001.001In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

001.002Praise be to Allah, the Cherisher and Sustainer of the worlds;

001.003Most Gracious, Most Merciful;

001.004Master of the Day of Judgment.

001.005Thee do we worship, and Thine aid we seek.

001.006Show us the straight way,

001.007The way of those on whom Thou hast bestowed Thy Grace, those whose (portion) is not wrath, and who go not astray.

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

002.001A.L.M.

002.002This is the Book; in it is guidance sure, without doubt, to those who fear Allah;

002.003Who believe in the Unseen, are steadfast in prayer, and spend out of what We have provided for them;

002.004And who believe in the Revelation sent to thee, and sent before thy time, and (in their hearts) have the assurance of the Hereafter.

002.005They are on (true) guidance, from their Lord, and it is these who will prosper.

002.006As to those who reject Faith, it is the same to them whether thou warn them or do not warn them; they will not believe.

002.007Allah hath set a seal on their hearts and on their hearing, and on their eyes is a veil; great is the penalty they (incur).

002.008Of the people there are some who say: “We believe in Allah and the Last Day;” but they do not (really) believe.

002.009Fain would they deceive Allah and those who believe, but they only deceive themselves, and realise (it) not!

002.010In their hearts is a disease; and Allah has increased their disease: And grievous is the penalty they (incur), because they are false (to themselves).

002.011When it is said to them: “Make not mischief on the earth,” they say: “Why, we only Want to make peace!”

002.012Of a surety, they are the ones who make mischief, but they realise (it) not.

002.013When it is said to them: “Believe as the others believe:” They say: “Shall we believe as the fools believe?” Nay, of a surety they are the fools, but they do not know.

002.014When they meet those who believe, they say: “We believe;” but when they are alone with their evil ones, they say: “We are really with you: We (were) only jesting.”

002.015Allah will throw back their mockery on them, and give them rope in their trespasses; so they will wander like blind ones (To and fro).

002.016These are they who have bartered Guidance for error: But their traffic is profitless, and they have lost true direction,

002.017Their similitude is that of a man who kindled a fire; when it lighted all around him, Allah took away their light and left them in utter darkness. So they could not see.

002.018Deaf, dumb, and blind, they will not return (to the path).

002.019Or (another similitude) is that of a rain-laden cloud from the sky: In it are zones of darkness, and thunder and lightning: They press their fingers in their ears to keep out the stunning thunder-clap, the while they are in terror of death. But Allah is ever round the rejecters of Faith!

002.020The lightning all but snatches away their sight; every time the light (Helps) them, they walk therein, and when the darkness grows on them, they stand still. And if Allah willed, He could take away their faculty of hearing and seeing; for Allah hath power over all things.

002.021O ye people! Adore your Guardian-Lord, who created you and those who came before you, that ye may have the chance to learn righteousness;

002.022Who has made the earth your couch, and the heavens your canopy; and sent down rain from the heavens; and brought forth therewith Fruits for your sustenance; then set not up rivals unto Allah when ye know (the truth).

002.023And if ye are in doubt as to what We have revealed from time to time to Our servant, then produce a Sura like thereunto; and call your witnesses or helpers (If there are any) besides Allah, if your (doubts) are true.

002.024But if ye cannot- and of a surety ye cannot- then fear the Fire whose fuel is men and stones,- which is prepared for those who reject Faith.

002.025But give glad tidings to those who believe and work righteousness, that their portion is Gardens, beneath which rivers flow. Every time they are fed with fruits therefrom, they say: “Why, this is what we were fed with before,” for they are given things in similitude; and they have therein companions pure (and holy); and they abide therein (for ever).

002.026Allah disdains not to use the similitude of things, lowest as well as highest. Those who believe know that it is truth from their Lord; but those who reject Faith say: “What means Allah by this similitude?” By it He causes many to stray, and many He leads into the right path; but He causes not to stray, except those who forsake (the path),-

002.027Those who break Allah’s Covenant after it is ratified, and who sunder what Allah has ordered to be joined, and do mischief on earth: These cause loss (only) to themselves.

002.028How can ye reject the faith in Allah?- seeing that ye were without life, and He gave you life; then will He cause you to die, and will again bring you to life; and again to Him will ye return.

002.029It is He Who hath created for you all things that are on earth; Moreover His design comprehended the heavens, for He gave order and perfection to the seven firmaments; and of all things He hath perfect knowledge.

002.030Behold, thy Lord said to the angels: “I will create a vicegerent on earth.” They said: “Wilt Thou place therein one who will make mischief therein and shed blood?- whilst we do celebrate Thy praises and glorify Thy holy (name)?” He said: “I know what ye know not.”

002.031And He taught Adam the names of all things; then He placed them before the angels, and said: “Tell me the names of these if ye are right.”

002.032They said: “Glory to Thee, of knowledge We have none, save what Thou Hast taught us: In truth it is Thou Who art perfect in knowledge and wisdom.”

002.033He said: “O Adam! Tell them their names.” When he had told them, Allah said: “Did I not tell you that I know the secrets of heaven and earth, and I know what ye reveal and what ye conceal?”

002.034And behold, We said to the angels: “Bow down to Adam” and they bowed down. Not so Iblis: he refused and was haughty: He was of those who reject Faith.

002.035We said: “O Adam! dwell thou and thy wife in the Garden; and eat of the bountiful things therein as (where and when) ye will; but approach not this tree, or ye run into harm and transgression.”

002.036Then did Satan make them slip from the (garden), and get them out of the state (of felicity) in which they had been. We said: “Get ye down, all (ye people), with enmity between yourselves. On earth will be your dwelling-place and your means of livelihood- for a time.”

002.037Then learnt Adam from his Lord words of inspiration, and his Lord Turned towards him; for He is Oft-Returning, Most Merciful.

002.038We said: “Get ye down all from here; and if, as is sure, there comes to you Guidance from me,” whosoever follows My guidance, on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.

002.039“But those who reject Faith and belie Our Signs, they shall be companions of the Fire; they shall abide therein.”

002.040O Children of Israel! call to mind the (special) favour which I bestowed upon you, and fulfil your covenant with Me as I fulfil My Covenant with you, and fear none but Me.

002.041And believe in what I reveal, confirming the revelation which is with you, and be not the first to reject Faith therein, nor sell My Signs for a small price; and fear Me, and Me alone.

002.042And cover not Truth with falsehood, nor conceal the Truth when ye know (what it is).

002.043And be steadfast in prayer; practise regular charity; and bow down your heads with those who bow down (in worship).

002.044Do ye enjoin right conduct on the people, and forget (To practise it) yourselves, and yet ye study the Scripture? Will ye not understand?

002.045Nay, seek (Allah’s) help with patient perseverance and prayer: It is indeed hard, except to those who bring a lowly spirit,-

002.046Who bear in mind the certainty that they are to meet their Lord, and that they are to return to Him.

002.047Children of Israel! call to mind the (special) favour which I bestowed upon you, and that I preferred you to all other (for My Message).

002.048Then guard yourselves against a day when one soul shall not avail another nor shall intercession be accepted for her, nor shall compensation be taken from her, nor shall anyone be helped (from outside).

002.049And remember, We delivered you from the people of Pharaoh: They set you hard tasks and punishments, slaughtered your sons and let your women-folk live; therein was a tremendous trial from your Lord.

002.050And remember We divided the sea for you and saved you and drowned Pharaoh’s people within your very sight.

002.051And remember We appointed forty nights for Moses, and in his absence ye took the calf (for worship), and ye did grievous wrong.

002.052Even then We did forgive you; there was a chance for you to be grateful.

002.053And remember We gave Moses the Scripture and the Criterion (Between right and wrong): There was a chance for you to be guided aright.

002.054And remember Moses said to his people: “O my people! Ye have indeed wronged yourselves by your worship of the calf: So turn (in repentance) to your Maker, and slay yourselves (the wrong-doers); that will be better for you in the sight of your Maker.” Then He turned towards you (in forgiveness): For He is Oft-Returning, Most Merciful.

002.055And remember ye said: “O Moses! We shall never believe in thee until we see Allah manifestly,” but ye were dazed with thunder and lighting even as ye looked on.

002.056Then We raised you up after your death: Ye had the chance to be grateful.

002.057And We gave you the shade of clouds and sent down to you Manna and quails, saying: “Eat of the good things We have provided for you:” (But they rebelled); to us they did no harm, but they harmed their own souls.

002.058And remember We said: “Enter this town, and eat of the plenty therein as ye wish; but enter the gate with humility, in posture and in words, and We shall forgive you your faults and increase (the portion of) those who do good.”

002.059But the transgressors changed the word from that which had been given them; so We sent on the transgressors a plague from heaven, for that they infringed (Our command) repeatedly.

002.060And remember Moses prayed for water for his people; We said:

“Strike the rock with thy staff.” Then gushed forth therefrom twelve springs. Each group knew its own place for water. So eat and drink of the sustenance provided by Allah, and do no evil nor mischief on the (face of the) earth.

002.061And remember ye said: “O Moses! we cannot endure one kind of food (always); so beseech thy Lord for us to produce for us of what the earth groweth,- its pot-herbs, and cucumbers, its garlic, lentils, and onions.” He said: “Will ye exchange the better for the worse? Go ye down to any town, and ye shall find what ye want!” They were covered with humiliation and misery; they drew on themselves the wrath of Allah. This because they went on rejecting the Signs of Allah and slaying His Messengers without just cause. This because they rebelled and went on transgressing.

002.062Those who believe (in the Qur’an), and those who follow the Jewish (scriptures), and the Christians and the Sabians,- any who believe in Allah and the Last Day, and work righteousness, shall have their reward with their Lord; on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.

002.063And remember We took your covenant and We raised above you (The towering height) of Mount (Sinai) (Saying): “Hold firmly to what We have given you and bring (ever) to remembrance what is therein: Perchance ye may fear Allah.”

002.064But ye turned back thereafter: Had it not been for the Grace and Mercy of Allah to you, ye had surely been among the lost.

002.065And well ye knew those amongst you who transgressed in the matter of the Sabbath: We said to them: “Be ye apes, despised and rejected.”

002.066So We made it an example to their own time and to their posterity, and a lesson to those who fear Allah.

002.067And remember Moses said to his people: “Allah commands that ye sacrifice a heifer.” They said: “Makest thou a laughing-stock of us?” He said: “Allah save me from being an ignorant (fool)!”

002.068They said: “Beseech on our behalf Thy Lord to make plain to us what (heifer) it is!” He said; “He says: The heifer should be neither too old nor too young, but of middling age. Now do what ye are commanded!”

