Recitation of Holy Quran with Urdu Translation

Sura 11. Hūd (Hud):

In the Name of Allah, Most Compassionate, Ever-Merciful.

1. Alif, Lam, Ra. (Only Allah and the Messenger (blessings and peace be upon him) know the real meaning. This) is (that) Book whose Verses are firmly founded; then they have been explained in detail by (the Lord) Who is All-Wise, All-Aware;

2. That do not worship anyone but Allah. Verily, I am a Warner from Him (Allah) to you and a Bearer of glad tidings;

3. And that you should seek forgiveness from your Lord, then submit your repentance before Him (with true heart). He will keep you glad and gratified with an excellent provision till an appointed term, and will reward for merit everyone enjoying merit (i.e. will bestow reward and ranks corresponding to one’s amount of righteous deeds and dedicated services). And if you turn away, then I fear for you the torment of a Mighty Day.

4. You are to return to Allah and He has Mighty Control over everything.

5. Bear in mind! These (disbelievers) fold up their breasts so that they may hide (the state of their hearts) from Him (Allah). Beware! When they cover (their bodies) with their clothes (even then) He knows all those matters which they hide and which they lay open. Surely, He knows best (the secrets of) the hearts.

6. And there is no moving creature (living being) on the earth but (that) its sustenance is (a bountiful obligation) upon Allah. And He knows its resting-place and (also) the place where it is to be entrusted. Everything is (recorded) in the enlightening Book (the Protected Tablet - (al-Lawh al-Mahfuz)).

7. And He (Allah) is the One Who created the heavens and the earth (the higher and the lower strata of the universe) in six days (i.e. six phases or aeons of creation and evolution). And (before the creation of the earth) His Throne of Authority operated on water, (and from that He brought forth all manifestations of life and created you,) so that He might put you to trial to evaluate which of you would prove better conduct-wise. And if you say: ‘You will be raised (brought to life) after death,’ the disbelievers will certainly say: ‘This is nothing (else) but an obvious magic.’

8. And if We defer their torment for a few fixed days, they will definitely say: ‘What has held it back?’ Beware! The day when that (torment) comes upon them (then) that will not be averted from them, and that (chastisement) will beset them which they used to make fun of.

9. And if We make man taste Mercy from Us, then withdraw it from him (for some reason), he becomes highly disappointed (and) ungrateful.

10. And if We make him taste (some) favour after the suffering that afflicted him, then he is sure to say: ‘Gone are all my troubles.’ Surely, he (becomes) most exultant and boastful,

11. Except for those who remain steadfast and keep doing pious deeds. For them is forgiveness and great reward.

12. How may it be that you omit a portion of what has been revealed to you, and that your (sanctified) breast feels straitened (by the idea that) the disbelievers say: ‘Why has any treasure not been sent down to him (the Messenger (blessings and peace be upon him)) or why has any angel not come with him?’ (O Glorious Messenger! That is just impossible.) You are but a Warner. (You are neither to tempt someone nor to persecute.) And Allah is a Guardian over everything.

13. Do the disbelievers say: ‘The Messenger has fabricated this (Qur’an) himself’? Say: ‘Bring then ten forged chapters like this, and call (to your help) whom you can except Allah if you are truthful.’

14. (O Muslims!) So, if they do not accept your challenge, then firmly believe that the Qur’an has been revealed with Allah’s knowledge, and that there is no other God but He. So, will you (now) stick to Islam (firm-footed)?

15. Those who lust after the worldly life (only,) with its beauty (and embellishment), We pay them back in full for their works here in this world and their (worldly recompense) is not diminished in the least.

16. They are the people for whom there is no (share) in the Hereafter except the Fire (of Hell). And (as for reward in the Hereafter) all (the works) they did in the world have come to nothing, and (all that) they used to do is null and void (because their account is cleared by paying them in full measure in the life of the world, and nothing remains in balance for the Hereafter).

17. He who holds fast to the Clear Proof from his Lord and a testimony (the Qur’an) too has come from his Lord for his strength and support, and prior to that the Book of Musa ((Moses) the Torah), a guide and mercy (too had come) — so, it is they who believe in it (the Qur’an). Can (he be equal to) the one who denies (the Qur’an) from among (the disbelieving) sects while his abode is the Fire of Hell? So, (O listener!) be not in any doubt about it. Surely, this (Qur’an) is the Truth from your Lord, but most people do not believe.

18. And who can be a greater wrongdoer than the one who fabricates a lie against Allah? Such people will be brought before their Lord and the witnesses will say: ‘These are the ones who foisted a lie upon their Lord.’ Know that Allah’s curse is upon the wrongdoers —

19. Those who hinder (others) from the path of Allah and look for crookedness in it. And it is they who deny the Hereafter.

20. They have no capability at all to frustrate (Allah) on earth, nor are there any helpers for them apart from Allah. The torment will be doubled for them (because) they had neither courage to hear (the Truth) nor vision to see (the Truth).

21. It is they who ruined their souls, and the lies they used to invent are (all) gone from them.

22. This is absolutely true that it is certainly they who will be the greatest losers in the Hereafter.

23. Verily those who believe and persist in pious works and humble themselves before their Lord, it is they who are the people of Paradise. They will live there forever.

24. The example of the two parties (the disbelievers and the believers) is like the blind and the deaf (versus) the seeing and the hearing. Are both the cases equal? Will you not take advice (even) then?

25. And surely We sent Nuh (Noah)) to his people. (He said to them:) ‘I am (raised and appointed as) a plain Warner to you,

26. That you worship none but Allah. I fear the torment of a grievous day (coming) upon you.’

27. So the disbelieving chiefs and nobles of his people said: ‘You appear to us but a human like ourselves, and we have not seen any (honourable person) following you except the most inferior and lowest of (our society) having superficial opinion (who have become your followers without using discretion). Nor do we find in you any merit and superiority over us (i.e. power and authority, wealth and riches or the worthy people joining your party or for that matter, any such prominent feature). Instead, we consider you to be liars.’

28. Nuh (Noah) said: ‘O my people, what is your view: if I stick to a Clear Proof from my Lord and He has also granted me His (exceptional) Mercy from Himself but that has been veiled from you (like the blind), can we force it upon you coercively while you despise it?

29. And, O my people, I do not (also) demand from you any wealth for (promoting and preaching this message). My reward is only (a bountiful obligation) upon Allah. Nor shall I drive away (for your sake) these (poor and backward) people who have accepted faith. (Do not consider them inferior. It is they who are in fact superior and respectable.) Surely they are those who will be blessed with meeting with their Lord, and truly I find you an ignorant (and insensible) people.

30. And, O my people, if I drive them away then who will come to my help (to rescue me) from (the wrath of) Allah? Do you not reflect?

31. And I do not say (this) to you: I have treasures of Allah (i.e. I am a very rich person); nor do I know of the unseen on my own (without Allah’s Revelation). Nor do I say: I am an angel (not a man. My message is not based on charismatic claims). Nor do I say pertaining to those who are inferior in your eyes: Allah will not award them any good at all (that is Allah’s command and everyone’s share). Allah knows best what is in their hearts. (If I were to say that,) surely I shall be among the wrongdoers the same moment.’

32. They said: ‘O Nuh (Noah), indeed you have disputed with us and disputed much. So now bring upon us that (torment) which you promise us if you are (really) truthful.

33. Nuh (Noah) said: ‘Allah alone will bring upon you that (torment) if He so wills and you cannot hinder (Him).

34. And even if I resolve to counsel you, my counsel (too) will not benefit you if Allah wills to lead you astray. He is your Lord and you will be returned to Him alone.’

35. (O Glorious Messenger!) Do they say: ‘The Messenger has fabricated this (Qur’an) himself’? Say: ‘If I have fabricated it, then I shall have to bear (the resulting torment of) my sin. And I am free of the sin that you are perpetrating.’

36. And it was revealed to Nuh (Noah): ‘None of your people will (now) believe (any more) except those who have (so far) believed. So you should not grieve over their (belying and mocking) activities.

37. And build an Ark before Our Eyes in compliance with Our instructions, and do not converse with Me (about anything) pertaining to the wrongdoers. They will surely be drowned.’

38. And Nuh (Noah) set himself to building the Ark. And whenever the chiefs of his people passed by him, they would scoff at him. Nuh (Noah) would say (in reply): ‘If you are mocking us (today), we shall also mock you (tomorrow) as you are mocking us.

39. So you will soon learn upon whom comes (in this very world the torment) that will disgrace and humiliate him and (then whom) the torment that will last forever befalls (in the Hereafter too).’

40. Until when Our Command (of torment) came and the oven started gushing (like fountains, then) We said: ‘(O Nuh (Noah),) get aboard the Ark a pair of animals (male and female) of every species and (take in) your family also except those against whom the Command (of destruction) has already gone forth, and whoever has believed (take him also with you).’ And, except a few, none had believed with him.

41. Nuh (Noah) said: ‘Get into the Ark; in the Name of Allah will it sail and anchor. Surely my Lord is Most Forgiving, Ever-Merciful.’

42. And the Ark kept sailing, carrying them through (violent) waves towering like mountains. Then Nuh (Noah) called out to his son, who had separated from him (and was standing with the disbelievers): ‘O my son, get aboard with us and do not stay with the disbelievers.’

43. He said: ‘(Instead of embarking on the Ark) I shall just now take shelter on some mountain. That will save me from the Deluge.’ Nuh (Noah) said: ‘None can save today from Allah’s punishment except someone to whom He (Allah) shows His Mercy.’ In the meanwhile, a (violent) wave came between both (father and son). So he was one of the drowned.

44. (And when all were drowned and annihilated except Nuh’s (Noah’s) Ark) it was commanded: ‘O earth, swallow up your water and, O sky, cease pouring.’ And the water was dried and the Command was executed and the Ark came to rest on Mount al-Judi and it was said: ‘Far away are the unjust (from Mercy)!’

45. And Nuh (Noah) called out to his Lord and submitted: ‘O my Lord, indeed my son (too) was a part of my family and certainly Your promise is true, and You are the Greatest of all rulers.’

46. (Allah) said: ‘O Nuh (Noah), indeed he is not included in your family because his actions were not righteous. So do not ask Me a question (about matters) of which you have no knowledge. I admonish you lest you should become amongst the unwise.’

47. Nuh (Noah) submitted: ‘O my Lord, I seek refuge with You from asking You that of which I have no knowledge. And if You forgive me not and bestow (not) mercy on me (then) I shall be of the losers.’

48. He was commanded: ‘O Nuh (Noah), get down (from the Ark) with peace and blessings from Us on you and on the (kingdoms, classes and) species that are with you. And there will (also) be (classes and) species (in future again) whom We shall provide with (the worldly favours); then a painful torment will come upon them from Us.’

49. This (narration) is of the accounts of the unseen that We reveal to you. Neither you nor your people knew them before this. So observe patience. Surely it is the Godfearing with whom it ends well.

50. And to the people of ‘Ad (We sent) their (kinship) brother Hud. He said: ‘O my people, worship Allah. You have no God other than Him. You merely invent a lie against Allah (of having a partner).

51. O my people! I do not demand of you any recompense for this (promotion and preaching of the message). My reward is (a bountiful obligation) upon Him Who has created me. Do you not apply your mind?

52. And, O people, seek forgiveness of your Lord (for your sins), then turn towards Him (with true hearts). He will send upon you copious downpour from the sky and will add strength to your strength. So, do not turn away from Him becoming sinners.’

53. They said: ‘O Hud, you have not brought us any clear proof. Nor are we going to forsake our gods at your behest and nor are we to believe in you.

54. We can say nothing except that some of our gods have afflicted you with (mental) disorder.’ Hud said: ‘Indeed I call Allah to witness, and you too bear witness that I have no concern with those whom you associate as partners with Allah.

55. Except for Him (Allah), join in to hatch (some) plot against me all of you (including your false gods), then grant me no respite (as well).

56. Surely I have put my trust in Allah Who is my Lord (as well as) your Lord. And there is not a moving (living) creature but He holds it by its forelock (i.e. is completely in the grip of His Mighty Control). Surely my Lord is (found by treading) the straight road (of truth and justice).

57. If even then you turn away then I have literally brought you (all those Commandments) with which I have been sent to you. And my Lord will appoint some other people in your place as your successors, and you can do Him no harm at all. Surely my Lord is Protector of everything.’

58. And when Our Command (of torment) came to pass (then) We saved Hud and the believers with him because of Our Mercy, and We delivered them from severe punishment.

59. And these are (the people of) ‘Ad who denied the Revelations of their Lord and disobeyed their Messengers and followed the dictates of every oppressive (and arrogant) enemy of the Truth.

60. A curse was set to chase them in this world, and (will chase them) on the Day of Resurrection (as well). Bear in mind that (the people of) ‘Ad denied their Lord. Beware! Far away (from Mercy) are the ‘Ad, the people of Hud!

61. And (We sent) to (the people of) Thamud their (kinship) brother Salih. He said: ‘O my people, worship Allah. You have no God apart from Him. He is the One Who raised you up from the earth and settled you therein. So, beg His forgiveness and then turn to Him in repentance. Surely my Lord is Near, Granting prayers.’

62. They said: ‘O Salih, only you have been the centre of hopes among our people before this. Are you forbidding us to worship those (idols) which our forefathers used to worship? We are really caught in a disquieting doubt about (the Oneness of Allah) towards which you are calling us.’

63. Salih said: ‘O my people, just think if I cling to the clear proof from my Lord, and I have been blessed with a (special) Mercy from Him (then after that) if I disobey Him (by holding back His Commandments from you), then who can help me escape from (the torment of) Allah? So, you can add to me nothing except inflicting loss.

64. And, O my people, this is a (peculiarly created) she-camel of Allah (which) is a Sign for you. So leave her free to graze in Allah’s earth and do her no harm lest an imminent torment should seize you.’

65. Then they (hamstrung and) slaughtered her. Salih said: ‘(Now) you luxuriate in your abodes (only) for three days. This is a promise which will (never) become untrue.’

66. Then, when Our Command (of torment) came to pass, We saved Salih and the believers with him through Our Mercy and (also delivered them) from the humiliation of that day. Surely your Lord alone is Powerful, Sovereign.

67. And a dreadful Blast overtook the wrongdoers. So morning found them (dead) lying prone in their homes,

68. As if they had never dwelled there. Remember! (The people of) Thamud denied their Lord. Beware! Far away (from Mercy) are (the people of) Thamud.

69. And indeed Our deputed angels came to Ibrahim (Abraham) bearing glad tidings. They greeted him, saying: ‘Peace (be on you),’ and Ibrahim (Abraham) reciprocated: ‘Peace (be on you).’ Then he did not take any time and brought (them) a roasted calf (in hospitality).

70. Then, when (Ibrahim (Abraham)) saw that their hands did not stretch towards that (dish), he took them as strangers and felt a little fear of them in (his) heart. They said: ‘Do not be afraid. We have been sent to the people of Lut (Lot).’

71. And his wife (Sara) who was standing (beside) laughed. So We conveyed to his (wife) the glad tidings of the birth of Ishaq (Isaac) and beyond Ishaq of Ya‘qub (Jacob).

72. She said: ‘Amazing! Shall I bear a child while I have grown old and my husband (too) is an old man? It is extremely astonishing indeed!’

73. The angels said: ‘Are you wondering at Allah’s Command? O people of the house, (showered) upon you are Mercy and Blessings of Allah. Indeed He (is) Praiseworthy, Glorious.’

74. So when fear disappeared from Ibrahim (Abraham) and the glad tidings reached him, he disputed (with) Our (angels) about the people of Lut (Lot).

75. Assuredly Ibrahim (Abraham) was indeed most forbearing, sobbing and submissive and turning to Us under all circumstances.

76. (The angels said:) ‘O Ibrahim (Abraham), leave off this (matter). Surely the Command of (torment from) your Lord has now come to pass, and the torment is about to seize them which cannot be averted.’

77. And when Our deputed angels visited Lut (Lot), he felt worried on their arrival and on account of them his strength sank and he said: ‘This is a day of great distress.’ (The angels were extremely handsome, and Lut (Lot) was aware of the evil habit of his people. So he was perturbed at the fear of possible mischief.)

78. (So the same happened that he apprehended.) The people of Lut (Lot, hearing about the arrival of the guests,) came to him running. And they were already addicted to evil-doing. Lut (Lot) said: ‘O my (disobedient) people, here are my (people’s) daughters. They are pure and lawful for you (through marriage). So, fear Allah and do not humiliate me before my guests (because of your indecency). Is there not among you even a single man of upright character?’

79. They said: ‘You know it well that we have nothing to do with your (people’s) daughters. And you certainly know what we desire.’

80. Lut (Lot) said: ‘Would that I had the power to resist you or I could seek shelter (today) in some indomitable fort.’

81. (Thereupon the angels) said: ‘O Lut (Lot), we are the messengers of your Lord. These people shall never be able to get at you. So leave in a part of the night with your family and let not any of you look (back); but (do not take) your wife (with you). The same (torment) which will come upon them is going to reach her (too). Surely, the time appointed for their (torment) is the morning. And is the morning not near?’

82. Then, when Our command (of chastisement) came to pass, We turned the town upside down and We rained upon it stones and pebbles of baked clay which incessantly teemed down (layer upon layer),

83. Which were marked by your Lord. And this (torment of stones) is not far away from the wrongdoers (even now).

84. And We (sent) to (the people of) Madyan their (kinship) brother Shu‘aib. He said: ‘O my people, worship Allah. You have no God but He. And do not give short measure and weight. Indeed I see you prosperous, but I fear for you the torment of a day which is about to encompass (you).

85. And, O my people, give full measure and full weight with justice, and do not give people their things less than their due. And do not spread destruction in the land by becoming mischief-mongers.

86. That which is left over from Allah’s provision (only that) is better for you if you have faith. And I am not a guardian over you.’

87. They said: ‘O Shu‘aib, does your Prayer only command you that we forsake those (gods) which our fathers have been worshipping, or that we refrain from doing with our wealth what we like? Surely you (alone) must be the most tolerant and guided one!’

88. Shu‘aib said: ‘O my people, tell me if I adhere to the clear proof from my Lord and He has also granted me pure and fine means of living from His Presence, (then why should I not preach the Truth)? I (also) do not want that, following you, I myself start doing (against the Truth) the same that I am forbidding you. All I desire is to (reform) you as far as I can, and my capability comes only from Allah’s (help). So I have put my trust in Him alone and I turn towards Him alone.

89. And, O my people, let not your enmity and hostility against me so incite you (due to which) there comes upon you that (torment) that befell the people of Nuh (Noah), or the people of Hud, or the people of Salih. And (the days of) the people of Lut (Lot) have not anyway passed far before you.

90. And seek forgiveness from your Lord, then turn to Him in repentance (with true hearts). Indeed my Lord is Ever-Merciful, Most Loving.

91. They said: ‘O Shu‘aib, we do not understand most of your talks, and we know you as a weak person in society. And were it not for your family, we would stone you. (This is what we are conceding for, otherwise) you enjoy no respect in our eyes.’

92. Shu‘aib said: ‘O my people, is my family more venerable to you than Allah? And you have (as if) cast Him (Allah) behind your backs. Surely, my Lord has encompassed (all) your works.

93. And, O my people, keep working in your place; I am doing my work. Soon will you come to know whom that torment seizes which will humiliate him, and who it is that is a liar. And wait on and I (too) wait along with you.’

94. And when Our command (of torment) came We saved Shu‘aib and the believers with him through Our Mercy but a dreadful Blast seized the wrongdoers. So they reached the morning (as dead) lying prostrate in their homes —

95. As if they had never put up there. Listen! (The people of) Madyan are doomed as were doomed (the people of) Thamud.

96. And indeed We sent Musa (Moses, too) with Our Signs and a clear proof,

97. To Pharaoh and his chiefs. The chiefs of the people obeyed the command of Pharaoh, although Pharaoh’s command was not right.

98. On the Day of Resurrection he will lead his people and will ultimately bring them down into the Fire of Hell. And how evil that place is to be ushered into!

99. The curse has been made to chase them in this world and (this will chase them) on the Day of Resurrection (as well). What an evil gift has been bestowed upon them!

100. (O Glorious Messenger!) That is some of the news We are relating to you of (those) towns some of which still exist and (some) were totally annihilated.

101. And We did not wrong them but they (themselves) wronged their souls. So, their false gods whom they worshipped besides Allah proved to them of no help when the command (of torment) of your Lord came forth. And those (gods) could add only to their destruction and devastation.

102. And that is how your Lord grips: He seizes the communities when they (become) tyrannous and corrupt. Surely His grip is agonizing and fierce.

103. Indeed these (episodes) contain lessons of warning for him who fears the chastisement of the Last Day. This (Day of Rising) is the Day when entire mankind will be gathered together and it is this Day when all will be made present.

104. And We are not deferring it but for an appointed term (which has already been fixed).

105. When that Day comes, not a soul will be able to speak without His permission. Then some of them will be unfortunate and others fortunate.

106. So those who will be unfortunate will be (put) into Hell; there they will be given to screaming and wailing.

107. They will abide in it till the heavens and the earth (which will then exist) last except as your Lord wills. Surely your Lord executes what He wills.

108. And those who will be fortunate will be in Paradise. They will abide in it forever till the heavens and the earth (which will then exist) endure except as your Lord wills. This is a bounty which will never be withdrawn.

