes. 49. Just as though they were eggs carefully guarded (- of pure and unsoiled character). 50. Then (sipping their cups) they will turn one to another asking questions; 51. One of them will say, `Surely I had an intimate companion (in the world), 52. `Who used to say, "Are you indeed one of those who confirm (and really believe in the Resurrection)? 53. "Is it true that we shall be reunited when we are dead and reduced to dust and bones?"' 54. He (- the confirmer of the Resurrection) will then add (saying), `Have a look (at that companion of mine to find how he fares!)?' 55. Then as he will have a look (at his companion) he will find him right in the midst of Hell. 56. He will then say (to that companion), `By Allâh, you had almost caused me to perish; 57. `But for the favour and grace of my Lord, I would have also been one of those who are facing (the punishment today).' 58. The owners of Paradise will then ask one another, `Is it not true that we are not going to suffer death (again)? 59. `Ours was only the death we have already met (in the world), and we are going to suffer no punishment. 60. `This indeed, is the mighty achievement (on our part). 61. `Let those who would strive, then strive for the like of this (supreme triumph)!' 62. Does all this (state of bliss) make a better welcome than the tree of Zaqqûm (which will serve as food for the people of Gehenna)? 63. For We have made this (tree) a scourge for the wrongdoers. 64. It is a tree which springs forth from the bottom of Hell. 65. Its produce is as though it were the heads of serpents. 66. And most surely they, (the inmates of Hell,) shall eat of it and fill (their) bellies with it. 67. In addition to (all) this, they will have (therein) a mixture of boiling water (to drink). 68. Then most surely they shall finally go to Hell. 69. The thing is, they found their forefathers erring, 70. And they are rushing on in their footsteps (as if driven by some inward urge). 71. And most of the ancient people had erred before them.



	72. Though We had already sent Warners among them. 73. Behold! then, how (evil) was the end of those who were warned. 74. Different, however, was the case of the chosen servants of Allâh, the true and purified ones. SECTION 3 75. And Noah did call upon Us (in his hour of trial); how Gracious We are in answering prayers! (and how excellent a response did We make!) 76. We delivered him and his people from the great distress. 77. And We let his progeny alone to survive. 78. And We left behind him (a blessed salutation) for the later generations (to remember him by). 79. `Peace be upon Noah,' (the prayer being invoked upon him) among all the peoples. 80. That is how We reward those who do good to others. 81. He was surely (one) of Our believing servants. 82. And (whereas We saved him and his people) We drowned the rest. 83. And Abraham also belonged to his (Noah's) school of thought. 84. (Recall the time) when he came to his Lord with a pure heart, 85. (And) when he asked his sire and his people, `What is it that you worship? 86. `Do you choose (to worship) gods made falsely leaving Allâh aside, 87. `So what do you take the Lord of the worlds to be (as you people worship false gods)?' 88. Then he cast a glance at the stars (intimating that their discussion has dragged far into the night); 89. And said, `I am indeed sick (of your worshipping false gods).' 90. So those people turned their backs upon him and left him. 91. Then he turned (his attention) towards their gods and (with a mind to make their worshippers realise their folly) said (addressing the gods), `Do you not eat (any of the things that lie before you)? 92. `What is wrong with you that you do not even speak?' 93. He then came upon them hitting them hard with the right hand. 94. (Hearing this news) the people came running to him. 95. He said (to them), `You worship the things you have chiselled yourselves; 96. `Whereas (it is) Allâh (Who) has created you, but what is it that you are doing?' 97. (His opponents) said, `Build up a pyre for him and throw him into the blazing fire.' 98. Thus they designed a plan against him, but We made them to be the most humiliated. 99. (Abraham) said, `I shall go where my Lord bids me. He will surely guide me right (to the path leading to success in my mission).' 100. (And he prayed,) `My Lord! grant me (an issue who is) of the righteous.' 101. So We gave him the good tidings of (the birth of) a wise and forbearing son. 102. Now, when that (son, Ismâîl) was (old enough) to work along with him, (his father, Abraham) said, `My dear son! I have seen in a dream that I sacrifice you. So consider (it and tell me) what you think (of it).' (The son) said, `My dear father! do as you are commanded. If Allâh will you will find me of the calm and steadfast.' 