002.069They said: “Beseech on our behalf Thy Lord to make plain to us Her colour.” He said: “He says: A fawn-coloured heifer, pure and rich in tone, the admiration of beholders!”

002.070They said: “Beseech on our behalf Thy Lord to make plain to us what she is: To us are all heifers alike: We wish indeed for guidance, if Allah wills.”

002.071He said: “He says: A heifer not trained to till the soil or water the fields; sound and without blemish.” They said: “Now hast thou brought the truth.” Then they offered her in sacrifice, but not with good-will.

002.072Remember ye slew a man and fell into a dispute among yourselves as to the crime: But Allah was to bring forth what ye did hide.

002.073So We said: “Strike the (body) with a piece of the (heifer).” Thus Allah bringeth the dead to life and showeth you His Signs: Perchance ye may understand.

002.074Thenceforth were your hearts hardened: They became like a rock and even worse in hardness. For among rocks there are some from which rivers gush forth; others there are which when split asunder send forth water; and others which sink for fear of Allah. And Allah is not unmindful of what ye do.

002.075Can ye (O ye men of Faith) entertain the hope that they will believe in you?- Seeing that a party of them heard the Word of Allah, and perverted it knowingly after they understood it.

002.076Behold! when they meet the men of Faith, they say: “We believe”: But when they meet each other in private, they say: “Shall you tell them what Allah hath revealed to you, that they may engage you in argument about it before your Lord?”- Do ye not understand (their aim)?

002.077Know they not that Allah knoweth what they conceal and what they reveal?

002.078And there are among them illiterates, who know not the Book, but (see therein their own) desires, and they do nothing but conjecture.

002.079Then woe to those who write the Book with their own hands, and then say: “This is from Allah,” to traffic with it for miserable price!- Woe to them for what their hands do write, and for the gain they make thereby.

002.080And they say: “The Fire shall not touch us but for a few numbered days:” Say: “Have ye taken a promise from Allah, for He never breaks His promise? or is it that ye say of Allah what ye do not know?”

002.081Nay, those who seek gain in evil, and are girt round by their sins,- they are companions of the Fire: Therein shall they abide (For ever).

002.082But those who have faith and work righteousness, they are companions of the Garden: Therein shall they abide (For ever).

002.083And remember We took a covenant from the Children of Israel (to this effect): Worship none but Allah; treat with kindness your parents and kindred, and orphans and those in need; speak fair to the people; be steadfast in prayer; and practise regular charity. Then did ye turn back, except a few among you, and ye backslide (even now).

002.084And remember We took your covenant (to this effect): Shed no blood amongst you, nor turn out your own people from your homes: and this ye solemnly ratified, and to this ye can bear witness.

002.085After this it is ye, the same people, who slay among yourselves, and banish a party of you from their homes; assist (Their enemies) against them, in guilt and rancour; and if they come to you as captives, ye ransom them, though it was not lawful for you to banish them. Then is it only a part of the Book that ye believe in, and do ye reject the rest? but what is the reward for those among you who behave like this but disgrace in this life?- and on the Day of Judgment they shall be consigned to the most grievous penalty. For Allah is not unmindful of what ye do.

002.086These are the people who buy the life of this world at the price of the Hereafter: their penalty shall not be lightened nor shall they be helped.

002.087We gave Moses the Book and followed him up with a succession of messengers; We gave Jesus the son of Mary Clear (Signs) and strengthened him with the holy spirit. Is it that whenever there comes to you a messenger with what ye yourselves desire not, ye are puffed up with pride?- Some ye called impostors, and others ye slay!

002.088They say, “Our hearts are the wrappings (which preserve Allah’s Word: we need no more).” Nay, Allah’s curse is on them for their blasphemy: Little is it they believe.

002.089And when there comes to them a Book from Allah, confirming what is with them,- although from of old they had prayed for victory against those without Faith,- when there comes to them that which they (should) have recognised, they refuse to believe in it but the curse of Allah is on those without Faith.

002.090Miserable is the price for which they have sold their souls, in that they deny (the revelation) which Allah has sent down, in insolent envy that Allah of His Grace should send it to any of His servants He pleases: Thus have they drawn on themselves Wrath upon Wrath. And humiliating is the punishment of those who reject Faith.

002.091When it is said to them: “Believe in what Allah Hath sent down,” they say, “We believe in what was sent down to us”: yet they reject all besides, even if it be Truth confirming what is with them. Say: “Why then have ye slain the prophets of Allah in times gone by, if ye did indeed believe?”

002.092There came to you Moses with clear (Signs); yet ye worshipped the calf (Even) after that, and ye did behave wrongfully.

002.093And remember We took your covenant and We raised above you (the towering height) of Mount (Sinai): (Saying): “Hold firmly to what We have given you, and hearken (to the Law)”: They said: “We hear, and we disobey”: And they had to drink into their hearts (of the taint) of the calf because of their Faithlessness. Say: “Vile indeed are the behests of your Faith if ye have any faith!”

002.094Say: “If the last Home, with Allah, be for you specially, and not for anyone else, then seek ye for death, if ye are sincere.”

002.095But they will never seek for death, on account of the (sins) which their hands have sent on before them. And Allah is well-acquainted with the wrong-doers.

002.096Thou wilt indeed find them, of all people, most greedy of life,-even more than the idolaters: Each one of them wishes He could be given a life of a thousand years: But the grant of such life will not save him from (due) punishment. For Allah sees well all that they do.

002.097Say: Whoever is an enemy to Gabriel-for he brings down the (revelation) to thy heart by Allah’s will, a confirmation of what went before, and guidance and glad tidings for those who believe,-

002.098Whoever is an enemy to Allah and His angels and messengers, to Gabriel and Michael,- Lo! Allah is an enemy to those who reject Faith.

002.099We have sent down to thee Manifest Signs (ayat); and none reject them but those who are perverse.

002.100Is it not (the case) that every time they make a covenant, some party among them throw it aside?- Nay, most of them are faithless.

002.101And when there came to them a messenger from Allah, confirming what was with them, a party of the people of the Book threw away the Book of Allah behind their backs, as if (it had been something) they did not know!

002.102They followed what the evil ones gave out (falsely) against the power of Solomon: the blasphemers Were, not Solomon, but the evil ones, teaching men Magic, and such things as came down at Babylon to the angels Harut and Marut. But neither of these taught anyone (Such things) without saying: “We are only for trial; so do not blaspheme.” They learned from them the means to sow discord between man and wife. But they could not thus harm anyone except by Allah’s permission. And they learned what harmed them, not what profited them. And they knew that the buyers of (magic) would have no share in the happiness of the Hereafter. And vile was the price for which they did sell their souls, if they but knew!

002.103If they had kept their Faith and guarded themselves from evil, far better had been the reward from their Lord, if they but knew!

002.104O ye of Faith! Say not (to the Messenger) words of ambiguous import, but words of respect; and hearken (to him): To those without Faith is a grievous punishment.

002.105It is never the wish of those without Faith among the People of the Book, nor of the Pagans, that anything good should come down to you from your Lord. But Allah will choose for His special Mercy whom He will - for Allah is Lord of grace abounding.

002.106None of Our revelations do We abrogate or cause to be forgotten, but We substitute something better or similar: Knowest thou not that Allah Hath power over all things?

002.107Knowest thou not that to Allah belongeth the dominion of the heavens and the earth? And besides Him ye have neither patron nor helper.

002.108Would ye question your Messenger as Moses was questioned of old? but whoever changeth from Faith to Unbelief, Hath strayed without doubt from the even way.

002.109Quite a number of the People of the Book wish they could Turn you (people) back to infidelity after ye have believed, from selfish envy, after the Truth hath become Manifest unto them: But forgive and overlook, Till Allah accomplish His purpose; for Allah Hath power over all things.

002.110And be steadfast in prayer and regular in charity: And whatever good ye send forth for your souls before you, ye shall find it with Allah: for Allah sees Well all that ye do.

002.111And they say: “None shall enter Paradise unless he be a Jew or a Christian.” Those are their (vain) desires. Say: “Produce your proof if ye are truthful.”

002.112Nay,- whoever submits His whole self to Allah and is a doer of good,- He will get his reward with his Lord; on such shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.

002.113The Jews say: “The Christians have naught (to stand) upon”; and the Christians say: “The Jews have naught (To stand) upon.” Yet they (Profess to) study the (same) Book. Like unto their word is what those say who know not; but Allah will judge between them in their quarrel on the Day of Judgment.

002.114And who is more unjust than he who forbids that in places for the worship of Allah, Allah’s name should be celebrated? - whose zeal is (in fact) to ruin them? It was not fitting that such should themselves enter them except in fear. For them there is nothing but disgrace in this world, and in the world to come, an exceeding torment.

002.115To Allah belong the east and the West: Whithersoever ye turn, there is the presence of Allah. For Allah is All-Pervading, All-Knowing.

002.116They say: “Allah hath begotten a son”: Glory be to Him.-Nay, to Him belongs all that is in the heavens and on earth: everything renders worship to Him.

002.117To Him is due the primal origin of the heavens and the earth: When He decreeth a matter, He saith to it: “Be,” and it is.

002.118Say those without knowledge: “Why speaketh not Allah unto us? or why cometh not unto us a Sign?” So said the people before them words of similar import. Their hearts are alike. We have indeed made clear the Signs unto any people who hold firmly to Faith (in their hearts).

002.119Verily We have sent thee in truth as a bearer of glad tidings and a warner: But of thee no question shall be asked of the Companions of the Blazing Fire.

002.120Never will the Jews or the Christians be satisfied with thee unless thou follow their form of religion. Say: “The Guidance of Allah,-that is the (only) Guidance.” Wert thou to follow their desires after the knowledge which hath reached thee, then wouldst thou find neither Protector nor helper against Allah.

002.121Those to whom We have sent the Book study it as it should be studied: They are the ones that believe therein: Those who reject faith therein,- the loss is their own.

002.122O Children of Israel! call to mind the special favour which I bestowed upon you, and that I preferred you to all others (for My Message).

002.123Then guard yourselves against a-Day when one soul shall not avail another, nor shall compensation be accepted from her nor shall intercession profit her nor shall anyone be helped (from outside).

002.124And remember that Abraham was tried by his Lord with certain commands, which he fulfilled: He said: “I will make thee an Imam to the Nations.” He pleaded: “And also (Imams) from my offspring!” He answered:

“But My Promise is not within the reach of evil-doers.”