109. So, (O listener,) do not have any doubt at all about those which they worship. They do not worship (on the basis of any reason or insight), but (they worship only) as their ancestors have done contiguously before. And certainly We will pay them their full share (of torment) which will not be diminished in the least.

110. And indeed We gave Musa (Moses) the Book. Then differences arose concerning it. And had there not been a decree from your Lord gone forth before, the judgment between them would surely have been passed. And they are certainly caught in a disquieting doubt about it (the Qur’an).

111. Your Lord will doubtlessly pay them in full for their works. He is certainly Well Aware of whatever they are doing.

112. So remain firm-footed as you have been commanded, and he too (must persevere) who has turned (to Allah) in your companionship. And, (O people,) do not revolt. Indeed He monitors whatever you do.

113. And incline not towards those who are engaged in oppression (and exploitation) lest the Fire (of Hell) should touch down at you and there will be no protector for you apart from Allah; then help (too) will not be extended to you.

114. And establish Prayer at the two ends of the day and in some parts of the night. Surely good actions delete the evil ones. This is admonition for those who accept admonition.

115. And be steadfast. Surely Allah does not let the reward of the pious go to waste.

116. So why were there not among the communities that preceded you men of superior morality and wisdom who would stop people from mischief-mongering in the land, except a few of them whom We delivered? And the unjust stuck to (the same path of) luxury and lustfulness that they were addicted to. And they were (regular) criminals.

117. And your Lord is not such that He would destroy the towns wrongfully while their dwellers are pious.

118. And had your Lord so willed, He would have made mankind one Umma (Community. But He has not done so by force. On the contrary He has given free choice to all to adopt a religion.) And (now) these people will always hold divergent views,

119. Except for him on whom your Lord has bestowed His Mercy and that is what He has created them for. And the Word of your Lord has been fulfilled: ‘Surely I will fill Hell with all the (disbelieving) jinn and men.’

120. And We are relating to you all the news of the Messengers whereby We strengthen your (most purified) heart. And in this (chapter) there has come to you the Truth and Advice and a lesson of warning (and also a reminder) for the believers.

121. And say to those who do not believe: ‘Work on in your place and we are doing (what our station demands).

122. And wait on; we (too) are waiting.’

123. And (all) the unseen of the heavens and the earth belongs to Allah alone and He is the One towards Whom every act is returned. So keep worshipping Him and keep trust in Him alone. And your Lord is not unmindful of the deeds that all of you do.

Sura 12. Yūsuf (Joseph):

In the Name of Allah, Most Compassionate, Ever-Merciful.

1. Alif Lam Ra (Only Allah and the Messenger know the real meaning.) These are the Verses of the illumining Book.

2. Verily, We have revealed it as Qur’an in the Arabic language so that you comprehend (it directly).

3. (O Beloved!) We relate to you the best narrative by means of this Qur’an which We have revealed to you, though you were unaware (of this story) before this.

4. (It runs thus:) When Yusuf (Joseph) said to his father: ‘O my venerable father! I have seen (in a dream) eleven stars and the sun and the moon. I have seen them prostrating themselves before me.’

5. He said: ‘O my son, do not relate your dream to your brothers, lest they should maneuver a plot against you. Surely, Satan is an open enemy to man.

6. In the same way your Lord will choose you (for a divine station) and will teach you how to infer conclusions (i.e. the knowledge of the interpretation of dreams) and will perfect His Favour upon you and the House of Ya‘qub (Jacob) as He perfected it upon your fathers (grandfather and great grandfather) Ibrahim (Abraham) and Ishaq (Isaac). Indeed your Lord is All-Knowing, Most Wise.’

7. Surely, there are (many) Signs (in the parable of) Yusuf (Joseph) and his brothers for those who are inquisitive.

8. (Call to mind the time) when the brothers of Yusuf (Joseph) said: ‘Certainly Yusuf (Joseph) and his brother are dearer to our father than we are whereas we are a stronger party (comprising ten members). No doubt our father is lost into an evident ecstasy (resulting from deep love for them).’

9. (Now the only solution is:) ‘Kill Yusuf (Joseph) or banish him to some distant unknown place. (Thus) your father’s attention will be focused purely on you and after that become a band of righteous people (by turning towards Allah in repentance).’

10. A negotiator from among them said: ‘Do not kill Yusuf (Joseph) and lower him down at the bottom of a dark deep well. Some traveller will pick him up and carry him away. (So do this) if (at all) you are up to (something).’

11. They said: ‘O our father, what has happened to you that you do not trust us in the case of Yusuf (Joseph) while we are certainly his well-wishers?

12. Send him with us tomorrow. He will eat lavishly and play and certainly we are his guards.’

13. He said: ‘This idea indeed makes me sad that you take him along and I am (also) afraid (of this idea) that some wolf may devour him while you are careless of his (safeguard).’

14. They said: ‘If the wolf devours him while we, a strong party, too are (present) then we are as good as nothing.’

15. Then, when they took him along and all agreed to throw him into some deep dark well, We revealed to him: ‘(O Yusuf (Joseph), do not worry. A time will come when) you will certainly remind them of this affair of theirs and they will not have the sense (of your exalted station).’

16. (Throwing Yusuf (Joseph) into the well) they came to their father at night weeping (deceptively).

17. They said: ‘O our father, we went racing with one another and left Yusuf (Joseph) with our belongings. Then a wolf devoured him, but you will not believe us even though we are truthful.

18. They produced Yusuf’s (Joseph’s) shirt smearing it (also) with false blood. (Ya‘qub (Jacob)) said: (This is not the truth.) But your (jealous, ill-commanding) selves have made (a colossal) task easy and pleasant-looking for you (which you eventually did accomplish). So better it is to be steadfast (over this tragedy), and I seek only Allah’s help against whatever you are narrating.’

19. And (there) came a caravan of travellers. They sent their water-drawer. So he lowered his bucket (into that well) and he exclaimed: ‘Good news! Here is a boy!’ And they hid him regarding him a valuable trade item. And Allah knows well the activities they were busy doing.

20. And Yusuf’s (Joseph’s) brothers (who had returned to the site showed him as their deserter servant and) sold him (to the same caravan) for a low price - a few Dirhams - because the travellers were (already) disinterested in (buying) him (Yusuf. Later, the travellers took him to Egypt where they sold him.)

21. And the man in Egypt who purchased him (was Qatfir by name, the finance minister of the King of Egypt Riyan ibn Walid, commonly known as ‘Aziz (of Egypt)) said to his wife (Zulaikha): ‘Make him stay honourably. He may bring us profit or we may adopt him as a son.’ Thus We established Yusuf (Joseph) and strengthened his position in the land (of Egypt) so that We might teach him how to infer from the events (i.e. the interpretation of dreams). And Allah is the Master of His work but most people do not know.

22. And when he reached his full manhood, We endowed him with the judgment (of Prophethood) and the knowledge (of the interpretation of dreams). This is how We bless the pious with reward.

23. And the woman (Zulaikha), in whose house he was putting up, sought intensely to seduce him and she bolted the doors (as well) and said: ‘Come! Make haste! (I ask you.)’ Yusuf (Joseph) said: ‘I seek Allah’s refuge. Surely, he (your husband) is my master. He has kept me most honourably. Indeed, the wrongdoers will not prosper.’

24. (Yusuf (Joseph) refused) but she (Zulaikha) had definitely made up her mind for him. And he too (might) have resolved had he not seen the Clear Sign of his Lord. It was (made to happen) like that (in order that) We keep away from him affliction and indecency both. Assuredly he was of Our chosen (exalted) servants.

25. And they both ran (one behind the other) towards the door and she (Zulaikha) tore his shirt from behind and both found her husband (‘Aziz of Egypt) at the door. She (immediately) said: ‘What can be the punishment for him who intends to commit indecency with your wife except that he should be put in prison or (he) be given painful torment?’

26. Yusuf (Joseph) said: ‘(No indeed! In truth) it was she herself who sought to seduce me for her purpose. And (in the meanwhile) one of her household (who was an infant) bore witness: ‘If his shirt is torn from the front, then she has spoken the truth and he is of the liars.

27. But if his shirt is torn from behind then she is a liar and he is of the truthful.’

28. Then, when he (‘Aziz of Egypt) saw his shirt and found it torn from behind, he said: ‘This is the craft of you women. Certainly your women-craft is highly (dangerous).

29. O Yusuf (Joseph)! Ignore it and, (O Zulaikha,) ask forgiveness for your sin. Surely it is you who are of the sinful.’

30. And some women of (the elite class in) the city began to say: ‘The wife of ‘Aziz seeks to seduce her slave-boy for her purpose. The love for him (the slave) has gone deep into her heart. We surely see her in manifest error.’

31. So when she (Zulaikha) heard their deceitful talk, she sent for them and arranged a meeting for them. (She placed fruit before them) and gave each one of them a knife and requested (Yusuf): ‘Walk out before them (so that they may realize the cause of my state of mind).’ So, when they glanced at Yusuf (Joseph and) saw (his dazzling beauty), they began to exalt (the charm of his ecstatic beauty) and (in a dazed state) cut their hands (instead of fruits served to them). And (having seen him) exclaimed (spontaneously): ‘God save us! This is not a human being; he must be some exalted angel (i.e. an embodiment of light descending from the transcendent realm of divinity)!’

32. (Zulaikha’s trick worked.) She spoke (at this juncture): ‘It is this (embodiment of light) you have been reproaching me for. It is, no doubt, I myself who sought to seduce him (under violent urge) but he remained firmly upright and did not yield. And if (even now) he does not do what I ask him for, he will surely be put into prison and will certainly be disgraced.’

33. (By now the elite Egyptian women too had agreed to Zulaikha’s viewpoint. Hearing them,) Yusuf (Joseph) submitted: ‘O my Lord! The prison is far dearer to me than what these women are inviting me to. And if You do not turn away their craft from me, I shall get inclined towards their (words) and shall become of the unwise.’

34. So, his Lord granted him the prayer and removed the women-craft from him. Surely He is the One Who is All-Hearing, All-Knowing.

35. Then even after seeing the signs of (Yusuf’s (Joseph’s) decency and righteousness) they deemed it appropriate to imprison him for a time (so that the gossip of the episode among the people might die down).

36. And with him two young men also entered the prison. One of them said: ‘I have seen myself (in a dream) pressing wine (from grapes).’ And the other said: ‘I have seen myself (in a dream) that I am carrying bread on my head, with birds picking at it. O Yusuf (Joseph)! Tell us its interpretation. Surely, we see you one of the spirituality excellent.’

37. Yusuf (Joseph) said: ‘The food which is served to you (daily) will not have yet come to you when I shall inform both of you about its interpretation before its coming to you. This (interpretation) is of those branches of knowledge that my Lord has taught me. Verily, I have rejected (from the very beginning) the religion of the people who do not believe in Allah and they deny the Hereafter as well.

38. And I follow Din (Religion) of my father and forefathers: Ibrahim (Abraham), Ishaq (Isaac), and Ya‘qub (Jacob). And we have no right to associate anything as a partner with Allah. This (belief in the Oneness of Allah) is a (special) bounty of Allah upon us and the people, but most people do not give thanks.

39. O my two companions of the prison! (Say:) ‘Are many separate gods better or One Allah, Who Dominates and Controls all?’

40. (In fact) you worship none besides Allah except a few names which you and your forefathers have forged (on your own). Allah has not sent down any authority for them. Judgment rests with Allah alone. He alone has commanded that worship none but Him. This is the straight path (true Din (Religion)) but most people do not know.

41. O my two companions of the prison! (The interpretation of the dream of) one of you (is that he) will serve wine to his master (the king), and as for the other, (who has seen bread on his head,) he will be crucified and then birds will pick at his head. The (final) judgment has been given about which you have asked.’

42. And Yusuf (Joseph) said to the one whom he believed to be released: ‘Mention me to your king; (he may thus recall that another innocent one is also lying in imprisonment).’ But Satan made him forget to mention (him) to his king and consequently Yusuf (Joseph) remained in prison for several years.’

43. And (one day) the King said: ‘I have seen (in a dream) seven fat cows whom seven lean cows are devouring and (have seen) seven green ears of corn and (seven) other dry. O courtiers! Explain to me the implication of my dream if you know the interpretation of dreams.’

44. They said: ‘These are confused dreams and we do not know the interpretation of confused dreams.’

45. And one of the two prisoners, who had been released and (now) after a long time remembered (his promise to Yusuf (Joseph)), said: ‘I shall tell you its interpretation; so send me (to Yusuf (Joseph)).’

46. (Reaching the prison, he said:) ‘O Yusuf (Joseph), the embodiment of truth, explain to us the interpretation (of this dream) that there are seven fat cows whom seven lean ones are devouring and there are seven green ears of corn and seven others which are dry, so that I may return to the people (taking the interpretation) and they may realize (your value and dignity).’

47. Yusuf (Joseph) said: ‘You will cultivate as usual consecutively for seven years. So whatever you reap, keep it (in store) leaving the grains in their ears except a small quantity (to thresh) for your (yearly) consumption.

48. Then after this there will come seven hard years (of drought) which will consume that (store) which you will have laid up for these years except a small quantity (which will fall surplus and) which you will keep in reserve.

49. Then, following this will come a year during which people will be blessed with (plenty of) rain and (the yield of fruits will be such as) they will press juices (of fruits that year).’

50. And (hearing this interpretation) the king said: ‘Bring Yusuf (Joseph) to me (immediately).’ So when the messenger reached Yusuf (Joseph), he said to him: ‘Go back to your king and ask him: What is the state of those women (now) who cut their hands? Surely my Lord knows their craft well.’

51. The King (called all the women including Zulaikha and) asked: ‘What happened to you when you (all) attempted to seduce Yusuf (Joseph) to turn him away from righteousness? (Explain what that affair was.) They all (unanimously) uttered: ‘Allah save us! We have not noticed any evil in Yusuf (Joseph).’ The wife of ‘Aziz (of Egypt, Zulaikha, too) spoke: ‘The truth has now become evident. (The fact is that) it was I who sought to seduce him for my purpose and it is surely he who is truthful.’

52. (Yusuf (Joseph)) said: ‘I have done this) so that he (‘Aziz of Egypt, who has been my master and benefactor,) may know that I have not betrayed his trust in his absence (behind him), and surely Allah lets not the plots of those who betray trusts prove successful.’

53. And I do not (claim) absolution of my self. Certainly self commands much evil except the one on whom my Lord bestows Mercy. Surely, my Lord is All-Forgiving, Ever-Merciful.’

54. And the King said: ‘Bring him to me so that I may appoint him specifically (as an adviser) to me.’ So, when the King had (one-to-one) dialogue with him (he felt highly impressed and) said: ‘(O Yusuf (Joseph),) surely from today onward you are a man of authority and trust with us (i.e. you are inducted into the governance of the state).’

55. Yusuf (Joseph) said: ‘(If you really want me to accomplish some special assignment, then) appoint me as (a minister and trustee of) the treasures in the land (of Egypt). Indeed I am well versed in resource management and resource protection and an expert (in financial management).’

56. This is how We bestowed upon Yusuf (Joseph) the rule over the land (of Egypt so that) he could live therein wherever he desired. We honour with Our Mercy whom We will and waste not the reward of the pious.

57. And certainly the reward of the Hereafter is of greater value for those who believe and tread the path of Godwariness.

58. (During the days of famine) Yusuf’s (Joseph’s) brothers came (to Egypt to procure grain) and came to him. So Yusuf (Joseph) recognized them, but they could not recognize him.

59. And when Yusuf (Joseph) had furnished them with their provisions (supplies and material), he said: ‘Bring me your brother on the father’s side (Benjamin). Do you not see (how) full I measure and I am the best host (too)?

60. So if you do not bring him to me, then (in future) there will not be any measure (of grain) with me for you, nor will you be able to approach me.’

61. They said: ‘We will solicit his father in connection with sending him and we will certainly do (it).’

62. And Yusuf (Joseph) said to his servants: ‘Put their money (which they paid for grain back) into their sacks so that when they return to their family they may identify it (that the money is back). It is likely that they may come again (for the very same reason).’

63. So when they returned to their father they said: ‘O our father, (further provision of) grain for us has been banned (except that Benjamin accompanies us.) So send our brother (Benjamin) with us (in order that) we may fetch (more) grain, and we shall certainly be his guards.’

64. Ya‘qub (Jacob) said: ‘Shall I trust you with him (as well) the same way as before this I trusted you with his brother (Yusuf - Joseph)? Then Allah alone is the Best Protector, and He alone is the Most Merciful of all the merciful.’

65. When they opened their packs, (therein) they found their money (which) had been returned to them. They said: ‘O our respectable father, what else do we want? Here is our money (too) that has been returned to us, and we shall (now be obliged to) fetch grain for our family. And we shall take good care of our brother, and will bring the load of a camel in addition. This grain (that we have already brought) is a small quantity.’

66. Ya‘qub (Jacob) said: ‘I shall not send him with you at all until you give me a firm promise by swearing a solemn oath by Allah that you shall certainly bring him (back) to me unless you (all) are beset (somewhere or slain). Then, when they gave Ya‘qub the firm promise he said: ‘Allah is the Guardian to watch over what we are saying.’

67. And he said: ‘O my sons, do not enter (the city) all of you by one gate but enter (dispersed) through different gates. And I cannot save you by any means from Allah’s (Decree) because Judgment (Destiny) rests will Allah alone. In Him have I put my trust, and all those who trust must trust in Him alone.’

68. And when they entered Egypt in compliance with what their father had commanded, that command could not save them from Allah’s (Decree) but it was Ya‘qub’s (Jacob’s) heartfelt desire which he fulfilled and (also take not this desire or strategy as meaningless — for you know it not). Surely Ya‘qub (Jacob) possessed knowledge as We had blessed with (special) knowledge but most people do not know (these realities).

69. And when they came to Yusuf (Joseph), he offered his brother (Benjamin) a seat close to him (and) said (to him quietly): ‘Verily I am your brother (Yusuf (Joseph)) so feel not aggrieved at what they have been doing.’

70. So when (Yusuf (Joseph)) had provided them with their material, he placed (the King’s) goblet into his brother’s (Benjamin’s) sack. Later a herald called out: ‘O you men of caravan, (halt;) surely you (seem to be) thieves.’

71. They turned towards them and said: ‘What have you found missing?’

72. They (the servants of the King’s court) said: ‘We are missing the royal goblet and the man who brings it (after searching) will get a camel’s load of grain as reward and I pledge myself for it.’

73. They said: ‘By Allah, indeed you know well we have not come (here to commit some crime) and create mischief in the land, nor are we thieves.’

74. They (the servants) said: ‘(Decide for yourselves) what should be the punishment (of the thief) if you turn out to be liars.’

75. They said: ‘Its penalty will be that the one from whose sack (the goblet) is found, he himself will be its penalty (i.e. he should be held in retribution). That is how We punish the wrongdoers.’

76. So Yusuf (Joseph) began to search their sacks before his brother’s. Then (at last) he took (the goblet) out of his (real) brother’s (Benjamin’s) sack. That is how We revealed to Yusuf (Joseph) the plan. He could not have held his brother (as a captive) under the law of the King (of Egypt) except (as) Allah wills. We exalt in ranks whom We like. And above every possessor of knowledge is (also) One possessing greater knowledge.

77. They said: ‘If he has committed theft (then nothing to wonder at). Indeed his brother (Yusuf (Joseph)) has also committed theft before. So Yusuf (Joseph) kept it (hidden) in his heart and did not reveal it to them and said (only to himself): ‘Yours is the worst case and Allah knows well whatever you are saying.’

78. They said: ‘O ‘Aziz (of Egypt), his father is an aged elderly person. So detain anyone of us in his stead. Surely we have seen you among the generous (benevolent) people.’

79. Yusuf (Joseph) said: ‘Allah save us from detaining someone (other) than him with whom we have found our item! Then We shall become of the unjust.’

80. So, when they lost hope about Yusuf (Joseph), they counselled (among themselves) in isolation. The eldest (brother) among them said: ‘Do you not know that your father took a firm covenant from you in the Name of Allah, and before that (you also know) you committed excesses in respect of Yusuf (Joseph)? So I shall not leave this land at all until my father accords me permission or Allah gives some judgment in my case and He is the Best of those who judge.

81. Go you back to your father and say: O our father, your son has surely committed theft (and consequently he has been held). And we bore witness only to what we knew. And we were no guardians of the unseen.

82. And (if you do not believe us, then) you may enquire of (the people of) the town where we have been, and (find out) from the caravan we have travelled with, and we are certainly truthful (in what we are saying).’

83. Ya‘qub (Jacob) said: ‘(It is not so.) In fact your (ill-commanding) selves have made this affair attractive for you. Now (only) patienceis the finest (option). It is likely that Allah brings to me all of them. He is indeed All-Knowing, Most Wise.’

84. Ya‘qub (Jacob) then turned his face away from them and said: ‘Alas! (My dear son) Yusuf (Joseph’s unbearable separation)!’ And his eyes had gone white with grief. And he was suppressing his sorrow.

85. They said: ‘By Allah, you will continue remembering Yusuf ((Joseph) alone) till you get near death or pass away.’

86. He said: ‘I bewail my worry and grief to Allah alone, and I know from Allah what you do not know.

87. O my sons, go and fetch me some news about Yusuf (Joseph) and his brother (from somewhere) and despair not of Allah’s Mercy, for indeed only those despair of Allah’s Mercy who reject faith.’