103. Now, (it so happened) when both of them submitted themselves (to the will of God) and he (- Abraham) had laid him (- Ismâîl) down on his forehead, 104. We called out to him (saying), `O Abraham! 105. `You have already fulfilled the vision.' That is how We reward those who perform excellent deeds. 106. That was obviously a disciplinary test (crowned with a mighty reward,) 107. And a great sacrifice was the ransom with which We redeemed him (- Ismâîl). 108. And We left behind him (- Abraham) among the succeeding generations (the noble salutation to invoke blessings upon him). 109. `Peace be upon Abraham!' 110. Thus indeed do We reward those who perform excellent deeds. 111. Surely, he was (one) of Our believing servants. 112. And We gave him (also) the good tidings of (the birth of) Isaac, a Prophet (and who is) one of the righteous. 113. And We bestowed (Our) blessings on him (- Ismâîl) and on Isaac. And among the progeny of both there are (some persons) who perform excellent deeds and (also some) who are clearly unjust to themselves. SECTION 4



	114. We did bestow (Our) favours on Moses and Aaron. 115. We delivered them both and their people from the great distress. 116. And We came to their help (against the people of Pharaoh). So it was they who gained clear supremacy. 117. And We gave them both the Manifesting Book. 118. And We guided them both to the right and straight path. 119. And We left behind both of them (a blessed salutation) among the generations to come. 120. `Peace be upon Moses and Aaron!' 121. That is how do We reward the performers of excellent deeds. 122. Surely, they were both among Our believing servants. 123. Verily, Elias was (also) one of the Messengers. 124. (Recall the time) when he said to his people, `Will you not guard against evil (deeds)? 125. `Do you call upon Ba`l (- the sun-god), and forsake the Best Creator, 126 `Allâh, your Lord and the Lord of your forefathers of old.' 127. But they cried lies to him and they will surely be brought (before God to account for their deeds). 128. Different, however, shall be the case of the chosen servants of Allâh, the purified ones. 129. And We left behind him (- Elias) among the succeeding generations (the blessed salutation to be invoked upon him), 130. `Peace be upon Elias and his people!' 131. That is how We reward the performers of excellent deeds. 132. Surely, he was (one) of Our believing servants. 133. And verily, Lot was (also one) of the Messengers. 134. (Recall the time) when We delivered him and his followers all together, 135. Except an old woman (who) was among those who stayed behind (and did not go with those delivered). 136. And We utterly destroyed the rest. 137. And you surely pass by them, (their ruins sometimes), in the morning, 138. And (sometimes) by night. Do you not still make use of (your) understanding (and take heed)? SECTION 5 139. And surely, Jonah (also) was (one) of the Messengers. 140. (Recall the time) when he fled (from his people) towards the fully laden ship. 141. So he was with those (crew) who cast lots (on board of the ill-fated ship, and his name was among those who were to be thrown overboard in order to keep the ship light and well-balanced on account of the storm) and so he was (also) of those who were cast off (in the sea). 142. Then (it came about that) a big fish took him in its mouth while he was reproaching (himself). 143. Had he not been of those who glorify (God) 144. He would have surely remained in its belly till the time people are raised up (after their death). 145. Then (it came to pass) that We cast him on a bare and wide tract of land and he was completely worn out and sick. 146. And We caused a plant (of the gourd type) bearing large-size fruit but the creeper of slender stem to grow near him. 147. And We sent him (back as a Messenger at Nineveh) to a people hundred thousand strong, rather they were even more. 148. They all believed (in him) so We provided them gains till the end of their lives. 149. Now ask these (disbelievers) whether daughters are for your Lord (as they assert), and sons for themselves. 150. Or did We create the angels as females (in their presence) while they were witnesses (of their birth). 151. Beware! it is (one) of their fabrications that they say, 152. `Allâh has begotten (those as His children).' They are liars, of course. 153. Has He chosen daughters in preference to sons? 154. What is the matter with you? How (wrong) you judge! 155. Will you take no heed? 156. Or have you a clear authority (in your defence for your false beliefs)? 157. If so then come out with your (authoritative) scripture if you are truthful. 158. And they have set up a kinship between Him and the jinn (- strong and mighty men), whereas the jinn know fully well that they themselves shall be called to account for their deeds.