002.125Remember We made the House a place of assembly for men and a place of safety; and take ye the station of Abraham as a place of prayer; and We covenanted with Abraham and Isma’il, that they should sanctify My House for those who compass it round, or use it as a retreat, or bow, or prostrate themselves (therein in prayer).

002.126And remember Abraham said: “My Lord, make this a City of Peace, and feed its people with fruits,-such of them as believe in Allah and the Last Day.” He said: “(Yea), and such as reject Faith,-for a while will I grant them their pleasure, but will soon drive them to the torment of Fire,- an evil destination (indeed)!”

002.127And remember Abraham and Isma’il raised the foundations of the House (With this prayer): “Our Lord! Accept (this service) from us: For Thou art the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing.”

002.128“Our Lord! make of us Muslims, bowing to Thy (Will), and of our progeny a people Muslim, bowing to Thy (will); and show us our place for the celebration of (due) rites; and turn unto us (in Mercy); for Thou art the Oft-Returning, Most Merciful.”

002.129“Our Lord! send amongst them a Messenger of their own, who shall rehearse Thy Signs to them and instruct them in scripture and wisdom, and sanctify them: For Thou art the Exalted in Might, the Wise.”

002.130And who turns away from the religion of Abraham but such as debase their souls with folly? Him We chose and rendered pure in this world: And he will be in the Hereafter in the ranks of the Righteous.

002.131Behold! his Lord said to him: “Bow (thy will to Me):” He said: “I bow (my will) to the Lord and Cherisher of the Universe.”

002.132And this was the legacy that Abraham left to his sons, and so did Jacob; “Oh my sons! Allah hath chosen the Faith for you; then die not except in the Faith of Islam.”

002.133Were ye witnesses when death appeared before Jacob? Behold, he said to his sons: “What will ye worship after me?” They said: “We shall worship Thy god and the god of thy fathers, of Abraham, Isma’il and Isaac,- the one (True) Allah: To Him we bow (in Islam).”

002.134That was a people that hath passed away. They shall reap the fruit of what they did, and ye of what ye do! Of their merits there is no question in your case!

002.135They say: “Become Jews or Christians if ye would be guided (To salvation).” Say thou: “Nay! (I would rather) the Religion of Abraham the True, and he joined not gods with Allah.”

002.136Say ye: “We believe in Allah, and the revelation given to us, and to Abraham, Isma’il, Isaac, Jacob, and the Tribes, and that given to Moses and Jesus, and that given to (all) prophets from their Lord: We make no difference between one and another of them: And we bow to Allah (in Islam).”

002.137So if they believe as ye believe, they are indeed on the right path; but if they turn back, it is they who are in schism; but Allah will suffice thee as against them, and He is the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing.

002.138(Our religion is) the Baptism of Allah: And who can baptize better than Allah? And it is He Whom we worship.

002.139Say: Will ye dispute with us about Allah, seeing that He is our Lord and your Lord; that we are responsible for our doings and ye for yours; and that We are sincere (in our faith) in Him?

002.140Or do ye say that Abraham, Isma’il Isaac, Jacob and the Tribes were Jews or Christians? Say: Do ye know better than Allah? Ah! who is more unjust than those who conceal the testimony they have from Allah? but Allah is not unmindful of what ye do!

002.141That was a people that hath passed away. They shall reap the fruit of what they did, and ye of what ye do! Of their merits there is no question in your case:

002.142The fools among the people will say: “What hath turned them from the Qibla to which they were used?” Say: To Allah belong both east and West: He guideth whom He will to a Way that is straight.

002.143Thus, have We made of you an Ummat justly balanced, that ye might be witnesses over the nations, and the Messenger a witness over yourselves; and We appointed the Qibla to which thou wast used, only to test those who followed the Messenger from those who would turn on their heels (From the Faith). Indeed it was (A change) momentous, except to those guided by Allah. And never would Allah Make your faith of no effect. For Allah is to all people most surely full of kindness, Most Merciful.

002.144We see the turning of thy face (for guidance) to the heavens: now Shall We turn thee to a Qibla that shall please thee. Turn then Thy face in the direction of the sacred Mosque: Wherever ye are, turn your faces in that direction. The people of the Book know well that that is the truth from their Lord. Nor is Allah unmindful of what they do.

002.145Even if thou wert to bring to the people of the Book all the Signs (together), they would not follow Thy Qibla; nor art thou going to follow their Qibla; nor indeed will they follow each other’s Qibla. If thou after the knowledge hath reached thee, Wert to follow their (vain) desires,-then wert thou Indeed (clearly) in the wrong.

002.146The people of the Book know this as they know their own sons; but some of them conceal the truth which they themselves know.

002.147The Truth is from thy Lord; so be not at all in doubt.

002.148To each is a goal to which Allah turns him; then strive together (as in a race) Towards all that is good. Wheresoever ye are, Allah will bring you Together. For Allah Hath power over all things.

002.149From whencesoever Thou startest forth, turn Thy face in the direction of the sacred Mosque; that is indeed the truth from the Lord. And Allah is not unmindful of what ye do.

002.150So from whencesoever Thou startest forth, turn Thy face in the direction of the sacred Mosque; and wheresoever ye are, Turn your face thither: that there be no ground of dispute against you among the people, except those of them that are bent on wickedness; so fear them not, but fear Me; and that I may complete My favours on you, and ye May (consent to) be guided;

002.151A similar (favour have ye already received) in that We have sent among you a Messenger of your own, rehearsing to you Our Signs, and sanctifying you, and instructing you in Scripture and Wisdom, and in new knowledge.

002.152Then do ye remember Me; I will remember you. Be grateful to Me, and reject not Faith.

002.153O ye who believe! seek help with patient perseverance and prayer; for Allah is with those who patiently persevere.

002.154And say not of those who are slain in the way of Allah: “They are dead.” Nay, they are living, though ye perceive (it) not.

002.155Be sure we shall test you with something of fear and hunger, some loss in goods or lives or the fruits (of your toil), but give glad tidings to those who patiently persevere,

002.156Who say, when afflicted with calamity: “To Allah We belong, and to Him is our return”:-

002.157They are those on whom (Descend) blessings from Allah, and Mercy, and they are the ones that receive guidance.

002.158Behold! Safa and Marwa are among the Symbols of Allah. So if those who visit the House in the Season or at other times, should compass them round, it is no sin in them. And if any one obeyeth his own impulse to good,- be sure that Allah is He Who recogniseth and knoweth.

002.159Those who conceal the clear (Signs) We have sent down, and the Guidance, after We have made it clear for the people in the Book,-on them shall be Allah’s curse, and the curse of those entitled to curse,-

002.160Except those who repent and make amends and openly declare (the Truth): To them I turn; for I am Oft-Returning, Most Merciful.

002.161Those who reject Faith, and die rejecting,- on them is Allah’s curse, and the curse of angels, and of all mankind;

002.162They will abide therein: Their penalty will not be lightened, nor will respite be their (lot).

002.163And your Allah is One Allah: There is no god but He, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

002.164Behold! in the creation of the heavens and the earth; in the alternation of the night and the day; in the sailing of the ships through the ocean for the profit of mankind; in the rain which Allah Sends down from the skies, and the life which He gives therewith to an earth that is dead; in the beasts of all kinds that He scatters through the earth; in the change of the winds, and the clouds which they Trail like their slaves between the sky and the earth;- (Here) indeed are Signs for a people that are wise.

002.165Yet there are men who take (for worship) others besides Allah, as equal (with Allah): They love them as they should love Allah. But those of Faith are overflowing in their love for Allah. If only the unrighteous could see, behold, they would see the penalty: that to Allah belongs all power, and Allah will strongly enforce the penalty.

002.166Then would those who are followed clear themselves of those who follow (them): They would see the penalty, and all relations between them would be cut off.

002.167And those who followed would say: “If only We had one more chance, We would clear ourselves of them, as they have cleared themselves of us.” Thus will Allah show them (The fruits of) their deeds as (nothing but) regrets. Nor will there be a way for them out of the Fire.

002.168O ye people! Eat of what is on earth, Lawful and good; and do not follow the footsteps of the evil one, for he is to you an avowed enemy.

002.169For he commands you what is evil and shameful, and that ye should say of Allah that of which ye have no knowledge.

002.170When it is said to them: “Follow what Allah hath revealed:” They say: “Nay! we shall follow the ways of our fathers.” What! even though their fathers Were void of wisdom and guidance?

002.171The parable of those who reject Faith is as if one were to shout Like a goat-herd, to things that listen to nothing but calls and cries: Deaf, dumb, and blind, they are void of wisdom.

002.172O ye who believe! Eat of the good things that We have provided for you, and be grateful to Allah, if it is Him ye worship.

002.173He hath only forbidden you dead meat, and blood, and the flesh of swine, and that on which any other name hath been invoked besides that of Allah. But if one is forced by necessity, without wilful disobedience, nor transgressing due limits,- then is he guiltless. For Allah is Oft-Forgiving Most Merciful.

002.174Those who conceal Allah’s revelations in the Book, and purchase for them a miserable profit,- they swallow into themselves naught but Fire; Allah will not address them on the Day of Resurrection. Nor purify them: Grievous will be their penalty.

002.175They are the ones who buy Error in place of Guidance and Torment in place of Forgiveness. Ah! what boldness (They show) for the Fire!

002.176(Their doom is) because Allah sent down the Book in truth but those who seek causes of dispute in the Book are in a schism Far (from the purpose).

002.177It is not righteousness that ye turn your faces Towards east or West; but it is righteousness- to believe in Allah and the Last Day, and the Angels, and the Book, and the Messengers; to spend of your substance, out of love for Him, for your kin, for orphans, for the needy, for the wayfarer, for those who ask, and for the ransom of slaves; to be steadfast in prayer, and practice regular charity; to fulfil the contracts which ye have made; and to be firm and patient, in pain (or suffering) and adversity, and throughout all periods of panic. Such are the people of truth, the Allah-fearing.

002.178O ye who believe! the law of equality is prescribed to you in cases of murder: the free for the free, the slave for the slave, the woman for the woman. But if any remission is made by the brother of the slain, then grant any reasonable demand, and compensate him with handsome gratitude, this is a concession and a Mercy from your Lord. After this whoever exceeds the limits shall be in grave penalty.

002.179In the Law of Equality there is (saving of) Life to you, O ye men of understanding; that ye may restrain yourselves.