88. So when they came back to Yusuf ((Joseph) again), they submitted: ‘O ‘Aziz (of Egypt), distress has fallen upon us and our family (and we are suffering from dreadful famine). And we have brought only (this) meager amount. So give us full measure (of grain against it) and (in addition) extend to us (some) charity (as well). Indeed Allah rewards those who give away charity plentiously.’

89. Yusuf (Joseph) said: ‘Do you remember what you did to Yusuf (Joseph) and his brother? Were you (then) ignorant?’

90. They said: ‘Are you really Yusuf (Joseph)?’ He said: ‘(Yes,) I am Yusuf (Joseph) and here is my brother. Indeed Allah has been gracious to us. Surely the one who fears Allah and remains steadfast, then surely Allah does not waste the reward of the pious.’

91. They exclaimed: ‘By Allah, Allah has certainly exalted you above us, and certainly we alone were the sinners.’

92. Yusuf (Joseph) said: ‘No blame (or penalty) lies on you today. May Allah grant you His forgiveness and He is the Most Merciful of all the merciful.

93. Take this shirt of mine and cast it over my father’s face; he will recover his sight. (Then) bring me the whole of your family.’

94. When the caravan left (Egypt), his father (Ya‘qub (Jacob)) said (while sitting in Canaan): ‘If you do not consider me unstable due to senility, I am smelling the fragrance of Yusuf (Joseph).’

95. They said: ‘By Allah, you are certainly in the (same) ecstasy of your (old) love.’

96. But when the bearer of the glad tidings arrived, and he cast that shirt over Ya‘qub (Jacob’s) face, his sight returned the same moment. Ya‘qub (Jacob) said: ‘Did I not say to you that I know from Allah what you do not know?’

97. They said: ‘O our father, seek for us forgiveness (from Allah) for our sins. Indeed we alone are the sinners.’

98. Ya‘qub (Jacob) said: ‘Soon shall I pray to my Lord for forgiveness for you. Indeed He alone is Most Forgiving Ever-Merciful.’

99. Then, when they (i.e. all the members of the family) came to Yusuf (Joseph, he presented them a reception outside the city in the form of a royal procession comprising extensive transport arrangements, soldiers and general public, and) he venerated his parents and made them sit beside him, (or embraced them,) and (offering them welcome) said: ‘Enter Egypt and if Allah so wills (then stay here) with peace and comfort.’

100. And he seated his parents on the throne and they (all) fell down prostrate before Yusuf (Joseph) and Yusuf (Joseph) said: ‘O father, this is the interpretation of (that) dream of mine which I had seen (long) before. (To most of the commentators it took forty years.) And my Lord has surely proved it true. And indeed He did me a (great) favour when He took me out of the prison and brought all of you (here) from the desert after Satan had stirred up discord between me and my brothers. The fact is that my Lord makes easy with (His) plan whatever He wills. Indeed He alone is All-Knowing, Most Wise.

101. O my Lord! Verily You granted me dominion and blessed me with the knowledge of the interpretation of dreams. O Creator of the heavens and the earth, You are my Helper in this world and in the Hereafter (as well). Make me die in a state of total submission to (Din (Religion) of) Islam and make me join the company of those who are upright.’

102. O My Esteemed Beloved! This (narrative) is of the news of the unseen which We are revealing to you and you were not present with them when they (Yusuf (Joseph’s) brothers) were co-working to conclude their conspiracy and were plotting to deceive.

103. And most people will not believe even if you (so ardently) desire.

104. And you do not ask for any reward from them for this (communicating and preaching the Message). This Qur’an is but a reminder to all mankind.

105. And how many a Sign is there in the heavens and the earth which these people pass by but they are heedless of them!

106. And most of them do not believe in Allah, but that they are polytheists.

107. Have they gone free from this fear that a prevailing calamity of Allah’s torment will come upon them, or the Last Hour will seize them all of a sudden while they have no news of it?

108. (O Glorious Beloved!) Say: ‘This is my way. I invite towards Allah. I am (firm and committed to) my vision and insight, I and also he who complies with me. And Holy is Allah, and I am not of the polytheists.’

109. And before you also We sent men alone from among the inhabitants of (various) towns to whom We sent Revelations. Have they not travelled in the land so that they might (themselves) witness what was the end of those before them? And surely the Home in the Hereafter has far greater value for the Godfearing. Do you not have reason?

110. Until when the Messengers despaired (of their disobedient people,) and those denying communities developed this scepticism that they were told a lie (i.e. they will not be tormented), Our help reached the Messengers. Then We delivered whom We willed. And Our torment is not averted from the people committed to do evil.

111. Truly in their stories there is a lesson of warning for men of understanding. This (Qur’an) is not a Revelation that can be forged but a confirmation of those (revealed Books) which were revealed before it, an explanation of everything and guidance and mercy for those who believe.

Sura 13. ar-Ra‘d (Thunder):

In the Name of Allah, Most Compassionate, Ever-Merciful.

1. Alif, Lam, Mim, Ra. (Only Allah and the Messenger know the real meaning.) These are the Verses of the Book of Allah, and whatever has been revealed to you from your Lord is the Truth, but most people do not believe.

2. And Allah is He Who has raised aloft the heavens (in space) without pillars (as) you see; then He settled Himself on the Throne of His Authority (encompassing the entire universe befitting His glory) and fettered the sun and the moon to a system, each moving (in its respective orbit to complete its rotation) during its appointed term. He alone devises strategies for the total system (of the entire universe) and vividly manifests (all the) Signs (or the laws of nature) so that you may develop firm faith in appearing face to face before your Lord.

3. And He is the One Who spread out the earth (despite its being round) and brought about mountains and rivers in it and produced pairs of (genders) two each among all kinds of fruits (as well. He is the One Who) stretches the cover of the night over the day. Indeed there are (many) Signs in it for those who meditate.

4. And there are in the earth tracts (of different kinds) that are adjacent to each other and the gardens of grapes and crops and palm trees, clustered and non-clustered. All these are irrigated with the same water. And (despite that) We make some of them superior to others in taste. Verily there are (great) Signs in it for the people who apply reason.

5. And if you are surprised (at the denial of the disbelievers), then (more) surprising is this that they say: ‘What, when we become dust (after death), shall we then be created anew?’ They are the ones who deny their Lord, and they alone will have shackles round their necks. And they are the ones who are the inmates of Hell. They will reside in it forever.

6. And they hasten to demand from you punishment before mercy though many torments have passed before them. And, (O Beloved,) your Lord is Most Forgiving to the people despite their (oppression and) injustice. But certainly your Lord is Severe in punishment (as well).

7. And the disbelievers say: ‘Why has any Sign not been sent down to this (Messenger) from his Lord?’ (O My Glorious Messenger!) You are only a warner (to the disobedient of their evil consequences) and a provider of guidance to every community (of the world).

8. Allah knows what every female bears in her womb, and how much the wombs contract and how much they distend, and with Him is everything in a fixed measure.

9. He is the Knower of the unseen and the seen, the Most Great (and) the Most Exalted.

10. He among you who talks in a low voice and the other who talks in a loud voice, and he who is hidden in (the darkness of) the night and he who moves about in the day (light), all are alike (to Him).

11. For (every) human being there are (angels) coming in succession who, before him and behind him, guard him by the Command of Allah. Verily, Allah does not change the state of a people until they bring about a change in themselves. And when Allah intends to torment a people (due to their own evil works), then none can avert it. Nor is there any helper for them apart from Allah.

12. He is the One Who, to rouse in you (sometime) fear and (some other time) hope, shows you lightning and (at times) raises (rain-laden) heavy clouds.

13. The thunder (of clouds and lightning or the angel appointed over it) and all angels glorify Him with His Praise out of His fear. And He sends thunderbolts and strikes with them whom He wills. And they (the disbelievers, despite these Signs of His Might,) dispute about Allah. And He is Stern in strategy and Severe in grip.

14. Calling towards the Truth (i.e. the Oneness of Allah) is for Him alone. And those (false gods - idols) they (i.e. disbelievers) worship besides Him cannot give them any answer at all. Their example is like the one who (sits) stretching both his palms towards water so that it may reach his mouth (itself), but it (i.e. water) reaches not (like this). And (in like manner) the praying of disbelievers (to idols and their idol-worship) is but wandering distracted.

15. And whoever is in the heavens and the earth prostrates himself before Allah, (some) willingly and (others) perforce, and their shadows (too prostrate themselves before Him) morning and evening. (Then why do the disbelievers do idol-worship turning away from Allah?)

16. Say (before these disbelievers): ‘Who is the Sustainer of the heavens and the earth?’ Say (yourself): ‘Allah.’ (Again) ask (them): ‘Have you taken besides Allah (these idols) as your protectors who cannot control any profit or loss even for themselves?’ Say: ‘Can the blind and the seeing be equal? Or can darkness and light be the same? Have they associated such partners with Allah that have also created (some creation) themselves similar to that of Allah, so this creation (created by these idols) has caused them doubt of resemblance (i.e. error of judgment that they too could create as Allah does)?’ Say: ‘Allah alone is the Creator of everything. And He is One. He is Dominant over all.’

17. He sends down water from the sky and the valleys flow according to their (respective) capacity. Then the floodwater carries the scum raised to the surface. And the items that are heated in the fire for making ornaments or other articles also have foam that comes up the same way. Thus Allah illustrates examples of the Truth and falsehood. So, (whether produced by water or by fire) the foam or scum passes away useless but what is beneficial to the people endures in the earth. That is how Allah illustrates examples.

18. For those who accept the Command of their Lord is the excellent outcome. And those who reject His Command, even though they possess all that is in the earth and the like of it added to that, and they atone it (to be delivered from torment, even then) they are the ones whose accountability will be horrible. And Hell is their abode, and that is a wretched abode.

19. Someone who knows that whatever has been revealed to you is the Truth, can he be like the one who is blind? Truly it is only those endowed with wisdom who accept admonition,

20. Who fulfil their pledge to Allah and do not breach their covenant,

21. And who keep unified all (fulfil all their obligations to Allah, their obligations to the Messenger (blessings and peace be upon him), to humanity at large and to their close relatives) that Allah has enjoined to be unified and remain in a state of fear from Allah and dread an evil reckoning,

22. And who remain steadfast in seeking the pleasure of their Lord, and establish Prayer and spend (both) secretly and openly out of the sustenance We have provided and continue eliminating evil by means of good; they are the ones for whom there is a (beautiful) home in the Hereafter.

23. (There) are evergreen gardens. They will enter them with the pious from among their ancestors, their wives and their children. And the angels will come to them through every door (of Paradise).

24. (Greeting and felicitating them, they will say:) ‘Peace be upon you as a reward for your patience. So (see now) what a beautiful home it is of the Hereafter!’

25. And those who break the promise of Allah after making it firm and strand all (the relations and obligations) that Allah has commanded to be kept unified, and do mischief and strife in the land — upon them is the curse and for them is evil home.

26. Allah releases the provision abundantly for whom He pleases and restrains (for whom He wills). And these (disbelievers) are greatly charmed by the worldly life whereas, in contrast with the life in the Hereafter, the worldly life is nothing but a worthless provision.

27. And the disbelievers say: ‘Why has any Sign not been sent down to him (the Messenger) from his Lord?’ Say: ‘Verily Allah, (despite Signs,) holds astray whom He wills and leads him towards Himself who turns to Him in repentance.

28. Those who believe and their hearts become calm and contented with the remembrance of Allah — know that it is the remembrance of Allah alone that brings calm to the hearts.

29. Those who believe and do pious works, for them there are pleasures and rejoicing and excellent abode (in the Hereafter).’

30. (O Beloved!) Thus We have sent you (as Messenger) to an Umma (Community) before whom in fact (all) the communities have passed. (This is now the last of all the communities) so that you may recite to them that (Book) which We have revealed to you. And they are still denying ar-Rahman (the Most Kind Lord). Say: ‘He is my Lord. There is no God but He. In Him have I put my trust and I turn towards Him alone.’

31. And if there were a Qur’an by which mountains could be set in motion, or by which the earth could be split open or by which the dead could be spoken to, (even then they would not believe in it). But all matters are under the Control of Allah. Have the believers not yet perceived that if Allah had so willed, He would have guided all mankind? And (some) disaster will continue afflicting the disbelievers due to their misdeeds or will be alighting close to their homes (i.e. towns) until Allah’s promise (of torment) comes to pass. Surely Allah does not go against His promise.

32. Indeed the Messengers were mocked (by the disbelievers) before you (as well). So I granted the disbelievers respite and then seized them (with torment). (See) then how My torment was!

33. He (Allah) Who is watching the conduct of every soul and (these idols that the disbelievers) have made peers to Allah — (can they be alike? No way!) Say: ‘(Just) name them. (You fools!) Do you inform Him (Allah) of something whose (existence) He does not know in the whole earth? Or is it all (mere) superficial talk (which has no contact with reality)?’ Rather (the truth is that) the deceptive scheme of the disbelievers has been made fascinating to them and they have been hindered from the (straight) path. And he whom Allah holds strayed, there is none who can be his guide.

34. There is for them chastisement in the worldly life (as well), but certainly the torment in the Hereafter is more fierce. And there is none who can rescue them from (the punishment of) Allah.

35. A glimpse of the Paradise that has been promised to the Godfearing (depicts that) it has rivers flowing under it. Its fruits are everlasting, and so (also) is its shade. This is (the beauty of) the end of those who adopt Godwariness. And the end of the disbelievers is the Fire of Hell.

36. And those whom We have given the Book (the Torah, if they are true believers, then) they rejoice at this (Qur’an) which has been revealed to you. And also some from among their sects are those who deny a part of it. Say: ‘I have been given only this command that I worship Allah and must not associate (any) partner with Him. I invite towards Him alone, and to Him have I to return.’

37. And in like manner We have revealed this (Qur’an) as a Commandment in the Arabic language. And, (O listener,) if you follow the desires of these (disbelievers) after the (conclusive) knowledge has reached you, then there is no helper or protector for you against Allah.

38. And, (O Messenger,) indeed We sent before you (many) Messengers and brought up for them wives and children (as well). And that is not the role of a Messenger to bring a Sign but by Allah’s Command. There is an inscription for every appointed term.

39. Allah erases whatever (writing) He wills and confirms (whatever He wills). And with Him alone is the Real Book (the Protected Tablet (al-Lawh al-Mahfuz)).

40. And whether We show you (during your visible life) a portion (of the torment) that We have promised these (disbelievers), or We lift you (before that - both these options are subject to Our Will). Your assignment is only to communicate (the Commandments) and accountability rests with Us.

41. Do they not see that We are persistently reducing the land (under their control - most of the areas under their rule are gradually accepting the Islamic Rule)? And Allah is the One Who decrees; there is none who can undo His decree. And He is Swift in accountability.

42. And no doubt they also indulged in deceitful plots who have passed before them. So the power to reverse all these plots (also) rests with Allah. He knows best what every soul is busy earning, and the disbelievers will soon come to know for whom is the Home of the Hereafter!

43. And the disbelievers say: ‘You are not a Messenger.’ Say: ‘Sufficient is Allah as a Witness between you and me (on my Messengership), and so also is the one who (exactly) possesses the knowledge of the (revealed) Book.’

Sura 14. Ibrāhīm (Abraham):

In the Name of Allah, Most Compassionate, Ever-Merciful.

1. Alif, Lam, Ra. (Only Allah and the Messenger know the real meanings.) It is a (glorious) Book which We have revealed to you so that you may bring mankind out of the darkness (of disbelief) to the light (of faith. And moreover) by the Command of their Lord (lead them) to the path of the Almighty, the Praiseworthy —

2. Allah, to Whom belongs (all) that is in the heavens and all that is in the earth. And there is destruction for the disbelievers on account of severe punishment.

3. They are the people who love the life of this world more than the Hereafter, and hinder (the people) from the path of Allah, and look for crookedness in it (the True Din (Religion)). They (have fallen) deep into error.

4. And We have not sent any Messenger but with the language of his people so that he may make (the message of the Truth) more and more clear to them. Then Allah leads astray whom He wills and provides with guidance whom He wills. And He is Almighty, Most Wise.

5. And indeed We sent Musa (Moses) with Our Signs: ‘(O Musa (Moses)), bring your people out of darkness to the light and remind them of the Days of Allah (which had come upon them and their preceding generations).’ Surely there are Signs in it for those who are highly steadfast (and) deeply grateful.

6. And (call to mind the time) when Musa (Moses) said to his people: ‘Recall (that) blessing of Allah conferred upon you when He delivered you from the people of Pharaoh who used to afflict you with severe torment, slaying your male children and sparing the female ones. And in it was a great trial for you from your Lord.’

7. And (recall) when your Lord proclaimed: ‘If you thank, I shall certainly increase (My blessings on) you, and if you are ungrateful, then My torment is surely severe.’

8. And Musa (Moses) said: ‘If you and all others on earth disbelieve, then Allah is indeed Self-Sufficient, Most Praisworthy.’

9. Has the account not reached you of those who have passed away before you? They were the people of Nuh (Noah) and (of the communities) of ‘Ad and Thamud and (others) who came after them. No one knows them except Allah (because they have been totally annihilated from the surface of the earth). Their Messengers came to them with Clear Signs. So they put their hands into their mouths (out of mockery and spite) and (dared) say: ‘We deny this (Din (Religion)) which you have been sent with, and we are certainly in awe-inspiring doubt about what you invite us to.’

10. Their Messengers said: ‘Do you have doubt about Allah Who is the Creator of the heavens and the earth, (Who) calls you so that He forgives your sins for you and (despite your disobedience) gives you respite for a fixed term?’ They (the disbelievers) said: ‘You are but human beings like us. You seek to hold us back from these (idols) our fathers used to worship. So bring us some clear proof.’

11. Their Messengers said to them: ‘Though (in constitution of self) we are humans like you, but (also mark the difference that) Allah favours whom He likes of His servants. (Then how are you equal?) And (as for clear proof) it is not for us to bring you a proof without Allah’s decree, and the believers must put their trust in Allah alone.

12. And what is the matter with us that we should not put our trust in Allah while He alone has shown us the paths (of guidance and success)? And we will certainly bear your persecutions with patience, and those who trust should put their trust in Allah alone.’

13. And the disbelievers said to their Messengers: ‘We will banish you by all means from our country, or you will have to return to our faith.’ Their Lord then revealed to them: ‘We shall certainly destroy the unjust people,

14. And We shall certainly settle you in the (same) land after them. This (covenant) is for every such person that fears standing before My Presence and dreads My promise (of torment).’

15. And (ultimately) the Messengers sought victory (from Allah), and every obstinate rebel met defeat and came to nothing.

16. Beyond this (devastation) is Hell (again). And he will be served with fetid water of oozing pus,

17. Which he will take sip by sip with great difficulty, and will not be able to gulp it down the throat. And death will assail him from all sides, and he will not be able (even) to die. And that (again) will be followed by (one more) extremely grievous torment.

18. The example of those who have rejected faith in their Lord is that their works are like ashes on which blows the strong wind on a stormy day — they are unable to grasp anything of the (works) that they earned. This is straying far into error.

19. (O listener!) Have you not seen that Allah has created the heavens and the earth in accordance with (a strategy based on) the Truth. He can annihilate you if He so wills and bring new creation (in your place).

20. And this is not (in the least) difficult for Allah (to execute).

21. And (on the Day of Grand Assembly) all (the higher and the lower ranks) will appear before Allah. The weak ones (the followers) will ask the (powerful) arrogant ones: ‘We obeyed you (the whole life). So can you now manage for us some degree of rescue from Allah’s torment?’ Those (affluent ones) will reply (to their poor followers): ‘Had Allah guided us, we would also have shown you the path of guidance (i.e. we were ourselves misguided so we misguided you too). It is all the same (today) whether we sigh and wail or forbear. We have no way to escape.’

22. And when the decision will have been given, Satan will say: ‘Indeed Allah gave you a true promise, and I (also) promised you something; so I have violated the promise. And I had no authority over you (in the world) except that I called you (towards falsehood). So you accepted my call (for your own interest). Now do not blame me but blame your (own) selves. I can do nothing (today) to help you out, nor can you extend any help to me. Before this you have been associating me as a partner (with Allah). Surely I deny that (today).’ Undoubtedly there is a painful punishment for the wrongdoers.

23. And those who believe and stick to pious deeds will be admitted to the Gardens with streams flowing under them. They will live there forever by the Command of Allah. Their greeting word there (at the time of meeting) will be: ‘Peace.’

24. Have you not seen how Allah sets forth the example: a good word is like a good tree? Its root is firm (in the earth) and its branches reach into the sky.

25. (That tree) yields fruit at all times by the Command of its Lord, and Allah illustrates examples for the people so that they may take advice.

26. And the example of an evil word is like that of an evil tree which is uprooted from the surface of the earth (and) which has no chance to get firm (in the soil and survive).

27. Allah keeps the believers firm-footed in the life of this world as well as in the Hereafter with (the blessing) of this Firm Word, but Allah holds the wrongdoers astray. And Allah puts into action whatever He wills.

28. Have you not seen those who have exchanged Allah’s Favour (of belief) for disbelief and have lowered their people into the house of destruction?

29. (That) is Hell in which they will be thrown headlong, and that is an evil abode.

30. And they set up partners with Allah so that they may turn (the people) away from His path. Say: ‘Benefit (a few days’) gain; surely you will end up in the Fire.’

31. Say to My servants who have believed that they must establish Prayer and spend (in Our Way) both secretly and openly of the provision that We have granted them before the dawn of the Day when neither any transaction will take place nor any (worldly) friendship (will profit).