	159. Holy is Allâh, far beyond the things they attribute (to Him). 160. But the chosen servants of Allâh, the purified ones (attribute nothing derogatory to Him). 161. (Disbelievers!) neither you of course, nor the things you worship; 162. None of you can mislead anyone against Him, 163. Excepting (only) the person who is (himself) going to enter Hell. 164. (The righteous say,) `Each one of us has his assigned place. 165. `And most surely we are the ones who stand ranged in rows (attending to the command of God). 166. `Verily, we are the ones who glorify Him (and sing His praise). 167. And surely, these (infidels) used to say, 168. `Had there been with us an exhortation from the people of old. 169. `We would surely have been the chosen servants of Allâh, the purified ones.' 170. But (now) they have disbelieved in this (Book, the Qur'ân when it has come to them). So they will soon come to know (the consequences of their disbelief). 171. And We have already given Our word (of promise) to Our servants, the Apostles, 172. That it is they alone who shall receive Our help (against the infidels). 173. And (that) it is Our armies that shall gain clear supremacy. 174. So turn away from them until a time (of your success), 175. And watch (what happens to) them, and they (too) will soon see (their own doom). 176. Do they seek to hasten on Our punishment? 177. But evil shall be the morning of those who were warned when this punishment shall descend in their precincts. 178. So turn away from them until a time (- that of your supremacy); 179. And watch (what happens to) them and they (too) will soon see (their end). 180. Holy is your Lord, the Lord of all honour and power. He is far above the (polytheistic) things they attribute (to Him). 181. And peace be ever upon all the Messengers. 182. And all type of perfect and true praise belongs to Allâh, the Lord of the worlds. Chapter 38 Sâd (The Truthful God) (Revealed before Hijrah) With the name of Allâh, the Most Gracious, the Ever Merciful (I commence to read Sûrah Sâd). 1. Sâd - Allâh is the Truthful, (as proof of this fact) the Qur'ân which exalts (humankind) to eminence bears witness. 2. (There is nothing wrong with the Prophet,) the only thing is that the disbelievers are suffering from a sense of (false) pride and are hostile (to him). 3. (Do they not see that) We have destroyed so many generations before them? (They did not care to listen to the warning at first) then (later) they cried (for help) but the time for escape had passed. 4. They wonder that there should come to them a Warner from among themselves, and the disbelievers say, `He is a sorcerer, a great liar (in his claim). 5. `Has he turned (the whole lot of) gods (we worshipped) into One God? Very strange indeed is this thing.' 6. And the leaders among them go about saying, `Go (from here) and adhere constantly to (the worship of) your gods. This (claim of the Qur'ân about the unity of God) is a thing designed (with some purpose behind it). 7. `We heard nothing of its kind about any of the previous creeds. This is nothing but a forgery. 8. `Is it that this Reminder (- the Qur'ân) has been revealed only to him (the chosen Warner) in (preference to) all of us?' The thing is they have doubts about My Reminder (itself). As a matter of fact they have not (yet) suffered (the agony of) My punishment.