002.180It is prescribed, when death approaches any of you, if he leave any goods that he make a bequest to parents and next of kin, according to reasonable usage; this is due from the Allah-fearing.

002.181If anyone changes the bequest after hearing it, the guilt shall be on those who make the change. For Allah hears and knows all things.

002.182But if anyone fears partiality or wrong-doing on the part of the testator, and makes peace between (The parties concerned), there is no wrong in him: For Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

002.183O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that ye may (learn) self-restraint,-

002.184(Fasting) for a fixed number of days; but if any of you is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed number (Should be made up) from days later. For those who can do it (With hardship), is a ransom, the feeding of one that is indigent. But he that will give more, of his own free will,- it is better for him. And it is better for you that ye fast, if ye only knew.

002.185Ramadhan is the (month) in which was sent down the Qur’an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (Between right and wrong). So every one of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spend it in fasting, but if any one is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed period (Should be made up) by days later. Allah intends every facility for you; He does not want to put to difficulties. (He wants you) to complete the prescribed period, and to glorify Him in that He has guided you; and perchance ye shall be grateful.

002.186When My servants ask thee concerning Me, I am indeed close (to them): I listen to the prayer of every suppliant when he calleth on Me: Let them also, with a will, Listen to My call, and believe in Me: That they may walk in the right way.

002.187Permitted to you, on the night of the fasts, is the approach to your wives. They are your garments and ye are their garments. Allah knoweth what ye used to do secretly among yourselves; but He turned to you and forgave you; so now associate with them, and seek what Allah Hath ordained for you, and eat and drink, until the white thread of dawn appear to you distinct from its black thread; then complete your fast Till the night appears; but do not associate with your wives while ye are in retreat in the mosques. Those are Limits (set by) Allah: Approach not nigh thereto. Thus doth Allah make clear His Signs to men: that they may learn self-restraint.

002.188And do not eat up your property among yourselves for vanities, nor use it as bait for the judges, with intent that ye may eat up wrongfully and knowingly a little of (other) people’s property.

002.189They ask thee concerning the New Moons. Say: They are but signs to mark fixed periods of time in (the affairs of) men, and for Pilgrimage. It is no virtue if ye enter your houses from the back: It is virtue if ye fear Allah. Enter houses through the proper doors: And fear Allah: That ye may prosper.

002.190Fight in the cause of Allah those who fight you, but do not transgress limits; for Allah loveth not transgressors.

002.191And slay them wherever ye catch them, and turn them out from where they have Turned you out; for tumult and oppression are worse than slaughter; but fight them not at the Sacred Mosque, unless they (first) fight you there; but if they fight you, slay them. Such is the reward of those who suppress faith.

002.192But if they cease, Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

002.193And fight them on until there is no more Tumult or oppression, and there prevail justice and faith in Allah; but if they cease, Let there be no hostility except to those who practise oppression.

002.194The prohibited month for the prohibited month,- and so for all things prohibited,- there is the law of equality. If then any one transgresses the prohibition against you, Transgress ye likewise against him. But fear Allah, and know that Allah is with those who restrain themselves.

002.195And spend of your substance in the cause of Allah, and make not your own hands contribute to (your) destruction; but do good; for Allah loveth those who do good.

002.196And complete the Hajj or ‘umra in the service of Allah. But if ye are prevented (From completing it), send an offering for sacrifice, such as ye may find, and do not shave your heads until the offering reaches the place of sacrifice. And if any of you is ill, or has an ailment in his scalp, (Necessitating shaving), (He should) in compensation either fast, or feed the poor, or offer sacrifice; and when ye are in peaceful conditions (again), if any one wishes to continue the ‘umra on to the hajj, He must make an offering, such as he can afford, but if he cannot afford it, He should fast three days during the hajj and seven days on his return, Making ten days in all. This is for those whose household is not in (the precincts of) the Sacred Mosque. And fear Allah, and know that Allah Is strict in punishment.

002.197For Hajj are the months well known. If any one undertakes that duty therein, Let there be no obscenity, nor wickedness, nor wrangling in the Hajj. And whatever good ye do, (be sure) Allah knoweth it. And take a provision (With you) for the journey, but the best of provisions is right conduct. So fear Me, O ye that are wise.

002.198It is no crime in you if ye seek of the bounty of your Lord (during pilgrimage). Then when ye pour down from (Mount) Arafat, celebrate the praises of Allah at the Sacred Monument, and celebrate His praises as He has directed you, even though, before this, ye went astray.

002.199Then pass on at a quick pace from the place whence it is usual for the multitude so to do, and ask for Allah’s forgiveness. For Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

002.200So when ye have accomplished your holy rites, celebrate the praises of Allah, as ye used to celebrate the praises of your fathers,- yea, with far more Heart and soul. There are men who say: “Our Lord! Give us (Thy bounties) in this world!” but they will have no portion in the Hereafter.

002.201And there are men who say: “Our Lord! Give us good in this world and good in the Hereafter, and defend us from the torment of the Fire!”

002.202To these will be allotted what they have earned; and Allah is quick in account.

002.203Celebrate the praises of Allah during the Appointed Days. But if any one hastens to leave in two days, there is no blame on him, and if any one stays on, there is no blame on him, if his aim is to do right. Then fear Allah, and know that ye will surely be gathered unto Him.

002.204There is the type of man whose speech about this world’s life May dazzle thee, and he calls Allah to witness about what is in his heart; yet is he the most contentious of enemies.

002.205When he turns his back, His aim everywhere is to spread mischief through the earth and destroy crops and cattle. But Allah loveth not mischief.

002.206When it is said to him, “Fear Allah”, He is led by arrogance to (more) crime. Enough for him is Hell;-An evil bed indeed (To lie on)!

002.207And there is the type of man who gives his life to earn the pleasure of Allah: And Allah is full of kindness to (His) devotees.

002.208O ye who believe! Enter into Islam whole-heartedly; and follow not the footsteps of the evil one; for he is to you an avowed enemy.

002.209If ye backslide after the clear (Signs) have come to you, then know that Allah is Exalted in Power, Wise.

002.210Will they wait until Allah comes to them in canopies of clouds, with angels (in His train) and the question is (thus) settled? but to Allah do all questions go back (for decision).

002.211Ask the Children of Israel how many clear (Signs) We have sent them. But if any one, after Allah’s favour has come to him, substitutes (something else), Allah is strict in punishment.

002.212The life of this world is alluring to those who reject faith, and they scoff at those who believe. But the righteous will be above them on the Day of Resurrection; for Allah bestows His abundance without measure on whom He will.

002.213Mankind was one single nation, and Allah sent Messengers with glad tidings and warnings; and with them He sent the Book in truth, to judge between people in matters wherein they differed; but the People of the Book, after the clear Signs came to them, did not differ among themselves, except through selfish contumacy. Allah by His Grace Guided the believers to the Truth, concerning that wherein they differed. For Allah guided whom He will to a path that is straight.

002.214Or do ye think that ye shall enter the Garden (of bliss) without such (trials) as came to those who passed away before you? they encountered suffering and adversity, and were so shaken in spirit that even the Messenger and those of faith who were with him cried: “When (will come) the help of Allah?” Ah! Verily, the help of Allah is (always) near!

002.215They ask thee what they should spend (In charity). Say: Whatever ye spend that is good, is for parents and kindred and orphans and those in want and for wayfarers. And whatever ye do that is good,- Allah knoweth it well.

002.216Fighting is prescribed for you, and ye dislike it. But it is possible that ye dislike a thing which is good for you, and that ye love a thing which is bad for you. But Allah knoweth, and ye know not.

002.217They ask thee concerning fighting in the Prohibited Month. Say: “Fighting therein is a grave (offence); but graver is it in the sight of Allah to prevent access to the path of Allah, to deny Him, to prevent access to the Sacred Mosque, and drive out its members.” Tumult and oppression are worse than slaughter. Nor will they cease fighting you until they turn you back from your faith if they can. And if any of you turn back from their faith and die in unbelief, their works will bear no fruit in this life and in the Hereafter; they will be companions of the Fire and will abide therein.

002.218Those who believed and those who suffered exile and fought (and strove and struggled) in the path of Allah,- they have the hope of the Mercy of Allah: And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

002.219They ask thee concerning wine and gambling. Say: “In them is great sin, and some profit, for men; but the sin is greater than the profit.” They ask thee how much they are to spend; Say: “What is beyond your needs.” Thus doth Allah Make clear to you His Signs: In order that ye may consider-

002.220(Their bearings) on this life and the Hereafter. They ask thee concerning orphans. Say: “The best thing to do is what is for their good; if ye mix their affairs with yours, they are your brethren; but Allah knows the man who means mischief from the man who means good. And if Allah had wished, He could have put you into difficulties: He is indeed Exalted in Power, Wise.”

002.221Do not marry unbelieving women (idolaters), until they believe: A slave woman who believes is better than an unbelieving woman, even though she allures you. Nor marry (your girls) to unbelievers until they believe: A man slave who believes is better than an unbeliever, even though he allures you. Unbelievers do (but) beckon you to the Fire. But Allah beckons by His Grace to the Garden (of bliss) and forgiveness, and makes His Signs clear to mankind: That they may celebrate His praise.

002.222They ask thee concerning women’s courses. Say: They are a hurt and a pollution: So keep away from women in their courses, and do not approach them until they are clean. But when they have purified themselves, ye may approach them in any manner, time, or place ordained for you by Allah. For Allah loves those who turn to Him constantly and He loves those who keep themselves pure and clean.

002.223Your wives are as a tilth unto you; so approach your tilth when or how ye will; but do some good act for your souls beforehand; and fear Allah. And know that ye are to meet Him (in the Hereafter), and give (these) good tidings to those who believe.

002.224And make not Allah’s (name) an excuse in your oaths against doing good, or acting rightly, or making peace between persons; for Allah is One Who heareth and knoweth all things.

002.225Allah will not call you to account for thoughtlessness in your oaths, but for the intention in your hearts; and He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Forbearing.

002.226For those who take an oath for abstention from their wives, a waiting for four months is ordained; if then they return, Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

002.227But if their intention is firm for divorce, Allah heareth and knoweth all things.

002.228Divorced women shall wait concerning themselves for three monthly periods. Nor is it lawful for them to hide what Allah Hath created in their wombs, if they have faith in Allah and the Last Day. And their husbands have the better right to take them back in that period, if they wish for reconciliation. And women shall have rights similar to the rights against them, according to what is equitable; but men have a degree (of advantage) over them. And Allah is Exalted in Power, Wise.