32. Allah is He Who created the heavens and the earth and poured down water from the sky and then by means of this water produced fruits for you as provision. And He has made vessels subservient to you so that they may sail in the sea by Allah’s Command and He has (also) put rivers under your control.

33. And for your benefit He has subjected the sun and the moon (to a regular system); they keep rotating (in their respective orbits). And He has also subdued the night and the day (to a system) for your (system of life).

34. And He has given you everything that you asked Him for and if you seek to number the Favours of Allah, you will not be able to count them all. Indeed Man is highly unjust and extremely ungrateful.

35. And (recall the time) when Ibrahim (Abraham) submitted: ‘O my Lord, make this city (Makka) a land of peace and keep me and my children from idol-worship.

36. O my Lord! These (idols) have led many people astray. So whoever follows me will belong to me, and whoever disobeys me then indeed You are Most Forgiving, Ever-Merciful.

37. O our Lord! Verily, I have settled my offspring (Isma‘il (Ishmael)) in the barren valley (of Makka) in the close vicinity of Your Sacred House, O our Lord, so that they may establish Prayer. So make the hearts of the people incline towards them with love and fondness, and provide for them (all kinds of) fruits as sustenance so that they may remain grateful.

38. O our Lord! Surely You know (all) what we hide and what we show, and there is nothing which is hidden from Allah either on earth or in the heaven.

39. All praise belongs to Allah alone Who has bestowed upon me (two sons) in old age, Isma‘il (Ishmael) and Ishaq (Isaac). Indeed my Lord is the All-Hearer of prayer.

40. O my Lord! Make me and my children the ones who establish Prayer; O my Lord, and grant my prayer.

41. O my Lord! Forgive me and (forgive) my parents and all the believers as well on the Day when reckoning (and accountability) will be held.’

42. And never think of Allah to be unaware of the works the wrongdoers are doing. He is only giving them (the wrongdoers) respite till the Day on which the eyes will be stare-fixed (in horror).

43. Their heads lifted up, they will be running (towards the Field of Reckoning-Assembly), with eyes unable to twinkle and with hearts being drained of strength.

44. And warn the people of the Day when the torment will come upon them. Those who will have been doing injustice will say: ‘O our Lord, grant us respite for a while so that we may accept Your message and follow the Messengers.’ (It will be said to them:) ‘Are you not those who used to swear before that you would never fall?’

45. And (in your own turn) you were dwelling in the palaces (vacated by) those who had wronged their souls (during their respective eras) whereas this had dawned on you how We had dealt with them and We also elucidated examples for your (easy comprehension).

46. And (having lost their balance intoxicated by wealth and power) they hatched many plots while Allah had the countermeasures to foil all their plots, although their deceitful strategies were sufficient even to uproot the mountains.

47. So never think that Allah will ever break His promise with His Messengers. Indeed Allah is Almighty, the Lord of Retribution.

48. The Day when (this) earth will be changed into a different earth and all the heavens will also be changed and the entire mankind will appear before Allah, the One, and the Dominant over all.

49. And that Day you will see the sinners fettered in chains;

50. Their garments will be of pitch (or some inflammable oil) and the Fire will be enveloping their faces,

51. So that Allah may requite every soul for (the deeds) it has earned. Indeed Allah is Swift in Reckoning.

52. This (Qur’an) is perfect communication of the Message to mankind so that by means of this they may be warned and that they may conscientiously bear it in mind that He (Allah) is One God, and that those who possess wisdom may take advice.

Sura 15. al-Hijr (the Rocky tract):

In the Name of Allah, Most Compassionate, Ever-Merciful.

1. Alif, Lam, Ra. (Only Allah and the Messenger know the real meaning.) These are the verses of the (Glorious) Book and the Enlightening Qur’an.

2. (Watching the scenes of Allah’s Mercy on the believers in the Hereafter,) the disbelievers would persistently aspire: would that they were Muslims!

3. (Feel not aggrieved.) Leave them. Let them eat (and drink) and make merry and let (their) false hopes keep them negligent (of the Hereafter). Then they will come to know (their end) soon.

4. And never have We destroyed any township but that there was for them a known inscription (law, which they violated and met their fate).

5. No people can go beyond its appointed term nor can they step back (under the law of rise and fall).

6. And (the disbelievers) say (insolently): ‘O man on whom this Qur’an has been revealed, indeed you are insane.

7. Why do you not bring us angels if you are truthful?’

8. We do not send down angels but with the (judgment of) Truth (i.e. We send them down to execute the torment when its time approaches) and they are not granted respite at that time.

9. Assuredly We alone have revealed this Glorious Admonition (the Qur’an), and surely We alone will guard it.

10. And We indeed sent Messengers before you as well among earlier generations.

11. And there did not come to them any Messenger but they would mock him.

12. That is how We infuse this (mockery and ridicule) into the hearts of the sinners;

13. These people will not believe in this (Qur’an) and (this) is what has been the practice of the bygone people.

14. And if We open to them some gate in the heaven (and also make this possible for them that) they keep ascending through (it) the whole day,

15. (Even then) they will certainly say (this): ‘Our eyes have been hypnotized (through some magic trick and deceit), rather we are spellbound.’

16. And indeed We brought into existence constellations in the heavens (in the form of galaxies to safeguard the planets), and adorned this (spatial universe) for the beholders.

17. And We have ensured the protection of this (system of heavenly universe) from every outcast Satan (i.e. from destructive phenomenon of every rebellious force).

18. But anyone who tries to eavesdrop, a (blazing) illuminating meteor follows it.

19. And We have spread out the earth (despite its being round), and We brought about firm mountains in it (by allying different elements together), and in it We provided means of growth to all species in (requisite) proportion.

20. And in it We generated for you means of subsistence and also for those (human beings, animals and birds) whom you do not provide for.

21. And there is not a thing (in the universe) but that We have its treasures with Us and We send it down only according to a fixed quantity.

22. And We send winds carrying the burden of clouds. Then We pour down water from the sky. Then it is you whom We give it to drink, and it is not you who maintain its reservoirs.

23. And indeed We alone give life and cause death, and We alone are the Inheritor (and the Owner of all).

24. And surely We know those who lived before you and We also do know those who will come after you.

25. Verily it is your Lord Who will gather them together (on the Day of Resurrection). Surely He is Most Wise, All-Knowing.

26. And indeed We originated man’s (chemical) genesis from that dry sounding clay which, (first) having grown old (and under heat of the sun and other chemical and biological effects), had turned into black stinking mud.

27. And We created jinn before this from a smokeless blazing fire.

28. And (call to mind the occasion) when your Lord said to the angels: ‘I am about to create a human organism from the old (and) black stinking, resounding mud.

29. So when I accomplish bringing his (physical) constitution into its perfect real being and breathe My (Divine) Spirit into (the inner self of) this (human physical) organism, then fall down prostrate before him.’

30. So, (no sooner did the light of Allah’s effulgence light in the human organism than) all the angels fell down in prostration together,

31. Except Iblis. He refused to join those who prostrated themselves.

32. (Allah) said: ‘O Iblis, what has happened to you that you have not joined those who have prostrated themselves?’

33. (Iblis) replied: ‘I cannot be the one who should fall down prostrate before a human being You have created from an old (and) black stinking and sounding mud.’

34. (Allah) said: ‘Then get out from here, for you are indeed the cursed one (the outcast).

35. And, verily, the curse will (persistently) rest upon you till the Day of Recompense.’

36. He said: ‘O Lord, then grant me respite till the Day (when) people will be raised up (again).’

37. Allah said: ‘So, indeed, you are among those granted respite,

38. Till the Day of the appointed time (Resurrection).’

39. Iblis said: ‘O Lord, because You have led me astray, I will (also) best adorn and embellish for them (the sins, revolts and violations) in the earth and will certainly lead all of them astray by all means,

40. Except for those exalted servants of Yours who have attained freedom (from my deceits and intrigues of the ill-commanding selves).’

41. Allah said: ‘This (freedom from these deceits and intrigues) is the (very) path that leads straight to My Threshold.

42. Surely, you will in no way be able to influence My servants (who have attained this freedom from you) except the misguided lot who have adopted your way.

43. And verily the promised place for all of them is Hell.

44. It has seven doors; for each one a fixed portion of them has been specified.’

45. Indeed the Godfearing will be amid Gardens and fountains.

46. (It will be said to them:) ‘Enter them peacefully, throwing away fears.’

47. And We shall remove from their breasts all spite that they had (in the world against one another due to misunderstanding). They shall be brothers seated on couches face to face (in Paradise).

48. No discomfort will touch them nor will they be driven out from there.

49. (O Beloved!) Tell My servants: ‘I am Most Forgiving, Ever-Merciful.’

50. And (also warn) that: ‘It is My torment which is the most grievous torment.’

51. And relate to them (also) the news about the guests of Ibrahim (Abraham).

52. When they came to Ibrahim (Abraham) they greeted (him with): ‘Peace.’ Ibrahim (Abraham) said: ‘We are feeling somewhat afraid of you.’

53. (The guest angels) said: ‘Do not feel afraid. We give you the glad tidings of (the birth of) a son endowed with knowledge and wisdom.’

54. Ibrahim (Abraham) said: ‘You are giving me the glad tidings at a time when old age has already overtaken me. So what good news are you giving me now?’

55. They said: ‘We give you good news which is true. So do not lose hope.’

56. Ibrahim (Abraham) said: ‘Who can lose hope of his Lord’s Mercy except the strayed ones?’

57. Ibrahim (Abraham) asked: ‘O deputed angels (sent by Allah), what other assignment do you have (to accomplish besides these glad tidings for which you have come)?’

58. They said: ‘We have been sent towards a sinful people,

59. Except the family of Lut (Lot) all of whom We will indeed save,

60. With the exception of his wife. We have decided that she shall certainly be among those who stay back (to become the victims of the torment).’

61. Then, when those deputed (angels) came to the house of Lut (Lot),

62. Lut (Lot) said: ‘Indeed you are (looking) strangers.’

63. They said: ‘(No indeed;) in fact we have come to you with the (punishment) about which these people have had doubts.

64. And we have brought to you (the judgment of) the Truth and we are certainly truthful.

65. So set off with your family sometime during the night and follow them in the rear and none of you must (even) look back, and proceed to the place (where) you have been commanded to.’

66. And We informed Lut (Lot) of this judgment through Revelation that the root of these people shall be cut off the moment it dawns.

67. And the people of the city (possessed by their lust) approached (Lut (Lot)) rejoicing.

68. Lut (Lot) said: ‘Surely they are my guests, so do not put me to shame (about them).

69. And fear (the wrath of) Allah and do not humiliate me.’

70. Those (lost in wickedness) said: ‘(O Lut (Lot),) did we not forbid you (providing protection to) all the people of the world?’

71. Lut (Lot) said: ‘There are my (people’s) daughters. If you desire to do something (then marry them instead of perpetrating indecency).’

72. (O Glorious Beloved!) By your (sacred) life, surely these people (too) are wandering astray, possessed by their lust (like the people of Lut (Lot)).

73. So, the blazing Blast seized them at sunrise.

74. And We turned their town upside down and rained upon them stones of baked clay.

75. Verily in this (occurrence) there are Signs for those who possess the ability to probe into reality.

76. And truly that town lies along a frequented highway.

77. Surely in this (episode of the people of Lut (Lot)) there is a Sign of (warning) for the believers.

78. And, in reality, the dwellers of al-Aika (the Thick Wood) too were hardened wrongdoers.

79. So We avenged Ourselves on them (as well) and both these (towns still exist) on the highway.

80. And no doubt the people of the valley of al-Hijr (the Rock) too denied the Messengers.

81. And We bestowed upon them (also) Our Signs but they persisted in turning away from them.

82. And they used to carve out houses in the mountains without any threat and fear.

83. And the dreadful Blast seized them (as well) the moment it dawned.

84. So the (riches) they used to earn could not repel (Allah’s punishment) from them.

85. And We have not created the heavens and the earth and whatever is between them without any purpose. And the Hour of Resurrection is certainly approaching. So, (O embodiment of excellent morality,) bear with (them) most graciously and effectively with perseverance.

86. Indeed your Lord alone is the Creator of all things, All-Knowing.

87. And surely We have bestowed upon you the seven oft-recited Verses (i.e. chapter al-Fatiha) and the Glorious Qur’an.

88. Do not even lift your eyes towards the things with which We have benefitted the disbelievers for their (few days’) luxury, nor grieve over their (turning away from the straight path), and keep your wings (of affection and care) lowered over the believers (to make them feel contented and cared for).

89. And say: ‘Indeed I am (now) the open and clear Warner (of Allah’s torment).’

90. The (torment) that We sent down upon the dividers (i.e. the Jews and the Christians),

91. Those who divided the Qur’an into pieces (and split it i.e. accepted the favourable verses but rejected the others).

92. So, by your Lord, We shall indeed interrogate them all,

93. Pertaining to the works that they used to do.

94. So declare openly all those (matters) that you have been commanded and turn away from those who set up partners with Allah.

95. Surely We suffice you for (taking them to task) who scoff,

96. Who set up other gods along with Allah. So they will come to know (their end) soon.

97. And We indeed know that your (sacred) breast feels straitened by what they say.

98. So glorify your Lord with His praise and live among those who prostrate themselves before Him.

99. And worship your Lord till you attain to that station of certainty of faith (which goes with your glory i.e. perfect cognizance of divinity or the moment of union with the Divine Essence).

Sura 16. an-Nahl (the Bee):

In the Name of Allah, Most Compassionate, Ever-Merciful.

1. The promise of Allah has drawn (near), so do not hasten in seeking it. Holy is He and exalted far above those objects which the disbelievers set up as (His) peers.

2. He alone sends down the angels by His Command with Revelation (which is the spirit of all the teachings of Din (Religion)) to those of His servants He likes: ‘Warn (the people) that there is no God except Me, so adopt fearing Me against all evils.’

3. He alone has created the heavens and the earth with a zero-defect strategy. He is exalted far above those objects which the disbelievers set up as (His) peers.

4. He alone has created man from a drop of vital fluid, yet he has become openly contentious (instead of becoming totally submissive to Allah).

5. And He alone has created for you cattle. They are for you a source of warm clothing and (other) benefits. And you (also) eat some of them.

6. And there is beauty in them (and also a joy — an aesthetic pleasure) for you when you drive (them back) in the evening from pasture and when you drive (them) out in the morning (to graze).

7. And these (animals also) carry your loads to those distant cities (and remote areas) where you cannot reach (otherwise) without toiling hard. Surely your Lord is Most Clement, Ever-Merciful.

8. And (He is the One Who has created) horses, mules and donkeys so that you may ride them and that they may serve as means of adornment (for you) as well and He will (further) create (such ornamented means of conveyance) that you do not know (today).

9. And the middle course reaches (the door of) Allah and many crooked side tracks also (branch off) from it. And had He so willed, He would have guided all of you.

10. He is the One Who has sent down for you water from the sky. (Some) of it is to drink and (some) of it is for plantation. (You grow with it plants, vegetation and pastures) wherein you take (your cattle) to graze.

11. With the same water He grows for you crops and olives and date-palms and grapes and all kinds of fruit. Indeed there are Signs in it for those who reflect and meditate.

12. And He (is the One Who) has subjected to your service the night and the day and the sun and the moon, and all the stars have also been made subservient to (the system according to) His strategy. Surely there are Signs in it for those who possess reason.

13. And (of the animal world, vegetable world and minerals) whatever He has created for you in the earth which have separate colours (genders, species, classes, characteristics and benefits, etc. — all have been subdued to your service). Verily, there is a Sign in it for those who take advice.

14. And He is the One Who has subjected sea (rivers and oceans) as well (in addition to air and land) so that you may eat fresh (and favourite) seafood from there and may take out from them gems (etc.) that you wear as ornaments. And, (O man,) you see the vessels (and ships) that pierce through the water (of the rivers and oceans). And (all this has been managed) so that you may look for His bounty (i.e. sustenance, far and wide) and also that you may become thankful.

15. And He is the One Who has created firm mountains in the earth (by allying various elements) lest it tremors while carrying you (revolving in its orbit), and rivers and (also natural) routes so that you may find way (to reach the destinations),

16. And set up landmarks (to navigate during the day). And (at night as well) people find (their) way by means of the stars.

17. Can the Creator Who creates (all that) be like the one who cannot create (anything)? Do you not then accept advice?

18. And if you want to count the favours of Allah, you will not be able to number them all. Surely Allah is Most Forgiving, Ever-Merciful.

19. And Allah knows what you hide and what you show.

20. And the (idols) whom these (polytheists) worship besides Allah cannot create anything; they have rather been created themselves.

21. (They) are non-living, inanimate objects which do not (even) sense when the people will be raised up.

22. Your God is One God. So those who do not believe in the Hereafter are deniers at heart and are beliers and arrogant.

23. This is verily true and established that Allah knows all that they hide and all that they show. Surely He does not like the defiers and arrogant.

24. And when they are asked: ‘What has your Lord sent down?’ they retort: ‘False fables of the people gone by (have been sent down).’

25. (They are making all these utterances) so that they may carry full load (of their evildoings) on the Day of Resurrection and also (carry) some load of those that they are misguiding due to (their) ignorance. Beware! It is an extremely evil load which they are carrying.

26. No doubt those who lived before them (also) devised plots, but Allah knocked down the edifice (of their deceptive plots) from its foundations, and the roof caved in upon them, and the torment came at them from where they never thought of.

27. Then He will humiliate them on the Day of Resurrection and say: ‘Where are those that you set up as peers to Me and in whose favour you disputed (with the believers)?’ Those endowed with knowledge will say: ‘Today (all types of) humiliation and destruction will surely befall the disbelievers,

28. Whom the angels cause to die while they are (constantly) doing wrong to their own souls.’ They will display obedience and submission (on the Day of Resurrection and say:) ‘We were not used to doing any evil (in the world).’ No indeed! Allah surely has thorough knowledge of what you used to do.

29. So, enter the gates of Hell. You are its permanent residents. So how evil is the abode of the arrogant!

30. And (when) the Godfearing are asked: ‘What has your Lord sent down?’ they say: ‘All good (for here and the Hereafter has been sent down).’ There is good for those who do good in this world (too), and certainly the House of the Hereafter is even better. And how excellent is the house of those who are Godfearing!

31. There are Gardens of Eternity which they will enter with streams flowing under them. Therein will be (available) whatever they will long for. That is how Allah rewards the God-fearing.

32. The angels take their lives while they are pure, clean, pleased and contented (due to obedience and piety. The angels tell them the moment they take their lives:) ‘Peace be upon you. Enter Paradise due to (the pious deeds) that you used to do.’

33. And what else are they waiting for except that the angels should come to them or there should reach the command (of torment) from your Lord? Those before them (also) did the same. And Allah did not do them any wrong but they themselves used to wrong their own souls.

34. So the punishments that came upon them were due to the acts that they had perpetrated, and the same (chastisement) they used to make fun of engulfed them.

35. And those who set up peers with Allah say: ‘Had Allah so willed, We would not have worshipped anything apart from Him, neither we nor our fathers. Nor would we have forbidden anything without His (Command).’ Those before them (also) did the same. Are the Messengers responsible for anything in addition to conveying clearly (the Message and Commandments of Allah)?

36. And indeed We sent a Messenger in every people: ‘(O people,) worship Allah and keep away from Taghut (i.e. Satan and idol-worship).’ Then some among them were those whom Allah guided, and there were others among them for whom misguidance proved (appropriate). So travel through the land and see what was the end of those who belied (the Truth)!

37. If you ardently desire them to take the path of guidance then (let not your sanctified disposition be overburdened), for indeed Allah does not guide him whom He holds strayed, nor do they have any helpers.

38. And they swear by Allah most earnestly that Allah will not resurrect him who dies. No Indeed! The true promise is a bountiful obligation upon Him, but most people do not know.

39. (The dead will be raised up again) so that He makes evident (the Truth) wherein they disagree and that the disbelievers may realize that they alone are in fact liars.

40. Our Command for a thing is but only this much that when We intend (to bring) it (into existence) We say to it: ‘Be,’ and it becomes.

41. And those who emigrated after they had been subjected to (different kinds of) torture and brutality, We will certainly provide them with a better abode in this (very) world. And the reward in the Hereafter is certainly greater. Would that they knew (this secret) —

42. Those who remain steadfast and put their trust in their Lord!

43. And before you also We sent only men as Messengers towards whom We sent Our Revelations. So if you yourselves do not know (anything), then ask the People of Remembrance.

44. (They too were sent) with clear proofs and the Books. And, (O Glorious Messenger,) We have revealed to you the Glorious Reminder (the Qur’an) so that you may explain clearly to people (the Message and the Commandments) that have been sent down to them and that they may meditate.

45. Have these evil and deceitful people gone free of the fear that Allah may sink them into the earth, or may send to them torment from (any) quarter that is beyond their imagination?

46. Or He may seize them during their movements (travelling and business trips). So, they cannot hinder Allah.

47. Or He may seize them for being struck with fear. Indeed your Lord is Most Compassionate, Ever-Merciful.

48. Have they not seen those (shady) objects which Allah has created; their shadows keep crawling on the right and the left sides prostrating themselves before Allah? And, (in fact, in this way) they display humbleness and obedience.

49. And whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth, all living beings and angels prostrate themselves before Allah (alone) and are not (in the least) proud and arrogant.