	9. Do they possess the treasures of the mercy of your Lord, the All-Mighty, the Great Bestower? 10. Or does the kingdom of the heavens and the earth and all that lies between them belong to them? (If so) then let them rise higher with the means (at their disposal and stop the onward march of Islam). 11. (But bear in mind the prophecy:) there will be several hosts of the confederates which shall be completely routed here (at Madînah). 12. The people of Noah, (the tribe of) `âd and Pharaoh, lord of mighty hosts, treated (their Apostles) before them as liars. 13. So did (the tribe of) Thamûd and the people of Lot, and the dwellers of the Thicket. These were (all routed) groups of people. 14. Each one had cried lies to the Messengers. So My punishment rightly became due (on them). SECTION 2 15. And also for these (people of your time) awaits a sudden punishment which shall know no pause. 16. They say, `Our Lord! hurry up with our portion (of punishment in this very life) before the Day of Reckoning.' 17. Bear with patience what they say. And remember (the event of the life of) Our servant David, the possessor of might. Verily, he was ever turning (to God). 18. Indeed, We made (the people of) the mountains subservient to him (and) they celebrated (Our) praises at nightfall and at sunrise, 19. And (We made) the birds and the people (who were) full of dislike for habitations to flock together (to him). All of them were always turning in obedience (to God) on his account. 20. And We strengthened his kingdom, and We granted him wisdom and decisive judgment. 21. Have you heard the news of the adversaries (of David) who scaled the rampart of the fortress (to take David unawares in his chamber)? 22. When they intruded upon David and (found that) he had become alert (on account of) them, they said, (by way of an excuse,) `Have no fear. We are two parties litigants. One of us has transgressed against the other, therefore judge between us as justice demands, and delay not (by giving the date of decision,) and guide us (in our litigation) to the fair way. 23. `(The case of the litigation is that,) this is my brother. He has ninety nine ewes while I have one ewe; still he says, "Make it over to me," and he has been prevailing by his arguments upon me.' 24. (David) said, `He has certainly been unjust to you in demanding your ewe (to be added) to his own ewes. And surely many partners transgress against one another except those who believe (in God) and do deeds of righteousness. Yet how few are these!' (While saying this) David realised that We had tried him, therefore he sought protection of his Lord and fell down bowing in worship and turned (to his Lord) in repentance. 25. So We gave him that protection (sought for by him from that danger he felt). And verily he enjoyed Our close proximity and an excellent status. 26. (We said,) `O David! verily We have made you the ruler in this land. So rule among the people according to (the tenants of) justice, and do not follow their vain desires, (for if you do) it will lead you astray from the path leading to Allâh. Behold! a severe punishment awaits those who go astray from Allâh's way, because they have forgotten the Day of Reckoning. SECTION 3 27. And We have not created the heaven and the earth and all that lies between them in vain. That is the view of the disbelievers only. Therefore woe to those who disbelieve because of (the punishment by means of) the Fire (that awaits them). 28. Are We to treat those who believe and do deeds of righteousness in the same way as the creators of disorder in the land? Or are We to treat those who guard against evil in the same way as the wicked and impious? 29. (Behold! this Qur'ân is) a great Book which We have revealed to you; full of excellences, so that these (people) may ponder over its verses and so that those gifted with pure understanding may take heed. 30. And We gave (a pious son like) Solomon to David. How excellent a servant (of Ours) he was! For he turned to Us in obedience and repentance again and again. 31. (Think of the time) when towards the close of the day, steeds of the noblest breed and swift of foot were brought before him.