002.229A divorce is only permissible twice: after that, the parties should either hold Together on equitable terms, or separate with kindness. It is not lawful for you, (Men), to take back any of your gifts (from your wives), except when both parties fear that they would be unable to keep the limits ordained by Allah. If ye (judges) do indeed fear that they would be unable to keep the limits ordained by Allah, there is no blame on either of them if she give something for her freedom. These are the limits ordained by Allah; so do not transgress them if any do transgress the limits ordained by Allah, such persons wrong (Themselves as well as others).

002.230So if a husband divorces his wife (irrevocably), He cannot, after that, re-marry her until after she has married another husband and He has divorced her. In that case there is no blame on either of them if they re-unite, provided they feel that they can keep the limits ordained by Allah. Such are the limits ordained by Allah, which He makes plain to those who understand.

002.231When ye divorce women, and they fulfil the term of their (‘Iddat), either take them back on equitable terms or set them free on equitable terms; but do not take them back to injure them, (or) to take undue advantage; if any one does that; He wrongs his own soul. Do not treat Allah’s Signs as a jest, but solemnly rehearse Allah’s favours on you, and the fact that He sent down to you the Book and Wisdom, for your instruction. And fear Allah, and know that Allah is well acquainted with all things.

002.232When ye divorce women, and they fulfil the term of their (‘Iddat), do not prevent them from marrying their (former) husbands, if they mutually agree on equitable terms. This instruction is for all amongst you, who believe in Allah and the Last Day. That is (the course Making for) most virtue and purity amongst you and Allah knows, and ye know not.

002.233The mothers shall give suck to their offspring for two whole years, if the father desires to complete the term. But he shall bear the cost of their food and clothing on equitable terms. No soul shall have a burden laid on it greater than it can bear. No mother shall be Treated unfairly on account of her child. Nor father on account of his child, an heir shall be chargeable in the same way. If they both decide on weaning, by mutual consent, and after due consultation, there is no blame on them. If ye decide on a foster-mother for your offspring, there is no blame on you, provided ye pay (the mother) what ye offered, on equitable terms. But fear Allah and know that Allah sees well what ye do.

002.234If any of you die and leave widows behind, they shall wait concerning themselves four months and ten days: When they have fulfilled their term, there is no blame on you if they dispose of themselves in a just and reasonable manner. And Allah is well acquainted with what ye do.

002.235There is no blame on you if ye make an offer of betrothal or hold it in your hearts. Allah knows that ye cherish them in your hearts: But do not make a secret contract with them except in terms honourable, nor resolve on the tie of marriage till the term prescribed is fulfilled. And know that Allah Knoweth what is in your hearts, and take heed of Him; and know that Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Forbearing.

002.236There is no blame on you if ye divorce women before consummation or the fixation of their dower; but bestow on them (A suitable gift), the wealthy according to his means, and the poor according to his means;- A gift of a reasonable amount is due from those who wish to do the right thing.

002.237And if ye divorce them before consummation, but after the fixation of a dower for them, then the half of the dower (Is due to them), unless they remit it or (the man’s half) is remitted by him in whose hands is the marriage tie; and the remission (of the man’s half) is the nearest to righteousness. And do not forget Liberality between yourselves. For Allah sees well all that ye do.

002.238Guard strictly your (habit of) prayers, especially the Middle Prayer; and stand before Allah in a devout (frame of mind).

002.239If ye fear (an enemy), pray on foot, or riding, (as may be most convenient), but when ye are in security, celebrate Allah’s praises in the manner He has taught you, which ye knew not (before).

002.240Those of you who die and leave widows should bequeath for their widows a year’s maintenance and residence; but if they leave (The residence), there is no blame on you for what they do with themselves, provided it is reasonable. And Allah is Exalted in Power, Wise.

002.241For divorced women Maintenance (should be provided) on a reasonable (scale). This is a duty on the righteous.

002.242Thus doth Allah Make clear His Signs to you: In order that ye may understand.

002.243Didst thou not Turn by vision to those who abandoned their homes, though they were thousands (In number), for fear of death? Allah said to them: “Die”: Then He restored them to life. For Allah is full of bounty to mankind, but most of them are ungrateful.

002.244Then fight in the cause of Allah, and know that Allah Heareth and knoweth all things.

002.245Who is he that will loan to Allah a beautiful loan, which Allah will double unto his credit and multiply many times? It is Allah that giveth (you) Want or plenty, and to Him shall be your return.

002.246Hast thou not Turned thy vision to the Chiefs of the Children of Israel after (the time of) Moses? they said to a prophet (That was) among them: “Appoint for us a king, that we May fight in the cause of Allah.” He said: “Is it not possible, if ye were commanded to fight, that that ye will not fight?” They said: “How could we refuse to fight in the cause of Allah, seeing that we were turned out of our homes and our families?” but when they were commanded to fight, they turned back, except a small band among them. But Allah Has full knowledge of those who do wrong.

002.247Their Prophet said to them: “Allah hath appointed Talut as king over you.” They said: “How can he exercise authority over us when we are better fitted than he to exercise authority, and he is not even gifted, with wealth in abundance?” He said: “Allah hath Chosen him above you, and hath gifted him abundantly with knowledge and bodily prowess: Allah Granteth His authority to whom He pleaseth. Allah careth for all, and He knoweth all things.”

002.248And (further) their Prophet said to them: “A Sign of his authority is that there shall come to you the Ark of the covenant, with (an assurance) therein of security from your Lord, and the relics left by the family of Moses and the family of Aaron, carried by angels. In this is a symbol for you if ye indeed have faith.”

002.249When Talut set forth with the armies, he said: “Allah will test you at the stream: if any drinks of its water, He goes not with my army: Only those who taste not of it go with me: A mere sip out of the hand is excused.” but they all drank of it, except a few. When they crossed the river,- He and the faithful ones with him,- they said: “This day We cannot cope with Goliath and his forces.” but those who were convinced that they must meet Allah, said: “How oft, by Allah’s will, Hath a small force vanquished a big one? Allah is with those who steadfastly persevere.”

002.250When they advanced to meet Goliath and his forces, they prayed: “Our Lord! Pour out constancy on us and make our steps firm: Help us against those that reject faith.”

002.251By Allah’s will they routed them; and David slew Goliath; and Allah gave him power and wisdom and taught him whatever (else) He willed. And did not Allah Check one set of people by means of another, the earth would indeed be full of mischief: But Allah is full of bounty to all the worlds.

002.252These are the Signs of Allah: we rehearse them to thee in truth: verily Thou art one of the messengers.

002.253Those messengers We endowed with gifts, some above others: To one of them Allah spoke; others He raised to degrees (of honour); to Jesus the son of Mary We gave clear (Signs), and strengthened him with the holy spirit. If Allah had so willed, succeeding generations would not have fought among each other, after clear (Signs) had come to them, but they (chose) to wrangle, some believing and others rejecting. If Allah had so willed, they would not have fought each other; but Allah Fulfilleth His plan.

002.254O ye who believe! Spend out of (the bounties) We have provided for you, before the Day comes when no bargaining (Will avail), nor friendship nor intercession. Those who reject Faith they are the wrong-doers.

002.255Allah! There is no god but He,-the Living, the Self-subsisting, Eternal. No slumber can seize Him nor sleep. His are all things in the heavens and on earth. Who is there can intercede in His presence except as He permitteth? He knoweth what (appeareth to His creatures as) before or after or behind them. Nor shall they compass aught of His knowledge except as He willeth. His Throne doth extend over the heavens and the earth, and He feeleth no fatigue in guarding and preserving them for He is the Most High, the Supreme (in glory).

002.256Let there be no compulsion in religion: Truth stands out clear from Error: whoever rejects evil and believes in Allah hath grasped the most trustworthy hand-hold, that never breaks. And Allah heareth and knoweth all things.

002.257Allah is the Protector of those who have faith: from the depths of darkness He will lead them forth into light. Of those who reject faith the patrons are the evil ones: from light they will lead them forth into the depths of darkness. They will be companions of the fire, to dwell therein (For ever).

002.258Hast thou not Turned thy vision to one who disputed with Abraham About his Lord, because Allah had granted him power? Abraham said: “My Lord is He Who giveth life and death.” He said: “I give life and death”. Said Abraham: “But it is Allah that causeth the sun to rise from the east: Do thou then cause him to rise from the West.” Thus was he confounded who (in arrogance) rejected faith. Nor doth Allah Give guidance to a people unjust.

002.259Or (take) the similitude of one who passed by a hamlet, all in ruins to its roofs. He said: “Oh! how shall Allah bring it (ever) to life, after (this) its death?” but Allah caused him to die for a hundred years, then raised him up (again). He said: “How long didst thou tarry (thus)?” He said: “(Perhaps) a day or part of a day.” He said: “Nay, thou hast tarried thus a hundred years; but look at thy food and thy drink; they show no signs of age; and look at thy donkey: And that We may make of thee a sign unto the people, Look further at the bones, how We bring them together and clothe them with flesh.” When this was shown clearly to him, he said: “I know that Allah hath power over all things.”

002.260When Abraham said: “Show me, Lord, how You will raise the dead,” He replied: “Have you no faith?” He said “Yes, but just to reassure my heart.” Allah said, “Take four birds, draw them to you, and cut their bodies to pieces. Scatter them over the mountain-tops, then call them back. They will come swiftly to you. Know that Allah is Mighty, Wise.”

002.261The parable of those who spend their substance in the way of Allah is that of a grain of corn: it groweth seven ears, and each ear Hath a hundred grains. Allah giveth manifold increase to whom He pleaseth: And Allah careth for all and He knoweth all things.

002.262Those who spend their substance in the cause of Allah, and follow not up their gifts with reminders of their generosity or with injury,-for them their reward is with their Lord: on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.

002.263Kind words and the covering of faults are better than charity followed by injury. Allah is free of all wants, and He is Most-Forbearing.

002.264O ye who believe! cancel not your charity by reminders of your generosity or by injury,- like those who spend their substance to be seen of men, but believe neither in Allah nor in the Last Day. They are in parable like a hard, barren rock, on which is a little soil: on it falls heavy rain, which leaves it (Just) a bare stone. They will be able to do nothing with aught they have earned. And Allah guideth not those who reject faith.

002.265And the likeness of those who spend their substance, seeking to please Allah and to strengthen their souls, is as a garden, high and fertile: heavy rain falls on it but makes it yield a double increase of harvest, and if it receives not Heavy rain, light moisture sufficeth it. Allah seeth well whatever ye do.