50. They keep fearing their Lord, Who is high above them, and obey whatever the command they are given.

51. And Allah has ordained: ‘Do not take two gods; assuredly He (Allah) alone is the only One God. So fear Me alone persistently.’

52. And whatever is in the heavens and the earth (all) belongs to Him alone, and obligatory (for all) is obedience to Him alone. Do you then fear (anyone) other than Allah?

53. And whatever blessing you have been provided with is from Allah alone. Then, when some distress afflicts you, you wail and weep only before Him.

54. Then, when Allah removes that distress from you, a party from amongst you starts setting up partners with their Lord;

55. (This disbelief and polytheism is perpetrated) so that they may show ingratitude for those (blessings) which We have bestowed upon them. So, (O polytheists,) take this (a few days’) benefit, then soon will you know (your end).

56. And they ascribe a portion of the provisions which We have given them for those (idols) whose (reality) even they themselves do not know. By Allah, you will indeed be asked about what you fabricate.

57. And they (the disbelievers and polytheists) ascribe daughters to Allah. Glory be to Him, (He is far above that;) and for themselves they prefer what they desire (i.e. sons).

58. And when the news (of the birth) of a daughter is disclosed to any of them, his face turns dark and he gets pent up with anger.

59. He seeks to hide himself from people due to the (presumed) bad news that is given to him. (He now gets down to thinking) whether he should keep her (alive) despite humiliation and disgrace or bury her (alive) in the earth. See! How wicked is the decision that they make!

60. (This) is the most evil attribute of those who do not believe in the Hereafter and the most exalted attribute is only Allah’s. And He is Almighty, Most Wise.

61. And had Allah seized people (instantly) for their injustice, He would not have left any living being (on the surface of the earth). But He grants them respite till an appointed term. When their fixed time arrives then they can neither advance nor hold it back for a single moment.

62. And they attribute to Allah what they loathe (for themselves) and their tongues utter falsehood that there is good for them. (No indeed!) The truth is that for them there is Hell, and they will be the first ones to be sent (into Hell where they shall be left forever).

63. By Allah! We certainly sent Messengers to (many) people before you (also). Then Satan made their (evil) deeds look attractive and pleasing to them. So the same (Satan) is today their friend. And for them there is painful punishment.

64. And We have not revealed to you the Book except that you may explain those (matters) clearly to them in which they differ, and (also that this Book) is guidance and mercy for the people that have embraced faith.

65. And Allah pours down water from the sky and by means of that brings the earth to life (i.e. makes it fertile and green) after it has become dead (i.e. barren and infertile). Surely there is in it a Sign for those who give ear (to advice).

66. And indeed in the cattle (too) there is a point for you to ponder. We provide you with pure milk to drink brought forth from that substance of their bellies (which is produced by) compounding (certain) intestinal contents and blood and which freshens up those who drink it.

67. And you obtain sugar and (other) fine foods from the fruits of date-palms and grapes. Indeed there is a Sign in it for those who have reason.

68. And your Lord seeded (the idea instinctually) in the honeybee’s heart: ‘Make your hives in certain mountains and certain trees and (also) in certain projections which people build aloft (like roofs).

69. So, suck the juice of all kinds of fruit and then follow those routes (suggested) by your Lord (which lead to these fruits and flowers of which you are to suck the juice, leading other bees also to the source) for their convenience.’ There oozes from their bellies a syrup (that is honey) of diverse colours. It has healing properties for the people. Therein is indeed a Sign for those who apply their minds.

70. And Allah has brought you into being; then He causes you to die (i.e. takes your life); and He turns some of you to the most worthless age (senility) so that after knowing (so much in life) he should now know nothing (i.e. man may see to his helplessness and paucity of resources before death). Surely Allah is All-Knowing, All-Powerful.

71. And Allah has preferred some of you to others in (grades of) provision, (so that He may bring you to trial through the command of spending in His way). But those who have been preferred do not divert (even a portion of) their wealth to (i.e. do not spend on) their dependants while they all are equal in it (as for as their basic necessities are concerned). So do they deny Allah’s favour?

72. And Allah has created for you spouses from among yourselves, and has created through your mates (wives) sons and grandsons and provided you with pure sustenance. Do they still believe in falsehood (abandoning the Truth) and disregard Allah’s favours?

73. And besides Allah they worship those (idols) who are helpless to provide them with any provision from the heavens and the earth, and nor do they have any power.

74. So never put forward any similitude about Allah. Surely Allah knows and you do not.

75. Allah has explained an example (that) there is a slave, possessed by (some master), having no control over anything (himself); and (the other) is the one We have given the best provision, so he gives out to others out of it secretly and openly: can the two be held equal? All praise belongs to Allah alone. But most of them do not know (even the basic reality).

76. And Allah has illustrated an example of two (such) men of whom one is dumb, has no power over anything and is a burden on his master; wherever he (the master) sends him, he brings no good. Can he (the dumb) be the equal to the (other) one who (holds such an office that he) enjoins the people to do justice, and he himself also follows the straight path?

77. And to Allah belongs (all) the unseen of the heavens and the earth and the advent of the Last Hour will be as quick as twinkling of an eye or even faster. Surely Allah has Mighty Control over everything.

78. And Allah brought you forth from the wombs of your mothers (in such a state) that you knew nothing, and He endowed you with ears and eyes and hearts so that you may give thanks.

79. Have they not seen the birds that fly aloft in the air (under the law of motion and aerodynamics)? Nothing but (the laws of) Allah hold them (in the sky). Surely there are Signs in (this law of aerodynamics) for the believers.

80. And Allah has made your homes (permanent) places for you to reside and made for you (temporary) dwellings (i.e. tents) with the skins of cattle which you find light enough during your journey and for (stay at journey-breaking) halts. And (Allah is the One Who) provides you with household goods and profitable means (in business and trade) from the wool of sheep and lambs and fur of camels and hair obtained from goats, (which are) for an appointed term.

81. And Allah is the One Who has made for you shades of many things that He created, and He has made places of shelter for you in the mountains, and He has made (some) such clothes for you as protect you from heat and (others like) coats of armour which shield you (against the enemy assault) during the event of intense war. Thus Allah perfects His favour and blessing (provision and protection) upon you so that you may bow down (before His Presence) with absolute submissiveness.

82. So if (even then) they turn away (O Glorious Messenger,) then your responsibility is only to convey and communicate (My Message and My Commands) clearly.

83. They recognize Allah’s favour, then deny it and most of them are disbelievers.

84. And the Day when We shall raise from every people (their Messenger as) a witness (to their deeds), then the disbelievers will not be accorded permission (to put forward any excuse), nor will they be asked (then) to turn to Allah in repentance.

85. And when the wrongdoers see the torment, neither will (this torment) be mitigated for them, nor will they be granted any respite.

86. And when the idolaters see their (self-made) partners, they will say: ‘O our Lord, these are our partner-gods which we worshipped besides You.’ Thereupon those (partner-gods) will send them the message (in reply): ‘You are liars indeed.’

87. And that Day these (polytheists) will show humbleness and obedience to Allah, and all falsehood that they used to fabricate will vanish from them.

88. Those who disbelieved and kept hindering (others) from the path of Allah, We shall add torment to their torment because they used to spread mischief and spoil peace.

89. And (this) will be the Day (when) We shall raise in every people one witness against them from among themselves, and, (O Venerable Beloved,) We shall bring you as witness to all of them (communities and Messengers). And We have revealed to you that Glorious Book which is a clear exposition of everything and is guidance, mercy and glad tidings for the believers.

90. Indeed Allah enjoins justice and benevolence (towards everyone), and giving away to the kindred and forbids indecency, evil deeds, defiance and disobedience. He admonishes you so that you may remember with concern.

91. And always fulfil the promise of Allah when you promise, and do not break oaths after making them firm while you have already made Allah a surety over you. Surely Allah knows well whatever you do.

92. And do not be like the woman who after spinning her yarn firm and strong breaks it into pieces. You employ your oaths as a means of deceiving among you so that (by this) one party may earn more profit than the other. The matter is that Allah (also) puts you to trial through the same, and on the Day of Resurrection He will certainly make clear those matters in which you used to disagree.

93. And had Allah so willed He would have made (all) of you one Umma (Community) but He holds strayed whom He wills and leads to guidance whom He wills. And you will surely be asked about the deeds you used to do.

94. And do not use your oaths as a means of deceiving among you lest your foot should quiver after it is set firmly (in Islam) and you will taste the evil result because you used to hinder (the people) from the path of Allah. And there is severe torment for you.

95. And do not barter the promise made to Allah for a paltry price (i.e. worldly wealth and gains). Surely (the reward) that is with Allah is best for you if you know (this secret).

96. The (riches) that you possess will be no more and what is with Allah will last. And those who remain steadfast We shall certainly pay their recompense for their righteous deeds which they used to do.

97. Whoever performs pious works, man or woman provided he or she is a believer, We will surely let such a one live a life of purity and will indeed reward them (as well) their wage of the righteous works which they used to do.

98. So when you undertake to recite the Qur’an, seek refuge with Allah against (the wiles of) Satan, the outcast.

99. Surely he has no control (at all) over those who believe and put their trust in their Lord.

100. He overpowers only those who make friends with him and who associate partners with Allah.

101. And when We substitute some Verse in place of another Verse, and Allah (alone) knows best whatever He sends down, (then) the disbelievers say: ‘You are but a forger!’ But most of them do not know (the rationale of sending down and substituting the verses).

102. Say: ‘The Holy Spirit (Gabriel) has brought it (the Qur’an) down from your Lord with truth so as to keep the believers firm-footed and (this) is guidance and good news for the believers.’

103. And indeed We know that they (the disbelievers and the polytheists) say: ‘It is but a human being who teaches him this (Qur’an).’ But the person they point to, turning the matter away from the truth, is the one whose language is non-Arabic and this Qur’an is (in) clear and unambiguous Arabic language.

104. Surely those who do not believe in the Revelations of Allah, Allah does not provide them with guidance (i.e. does not also enable them with understanding and insight). And for them is grievous torment.

105. Indeed they alone invent false fabrications who do not believe in the Revelations of Allah and they alone are liars.

106. The one who disbelieves after having believed, except someone who is coercively forced to do so and at heart remains contented with belief (as before), but (of course) he who (adopts) disbelief (afresh) wholeheartedly with an open mind, on them is wrath from Allah and for them is fierce torment.

107. That is because they loved and preferred the life of this world to the Hereafter and because Allah does not guide the disbelieving folk.

108. They are those whose hearts and whose ears and whose eyes Allah has sealed and they are the ones who are neglectful (of their end in the Hereafter).

109. It is a fact that these are certainly those who are the losers in the Hereafter.

110. Then your Lord, for those who emigrated (i.e. left their homes and towns for the cause of Allah) after they had been made to suffer from trials (and adversities), then fought in the way of Allah and remained steadfast (in the face of worries); after that, (O Glorious Beloved,) your Lord is Most Forgiving, Ever-Merciful.

111. And (recall the time) that Day when every person will appear pleading for himself (in his defence), and every soul will be given full recompense for whatever it will have done, and they will not be wronged in the least.

112. And Allah has described the example of a township which was (living) in peace and contentment. The means of sustenance came to (its residents) in abundance from all quarters. Then the (dwellers) of this town disregarded Allah’s blessings and showed ingratitude. Thereupon Allah clothed them in the torment of hunger and fear due to the activities that they used to carry out.

113. And indeed there came to them from among themselves a Messenger but they denied him. So the torment seized them and they were certainly the wrongdoers.

114. So always eat of that clean and lawful sustenance which Allah has given you and thank for the favour of Allah if you worship but Him alone.

115. He has forbidden you only carrion, blood, the flesh of swine and (the animal) on which the name of other than Allah is invoked at the time of slaughter. But he who is faced with survival condition (forced by necessity), neither defying (against Allah’s injunctions seeking taste of lust), nor transgressing (the limit of necessity), then Allah is surely Most Forgiving, Ever-Merciful.

116. And do not tell a lie which your tongues utter: ‘This is lawful and that is forbidden,’ thus fabricating a lie against Allah. Indeed those who fabricate lies against Allah will (never) be delivered.

117. There is only a little profit but the torment for them is painful (beyond proportion).

118. And We made unlawful for the Jews the same things that We have mentioned to you before and We did not wrong them but they used to wrong their souls themselves.

119. Indeed your Lord, for those who committed wrongs out of ignorance, then turned to Him in repentance and amended (their) state, then surely after that your Lord is Most Forgiving, Ever-Merciful.

120. Surely Ibrahim (Abraham) was an Umma ((Community) in himself), exclusively obedient to Allah, turning away from all falsehood (ever inclined and given to Him alone) and was not of those who associate partners with Allah,

121. Grateful to (Allah) for His blessings. Allah chose him (and exalted him to a high office in His Presence) and guided him to the straight path.

122. And We bestowed upon him good in this world, and he will surely be of the upright in the Hereafter (as well).

123. Then, (O Glorious Beloved,) We sent down Revelation to you: ‘Follow Din (Religion) of Ibrahim (Abraham), who was at variance with every falsehood and was not of those who associate partners with Allah.’

124. Saturday (the Sabbath) was ordained only for those who differed about it, and indeed your Lord will judge among them on the Day of Resurrection (in the matters) in which they used to differ.

125. (O Glorious Messenger!) Invite towards the path of your Lord with strategic wisdom and refined exhortation and (also) argue with them in a most decent manner. Surely your Lord knows him well who strayed away from His path and He also knows well the rightly guided.

126. And if you want to punish, then punish only (as severely) as you were afflicted, but if you remain patient then certainly that is better for those who keep patience.

127. And, (O Glorious Beloved,) be patient and your patience is by Allah alone. And you should not grieve over their (defiance), nor distress (your gracious and benevolent heart) on account of their deceptive plots.

128. Surely Allah blesses them with His (special) companionship who live with Godwariness and who (also) live with spiritual excellence.

Sura 17. al-Isra (the Night journey):

In the Name of Allah, Most Compassionate, Ever-Merciful.

1. Holy (free of any imperfection, weakness and insufficiency) is He Who took His (most beloved and intimate) Servant in a small portion of a night from the Sacred Mosque to the al-Aqsa Mosque, whose surroundings We have blessed, in order that We might show him (the Perfect Servant) Our Signs. Surely He is the One Who is All-Hearing, All-Seeing.

2. And We gave Musa (Moses) the Book (the Torah) and made it guidance for the Children of Israel (and enjoined them:) ‘Do not take anyone other than Me as Guardian.’

3. (O) children of those whom We carried (in the Ark) with Nuh (Noah)! Indeed Nuh (Noah) was a highly grateful servant.

4. And We categorically conveyed to the Children of Israel in the Book: ‘You shall make mischief twice in the land and employ a violent defiance (against obedience to Allah).’

5. So when the promised first time of the two came to pass We brought upon you those of Our servants who were great warriors. Then, in (your) search they penetrated up to your dwellings. And (this) promise was sure to be fulfilled.

6. Then We turned the victory over them to your favour and helped you with (affluence in) wealth and children and increased your numerical strength (as well).

7. If you do good, you do it (only) for your own benefit but if you do evil, you will sin against your own souls. Then, when the hour of second promise came (We sent against you other tyrants) so that, (lashing and whipping,) they should deform your faces and enter the al-Aqsa Mosque (the same way) as (the invaders) had entered it the first time and so that they completely destroy whatever (place) they overpower.

8. It may well be that (after this) your Lord will have mercy on you, but if you revert to the same (rebellious and defiant behaviour), then We too will get back to the same (tormenting once again). And We have made Hell a prison for the disbelievers.

9. Indeed this Qur’an leads to that (destination) which is most right, and gives this good news to those believers who do righteous works, that for them is a mighty reward,

10. And that those who do not believe in the Hereafter, We have prepared for them painful punishment.

11. And (intolerant and anguished) man prays (sometimes) for evil as he prays for good (for himself). And man has happened to be very impulsive indeed.

12. And We have made the night and the day two Signs (of Our Might). Then We made the Sign of the night dark and We made the Sign of the day bright so that you may look for your Lord’s bounty (provision) and that you may work out the number of years and do reckoning and We have made everything clear in detail.

13. And We have slung every man’s record of deeds around his neck, and on the Day of Resurrection We shall bring forth (this) record which he will find spread out (before him).

14. (It will be said to him:) ‘Read your book (of deeds). Today you yourself are enough for examining your own account.’

15. Whoever adopts the path of guidance follows it to his own benefit and whoever goes astray, then evil consequences of his error also fall back on him alone. And no bearer of burden will bear the burden (of the sins) of any other. And We do not torment (any people) at all until We send a Messenger (to them).

16. And when We resolve to destroy a town, We send (some) command to the rich and the affluent among them (so that the common man and the poor too may make amends) but they act disobediently in (the town). Thus Our decree (of torment) becomes due against it. Then We totally smash that town.

17. And how many a community have We destroyed after Nuh (Noah)! And your Lord is Sufficient. (He) is Well Aware of the sins of His servants, All-Seeing.

18. Whoever longs for (quick recompense for his labour in the form of) worldly riches alone, We readily grant whatever We like to whoever We please, here in this world. Thereafter, We have set up Hell for him which he will enter hearing condemnation and contempt, rejected (from the mercy of his Lord).

19. And whoever longs for the Hereafter and toils for it befittingly and he is a believer (as well), it is they whose struggle will earn recognition.

20. We extend help to all: those (ambitious of this world) as well as those (aspiring to the Hereafter. O Glorious Beloved, all this) is of your Lord’s Bestowal. And the Bestowal of your Lord is not forbidden (to) and restricted (to anyone).

21. See how We have exalted some of them above the others! And surely the Hereafter (as compared to this world) is far greater in terms of degrees and in terms of superiority (as well).

22. (O listener!) Do not set up another god along with Allah (lest) you should sit back condemned (and) forsaken.

23. And your Lord has commanded you not to worship anyone other than Allah and treat the parents with benevolence. If either or both of them attain to old age in your presence, then do not say even ‘Ugh!’ to them nor reproach them. And always speak to both of them submissively, observing polite manners.

24. And always lower your arms of submissiveness and humility out of soft-heartedness for both of them and keep supplicating (Allah): ‘O my Lord, have mercy on both of them as they brought me up in (my) childhood (with mercy and clemency).’

25. Your Lord is well aware of the (matters and intentions) that are in your hearts. If you acquire righteous conduct then surely He (Allah) is Most Forgiving to those who turn (towards Him).

26. And give to the kindred their rightful due and also (give) to the needy and the wayfarer and do not exhaust (your wealth) by expending wastefully.

27. Surely the spendthrifts are the brothers of Satan, and Satan is most ungrateful to his Lord.

28. And if, in waiting for your Lord’s mercy (i.e. prosperity) which you look forward to, you seek to avoid these (deserving ones due to scarcity of means), then say to them kind words.

29. And neither keep your hand tied to your neck (giving nothing to anyone) nor stretch it wide open (giving away all) lest you should sit back blamed (and) consumed.

30. Truly your Lord opens up sustenance for whom He pleases and folds up (for whom He wills). Verily, He is All-Knowing of His servants’ (works and affairs), All-Seeing.

31. And do not kill your children due to fear of poverty. We alone provide for them and for you (as well). Indeed killing them is a major sin.

32. And do not even go near unlawful sex (adultery). Verily it is an act of lewdness and is the most evil way.

33. Do not kill any soul whose (killing) Allah has declared unlawful unless (killing him) is just (according to the law of Shari‘a). But whoever is killed unjustly, We have indeed given to his heir the right (of retribution), but he too has not to exceed limits in killing (by way of retribution). He is indeed helped (by Allah. The responsibility of his help and support will be on the government.)

34. And do not (also) go near the orphan’s property but in a way that is beneficial (to the orphan) until he reaches his maturity. And do fulfil the promise. No doubt the promise will be questioned about.

35. And measure in full whenever you measure out (anything), and (when you weigh anything) weigh with a straight balance. This (honesty) is better and much better with regard to its consequence (as well).

36. And, (O man,) do not follow that of which you have no (authentic) knowledge. Indeed the ear, the eye and the heart — each of them will be questioned.

37. And do not walk arrogantly on earth. Certainly you cannot cleave the earth (with the force of your arrogance), nor can you reach the mountains in height. (You will remain what you are.)

38. The evil of all these (mentioned) acts is most despicable to your Lord.

39. This is of those wisdom-loaded values which your Lord has revealed to you and, (O man,) do not set up another god with Allah (lest) you should be cast into Hell cursed (and) rejected (from Allah’s Mercy).

40. (O idolaters! Think for yourselves!) Has your Lord picked you for sons and taken (for Himself) angels as daughters? Indeed you utter a most awful saying (in the framework of your own fabricated ideas).

41. And surely We have explained (facts and admonitions) in this Qur’an repeatedly and alternating styles so that people may take direction and guidance, but (the disbelievers’ state of mind is such that) this only increases their hatred.

42. Say: ‘Had there been some other gods with Him, as they (the idolaters and the disbelievers) say, then they would certainly have (jointly) found some passage to reach the Lord of the Throne (to interfere in His Command and Control System).’

43. Holy is He and Most Exalted and Most High, far above all that they keep saying.

44. The seven heavens and the earth and all that exists in them persistently extol the Glory of Allah and there is not a single object (in the entire universe) but it glorifies Him with His Praise. Yet you cannot appreciate their (state of) glorification. He is surely Most Forbearing, Most Forgiving.

45. And when you recite the Qur’an, (then) We place an imperceptible veil between you and those who do not believe in the Hereafter.