	32. He said, `I prefer the love of good things because they make (me) remember (God), my Lord.' And (he remained busy in his devotion and prayer), when these (horses) disappeared (while passing by) behind the veil (of distance), 33. (He said,) `Bring them back to me.' Then (as they were brought) he began to stroke their hind legs and necks (with kindness). 34. Behold! We tried Solomon (too) and We placed on his throne (of kingdom) a (mere) body (without any spirit or faith). Then he turned (to God seeking His mercy). 35. He said (praying), `My Lord! grant me protection and bestow on me a kingdom that belongs to none (by inheritance) after me. You indeed are the Great Bestower.' 36. So (We accepted his prayer and) We subjected to him a gentle wind. It blew gently according to his requirements in the direction he desired to go. 37. And (We also subjugated to him) the rebellious people (- the unruly Amâliqah people of far off lands), all (their) builders and divers; 38. And others (among them, who were) bound in chains. 39. (We said to him,) `This is Our gift that knows no measure. So give it freely or withhold it (from whomsoever you deem fit) without reckoning. 40. Behold! there is for him (- Solomon) Our close proximity and an excellent resort. SECTION 4 41. And recall Our servant Job when he called to his Lord (saying), `The devil (of the desert - thirst) has afflicted me with weariness and torment.' 42. (We directed him,) `Urge (your riding beast) with your foot (and depart swiftly). There lies (yonder) a cool bathing place and a (refreshing) drink.' 43. (Not only that rather) We gave him his own family (and the followers he had before) and as many more with them (in the form of new adherents) by way of mercy from Ourselves (the lesson thus taught will serve) as a means to attain eminence for those gifted with pure and clear understanding. 44. And (We commanded him,) `Take in your hand a handful of twigs and strike (the riding beast) therewith. And do not ever incline towards falsehood. Indeed, We found him steadfast. An excellent servant was he. He was always turning (towards God) in obedience. 45. Recall Our servants Abraham, Isaac and Jacob (all) endowed with power for action, and insight. 46. We had indeed chosen them for one special purpose; for reminding (people) of the abode (of the Hereafter). 47. And of course they are in Our sight among the elect and the select. 48. And recall Ismâîl, Elisha and Dhul Kifl (- Ezekiel); they were all of (Our) chosen ones. 49. This (narrative) is the way to eminence. Behold! there awaits the righteous a beautiful and excellent resort; 50. Gardens of Eternity with their gates thrown open to receive them. 51. There they will be reclining (comfortably) on couches and there they will order (at pleasure) for many (sorts of) fruits and drinks. 52. And they will have by their sides chaste mates with downcast and restrained looks, and of suitable age (and matching in every aspect). 53. This is what you are promised for the Day of Reckoning. 54. Verily, this is Our provision which knows no end. 55. This is (the reward for the righteous only). As for the rebellious, surely evil is their end, 56. Gehenna, wherein they will enter. And (it shall be) an evil cradling (for nursing them to spiritual growth). 57. This is (what the disbelievers will have), so let them suffer from it a burning despair and intensely cold and stinking drink. 58. And other various (torments) of similar nature. 59. (It will be said to their leaders of mischief,) `This is a whole army (of yours) which is rushing headlong with you (into Hell). There is no welcome for them. They are bound to enter the Fire.' 60. They (- their followers) will say (to their leaders), `Nay, it is rather you (who deserve Hell)! There is no welcome for you (either). In truth it was you that brought about this (evil punishment) for us (by leading us astray), what an evil resting place it is!' 61. They will (then) say, `Our Lord! whoso brought about this (evil end) for us, increase for him more and more agony in the Fire.' 62. And these (inmates of Hell) will say, `What is the matter with us that we do not see (here) the men whom we used