002.266Does any of you wish that he should have a garden with date-palms and vines and streams flowing underneath, and all kinds of fruit, while he is stricken with old age, and his children are not strong (enough to look after themselves)- that it should be caught in a whirlwind, with fire therein, and be burnt up? Thus doth Allah make clear to you (His) Signs; that ye may consider.

002.267O ye who believe! Give of the good things which ye have (honourably) earned, and of the fruits of the earth which We have produced for you, and do not even aim at getting anything which is bad, in order that out of it ye may give away something, when ye yourselves would not receive it except with closed eyes. And know that Allah is Free of all wants, and worthy of all praise.

002.268The Evil one threatens you with poverty and bids you to conduct unseemly. Allah promiseth you His forgiveness and bounties. And Allah careth for all and He knoweth all things.

002.269He granteth wisdom to whom He pleaseth; and he to whom wisdom is granted receiveth indeed a benefit overflowing; but none will grasp the Message but men of understanding.

002.270And whatever ye spend in charity or devotion, be sure Allah knows it all. But the wrong-doers have no helpers.

002.271If ye disclose (acts of) charity, even so it is well, but if ye conceal them, and make them reach those (really) in need, that is best for you: It will remove from you some of your (stains of) evil. And Allah is well acquainted with what ye do.

002.272It is not required of thee (O Messenger), to set them on the right path, but Allah sets on the right path whom He pleaseth. Whatever of good ye give benefits your own souls, and ye shall only do so seeking the “Face” of Allah. Whatever good ye give, shall be rendered back to you, and ye shall not Be dealt with unjustly.

002.273(Charity is) for those in need, who, in Allah’s cause are restricted (from travel), and cannot move about in the land, seeking (For trade or work): the ignorant man thinks, because of their modesty, that they are free from want. Thou shalt know them by their (Unfailing) mark: They beg not importunately from all the sundry. And whatever of good ye give, be assured Allah knoweth it well.

002.274Those who (in charity) spend of their goods by night and by day, in secret and in public, have their reward with their Lord: on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.

002.275Those who devour usury will not stand except as stand one whom the Evil one by his touch Hath driven to madness. That is because they say: “Trade is like usury,” but Allah hath permitted trade and forbidden usury. Those who after receiving direction from their Lord, desist, shall be pardoned for the past; their case is for Allah (to judge); but those who repeat (The offence) are companions of the Fire: They will abide therein (for ever).

002.276Allah will deprive usury of all blessing, but will give increase for deeds of charity: For He loveth not creatures ungrateful and wicked.

002.277Those who believe, and do deeds of righteousness, and establish regular prayers and regular charity, will have their reward with their Lord: on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.

002.278O ye who believe! Fear Allah, and give up what remains of your demand for usury, if ye are indeed believers.

002.279If ye do it not, Take notice of war from Allah and His Messenger: But if ye turn back, ye shall have your capital sums: Deal not unjustly, and ye shall not be dealt with unjustly.

002.280If the debtor is in a difficulty, grant him time Till it is easy for him to repay. But if ye remit it by way of charity, that is best for you if ye only knew.

002.281And fear the Day when ye shall be brought back to Allah. Then shall every soul be paid what it earned, and none shall be dealt with unjustly.

002.282O ye who believe! When ye deal with each other, in transactions involving future obligations in a fixed period of time, reduce them to writing Let a scribe write down faithfully as between the parties: let not the scribe refuse to write: as Allah has taught him, so let him write. Let him who incurs the liability dictate, but let him fear His Lord Allah, and not diminish aught of what he owes. If they party liable is mentally deficient, or weak, or unable Himself to dictate, Let his guardian dictate faithfully, and get two witnesses, out of your own men, and if there are not two men, then a man and two women, such as ye choose, for witnesses, so that if one of them errs, the other can remind her. The witnesses should not refuse when they are called on (For evidence). Disdain not to reduce to writing (your contract) for a future period, whether it be small or big: it is juster in the sight of Allah, More suitable as evidence, and more convenient to prevent doubts among yourselves but if it be a transaction which ye carry out on the spot among yourselves, there is no blame on you if ye reduce it not to writing. But take witness whenever ye make a commercial contract; and let neither scribe nor witness suffer harm. If ye do (such harm), it would be wickedness in you. So fear Allah; For it is Good that teaches you. And Allah is well acquainted with all things. If ye are on a journey, and cannot find a scribe, a pledge with possession (may serve the purpose). And if one of you deposits a thing on trust with another, let the trustee (faithfully) discharge his trust, and let him Fear his Lord conceal not evidence; for whoever conceals it, - his heart is tainted with sin. And Allah knoweth all that ye do.

002.283If ye are on a journey, and cannot find a scribe, a pledge with possession (may serve the purpose). And if one of you deposits a thing on trust with another, Let the trustee (Faithfully) discharge His trust, and let him fear his Lord. Conceal not evidence; for whoever conceals it,- His heart is tainted with sin. And Allah Knoweth all that ye do.

002.284To Allah belongeth all that is in the heavens and on earth. Whether ye show what is in your minds or conceal it, Allah Calleth you to account for it. He forgiveth whom He pleaseth, and punisheth whom He pleaseth, for Allah hath power over all things.

002.285The Messenger believeth in what hath been revealed to him from his Lord, as do the men of faith. Each one (of them) believeth in Allah, His angels, His books, and His messengers. “We make no distinction (they say) between one and another of His messengers.” And they say: “We hear, and we obey: (We seek) Thy forgiveness, our Lord, and to Thee is the end of all journeys.”

002.286On no soul doth Allah Place a burden greater than it can bear. It gets every good that it earns, and it suffers every ill that it earns. (Pray:) “Our Lord! Condemn us not if we forget or fall into error; our Lord! Lay not on us a burden Like that which Thou didst lay on those before us; Our Lord! Lay not on us a burden greater than we have strength to bear. Blot out our sins, and grant us forgiveness. Have mercy on us. Thou art our Protector; Help us against those who stand against faith.”

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

003.001A. L. M.

003.002Allah! There is no god but He,-the Living, the Self-Subsisting, Eternal.

003.003It is He Who sent down to thee (step by step), in truth, the Book, confirming what went before it; and He sent down the Law (of Moses) and the Gospel (of Jesus) before this, as a guide to mankind, and He sent down the criterion (of judgment between right and wrong).

003.004Then those who reject Faith in the Signs of Allah will suffer the severest penalty, and Allah is Exalted in Might, Lord of Retribution.

003.005From Allah, verily nothing is hidden on earth or in the heavens.

003.006He it is Who shapes you in the wombs as He pleases. There is no god but He, the Exalted in Might, the Wise.

003.007He it is Who has sent down to thee the Book: In it are verses basic or fundamental (of established meaning); they are the foundation of the Book: others are allegorical. But those in whose hearts is perversity follow the part thereof that is allegorical, seeking discord, and searching for its hidden meanings, but no one knows its hidden meanings except Allah. And those who are firmly grounded in knowledge say: “We believe in the Book; the whole of it is from our Lord:” and none will grasp the Message except men of understanding.

003.008“Our Lord!” (they say), “Let not our hearts deviate now after Thou hast guided us, but grant us mercy from Thine own Presence; for Thou art the Grantor of bounties without measure.”

003.009“Our Lord! Thou art He that will gather mankind Together against a day about which there is no doubt; for Allah never fails in His promise.”

003.010Those who reject Faith,- neither their possessions nor their (numerous) progeny will avail them aught against Allah: They are themselves but fuel for the Fire.

003.011(Their plight will be) no better than that of the people of Pharaoh, and their predecessors: They denied our Signs, and Allah called them to account for their sins. For Allah is strict in punishment.

003.012Say to those who reject Faith: “Soon will ye be vanquished and gathered together to Hell,-an evil bed indeed (to lie on)!”

003.013“There has already been for you a Sign in the two armies that met (in combat): One was fighting in the cause of Allah, the other resisting Allah; these saw with their own eyes Twice their number. But Allah doth support with His aid whom He pleaseth. In this is a warning for such as have eyes to see.”

003.014Fair in the eyes of men is the love of things they covet: Women and sons; Heaped-up hoards of gold and silver; horses branded (for blood and excellence); and (wealth of) cattle and well-tilled land. Such are the possessions of this world’s life; but in nearness to Allah is the best of the goals (To return to).

003.015Say: Shall I give you glad tidings of things Far better than those? For the righteous are Gardens in nearness to their Lord, with rivers flowing beneath; therein is their eternal home; with companions pure (and holy); and the good pleasure of Allah. For in Allah’s sight are (all) His servants,-

003.016(Namely), those who say: “Our Lord! we have indeed believed: forgive us, then, our sins, and save us from the agony of the Fire;”-

003.017Those who show patience, Firmness and self-control; who are true (in word and deed); who worship devoutly; who spend (in the way of Allah); and who pray for forgiveness in the early hours of the morning.

003.018There is no god but He: That is the witness of Allah, His angels, and those endued with knowledge, standing firm on justice. There is no god but He, the Exalted in Power, the Wise.

003.019The Religion before Allah is Islam (submission to His Will): Nor did the People of the Book dissent therefrom except through envy of each other, after knowledge had come to them. But if any deny the Signs of Allah, Allah is swift in calling to account.

003.020So if they dispute with thee, say: “I have submitted My whole self to Allah and so have those who follow me.” And say to the People of the Book and to those who are unlearned: “Do ye (also) submit yourselves?” If they do, they are in right guidance, but if they turn back, Thy duty is to convey the Message; and in Allah’s sight are (all) His servants.

003.021As to those who deny the Signs of Allah and in defiance of right, slay the prophets, and slay those who teach just dealing with mankind, announce to them a grievous penalty.

003.022They are those whose works will bear no fruit in this world and in the Hereafter nor will they have anyone to help.

003.023Hast thou not turned Thy vision to those who have been given a portion of the Book? They are invited to the Book of Allah, to settle their dispute, but a party of them Turn back and decline (The arbitration).

003.024This because they say: “The Fire shall not touch us but for a few numbered days”: For their forgeries deceive them as to their own religion.

003.025But how (will they fare) when we gather them together against a day about which there is no doubt, and each soul will be paid out just what it has earned, without (favour or) injustice?

003.026Say: “O Allah! Lord of Power (And Rule), Thou givest power to whom Thou pleasest, and Thou strippest off power from whom Thou pleasest: Thou enduest with honour whom Thou pleasest, and Thou bringest low whom Thou pleasest: In Thy hand is all good. Verily, over all things Thou hast power.”