46. And We (also) cover their hearts in wrappers so that they may (not) get to its meaning and plug their ears with a sensation of heaviness (so that they may not listen to it). And when you mention your Lord alone in the Qur’an (and the names of their idols are not mentioned) then, in extreme dislike, they turn their backs and flee away.

47. We know best the motive with which they listen to with active attention when they give you ears, and when they whisper and when these wrongdoers say (to the Muslims): ‘You are following only a person that is bewitched (i.e. a spell has been cast on him. And We see and hear all this).’

48. (O Beloved!) See what similes (these people) find for you! So they have gone astray. Now they are unable to find a way to the right path.

49. And they say: ‘When we shall become (decomposed) bones and dust particles (after dying), shall we be raised up alive anew?’

50. Say: ‘(Yes, even though) be you stones or iron,

51. Or any other created matter which you deem even harder (than these things and which is not susceptible to becoming a living thing). Then (in this condition) they will say: ‘Who will bring us back to life?’ Say: ‘He Who created you the first time.’ They will then shake their heads at you (by way of wonder and ridicule) and will say: ‘When will it happen?’ Say: ‘It is expected to occur soon.’

52. The Day when He will call you, you will respond praising Him, deeming that you tarried (in the world) for only a short while.

53. And tell My servants that they should say things that are most balanced. Surely Satan causes contention among people. Indeed Satan is man’s declared enemy.

54. Your Lord is well aware of your state of affairs. If He wills, He may have mercy on you or if He likes, He may torment you. And We have not sent you as a guardian over them (to care for all their matters).

55. And your Lord knows them best who (live) in the heavens and the earth. And surely We exalted some Messengers above the others and bestowed the Zabur (Psalms) upon Dawud (David).

56. Say: ‘Call all those that you consider (gods) apart from Allah. They do not have the power to remove distress from you, nor (have they the capability) to shift (it to others).’

57. Those that they worship (i.e. they prepare sculptures and images of angels, jinn, the Prophets ‘Isa (Jesus), Uzair (Ezra) and others and worship them) look for mediation to their Lord (themselves) as to who among them is most intimate (in the Presence of Allah). And (they (themselves) hope for His mercy and fear His torment. (Now say yourselves how they can be gods. They are prostrating themselves before the True God.) Indeed the torment of your Lord is a thing to fear.

58. And there is not a community (comprising disbelievers and the denying rebels) but We shall destroy it before the Day of Resurrection or afflict it with most severe torment. This (decree) is written in the Book (the Protected Tablet (al-Lawh al-Mahfuz)).

59. And (nothing) has prevented Us from sending down the Signs (on their demand even now) except that the bygone people denied the same (Signs. Thereupon, they were immediately seized by destruction and were not granted any respite. O Beloved, We do not want to repeat that with your people after We have raised you as Our Messenger.) And We gave the people of Thamud an open Sign (of) a she-camel (of Salih) but they did her wrong. And We do not send Signs but to rouse fear (for the last time before the torment arrives. Then, when that Sign is rejected, the devastating torment is sent forthwith).

60. And (recall the time) when We said to you: ‘Indeed your Lord has encompassed (all) mankind (within His knowledge and might). And We have made the vision (on the Night of Ascension) that We showed you but a trial for the people; (the believers believed in it while those having superficial vision got confused;) and also that tree (of Zaqqum) which has been cursed in the Qur’an. And We warn them but this (warning too) does not add anything to them except greater disobedience and rebelliousness.’

61. And (call to mind the time) when We said to the angels: ‘Fall down in prostration before Adam.’ Then all prostrated themselves except Iblis (Satan). He said: ‘Shall I prostrate myself before him whom You have created of clay.’

62. (And Satan also said:) ‘Tell me, is it he You have exalted over me? (What is its reason after all?) If you grant me respite till the Day of Resurrection, I shall root out his children except a few of them (by bringing them under my control).’

63. Allah said: ‘Go (respite is granted to you). So whoever of them follows you, Hell indeed is the only befitting punishment for you all.

64. And whoever you can influence, destabilize (him) with your voice and invade them with (all the forces at your disposal) mounted and infantry troops, and become a partner with them in their wealth and children and make them (false) promises. And Satan does not make them (any) promises but fraud and deceit.

65. Assuredly you will not be able to overpower those who are My servants, and your Lord is Sufficient to protect and help these (friends of Allah).’

66. Your Lord is He Who makes (the ships and) vessels sail in the sea (and rivers) for you so that you may look for His bounty (i.e sustenance through internal and external trade). Indeed He is Ever-Merciful towards you.

67. And when some adversity afflicts you in the sea, then (all) those (idols) disappear (from your minds) you keep worshipping apart from Him (Allah Whom you remember at that time). Then when He rescues you and takes you safe ashore (you once again) start turning away (from Him). And man has happened to be extremely thankless!

68. Do you feel free of this fear that He may sink you (into the land) right at the shore or may send to you stone storm? Then you will not find any helper for yourselves.

69. Or have you become fearless that He may take you back once more (into the sea) and let loose upon you the ship-wrecking tempest and drown you (into the sea) because of your disbelief you used to practise. Then you will not find for yourselves anyone to impeach Us (on this drowning).

70. And We have indeed honoured the children of Adam and provided them with (means of transport) over the land and in the sea (i.e. in the cities, deserts, rivers and oceans) and bestowed upon them sustenance out of clean and pure things. And We have exalted them above most of Our creation by conferring on them superiority.

71. (Call to mind) the Day when We shall call every section of people along with their leaders. So whoever will be given the record of his deeds in his right hand, so they will read their records (rejoicing) and they will not be wronged a whit.

72. And whoever remains blind (to the Truth) in this (world) will be blind in the Hereafter as well, distracted from the path (of deliverance).

73. And that is what the disbelievers were up to that they might tempt you away from that (Commandment) which We have revealed to you, so that you ascribe to Us some other (things) apart from this (Revelation), and then make you their friend.

74. And had We not (already) made you firm-footed (through holiness and impeccability of Prophethood), even then you (owing to your holy and sanctified self and natural potential) would have but trivially gone near to inclining towards them. (You would not have even then bent much towards them and they would have failed. But Allah has protected you from even nearing such a probability through the holiness of Prophethood.)

75. (But if supposedly you inclined then) We would make you taste double of the torment in the worldly life and double of the torment in death. You would not then find (even) for yourself any helper against Us.

76. And the disbelievers also sought to shake you off the land (of Makka) so that they might banish you from here. (But had that supposedly happened) then they (themselves) would also not have stayed there but for a little while.

77. This (has been) the practice (of Allah) with all those Messengers We sent before you and you will not find any change in Our Way.

78. Establish the Prayers (Zuhr (Midday), ‘Asr (Afternoon), Maghrib (Sunset) and ‘Isha (Evening)) from the declining of the sun till deep darkness of the night. And also (make obligatory) the recitation of Fajr Prayer, for the Qur’an in Fajr (Dawn) Prayer is attended (by the angels and a state of divine consciousness also permeates).

79. And in some part of the night (as well, rising from sleep,) offer the Tahajjud Prayer with the Qur’an. This is added especially for you. Your Lord will certainly raise you to a station of praise and glory (i.e. the glorious station of intercession where all the former and later generations will turn towards you and glorify you).

80. And keep praying (to your Lord): ‘O my Lord, make me enter (wherever You are to make me enter) with the Truth (Your pleasure), and bring me out (from wherever You are to bring me out) with the Truth (Your pleasure). And bestow upon me from Your Presence the dominance that assists and the power that backs.’

81. And say: ‘The Truth has come and falsehood has fled. Surely falsehood has to perish.’

82. And We are sending down in the Qur’an what is healing and mercy for the believers. And it only increases the wrongdoers in loss.

83. And when We bestow upon man (some) blessing he turns away (from gratitude) and escapes, but when some distress comes upon him he despairs (i.e. he is neither grateful nor patient).

84. Say: ‘Everyone acts according to his own (respective) style and nature, and your Lord knows full well who is best guided to the straight path.

85. And they (the disbelievers) ask you about the spirit. Say: ‘The spirit is from my Lord’s Command and you have been given but a very little knowledge.’

86. And if We so will, We can erase this (Book) which We have revealed to you, (from people’s minds and from the written copies,) and you will not then find anyone who may plead your case before Us for the communication of this (Revelation),

87. But that by your Lord’s Mercy (We have kept it intact. This) is indeed His mighty favour to you (and through you to your Umma (Community)).

88. Say: ‘Should all men and jinn join in the attempt to produce (some other book) the like of this Qur’an, (even) then they will not be able to produce the like thereof, though they may become supporters to one another.’

89. And surely We have repeatedly explained for people every sort of example in this Quran (in diverse ways), but most people have not accepted (it. This is nothing) but sheer ingratitude.

90. And they (the disbelievers of Makka) say: ‘We shall never believe in you until you cause some water spring to gush out of the earth,

91. Or you have some garden of date-palms and grapes and you may cause streams to flow profusely therein,

92. Or, as you have an idea, cause some pieces of the sky to fall upon us (just now) or bring Allah and the angels before us,

93. Or you have a house of gold (wherein you live luxuriously) or you ascend up to heaven, but even then we will not believe in your ascension (to the heaven) until you bring down to us (from there) a Book which we may read (ourselves).’ Say: ‘Holy is my Lord (far above these vagaries). I am only a human being (and a Messenger) sent by Allah.’

94. And nothing prevented (these) people from believing, while there had come to them guidance (as well), except that they said: ‘Has Allah sent (a) man as Messenger?’

95. Say: ‘Had there been angels (instead of human beings) walking about, residing in the earth, then We (too) would have certainly sent down from heaven some angel as a Messenger.’

96. Say: ‘Sufficient is Allah for a witness between me and you. Surely He is Well Aware of His servants, All-Seeing.

97. And he whom Allah guides, then he it is the rightly guided. But he whom He holds astray, you will not find for them any helper except Him. And We shall raise them on the Day of Resurrection prone, blind, dumb and deaf. Hell is their abode. Every time it abates We shall flare it more ablaze (to torment them).

98. That is their punishment because they denied Our Revelations. And they kept saying: ‘Shall we be raised alive afresh after (we die) reduced to (decomposed) bones and dust particles?’

99. Have they not seen that Allah Who has created the heavens and the earth does (also) have the power to create the like of these people (again)? And He has fixed a term for them wherein there is no (chance of) doubt. The wrongdoers have even then refused to believe but (this) is ingratitude.

100. Say: ‘If you were the owners of the treasures of my Lord’s Mercy, you would even then hold (your hands) back (from spending) for fear of (total) exhaustion. And man has turned out to be highly narrow-minded and niggardly.

101. And indeed We bestowed upon Musa (Moses) nine bright Signs. And ask the Children of Israel, when (Musa (Moses)) came to them, Pharaoh said to him: ‘O Musa (Moses), in my opinion you are but a bewitched man (a spell has been cast upon you).’

102. Musa (Moses) replied: ‘(In your heart of hearts) you know that none has sent down these Signs as a means of warning and insight except the Lord of the heavens and the earth and, O Pharaoh, in my opinion you are a wreck (i.e. you are going to perish soon).’

103. Then (Pharaoh) resolved to uproot and cast away (Musa (Moses) and his people) from the land of (Egypt). So We drowned him and all those who were with him.

104. Then after this We said to the Children of Israel: ‘Settle in this land. Then when the promise of the Hereafter comes to pass We shall take you all mustered together.’

105. And We have sent down this (Qur’an) with the Truth and it is with the Truth alone that it has come down. And, (O Glorious Beloved,) We have sent you but as a Bearer of glad tidings and as a Warner.

106. And We sent down the Qur’an piecemeal so that you may recite it to the people distinctly with pauses. And We have revealed it piecemeal gradually (in accordance with the circumstances and expediencies).

107. Say: ‘Believe in it or not, indeed those who were given the knowledge (of the Book) before you, they fall down upon their faces in prostration when this (Qur’an) is recited to them.

108. And they say: Holy is our Lord. Surely the promise of our Lord was bound to come true.’

109. And they fall down on their faces sighing and wailing, and this (Qur’an) increases on their fear and submissiveness ever more.

110. Say: ‘Call out Allah or call out ar-Rahman (the Most Compassionate), by whatever Name you invoke Him, (all) Best Names are His. And recite (the Qur’an in) your Prayer neither too loud nor too low but adopt a (middle) course in between the two.’

111. And say: ‘All praise belongs to Allah alone Who has neither taken any son (for Himself) nor is there any partner in (His) kingdom and regime and nor has He any aide due to any handicap. (O Beloved,) keep extolling His Greatness and Glory with conviction and magnify Him with all His magnificence.’

Sura 18. al-Kahf (the Cave):

In the Name of Allah, Most Compassionate, Ever-Merciful.

1. All praise belongs to Allah Who revealed the (Glorious) Book to His (Most Beloved and Intimate) servant and left not in it any crookedness.

2. (He made it) straight and moderate so that he may warn (the disbelievers) of fierce torment (coming) from Allah and give good news to the believers who do pious deeds that for them is excellent reward (Paradise),

3. Wherein they will live forever,

4. And (moreover) create fear in those who say that Allah has taken a son (for Himself).

5. Neither they have any knowledge of it nor had their fathers. How dreadful is (this) utterance that is coming out of their mouths! They speak nothing but (sheer) falsehood.

6. (O Venerable Beloved!) Will you put your (dear) life at stake with the traumatic grief for them if they do not put faith in this Word (of Allah)?

7. And indeed We have made whatever is on earth a means of its beauty (and adornment) so that We test (the inhabitants of the earth) as to who is better on merit of their deeds.

8. And, surely, We shall reduce it to a barren land (perishing all) that is on (the surface of the earth).

9. Have you thought of it (how) wondrous a Sign of the Signs (of Our Might) were the people of the Kahf and the Raqim (i.e. the people of Cave and the Cave Tablet or the Raqim valley)?

10. (Call to mind the time) when a few youths took refuge in the cave. They said: ‘O our Lord, bestow upon us mercy from Your Presence and provide (means of) guidance in our affair.’

11. So We patted their ears (putting them to slumber) for some countable years in that cave.

12. Then We raised them up to see which of the two groups would most rightly calculate (the time) that they stayed (in the cave).

13. We (now) narrate to you their actual state of affairs. They were indeed (a few) young men who believed in their Lord and We increased for them (the light of) guidance.

14. And We strengthened and stabilized their hearts (through Our communication and divine affinity). When they stood (before their king), they said: ‘Our Lord is the Lord of the heavens and the earth. We shall never worship any (false) god besides Him. (If we do that) then we shall certainly say something profane.’

15. These are the people of our community who have made many gods apart from Him. Why do they not bring any clear proof (in support of their godhood)? So, who is a greater wrongdoer than he who fabricates a lie against Allah?

16. And (those young men mutually discussed:) ‘When you have withdrawn yourselves from them and those (false gods) which they worship other than Allah, take shelter in (this) cave. Your Lord will open up His mercy for you and will facilitate you in your affair.’

17. And you see that the sun, when it rises, moves to the right from their cave and inclines obliquely from them to the left when it sets while they are (lying) in the open chamber of the cave. This (change of the sun’s course) is one of the (great) Signs of Allah’s (Might). He whom Allah guides is the one who is rightly guided, but one whom He holds strayed you will not find for him any wali (friend to help) and murshid (guide to show the path).

18. And, (O listener,) if you (look) at them, you will deem them awake whereas they are asleep. And We keep changing their sides to the right and to the left (after regular intervals), and their dog is sitting on (their) threshold sprawling both its forelegs. Had you glanced peeping at them, you would have run away turning your back on them, and your heart would have been filled with their terror.

19. And likewise We raised them up so that they could probe among themselves. (So,) the vocal one among them said: ‘How long have you stayed (here)?’ They said: ‘We have tarried (here) for a day or (even) a part of that.’ (Winding it up, they) said: ‘Your Lord knows best how long you have stayed (here). So send someone of you to the city with this coin of yours. He should then find which food is more lawful and clean and bring you some of that. He should remain slow and polite (in going, buying and coming back), not leaving any clue about you (even) to a single person.

20. Surely if they overpower you (after becoming aware of you), they will surely stone you to death or force you (through oppression) to return to their faith. And (if it so happens) then you will not prosper at all.

21. And in this way We unveiled their (state) to those (who succeeded them some centuries later) so that they might know that Allah’s promise is true and (also) that there is no doubt about the coming of the Last Hour. (When these people of the cave died) and the people of the town developed a dispute concerning their matter, they said: ‘Raise a building over their (cave as a monument). Their Lord knows best their state of (saintly) affairs.’ Those (believers) who had the upper hand in their matter said: ‘We shall certainly build a mosque (at their door so that the believers may pray therein and acquire special bounty by obtaining spiritual nearness to the people of the cave).’

22. (Now) some will say: ‘(The people of the cave) were three and the fourth was their dog,’ and still some will say: ‘(They) were five and the sixth was their dog.’ These are the estimations made without seeing. And others will say: ‘(They) were seven and the eighth was their dog.’ Say: ‘My Lord is the One Who exactly knows their number and none knows their (exact number) except a few.’ So do not discuss about them with anyone except the details that have been revealed. Nor seek any information from any of them (about the people of the Cave).

23. And never say about anything: ‘I shall do this work tomorrow.’

24. But that: ‘If Allah so wills. (i.e. saying: Insha Allah).’ And remember your Lord when you forget and say: ‘I believe my Lord will show me the path of guidance which is (even) nearer than this one.’

25. And (the people of the Cave (Kahf)) stayed in their cave for three hundred years and they added another (nine) years (to that).

26. Say: ‘Allah is the One Who knows best for how long they remained (there).’ He alone knows (all) the secrets of the heavens and the earth. How well He sees and how well He hears! They have no protector besides Him, nor does He share His Sovereignty with anyone.

27. And recite that (Revelation) which has been revealed to you from the Book of your Lord. There is none who can change His Word, nor will you find any place of refuge except with Him.

28. (O My servant!) Stay tenaciously in the companionship of those who remember their Lord morning and evening, ardently seeking His pleasure, (keen on the glimpse of His sight and eagerly aspiring to glance at His radiant Countenance). Your (affectionate and caring) looks must not but focus them. Do you seek the charisma of the worldly life (shifting your attention away from these self-denying devotees)? And (also) do not follow him whose heart We have made neglectful of Our remembrance and who follows but the urge of his (ill-commanding self) and his case has exceeded all bounds.

29. And say: ‘(This) Truth is from your Lord. So whoever desires may believe and whoever desires may deny.’ Indeed We have prepared for the wrongdoers the Fire (of Hell) whose walls will surround them. And if (due to thirst and distress) they cry, they will be helped with water like molten copper which will scald their faces. How dreadful a drink and how terrible a resting place!

30. Indeed those who believe and do pious deeds, We certainly do not waste his reward who does pious deeds.

31. For them there are (everlasting) Gardens with streams flowing under their (palaces). They will be adorned with bracelets of gold in these Gardens, and they will wear green attires of fine brocade and heavy silk. And there they will recline upon raised and richly adorned thrones. What an excellent reward and how beautiful a resting place!

32. And relate to them the example of two men, one of whom We provided with two gardens of grapevines, and We hedged both from all sides with date-palms and We grew between them (rich green) cultivated fields.

33. Both these gardens yielded (abundant) fruits and their (produce) did not fall short of the mark. And We (also) made one stream flow in the middle of (each of) the two.

34. And this man had (also besides this) abundant fruits (i.e. resources). While exchanging views with his companion, he said to him: ‘I am far more affluent than you and (also) more honourable as regards family and tribal strength.’

35. And (taking him along) he entered his garden. Doing wrong to his soul (by way of arrogance), he said: ‘I do not (even) imagine that this garden will perish.

36. Nor do I entertain the idea that the Last Hour will take place. And if (supposedly) I am returned to my Lord, even then I shall certainly get a place to return better than these gardens.’

37. His companion, while exchanging views with him, said to him: ‘Have you denied (the Lord) Who has created you (first) from clay and then from a drop of vital fluid and then accomplished you (physically) into a full-grown man?

38. But (this is what) I say: Allah alone is my Lord and I do not associate any partner with my Lord.

39. And why did you not say when you entered your garden: Ma Sha Allah, la quwwata illa bi-llah – (It happens exactly as Allah wills. No one owns any power but with the help of Allah)? If (today) you find me inferior to you in wealth and riches (then what!)

40. It is not far from possible that my Lord may give me a garden better than yours and send from heaven some torment upon this (garden) turning it into a barren slippery piece of land.

41. Or its water may sink so deep into the earth that it gets beyond your means to fetch.’

42. And (because of his arrogance) all his fruits were besieged (with destruction) and in the morning he was but wringing his hands with grief bewailing all that wealth which he had invested (in raising this garden). And the garden had fallen down on its trellises and he (the embodiment of despair and despondence) said: ‘Would that I had not attributed peers to Allah (and had not employed self-conceit)!’

43. And there was (also) no party for him to come to his help against Allah, nor was he himself able to avenge (this destruction).

44. (Here it becomes evident) that all authority belongs to Allah alone (Who) is the Truth. He is the Best to reward and the Best to end.

45. And explain to them the example of the worldly life (as well): it is like water that We pour from the sky. With this the vegetation of the earth grows thick, but then it becomes dry stubble which the winds blow about and Allah has Perfect Control over everything.

46. Wealth and children are (mere) adornment of the worldly life, but the things that (actually) endure (are) the good deeds (which) are best in the Sight of your Lord as for reward and (also) most valuable as regards hope.