	to count among the wicked. 63. `Is it because we (unjustly) held them in scorn or (is it) that (our) eyes have missed them?' 64. Behold! this is an invariable fact that the inmates of the Fire will be disputing together. SECTION 5 65. Say, `I am only a Warner. There is no other, cannot be and will never be One worthy of worship but Allâh, the One, the Subduer of all. 66. `The Lord of the heavens, and the earth and all that lies between the two, the All-Mighty, the Great Protector.' 67. Say, `This (universal call of Islam) is a very important announcement. 68. `Yet you are turning away from this. 69. `I had no knowledge of the Exalted assembly (comprising of the angels in the upper zones) when they discussed (the matter) among themselves. 70. `But all that has been revealed to me is that I am a Warner telling the right from the wrong.' 71. (Call to mind) when your Lord said to the angels, `I am about to create a human being from clay, 72. `And when I have fashioned him in perfection and I have inspired into him of My revelation then fall down submitting to him.' 73. So (when He inspired into him His revelation) the angels submitted one and all. 74. But Iblîs did not, he behaved arrogantly for he was of the disbelievers. 75. (God) said, `O Iblîs! what prevented you from submitting to him whom I have created with My own special powers (bestowing him with the maximum attributes). Is it that you seek to be great or is it that you are (really) of the highly proud ones (above obeying My command)?' 76. (Iblîs) said, `I am better than he. You created me from fire while him You created from clay.' 77. (God) said, `Then get out of this (state); you are surely driven away (from My mercy). 78. `And surely upon you shall be My disapproval till the Day of Judgment.' 79. (Iblîs) said, `My Lord! reprieve me till the day when the people are raised to life (spiritually whether here or in the Hereafter).' 80. (God) said, `You are of course of the reprieved ones 81. `Till the Day of which the time is known and fixed.' 82. (Iblîs) said, `(I swear) by Your might, I will surely seduce them all, 83. `Except Your servants from among them, the true and purified ones (who are out of my powers).' 84. (God) said, `Truth has dawned and I speak the truth, 85. `That I will fill Gehenna with the like of you and with all those from among them who follow you.' 86. Say (O Prophet!), `I ask no reward from you for it (for preaching the Message of truth, and for warning the people,) nor am I of those who are given to affectation (and are impostors). 87. `This (Qur'ân) is nothing but a means to rise to eminence for the peoples, 88. And you shall surely know (the truth of) the news thereof before long.' Chapter 39 Al-Zumar (The Multitudes) (Revealed before Hijrah) With the name of Allâh, the Most Gracious, the Ever Merciful (I commence to read Sûrah Al-Zumar). 1. The orderly arrangement and authentic compilation of this wonderfully perfect Book is from Allâh, the All-Mighty, the All-Wise. 2. Surely, it is We Who have revealed the Book to you with the established truth to suit the requirements of truth and wisdom. So worship Allâh, being truly sincere to Him in obedience. 3. Beware! sincere and true obedience is due to Allâh alone. Those who choose others as a patron beside Him (say), `We serve them only that they may bring us near to Allâh in station.' (It is absolutely wrong.) Allâh will judge the



	differences between these (believers and disbelievers). Indeed, Allâh does not guide him to success who is a liar, highly ungrateful. 4. If Allâh had intended to take to Himself a son He could have chosen from His creation the one He pleased (and would not have left it to you). Holy is He! He is Allâh, the One, the All-Dominant. 5. He created the heavens and the earth to suit the requirements of truth and wisdom. He causes the night to revolve upon the day and causes the day to revolve upon the night and He has pressed the sun and the moon into service; each pursues its course for an appointed term. Behold! He is the All-Mighty, the Great Protector. 6. He created you from a single soul, then from that (same stock that He created a human being) He created his spouse. And He has given you eight (varieties of) cattle in pairs. He creates you in the wombs of your mothers, a creation, stage by stage, (making you pass) through three periods of darkness. Such is Allâh your Lord. The sovereignty and power belongs to Him alone. There is no other, cannot be and will never be One worthy of worship but He. Where are you, then, being turned away? 7. If you show ingratitude, surely, Allâh is Independent of you (He does not require your thanks). Yet He does not approve of His people to be ungrateful. (Indeed it is for your own sake that) He approves of you being grateful. And no soul that bears a burden can bear the burden (of the sins) of another. Behold! to your Lord shall you all return so that He will inform you of all that you have been doing. He knows full well (even) the innermost secrets of the hearts. 