003.027“Thou causest the night to gain on the day, and thou causest the day to gain on the night; Thou bringest the Living out of the dead, and Thou bringest the dead out of the Living; and Thou givest sustenance to whom Thou pleasest, without measure.”

003.028Let not the believers Take for friends or helpers Unbelievers rather than believers: if any do that, in nothing will there be help from Allah: except by way of precaution, that ye may Guard yourselves from them. But Allah cautions you (To remember) Himself; for the final goal is to Allah.

003.029Say: “Whether ye hide what is in your hearts or reveal it, Allah knows it all: He knows what is in the heavens, and what is on earth. And Allah has power over all things.”

003.030“On the Day when every soul will be confronted with all the good it has done, and all the evil it has done, it will wish there were a great distance between it and its evil. But Allah cautions you (To remember) Himself. And Allah is full of kindness to those that serve Him.”

003.031Say: “If ye do love Allah, Follow me: Allah will love you and forgive you your sins: For Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.”

003.032Say: “Obey Allah and His Messenger”: But if they turn back, Allah loveth not those who reject Faith.

003.033Allah did choose Adam and Noah, the family of Abraham, and the family of ‘Imran above all people,-

003.034Offspring, one of the other: And Allah heareth and knoweth all things.

003.035Behold! a woman of ‘Imran said: “O my Lord! I do dedicate unto Thee what is in my womb for Thy special service: So accept this of me: For Thou hearest and knowest all things.”

003.036When she was delivered, she said: “O my Lord! Behold! I am delivered of a female child!”- and Allah knew best what she brought forth- “And no wise is the male Like the female. I have named her Mary, and I commend her and her offspring to Thy protection from the Evil One, the Rejected.”

003.037Right graciously did her Lord accept her: He made her grow in purity and beauty: To the care of Zakariya was she assigned. Every time that he entered (Her) chamber to see her, He found her supplied with sustenance. He said: “O Mary! Whence (comes) this to you?” She said: “From Allah: for Allah Provides sustenance to whom He pleases without measure.”

003.038There did Zakariya pray to his Lord, saying: “O my Lord! Grant unto me from Thee a progeny that is pure: for Thou art He that heareth prayer!”

003.039While he was standing in prayer in the chamber, the angels called unto him: “Allah doth give thee glad tidings of Yahya, witnessing the truth of a Word from Allah, and (be besides) noble, chaste, and a prophet,- of the (goodly) company of the righteous.”

003.040He said: “O my Lord! How shall I have son, seeing I am very old, and my wife is barren?” “Thus,” was the answer, “Doth Allah accomplish what He willeth.”

003.041He said: “O my Lord! Give me a Sign!” “Thy Sign,” was the answer, “Shall be that thou shalt speak to no man for three days but with signals. Then celebrate the praises of thy Lord again and again, and glorify Him in the evening and in the morning.”

003.042Behold! the angels said: “O Mary! Allah hath chosen thee and purified thee- chosen thee above the women of all nations.”

003.043“O Mary! worship Thy Lord devoutly: Prostrate thyself, and bow down (in prayer) with those who bow down.”

003.044This is part of the tidings of the things unseen, which We reveal unto thee (O Messenger!) by inspiration: Thou wast not with them when they cast lots with arrows, as to which of them should be charged with the care of Mary: Nor wast thou with them when they disputed (the point).

003.045Behold! the angels said: “O Mary! Allah giveth thee glad tidings of a Word from Him: his name will be Christ Jesus, the son of Mary, held in honour in this world and the Hereafter and of (the company of) those nearest to Allah;”

003.046“He shall speak to the people in childhood and in maturity. And he shall be (of the company) of the righteous.”

003.047She said: “O my Lord! How shall I have a son when no man hath touched me?” He said: “Even so: Allah createth what He willeth: When He hath decreed a plan, He but saith to it, ‘Be,’ and it is!”

003.048“And Allah will teach him the Book and Wisdom, the Law and the Gospel,”

003.049“And (appoint him) a messenger to the Children of Israel, (with this message): ‘I have come to you, with a Sign from your Lord, in that I make for you out of clay, as it were, the figure of a bird, and breathe into it, and it becomes a bird by Allah’s leave: And I heal those born blind, and the lepers, and I quicken the dead, by Allah’s leave; and I declare to you what ye eat, and what ye store in your houses. Surely therein is a Sign for you if ye did believe;”

003.050“‘(I have come to you), to attest the Law which was before me. And to make lawful to you part of what was (Before) forbidden to you; I have come to you with a Sign from your Lord. So fear Allah, and obey me.’”

003.051“‘It is Allah Who is my Lord and your Lord; then worship Him. This is a Way that is straight.’”

003.052When Jesus found Unbelief on their part He said: “Who will be My helpers to (the work of) Allah?” Said the disciples: “We are Allah’s helpers: We believe in Allah, and do thou bear witness that we are Muslims.”

003.053“Our Lord! we believe in what Thou hast revealed, and we follow the Messenger; then write us down among those who bear witness.”

003.054And (the unbelievers) plotted and planned, and Allah too planned, and the best of planners is Allah.

003.055Behold! Allah said: “O Jesus! I will take thee and raise thee to Myself and clear thee (of the falsehoods) of those who blaspheme; I will make those who follow thee superior to those who reject faith, to the Day of Resurrection: Then shall ye all return unto me, and I will judge between you of the matters wherein ye dispute.”

003.056“As to those who reject faith, I will punish them with terrible agony in this world and in the Hereafter, nor will they have anyone to help.”

003.057“As to those who believe and work righteousness, Allah will pay them (in full) their reward; but Allah loveth not those who do wrong.”

003.058“This is what we rehearse unto thee of the Signs and the Message of Wisdom.”

003.059The similitude of Jesus before Allah is as that of Adam; He created him from dust, then said to him: “Be”. And he was.

003.060The Truth (comes) from Allah alone; so be not of those who doubt.

003.061If any one disputes in this matter with thee, now after (full) knowledge Hath come to thee, say: “Come! let us gather together,- our sons and your sons, our women and your women, ourselves and yourselves: Then let us earnestly pray, and invoke the curse of Allah on those who lie!”

003.062This is the true account: There is no god except Allah; and Allah - He is indeed the Exalted in Power, the Wise.

003.063But if they turn back, Allah hath full knowledge of those who do mischief.

003.064Say: “O People of the Book! come to common terms as between us and you: That we worship none but Allah; that we associate no partners with him; that we erect not, from among ourselves, Lords and patrons other than Allah.” If then they turn back, say ye: “Bear witness that we (at least) are Muslims (bowing to Allah’s Will).”

003.065Ye People of the Book! Why dispute ye about Abraham, when the Law and the Gospel Were not revealed Till after him? Have ye no understanding?

003.066Ah! Ye are those who fell to disputing (Even) in matters of which ye had some knowledge! but why dispute ye in matters of which ye have no knowledge? It is Allah Who knows, and ye who know not!

003.067Abraham was not a Jew nor yet a Christian; but he was true in Faith, and bowed his will to Allah’s (Which is Islam), and he joined not gods with Allah.

003.068Without doubt, among men, the nearest of kin to Abraham, are those who follow him, as are also this Prophet and those who believe: And Allah is the Protector of those who have faith.

003.069It is the wish of a section of the People of the Book to lead you astray. But they shall lead astray (Not you), but themselves, and they do not perceive!

003.070Ye People of the Book! Why reject ye the Signs of Allah, of which ye are (Yourselves) witnesses?

003.071Ye People of the Book! Why do ye clothe Truth with falsehood, and conceal the Truth, while ye have knowledge?

003.072A section of the People of the Book say: “Believe in the morning what is revealed to the believers, but reject it at the end of the day; perchance they may (themselves) Turn back;”

003.073“And believe no one unless he follows your religion.” Say: “True guidance is the Guidance of Allah: (Fear ye) Lest a revelation be sent to someone (else) Like unto that which was sent unto you? or that those (Receiving such revelation) should engage you in argument before your Lord?” Say: “All bounties are in the hand of Allah: He granteth them to whom He pleaseth: And Allah careth for all, and He knoweth all things.”

003.074For His Mercy He specially chooseth whom He pleaseth; for Allah is the Lord of bounties unbounded.

003.075Among the People of the Book are some who, if entrusted with a hoard of gold, will (readily) pay it back; others, who, if entrusted with a single silver coin, will not repay it unless thou constantly stoodest demanding, because, they say, “there is no call on us (to keep faith) with these ignorant (Pagans).” but they tell a lie against Allah, and (well) they know it.

003.076Nay.- Those that keep their plighted faith and act aright,-verily Allah loves those who act aright.

003.077As for those who sell the faith they owe to Allah and their own plighted word for a small price, they shall have no portion in the Hereafter: Nor will Allah (Deign to) speak to them or look at them on the Day of Judgment, nor will He cleans them (of sin): They shall have a grievous penalty.

003.078There is among them a section who distort the Book with their tongues: (As they read) you would think it is a part of the Book, but it is no part of the Book; and they say, “That is from Allah,” but it is not from Allah: It is they who tell a lie against Allah, and (well) they know it!

003.079It is not (possible) that a man, to whom is given the Book, and Wisdom, and the prophetic office, should say to people: “Be ye my worshippers rather than Allah’s”: on the contrary (He would say) “Be ye worshippers of Him Who is truly the Cherisher of all: For ye have taught the Book and ye have studied it earnestly.”

003.080Nor would he instruct you to take angels and prophets for Lords and patrons. What! would he bid you to unbelief after ye have bowed your will (To Allah in Islam)?

003.081Behold! Allah took the covenant of the prophets, saying: “I give you a Book and Wisdom; then comes to you a messenger, confirming what is with you; do ye believe in him and render him help.” Allah said: “Do ye agree, and take this my Covenant as binding on you?” They said: “We agree.” He said: “Then bear witness, and I am with you among the witnesses.”

003.082If any turn back after this, they are perverted transgressors.

003.083Do they seek for other than the Religion of Allah?-while all creatures in the heavens and on earth have, willing or unwilling, bowed to His Will (Accepted Islam), and to Him shall they all be brought back.

003.084Say: “We believe in Allah, and in what has been revealed to us and what was revealed to Abraham, Isma’il, Isaac, Jacob, and the Tribes, and in (the Books) given to Moses, Jesus, and the prophets, from their Lord: We make no distinction between one and another among them, and to Allah do we bow our will (in Islam).”

003.085If anyone desires a religion other than Islam (submission to Allah), never will it be accepted of him; and in the Hereafter He will be in the ranks of those who have lost (all spiritual good).