47. That will be the Day (of Resurrection) when We shall move the mountains (in the atmosphere, broken to dust particles,) and you will see the earth as a clear plain (void of plantation, stones, animals and vegetation). And We shall gather together the whole of mankind and shall not leave out anyone of them.

48. And (all) mankind will be presented to your Lord standing in rows. (It will be said to them:) ‘Indeed you have come to Us (Today the way) We created you for the first time. In fact you thought that We would never appoint for you the Hour of Promise.’

49. And the record of deeds will be placed (before everyone). So, you will see the evildoers terrified at the (sins, wrongs and offences) registered (in the record). And they will say: ‘Oh, woe to us! What is the matter with this record that it has left out neither any insignificant (wrong) nor any big (blunder). It has rather taken into account (each and every act).’ And they will find (before them) whatever they used to do, and your Lord will not do injustice to anyone.

50. And (recall the time) when We said to the angels: ‘Prostrate yourselves before Adam (in veneration).’ So they all prostrated themselves except Iblis. He (Iblis) was of the jinn and he walked out of the obedience to his Lord. Are you taking him and his offspring for friends leaving Me whereas in truth they are your enemies? How evil a substitute the evildoers (have opted in My place)!

51. I called them neither (for assistance or witness) on the creation of the heavens and the earth, nor (at the time of) their own creation. Nor was it My Glory to take the inciters of misguidance as (My) supporters.

52. And (remember) the Day (when) Allah will say: ‘Call those that you deemed to be My peers.’ So they will call them but they will not give them any answer, and We shall place between them (a valley of Hell), the site of destruction.

53. And the evildoers will see the Fire of Hell and realize that certainly they are about to fall into it. And they will not be able to find any means to escape from it.

54. And We have indeed put forth in the Qur’an repeatedly for mankind every kind of example (alternating the styles) but man is far ahead in contention than anything else.

55. And nothing prevented the people from embracing faith and imploring forgiveness from their Lord, while guidance had reached them, except (waiting for) the pattern of the ancients’ (destruction) occurring to them or that the torment should come in front of them.

56. And We do not send Messengers but as Bearers of glad tidings (to the people) and as Warners. And the disbelievers dispute with (these Messengers) taking leverage of false arguments so as to eliminate the Truth with (falsehood). And they scoff at My Revelations and the (torment) of which they are warned.

57. And who is a greater wrongdoer than one who was reminded of the Signs of Allah but he turned away from them and forgot those (evil deeds) which his hands had sent forward? Verily We have cast veils over their hearts so that they may (not) understand this Truth and have plugged their ears with heaviness (so that they may not hear this Truth). And if you invite them towards guidance, never ever will they take guidance.

58. And your Lord is Most Forgiving, Full of Mercy. If He had to take them to task for their doings, He would certainly have sent the torment upon them quickly. And in truth the Hour of Promise is (appointed) for them. (When that time comes) they will not find any place of shelter except with Him.

59. And these are the towns whose inhabitants We destroyed when they perpetrated oppression and injustice. And We had fixed a time for their destruction.

60. (And also call to mind the incident) when Musa (Moses) said to his (young companion and) servant (Yusha‘ ibn Nun (Joshua) the son of Nun): ‘I will not step (back) until I arrive at the junction of the two seas or I travel on infinitely.’

61. So when both of them reached the junction of the two seas, they forgot their fish (there). So, that (fried fish came back to life and) made its way into the sea like a tunnel and slipped off.

62. Then, when both of them had gone ahead, Musa (Moses) asked his servant: ‘Bring us our meal. Surely we have faced great hardship during our this journey.’

63. (The servant) said: ‘Did you see when we reposed beside the rock? I forgot the fish (there) and none but Satan made me forget to mention it to you. And that fish (after coming back to life) made its way into the sea in a strange way (and it disappeared).’

64. Musa (Moses) said: ‘That is the place we were looking for.’ So both returned to (the same place), tracing the (same track) following their footsteps.

65. Then both found (there) one of Our (elite) servants (Khidr) upon whom We had bestowed from Our Presence (special) mercy and had taught him infused knowledge (i.e. the inspired knowledge of secrets and Gnostics).

66. Musa (Moses) said to him: ‘Can I stay with you under this (condition) that you will teach me (as well) some of that knowledge which has been conferred on you for guidance.’

67. He (i.e. Khidr) said: ‘No doubt, you will not be able to have patience being in my company.

68. And how can you observe patience in (the matter of) which you will not have acquired (thorough) knowledge?’

69. Musa (Moses) said: ‘You will certainly find me patient, if Allah so pleases, and I will not violate any of your instructions.

70. (Khidr) said: ‘So if you are in my company then do not question me about any thing until I myself mention that to you.’

71. So both of them set out till, when they embarked on a boat, (Khidr) bored a hole in it. Musa (Moses) said: ‘Have you bored (a hole in) it to drown the people aboard? Surely you have done something strange.’

72. (Khidr) said: ‘Did I not tell you that you would not be able to restrain yourself in my company?’

73. Musa (Moses) said: ‘Call me not to account for my omission and put me not in any more difficulty in (this) affair of mine.’

74. Then both of them proceeded till they met a boy. (Khidr) killed him. Musa (Moses) said: ‘Have you killed an innocent soul without any (retribution due) for anyone killed? Indeed you have done a horrible thing.’

75. (Khidr) said: ‘Did I not tell you that you would never be able to keep patience in my company?’

76. Musa (Moses) said: ‘If I ask you about anything after this, then do not keep me with you. Indeed, in my opinion, you have reached the limit to excuse.’

77. Then both set off, until they reached the people of a town; both asked its residents for food but they refused to entertain them. Then they found there a wall which was about to fall. (Khidr) erected it. Musa (Moses) said: ‘If you desired, you could take wages for this (construction work).’

78. (Khidr) said: ‘This is the parting (time) between me and you. Now I impart to you the truth of the matters about which you have not been able to keep patience.

79. As for the boat, that belonged to some poor people who used to toil for wages on the river. So I decided to make it defective (because) a (cruel) king was (standing) ahead of them, snatching every (undamaged) boat by force (from the owners without any compensation).

80. And as for the boy, his parents were blessed with faith. So we feared that (if he lived on he would become a disbeliever, and on attaining to maturity) he would afflict both of them with disobedience and disbelief.

81. So we intended that their Lord might bless them with (such) a substitute as would be better than this (boy) in purity and nearer (to his parents as well) in clemency and kindness.

82. And as for the wall, that belonged to two orphan boys (residing) in the town. And a treasure was (buried) beneath it for both of them. And their father was (a) pious (man). So your Lord willed that both of them should reach their age of maturity and dig out their treasure (themselves) by Mercy from your Lord. And I did not do (whatever I did) of my own accord. This is the truth (of the matters) about which you could not hold yourself.’

83. And, (O Most Esteemed Beloved,) they ask you about Dhu’l-Qarnain. Say: ‘I recite to you an account of him now.’

84. (In ancient times) We did grant him power in the land and blessed (his regime) with all the means and resources.

85. Then he took (another) way,

86. Until he reached the boundary of (a locality towards) the West where he perceived the setting of the sun as if going down into a spring of (muddy black) hot water, and he found a people (living) there. We said: ‘O Dhu’l-Qarnain, (it is up to you) whether you punish them or treat them nicely.’

87. Dhu’l-Qarnain said: ‘Whoever perpetrates injustice (by way of disbelief and mischief-mongering) we will certainly punish him. He will then be brought back to his Lord. And then He will award him most grievous punishment.

88. And whoever believes and does pious acts will have better reward, and We shall (also) say for him in Our Commands what is lenient.’

89. Then (after consolidating his conquests in the West) he set forth on (another) course,

90. Until he reached the boundary (of a locality in the direction) of the sunrise. There he perceived (the rising of) the sun (as if) it were rising on the people (living in that piece of land) for whom We had provided no cover (for protection) against the sun (i.e. they lived in the caves, without clothes and houses).

91. It occurred the same way. And We have encompassed with Our knowledge whatever he had.

92. (Having accomplished his conquests in the East,) he then followed (still another) route,

93. Until he reached (a place) between two mountains. He found a people dwelling behind these mountains. They were unable to understand (anyone’s) speech.

94. They said: ‘O Dhu’l-Qarnain! Gog and Magog have spread disorder in the land. Should we fix some money (as a tribute) for you on this (condition) that you raise a high wall between us and them?’

95. (Dhu’l-Qarnain) said: ‘The power my Lord has given me in this connection is better. Assist me with your vigour (diligence and labour) and I shall erect a fortified wall between you and them.

96. Bring me large blocks of iron.’ So, when he levelled (that iron wall) between the two (mountain) tops, he said: ‘(Now) blow (it after putting it on fire).’ So, when he turned that (iron) into a fire (by successive blowing) he said: ‘(Now) bring me molten copper to pour on it.’

97. Then, they (Gog and Magog) did not have the ability to scale it, nor could they acquire the capability to bore through it.

98. (Dhu’l-Qarnain) said: ‘This is Mercy from my Lord. But when my Lord’s promise (of the Last Hour) comes (near), He will (demolish this wall and) level it with the ground (i.e. it will be reduced to dust particles). And the promise of my Lord is bound to come true.’

99. And at that time We shall release (all the creation or Gog and Magog). They will run into each other (like surging waves). And the trumpet will be blown. Then We shall gather them all (in the Last Day Assembly).

100. On that Day, We shall present Hell before the disbelievers fully exposed,

101. Those whose eyes were veiled (by negligence) against My remembrance and they could not even listen (to My remembrance).

102. Do the disbelievers think that, instead of Me, they will take My servants as helpers? Surely, We have prepared Hell as hospitality for the disbelievers.

103. Say: ‘Shall We alert you of those who are great losers in respect of deeds?

104. It is those whose entire struggle is wasted in worldly life, but they presume they are doing very good works.’

105. It is they who have denied the Signs of their Lord and meeting Him (after death). So all their deeds are ruined, and We shall not give any weight or (even) any worth to them on the Day of Rising.

106. This very Hell is their reward because they kept disbelieving and mocking My Signs and My Messengers.

107. Surely those who believe and do good deeds persistently shall have the Gardens of Paradise as their hospitality.

108. They will always live there. They will never seek any change (of abode) from there.

109. Say: ‘If the ocean turns into ink for the Words of my Lord, that ocean will exhaust before the Words of my Lord come to an end, even if We bring another similar (ocean or ink) to refill.’

110. Say: ‘I look like you only (by virtue of my visible creation) as a man. (Otherwise just think what congruity you have with me.) It is I to whom the Revelation is transmitted that your God is the One and only God. (And just see to it whether you have any such divine potential that the Word of Allah may come down to you.) So, whoever hopes to meet his Lord should do good deeds and must not associate any partner in the worship of his Lord.’

Sura 19. Maryam (Mary):

In the Name of Allah, Most Compassionate, Ever-Merciful.

1. Kaf, Ha, Ya, ‘Ain, Sad. (Only Allah and the Messenger know the real meaning.)

2. This is an account of the Mercy of your Lord (bestowed) upon His (chosen) servant Zakariyya (Zacharias),

3. When he called upon his Lord in a low voice (charged with politeness and submissiveness).

4. He submitted: ‘O my Lord, my bones have grown tender and (my) head has turned white like a flame due to old age and, O my Lord, I have never been unblessed when supplicating You.

5. And I fear my (disbelieving) relatives (may ruin the blessing of Din (Religion)) after my (soul departs) and my wife (too) is barren. So bless me from Your Presence with an heir (son),

6. (The one) who should be my heir (of divine blessing) and also the heir of (the chain of Prophethood from) the Children of Ya‘qub (Jacob). And, O my Lord, You (also) make him an awardee of Your Pleasure.’

7. (Allah said:) ‘O Zakariyya (Zacharias), indeed We give you the good news of a son whose name shall be Yahya (John). We have not given this name to anyone before him.’

8. (Zakariyya (Zacharias)) submitted: ‘My Lord, how can there be a son to me while my wife is barren, and I have shrivelled (into extreme debility) on account of old age?’

9. (He) said: ‘(Don’t be amazed.) It will be the same way.’ Your Lord said: ‘It is easy for Me (to create a son). Certainly, I created you (too) before, while you were (just) nothing.’

10. (Zakariyya (Zacharias)) submitted: ‘My Lord, set a Sign for me.’ He said: ‘Your Sign is that despite good health you shall not be able to speak to the people for three nights (and days).’

11. Then (Zakariyya (Zacharias)) came out from his worshipping chamber to his people and conveyed to them (i.e. made them understand) by gestures to glorify (Allah) morning and evening.

12. O Yahya (John)! Hold fast to (Our) Book (the Torah). And We granted him wisdom and vision (Prophethood) while yet a child,

13. And (blessed him) with sympathy and tenderness and purity and virtuousness from Our Kind Presence and he was very Godfearing.

14. (He was) greatly righteous (and dutiful) to his parents and was neither disobedient nor arrogant (like common boys).

15. And peace be on Yahya (John) the day he was born, the day he dies and the day he will be raised up alive.

16. And, (O My Esteemed Beloved,) recite the account of Maryam (Mary) in the Book (the Holy Qur’an) when she separated from her family (adopting seclusion for worship and) moved to the eastern house.

17. So she adopted veiling from them (the family and the people so that the Absolute Divine Beauty unveils Himself). Then We sent Our Spirit (the angel, Jibra’il - Gabriel,) towards her who appeared before her in the complete form of a human being.

18. (Maryam (Mary)) said: ‘I seek refuge with the Most Gracious (Lord) from you if you fear (Allah).’

19. (Jibra’il (Gabriel)) said: ‘I am only a messenger from your Lord. (I have come) to bestow upon you a pure son.’

20. (Maryam (Mary)) said: ‘How can there be a son to me whereas no man has even touched me, nor am I unchaste?’

21. (Jibra’il (Gabriel)) said: ‘(Do not wonder.) It will be the same way. Your Lord says: This (work) is easy for Me, and (the objective is) that We may make him a Sign for the people and Mercy from Us. And it is a matter (already) decreed.’

22. So Maryam (Mary) conceived him and positioned herself at a remote site aloof (from the people).

23. Then the birth pangs drove her to the trunk of a palm-tree. She said (in anxiety): ‘Would that I had died before this and had become totally forgotten!’

24. Then (Gabriel or ‘Isa (Jesus) himself) called out to her from beneath her: ‘Grieve not. Surely your Lord has made a water spring flow under you (or has created and laid under you a divinely eminent human being).

25. And shake the trunk of date-palm towards you. It will shed fresh ripe dates upon you.

26. So eat and drink and cool (your) eyes (with the sight of your beautiful, lovely baby). Then if you see any man, say (to him by gestures): ‘I have vowed a fast (of silence) to the Most Gracious (Lord), so I shall just not talk to any human being today.’

27. Then, carrying (the baby in her lap), she came to her people. They said: ‘O Maryam (Mary), surely you have brought quite an amazing thing!

28. O sister of Harun (Aaron)! Neither was your father a bad man nor was your mother an unchaste woman.’

29. On this Maryam (Mary) pointed to (the baby). They said: ‘How can we talk to him who is (yet) an infant in the cradle?’

30. The (infant himself) spoke out: ‘I am indeed a servant of Allah. He has given me the Book and has raised me as a Prophet.

31. And wherever I may reside, He has made me an embodiment of blessing. And He has enjoined upon me Prayer and Zakat (the Alms-due) as long as I am alive.

32. And (He has made me) treat my mother with excellent morality and has not made me disobedient and ill-fated.

33. And peace be upon me on the day of my birth, the day of my demise and the day I shall be raised up alive.’

34. Such is ‘Isa son of Maryam (Jesus son of Mary. That is) the truth about which these people doubt.

35. It is not Allah’s Glory that He should take (to Himself anyone as) a son. Holy and Glorified is He (above this). When He decrees any matter, He only says to it: ‘Be,’ and it becomes.

36. And surely Allah is my Lord and your Lord (too). So always worship Him alone. This is the straight path.

37. Then their sects began to differ among themselves. So the disbelievers are doomed due to the presence on the Mighty Day (of Resurrection).

38. How (curiously) will they hear (with the ears wide open) and how (bewilderedly) will they see (with the eyes stunned) on the Day when they will appear before Us! But today the wrongdoers are but (sunk) into the manifest error.

39. And warn them of the Day of Regret (and Shame) when (every) matter shall be decided, but they are rapt in (a state of) negligence and simply do not believe.

40. Surely We alone are the inheritor of the earth and (also) of those who dwell on it, and (they all) shall be brought back to Us.

41. And recite the account of Ibrahim (Abraham) in the Book (the Holy Qur’an). Surely he was a Prophet blessed with truthfulness.

42. When he said to his father (i.e. his uncle Azar who brought him up after his father Tarukh died): ‘O my father, why do you worship these (idols) which cannot hear or see, nor can they remove any (troublesome) thing from you?

43. O Father! No doubt there has come to me knowledge (from the Divine Presence of Allah) which has not come to you. Follow me; I shall show you the straight path.

44. O Father! Do not worship Satan. Surely Satan is a great rebel against the Most Kind (Lord).

45. Father! Indeed I fear that a torment from Most Kind (Lord) may seize you and you become a companion of Satan.’

46. (Azar) said: ‘Ibrahim (Abraham), have you turned away from my gods? If you do not practically desist (from this opposition) I will certainly stone you to death. And keep away from me for a long while.’

47. Ibrahim (Abraham) said: ‘(All right,) peace be on you. I shall beg forgiveness for you from my Lord (even) now. He is indeed very kind to me. (He may bestow guidance upon you.)

48. And I turn away from you (all) and these (idols) which you worship besides Allah. And I worship my Lord (with absolute concentration). I hope that, owing to worship of my Lord, I shall not be deprived (of His Bounty).’

49. So when Ibrahim (Abraham, giving up all social links,) completely separated from the people and those (idols) that they worshipped apart from Allah, We blessed him with Ishaq (Isaac) and Ya‘qub (Jacob, son and grandson) and We made each of them a Prophet.

50. And We awarded (all of) them Our (special) Mercy and put their praise and admiration on high rhetoric (among the believers of every divine religion).

51. And recite the account of Musa (Moses) in (this Holy) Book. Surely, (getting rid of the grip of self,) he had become exalted and was a Messenger and Prophet.

52. And We called him out from the right of (Mount) Tur and blessed him with Our (special) nearness for secret converse.

53. And We granted him out of Our Mercy his brother Harun (Aaron), making him a Prophet (to assist him in his task).

54. And recite the account of Isma‘il (Ishmael) in (this) Book. Surely he was true to (his) promise and was a Messenger and Prophet.

55. And he used to enjoin on his family Prayer and Zakat (the Alms-due) and (held) the station of Mardiyya in the Presence of his Lord (i.e. his Lord was well pleased with him).

56. And mention in the Book the account of Idris. Verily he was a Prophet possessing the Truth.

57. And We raised him to a lofty station.

58. These are the people on whom Allah bestowed Favour from among the Prophets of the seed of Adam and of those (believers) whom We (saved from Deluge and) carried with Nuh (Noah) in the Ark, and of the posterity of Ibrahim (Abraham) and Isra‘il (Israel i.e. Ya‘qub (Jacob)) and of those (chosen ones) whom We guided and exalted. When the Verses of the Most Kind (Lord) are recited to them, they fall down prostrating themselves in (profuse) tears.

59. Then followed their pathetic successors who gave up Prayers and followed lusts (of their ill-commanding selves). So they will soon face punishment in the Hereafter (in the Ghayi valley of Hell),

60. Except someone who repents and believes and persists in righteous works; they will enter Paradise and will not be wronged in the least.

61. (They will dwell) in such evergreen gardens which the Most Kind (Lord) has promised to His servants in the Unseen. Certainly His promise is about to come true.

62. They will not hear in it any absurd talk but only greetings of peace (pouring in from every direction). For them, their sustenance will be (available) in it morning and evening.

63. This is the Paradise which We shall award as inheritance to those of Our servants who are God-fearing.

64. And, (O Jibra’il (Gabriel), say to My Beloved:) ‘We cannot descend (onto earth) without the Command of your Lord. To Him belongs whatever is before us and whatever is behind us and whatever is in between. And your Lord is never forgetful (of you).

65. (He) is the Lord of the heavens and the earth and whatever is between the two. So worship Him and remain steadfast in His worship. Do you know who is His namesake?

66. And man says: ‘Shall I be soon brought forth alive when I die?’

67. Does man not remember that We had created him before this (also) while he was just nothing?

68. So, by your Lord, We will certainly gather them and (all) Satans together (on the Day of Judgment). We will then bring them (all) around Hell fallen down in kneeling position.

69. Then We shall indeed pick out from every group the one who had been most disobedient to and rebellious against the Most Kind (Lord).

70. And We know best those who are most deserving of being thrown into Hell.

71. And there is none of you but will pass over Hell. This (promise) is absolutely with your Lord which will certainly be fulfilled.

72. Then We shall deliver the God-fearing and shall leave the wrongdoers in it (Hell) down on their knees.

73. And when Our enlightening Verses are recited to them, the disbelievers say to the believers: ‘(See in the selfsame world) which of us two groups has better housing and more influential social circle.’

74. And how many a people have We destroyed before them who were better off (than these) in worldly assets and pomp and show.