8. And when an affliction befalls a person he prays to his Lord turning (penitently) to Him. But when He confers a favour upon him from Himself, he forgets (the affliction) for (the removal of) which he used to pray (to Him) and starts assigning peers with Allâh, with the result that he causes the people to go astray from His path (the path leading to One God). Say, `Enjoy your ingratitude for a little while, you are sure to be of the inmates of the Fire.' 9. Can he who is obedient and prays (to Allâh) devoutly in the hours of the night, (now) falling prostrate, (now) standing upright (in Prayer) taking precaution against (the grave sequel of) the Hereafter and hopes for the mercy of His Lord, (be treated like him who is disobedient)? Say, `Are those who know (their obligations) equal to those who know (them) not? Only those (endowed) with pure understanding do take heed.' SECTION 2 10. Say, `O My servants who believe! take your Lord as a shield. There is a good reward for those who do good in (the life of) this world. And (if you are persecuted for your faith know that) the earth of Allâh is vast and spacious (enough to provide you shelter). Certainly the patiently, persevering and steadfast will be given their reward beyond measure.' 11. Say, `Verily, I have orders to worship Allâh, being truly sincere to Him alone in obedience. 12. `And I have orders to be the foremost among those who surrender themselves (to His will).' 13. Say, `If I disobey my Lord I have to fear the torment of a dreadful day.' 14. Say, `It is Allâh I worship, being purely sincere to Him in my obedience. 15. `Again, (as for you) you may go and worship whomsoever you please apart from Him.' Say, `The true losers are those who ruin their own souls and their families on the Day of Resurrection.' Beware! surely that is the manifest loss! 16. They shall have coverings of the fire over them and (sheets of similar) coverings below them (allowing them no escape). That is (the sort of punishment) against which Allâh warns His servants, `My servants! (do not invite My punishment, rather) take Me as (your) shield.' 17. But there await good tidings for those who restrain themselves from worshipping the transgressor (to the limit as defined by God) and turn to Allâh. So give glad tidings to My servants, 18. Who listen to the word (of advice) and follow the best (injunction productive of the best results) thereof. It is they whom Allâh has guided and it is they who are endowed with pure and clear understanding. 19. Can he then, against whom the verdict of punishment becomes due (and who therefore merits punishment, be saved?) Can you rescue him who is consigned to the Fire? 20. But for those who take their Lord as a shield, there awaits them lofty mansions, storey upon storey with streams running beneath them. (This is) the promise of Allâh; (and) Allâh will never fail in (His) promise. 21. Have you not seen (the sight) that Allâh sends down water from the clouds and causes it to flow (in the form of) streamlets on the earth and then brings forth herbage of various kinds and of diverse hues with it, then it dries up (after ripening) so that you see it turn yellow; then He turns it into chaff. Behold! in this (similitude) is a reminder for people endowed with pure and clear understanding. SECTION 3



	22. Is he whose mind Allâh has opened for (the acceptance of) Islam, so that he follows the light from his Lord, (like one who gropes in the darkness of disbelief)? Woe to those whose hearts are hardened against the remembrance of Allâh. Such indeed are (steeped) in clear error. 23. Allâh has revealed the best Message (the fairest discourse), this wonderfully coherent Book (the verses of which are mutually supplementing and) repeated, (narrating both sides of the case in various ways to drive home the divine injunctions to human minds). It makes the (very) skins of those who stand in awe of their Lord creep and their hearts tremble (at its recital). Yet their hearts and skins soften towards the remembrance of Allâh. This is Allâh's guidance, He guides him thereby who wishes (to be guided). Yet none can guide him whom Allâh forsakes and adjudges to be astray. 24. Is he, then, who has only his own person to shield him from the evil punishment on the Day of Resurrection (like him who is secure). And it will be said to the unjust (on that Day), `Suffer the punishment of what you used to commit deliberately.' 25. Their predecessors also cried lies (to their Messengers of God,) so that (Our) punishment came upon them from quarters they little perceived. 26. So Allâh made them suffer humiliation in the present life, and the punishment (in store for them) in the Hereafter will be greater still, if they but realise (it). 27. And We have set forth for the people all sorts of excellent and useful proofs in this Qur'ân that they may take heed, 28. (We have revealed the) Qur'ân in Arabic, there is no deviation from rectitude (in it and is free from all flaws), that they may guard against sufferings. 29. Allâh describes the condition of a man belonging to several partners contending with one another; and (there is) another man devoted wholly to one person. Are the two alike in condition? (No how can they be?) All true and perfect praise belongs to Allâh. But most of them do not know (this truth). 30. (One day), you will surely die and so shall they (after a brief span of life). 31. Then, on the Day of Resurrection, you will all dispute one with another before your Lord.