75. Say: ‘The Most Kind (Lord also) grants respite in age and luxury to the one who is lost in error until, when they see what they have been promised — torment or the Day of Rising — then they will come to know him who is worse in respect of dwelling and (also) weaker in respect of troops.’

76. Allah adds to the guidance of those who are guided aright. And in the sight of your Lord, the lasting pious deeds are better in respect of reward and (also) more valuable in terms of end result.

77. Have you seen such a person that rejected Our Signs and said: ‘I shall certainly be given wealth and children (the same way even on the Day of Resurrection)’?

78. Is he aware of the unseen or has he taken any promise from the Most Kind (Lord)?

79. No way! We shall keep writing down what he says, and shall keep increasing for him torment (upon torment).

80. And (after his death) We shall inherit from him what he proclaims, and he will come to Us all alone (without wealth and children).

81. And they have taken (many other) gods apart from Allah so that they may be a source of honour for them.

82. By no means! Soon will these (false gods themselves) reject their worship and become their enemies.

83. Have you not seen that We have sent satans upon the disbelievers? They keep rousing them (against Islam) all the time.

84. So do not make haste against them (for torment). We Ourselves keep counting days (for their catastrophe).

85. On the Day when We shall assemble the Godfearing lot and take them (as guests of honour) to the Presence of the Most Kind (Lord) on carriages;

86. And We shall drive the sinners thirsty towards Hell;

87. (On that Day) people will not possess the authority to intercede except those who have taken a promise (of intercession) from the Most Kind (Lord).

88. And (the disbelievers) say: ‘The Most Kind (Lord) has taken (to Himself) a son.’

89. (O disbelievers!) You have indeed brought most horrible and unusual evil (on your tongues).

90. The heavens may just burst at this (fabricated lie) and the earth split asunder and the mountains fall down to pieces,

91. That they have attributed a son to the Most Kind (Lord).

92. And it is not the Glory of the Most Kind (Lord) to take (someone as) a son.

93. Whoever are (dwelling) in the heavens and the earth (whether angels, jinn or human beings) appear just as servants before the Most Kind Allah.

94. (Allah) has surely encompassed them with His (knowledge) and has counted them thoroughly (i.e. numbering them one by one).

95. And each one of them has to appear before His Presence alone on the Day of Resurrection.

96. Surely those who believed and did pious deeds, the Most Kind (Lord) will create love for them in the hearts (of the people).

97. So We have indeed made this (Qur’an) easy in your own tongue so that, by means of it, you may communicate good news to the God-fearing and may warn thereby the contentious people.

98. And how many a community have We destroyed before them! Do you perceive even a trace or hear even the faintest fizzle of anyone of them?

Sura 20. Tāhā ():

In the Name of Allah, Most Compassionate, Ever-Merciful.

1. Ta-Ha. (Only Allah and the Messenger know the real meaning.)

2. (O My Esteemed Beloved!) We have not revealed the Qur’an to you that you land in distress.

3. But (it) is (revealed as) admonition for him who fears (his Lord).

4. (This) has been revealed by (Allah) Who created the earth and lofty heavens.

5. (He is) Most Kind Who settled on the Throne (of Power and Supreme Authority over all the systems of the universe befitting His Glory).

6. (So) whatever is in the heavens (i.e. the upper divine and celestial spheres and spatial terrestrial spheres) and whatever is in the earth and whatever is in between the two (i.e. the atmospheric spheres) and whatever is beneath the soil to its bed, all are (functioning in compliance with) His (command and control system).

7. And (there is no harm) if, in remembrance and Prayer, you raise (louden your voice). He knows even the secrets (of hearts) and also the most hidden mysteries. (Then how He will not hear the loud supplications!)

8. Allah is (His Self-Name) besides Whom there is no God (i.e. believe in Him alone and deny all other false gods). There are (also) many other Beautiful Names for Him (that speak of His most beautiful and fascinating attributes).

9. And has the account of Musa (Moses) reached you?

10. When Musa (Moses) saw a fire (on his way back to Egypt from Madyan), he said to his family: ‘Stay here. I have seen a fire (or I have perceived a flash of love and cordiality in a fire). Perhaps I may bring a brand from it for you (also) or I find at that fire the guidance (which I am searching for).’

11. So when he reached that (fire), a call was made: ‘O Musa (Moses)!

12. Certainly I am your Lord, so take off your shoes. Verily you are in the sacred valley of Tuwa.

13. And I have chosen you (for my Messengership), so listen to what is being revealed to you with absolute attentiveness.

14. Verily I am Allah. There is no God other than Me. So always worship Me and establish Prayer for the sake of My remembrance.

15. Certainly the Last Hour is about to come. I want to keep it secret so that every soul may be rewarded for that (deed) for which it is exerting.

16. So let not someone who (himself) does not believe in it and follows his own lust (of the lower self) prevent you from (focusing) it, otherwise you (too) will perish.

17. And what is this in your right hand, O Musa (Moses)?’

18. He submitted: ‘This is my stick. I lean on it and beat down leaves with it for my goats, and in it there are also many other benefits for me.’

19. Allah said: ‘O Musa (Moses), cast it down (on the ground).’

20. So he cast it down (on the ground) and suddenly it became a serpent slithering (here and there).

21. Allah said: ‘Catch it and do not fear. We shall transform it to its former state just now.’

22. And (it was commanded:) ‘Press your hand in your armpit. It will come out radiant white without any disease. (This) is another Sign.

23. (We are doing) this so that We may show you greater Signs of Our (Might).

24. Go to Pharaoh. He has exceeded limits (in defiance and rebellion).’

25. Musa (Moses) prayed: ‘O my Lord, expand my breast for me.

26. And make my task (as a Messenger) easy for me.

27. And untie the knot from my tongue,

28. That people may understand (easily) what I say.

29. And appoint for me a minister from my family.

30. (That) is Harun (Aaron), my brother.

31. Provide me strength and backup with him.

32. And make him share my task (of Messengership),

33. So that we (both) may amply glorify You,

34. And amply remember You.

35. Surely You see us well (in the perspective of total scenario).’

36. (Allah) said: ‘O Musa (Moses), you are granted your every prayer.

37. And surely We graciously favoured you once (earlier as well),

38. When We revealed to your mother’s heart what was revealed —

39. That put him (Musa (Moses)) into a box and place that (box) in the river. Then the river will drift it to the bank. My enemy and his enemy will pick him up. And I cast on you from My Presence a reflection of My (Exceptional) love (i.e. We have made you so lovely and charismatic that whoever glance at you will be fascinated). And (this was done) so that you might be brought up before My eyes.

40. And when your sister, (posing as a stranger,) walking along, said (to Pharaoh’s family): Shall I point out to you (a woman) who will nurse this (infant)? Then We brought you back to your mother (on the pretext of nursing) so that she might cool her eyes and might not feel aggrieved as well. And you killed a man (a disbeliever of Pharaoh’s people). Then We delivered you from (that) agony (too) and tested and assessed you through many trials. Then you stayed among the people of Madyan for many years. Musa (Moses)! Then you came (here) at the time fixed (by Allah. He was then exactly forty years old).

41. And (now) I have chosen you for Myself (for the task of Messengership and the Exceptional Favour).

42. Go you and your brother (Harun (Aaron)) with My Signs and do not slacken in remembering Me.

43. Go both of you to Pharaoh; surely he has transgressed all bounds in rebellion.

44. So talk to him politely. He may perhaps accept admonition or fear (My wrath).’

45. Both of them submitted: ‘O our Lord, we fear lest he should commit some excess against us or become (more) rebellious.’

46. (Allah) said: ‘Do not fear. I am indeed with you both. I hear and see (all).

47. So, go you both to him and say: We are (the Messengers) sent by your Lord. So (set free) the Children of Israel (from your slavery and) send them with us. And do not persecute them (anymore). Surely we have brought you a Sign from your Lord. And peace be upon him who follows Guidance!

48. Verily, it has been revealed to us that the torment will come upon (every) such person that rejects (the Messenger) and turns away from him.’

49. (Pharaoh) said: ‘O Musa (Moses), Who is the Lord of you both?’

50. Musa (Moses) said: ‘Our Lord is He Who brought everything into being (as most suitable it was), then guided it (according to its potential).’

51. (Pharaoh) said: ‘So, what was the fate of former people (who did not believe in your Lord)?’

52. (Musa (Moses)) said: ‘The knowledge about them is recorded (and saved) in a Book with My Lord. My Lord does not go wrong, nor does He forget.’

53. He is the One Who made the earth habitable for you and provided therein paths for you (to travel) and sent down water from the sky. Then by means of that (water) We bring forth (from the earth) pairs of various kinds of vegetation.

54. Eat and pasture your cattle. Surely, there are Signs in it for the wise.

55. We created you from this (very soil of the earth) and We shall return you into the same and shall bring you forth from the very same once more.

56. And surely We showed him (Pharaoh) all Our Signs (bestowed upon Musa (Moses) and Harun (Aaron)) but he belied and refused to believe.

57. He said: ‘Musa (Moses), have you come to us to drive us out of our land with your magic?

58. So we shall also bring to you magic resembling it. Therefore, settle an appointment between us and yourself (for the contest) which neither we nor you shall violate. (The place of contest) is to be an open and smooth ground.’

59. (Musa (Moses)) said: ‘The day of your promise is the Eid (‘Id) Day (the day of Annual Festival) and that (on that day) all the people are to assemble there early in the forenoon.’

60. Then Pharaoh went back (from the meeting), put together his (schemes of) pretension and deception and then came back (at the appointed time).

61. Musa (Moses) said (to the sorcerers): ‘Woe to you! (Beware!) Do not invent a lie against Allah lest He should eliminate you by torment. And surely he who fabricates a lie (against Allah) is a failure.’

62. Thereupon they (the sorcerers) disputed among themselves about their affair and started inaudible whispering.

63. They said: ‘These two are really magicians who have the intention to drive you out of your land with sorcery and put an end to your exemplary culture and religion.

64. (They mutually decided.) So collect all your tricks (of magic) and come into the arena (together) in a queue and the one who prevails today will be victorious.’

65. (The magicians) said: ‘O Musa (Moses), either you cast (your thing) or we become the first ones to cast.’

66. (Musa (Moses)) said: ‘Rather you cast down.’ Then the sight was that suddenly their cords and rods, by the effect of their magic, seemed to Musa (Moses) as if they were slithering (on the ground).

67. Now Musa (Moses) felt a sort of hidden fear in his heart.

68. We said (to Musa (Moses)): ‘Do not fear. Verily, you will have the upper hand.

69. And cast down (this staff) that is in your right hand (on the ground). It will swallow up that (craft) which they have contrived (artificially). Whatever they have wrought is but a deceitful trick of a sorcerer, and wherever a magician may come, he will not be successful.’

70. (Then things happened the same way.) So all the sorcerers fell down in prostration (and) said: ‘We embrace faith in the Lord of Harun (Aaron) and Musa (Moses).’

71. (Pharaoh) said: ‘You have embraced faith in Him before I grant you permission. Surely he (Musa (Moses)) is also your chief (trainer) who has taught you magic. So, (now) I shall certainly cut off your hands and your feet on the opposite sides and shall certainly crucify you on the palm trunks. Then you shall come to know for sure which of us is sterner in inflicting torture and lasts for a longer term.’

72. (The magicians) said: ‘We shall not at all prefer you to the Clear Signs that have come to us. By that (Lord) Who has created us, decide whatever you want to do, for you can decide merely about (this few days’) worldly life.

73. We have indeed believed in our Lord in order that He may forgive us our sins and also (may forgive) that sorcery to which you forced us, and Allah is the Best and Ever-Abiding.’

74. Surely whoever comes to his Lord as an evildoer, certainly for him is Hell. (And it is such a torment) wherein he will neither die nor survive.

75. And whoever comes to His Presence as a believer (and) has (also) done good deeds, it is they for whom are high ranks.

76. (Those) are evergreen gardens beneath which streams flow. (They) will dwell therein forever. And that is the reward for the one who purifies himself (of the impurity and indecency of disbelief and immorality).

77. And certainly We sent revelation to Musa (Moses): ‘Move out at night taking My servants with you. So, make a dry path in the river (by striking your staff). Have no fear to be overtaken (by Pharaoh), nor be afraid (of drowning).’

78. Then Pharaoh chased them with his troops. So, the (waves of the) river swept over them as much as they covered them up.

79. And Pharaoh led his people astray and did not guide them to the right path.

80. O Children of Israel! (Realize!) Certainly We delivered you from your enemy and gave you the promise of (coming to) the right of (Mount) Tur and (there) We sent down to you the manna and the quails.

81. (And He said to you:) ‘Eat of the pure things that We have provided for you and do not exceed limits in that, or My wrath will become inevitable for you. And he on whom My wrath comes due is in truth destroyed.’

82. And I am surely Most Forgiving to him who repents and affirms faith and behaves piously, then sticks to guidance (firmly).

83. And, O Musa (Moses), why did you hasten (in coming to Tur ahead of) your people?

84. (Musa (Moses)) submitted: ‘They too are coming behind me, and I have hastened to appear before Your Presence (possessed by love and ecstasy) in order that You may be pleased, O my Lord!’

85. (Allah) said: ‘We have indeed put your people in trial after you (came away) and Samiri has led them astray.’

86. So, Musa (Moses) returned to his people angered and grieved (and) said: ‘O my people, did your Lord not give you a fair promise? Had a long time lapsed on you in (the fulfilment of) the promise? (Or) did you wish that the wrath of your Lord should come due (and befall) you? So you have violated (your) promise to me.’

87. They said: ‘We have not violated our promise to you of our own will, but (what happened is that) we were loaded with the heavy burden of the ornaments of the people, so we cast them (into the fire); then similarly Samiri (too) cast them away.’

88. Then he (Samiri) moulded (out of the molten ornaments) a statue of a calf for them which produced sound like that of a cow. Then they said: ‘This is your Lord and the Lord of Musa (Moses too). So he (Samiri) forgot (at this point).’

89. Well, did they not see (even this much) that this (calf) could not answer them a word, nor had it any power to cause them any loss or profit?

90. Earlier, Harun (Aaron also) had said to them, (warning): ‘O people, you have undergone a trial by virtue of this (calf) while your Lord is (not this,) but surely (He,) the Most Kind One. So follow me and obey my command.’

91. They said: ‘We shall hold fast to its (worship) until Musa (Moses) comes back to us.’

92. Musa (Moses) said: ‘Harun (Aaron), when you saw them erring, what stopped you,

93. From following me (and communicating to me)? Or who prohibited you from following my way, (in forbidding them fiercely). Did you disobey me?’

94. (Harun (Aaron)) said: ‘O son of my mother, seize me not by my beard or my head. (In being harsh) I feared you would say: You have created division among the Children of Israel and have not safeguarded my word.’

95. (Musa (Moses)) said: ‘Samiri, (tell me,) what is the matter with you?’

96. He said: ‘I saw what these people had not seen. I took a handful (of dust) from the footstep of the angel (that visited you); then I cast it (into the model of the calf) and this way my (lower) self made (it) attractive to me.’

97. Musa (Moses) said: ‘So (get out from here and) go away. There is for you a lifelong (punishment) that you will keep saying (to everyone): Touch (me) not, (touch me not). And there is yet another promise (of punishment) for you which will not be averted at all. And look at this (self-made) god of yours to which you held fast (in worship). We will surely burn it and scatter (its dust) well over the river.

98. (O my people! He) Allah alone is your God apart from Whom there is no god. He has encompassed everything in (His) knowledge.’

99. (O Esteemed Beloved!) Thus We communicate to you news about the (communities) who have passed away, and We have surely given you from Our Exclusive Presence the Reminder (i.e. an Admonishing Book).

100. Whoever turns away from it will certainly carry an unmanageable burden on the Day of Rising.

101. They will (remain) in this (torment) forever, and it will be a very evil burden for them on the Day of Rising.

102. The Day when the trumpet will be blown, We shall assemble the evildoers with their bodies and eyes turned blue (due to intense fear and loss of sight),

103. Inaudibly whispering to one another: ‘You stayed in the world for hardly ten days.’

104. We know best what they will be saying while one of them better in wisdom and deeds will say: ‘You have not stayed (in the world) for more than a day.’

105. And they ask you concerning mountains. So say: ‘My Lord will blow them off as dust particles,

106. Then will change it into a levelled, barren land,

107. In which you will find neither any depression nor any elevation.’

108. On that Day people will tread on behind the caller and there will be no deviation in (following) him. And all voices will be hushed due to the Majesty of the Most Kind (Lord). So you will not hear anything except a faint sound of a stir.

109. On that Day no intercession shall be fruitful except his (intercession) whom the Most Kind (Lord) has granted leave (and permission) and with whose word He is pleased (such as Prophets and Messengers, Allah’s chosen and fearing servants, Godwary slaves, innocent children and many other devoted servants of Allah whose intercession is validated).

110. He knows all those (things) which are ahead of them and which are behind them, and they cannot encompass His (knowledge) with (their) knowledge.

111. And (all) faces will bow down before the Holy Presence of the Ever-Living (and) Self-Subsisting (Lord), and surely he who bears the burden of wrongdoing will crumble to failure.

112. And whoever does righteous deeds and is also blessed with faith will fear neither any injustice nor any harm.

113. And in this way have We sent down (this last Revealed Book) in the Arabic tongue (in shape of) the Qur’an and have explained in it more often than not matters inspiring fear (of torment, in diverse ways,) so that they may become Godfearing or this (Qur’an) may inculcate in their (hearts a passion for the acceptance of admonition or) the remembrance (of the Last Day).

114. So Most High and Exalted is Allah. He alone is the True Sovereign. And do not hasten in (reciting) the Qur’an before its revelation is fully accomplished to you. And always submit (before the Holy Presence of your Lord): ‘O my Lord, increase me further in knowledge.’

115. And truly, (far) earlier than this, We had given a strict command to Adam but he forgot. And We did not observe in him any intention (to disobey) at all (it was just an omission).

116. And (recall the time) when We commanded the angels: ‘Prostrate yourselves before Adam,’ they fell down in prostration except Iblis. He refused.

117. Then We said: ‘O Adam, verily this (Satan) is an enemy to you and your wife. So let him not get you both ousted from Paradise; then you shall be put to toil.

118. Surely there is this (comfort) for you (in Paradise) that you will neither feel hungry nor go naked.

119. And that you will neither feel thirsty here, nor will the sun prick (you).’

120. But Satan suggested to them (an) idea. He said: ‘O Adam! Shall I inform you of the tree of spending eternal life (in the Paradise of Allah’s nearness) and also the (secret of that divine) dominion which will neither fall nor cease to exist?’

121. So (in fondness of that station of eternal nearness to Allah) both ate the fruit of that tree. So, their private parts became exposed to them, and both began to stick to their (bodies) the leaves of (the trees in) Paradise. And Adam made a mistake (by way of omission) in (understanding) his Lord’s Command. So he could not achieve the aim (of eternal life in Paradise).

122. Then his Lord chose him (for His nearness and Prophethood) and turned to him (in His Exceptional Forgiveness and Mercy) and showed the path to the coveted destination.

123. (Allah) said: ‘Go down from here all of you. Some of you will be enemies to some others. Then if there comes to you any Guidance (Revelation) from Me, whoever will follow My Guidance will neither lose the straight path (in the world) nor face misfortune (in the Hereafter).

124. And whoever turns away from My Direction and Guidance (remembrance and advice), his worldly sustenance will be narrowed and We will raise him blind on the Day of Resurrection (as well).’

125. He will say: ‘O my Lord, why have You raised me up blind (today) whereas I had vision (in the world)?’

126. (Allah) will say: ‘In like manner Our Signs came to you (in the world) but you forgot them and the same way you (too) will be forgotten today.’

127. And that is how We recompense the one who exceeds the limit (in sins) and does not believe in the Revelations of his Lord, and surely the torment of the Last Day is extremely severe and everlasting.

128. Has (this fact) not guided them as to how many people We destroyed before them in whose dwelling places they (now) walk about? Undoubtedly, in this are (many) Signs for the wise.

129. And had it not been settled already by your Lord and the time (of the Day of Resurrection) not fixed (for their torment, befalling them) the calamity (right now) would have been inevitable?

130. So bear their (heart-rending) talk patiently and glorify your Lord with His praise before the rising of the sun (in Fajr (dawn) Prayer) and before its setting (in the ‘Asr (afternoon) Prayer) and glorify Him in the early hours of night (the Maghrib (sunset) and ‘Isha’ (evening) Prayer) and also at the ends of the day (in Zuhr (midday) Prayer when the first half of the day ends and the second half starts. O Esteemed Beloved, all this is designed) so that you may be pleased.

131. And do not glance with amazement and wonder at the adornments (of worldly life) which We have provided to some classes (of the disbelieving materialists) for their (short-term) luxury so that We may cause for them a trial in these (very things). And the provision of your Lord (in the Hereafter) is the best and eternal.

132. And enjoin Prayer on your family and strictly adhere to it. And We do not ask for provision from you, (rather) We provide for you. And it is fearing God that brings about best results.

133. And (the disbelievers) say: ‘Why this (Prophet) does not bring us any Sign from his Lord?’ Has there not come to them (the Qur’an,) a Clear Proof of the things (mentioned) in the former Books?

134. And had We destroyed them through some calamity already, they would have said: ‘O Lord, why did You not send to us any Messenger so that we might have followed Your Revelations before we were humiliated and disgraced?’

135. Say: ‘Everyone is waiting, so wait on. You will soon come to know who are the people of the right path and who are the guided ones.’