003.086How shall Allah Guide those who reject Faith after they accepted it and bore witness that the Messenger was true and that Clear Signs had come unto them? but Allah guides not a people unjust.

003.087Of such the reward is that on them (rests) the curse of Allah, of His angels, and of all mankind;-

003.088In that will they dwell; nor will their penalty be lightened, nor respite be (their lot);-

003.089Except for those that repent (Even) after that, and make amends; for verily Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

003.090But those who reject Faith after they accepted it, and then go on adding to their defiance of Faith,- never will their repentance be accepted; for they are those who have (of set purpose) gone astray.

003.091As to those who reject Faith, and die rejecting,- never would be accepted from any such as much gold as the earth contains, though they should offer it for ransom. For such is (in store) a penalty grievous, and they will find no helpers.

003.092By no means shall ye attain righteousness unless ye give (freely) of that which ye love; and whatever ye give, of a truth Allah knoweth it well.

003.093All food was lawful to the Children of Israel, except what Israel Made unlawful for itself, before the Law (of Moses) was revealed. Say: “Bring ye the Law and study it, if ye be men of truth.”

003.094If any, after this, invent a lie and attribute it to Allah, they are indeed unjust wrong-doers.

003.095Say: “Allah speaketh the Truth: follow the religion of Abraham, the sane in faith; he was not of the Pagans.”

003.096The first House (of worship) appointed for men was that at Bakka: Full of blessing and of guidance for all kinds of beings:

003.097In it are Signs Manifest; (for example), the Station of Abraham; whoever enters it attains security; Pilgrimage thereto is a duty men owe to Allah,- those who can afford the journey; but if any deny faith, Allah stands not in need of any of His creatures.

003.098Say: “O People of the Book! Why reject ye the Signs of Allah, when Allah is Himself witness to all ye do?”

003.099Say: “O ye People of the Book! Why obstruct ye those who believe, from the path of Allah, Seeking to make it crooked, while ye were yourselves witnesses (to Allah’s Covenant)? but Allah is not unmindful of all that ye do.”

003.100O ye who believe! If ye listen to a faction among the People of the Book, they would (indeed) render you apostates after ye have believed!

003.101And how would ye deny Faith while unto you are rehearsed the Signs of Allah, and among you Lives the Messenger? Whoever holds firmly to Allah will be shown a way that is straight.

003.102O ye who believe! Fear Allah as He should be feared, and die not except in a state of Islam.

003.103And hold fast, all together, by the rope which Allah (stretches out for you), and be not divided among yourselves; and remember with gratitude Allah’s favour on you; for ye were enemies and He joined your hearts in love, so that by His Grace, ye became brethren; and ye were on the brink of the pit of Fire, and He saved you from it. Thus doth Allah make His Signs clear to you: That ye may be guided.

003.104Let there arise out of you a band of people inviting to all that is good, enjoining what is right, and forbidding what is wrong: They are the ones to attain felicity.

003.105Be not like those who are divided amongst themselves and fall into disputations after receiving Clear Signs: For them is a dreadful penalty,-

003.106On the Day when some faces will be (lit up with) white, and some faces will be (in the gloom of) black: To those whose faces will be black, (will be said): “Did ye reject Faith after accepting it? Taste then the penalty for rejecting Faith.”

003.107But those whose faces will be (lit with) white,- they will be in (the light of) Allah’s mercy: therein to dwell (for ever).

003.108These are the Signs of Allah: We rehearse them to thee in Truth: And Allah means no injustice to any of His creatures.

003.109To Allah belongs all that is in the heavens and on earth: To Him do all questions go back (for decision).

003.110Ye are the best of peoples, evolved for mankind, enjoining what is right, forbidding what is wrong, and believing in Allah. If only the People of the Book had faith, it were best for them: among them are some who have faith, but most of them are perverted transgressors.

003.111They will do you no harm, barring a trifling annoyance; if they come out to fight you, they will show you their backs, and no help shall they get.

003.112Shame is pitched over them (Like a tent) wherever they are found, except when under a covenant (of protection) from Allah and from men; they draw on themselves wrath from Allah, and pitched over them is (the tent of) destitution. This because they rejected the Signs of Allah, and slew the prophets in defiance of right; this because they rebelled and transgressed beyond bounds.

003.113Not all of them are alike: Of the People of the Book are a portion that stand (For the right): They rehearse the Signs of Allah all night long, and they prostrate themselves in adoration.

003.114They believe in Allah and the Last Day; they enjoin what is right, and forbid what is wrong; and they hasten (in emulation) in (all) good works: They are in the ranks of the righteous.

003.115Of the good that they do, nothing will be rejected of them; for Allah knoweth well those that do right.

003.116Those who reject Faith,- neither their possessions nor their (numerous) progeny will avail them aught against Allah: They will be companions of the Fire,-dwelling therein (for ever).

003.117What they spend in the life of this (material) world May be likened to a wind which brings a nipping frost: It strikes and destroys the harvest of men who have wronged their own souls: it is not Allah that hath wronged them, but they wrong themselves.

003.118O ye who believe! Take not into your intimacy those outside your ranks: They will not fail to corrupt you. They only desire your ruin: Rank hatred has already appeared from their mouths: What their hearts conceal is far worse. We have made plain to you the Signs, if ye have wisdom.

003.119Ah! ye are those who love them, but they love you not,- though ye believe in the whole of the Book. When they meet you, they say, “We believe”: But when they are alone, they bite off the very tips of their fingers at you in their rage. Say: “Perish in you rage; Allah knoweth well all the secrets of the heart.”

003.120If aught that is good befalls you, it grieves them; but if some misfortune overtakes you, they rejoice at it. But if ye are constant and do right, not the least harm will their cunning do to you; for Allah Compasseth round about all that they do.

003.121Remember that morning Thou didst leave Thy household (early) to post the faithful at their stations for battle: And Allah heareth and knoweth all things:

003.122Remember two of your parties Meditated cowardice; but Allah was their protector, and in Allah should the faithful (Ever) put their trust.

003.123Allah had helped you at Badr, when ye were a contemptible little force; then fear Allah; thus may ye show your gratitude.

003.124Remember thou saidst to the Faithful: Is it not enough for you that Allah should help you with three thousand angels (Specially) sent down?

003.125“Yea, - if ye remain firm, and act aright, even if the enemy should rush here on you in hot haste, your Lord would help you with five thousand angels Making a terrific onslaught.”

003.126Allah made it but a message of hope for you, and an assurance to your hearts: (in any case) there is no help except from Allah. The Exalted, the Wise:

003.127That He might cut off a fringe of the Unbelievers or expose them to infamy, and they should then be turned back, frustrated of their purpose.

003.128Not for thee, (but for Allah), is the decision: Whether He turn in mercy to them, or punish them; for they are indeed wrong-doers.

003.129To Allah belongeth all that is in the heavens and on earth. He forgiveth whom He pleaseth and punisheth whom He pleaseth; but Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

003.130O ye who believe! Devour not usury, doubled and multiplied; but fear Allah; that ye may (really) prosper.

003.131Fear the Fire, which is repaired for those who reject Faith:

003.132And obey Allah and the Messenger; that ye may obtain mercy.

003.133Be quick in the race for forgiveness from your Lord, and for a Garden whose width is that (of the whole) of the heavens and of the earth, prepared for the righteous,-

003.134Those who spend (freely), whether in prosperity, or in adversity; who restrain anger, and pardon (all) men;- for Allah loves those who do good;-

003.135And those who, having done something to be ashamed of, or wronged their own souls, earnestly bring Allah to mind, and ask for forgiveness for their sins,- and who can forgive sins except Allah?- and are never obstinate in persisting knowingly in (the wrong) they have done.

003.136For such the reward is forgiveness from their Lord, and Gardens with rivers flowing underneath,- an eternal dwelling: How excellent a recompense for those who work (and strive)!

003.137Many were the Ways of Life that have passed away before you: travel through the earth, and see what was the end of those who rejected Truth.

003.138Here is a plain statement to men, a guidance and instruction to those who fear Allah!

003.139So lose not heart, nor fall into despair: For ye must gain mastery if ye are true in Faith.

003.140If a wound hath touched you, be sure a similar wound hath touched the others. Such days (of varying fortunes) We give to men and men by turns: that Allah may know those that believe, and that He may take to Himself from your ranks Martyr-witnesses (to Truth). And Allah loveth not those that do wrong.

003.141Allah’s object also is to purge those that are true in Faith and to deprive of blessing Those that resist Faith.

003.142Did ye think that ye would enter Heaven without Allah testing those of you who fought hard (In His Cause) and remained steadfast?

003.143Ye did indeed wish for death before ye met him: Now ye have seen him with your own eyes, (And ye flinch!)

003.144Muhammad is no more than a messenger: many Were the messenger that passed away before him. If he died or were slain, will ye then Turn back on your heels? If any did turn back on his heels, not the least harm will he do to Allah; but Allah (on the other hand) will swiftly reward those who (serve Him) with gratitude.

003.145Nor can a soul die except by Allah’s leave, the term being fixed as by writing. If any do desire a reward in this life, We shall give it to him; and if any do desire a reward in the Hereafter, We shall give it to him. And swiftly shall We reward those that (serve us with) gratitude.

003.146How many of the prophets fought (in Allah’s way), and with them (fought) Large bands of godly men? but they never lost heart if they met with disaster in Allah’s way, nor did they weaken (in will) nor give in. And Allah Loves those who are firm and steadfast.

003.147All that they said was: “Our Lord! Forgive us our sins and anything We may have done that transgressed our duty: Establish our feet firmly, and help us against those that resist Faith.”

003.148And Allah gave them a reward in this world, and the excellent reward of the Hereafter. For Allah Loveth those who do good.

003.149O ye who believe! If ye obey the Unbelievers, they will drive you back on your heels, and ye will turn back (from Faith) to your own loss.

003.150Nay, Allah is your protector, and He is the best of helpers.

003.151Soon shall We cast terror into the hearts of the Unbelievers, for that they joined companions with Allah, for which He had sent no authority: their abode will be the Fire: And evil is the home of the wrong-doers!

003.152Allah did indeed fulfil His promise to you when ye with His permission Were about to annihilate your enemy,-until ye flinched and fell to disputing about the order, and disobeyed it after He brought you in sight (of the booty) which ye covet. Among you are some that hanker after this world and some that desire the Hereafter. Then did He divert you from your foes in order to test you but He forgave you: For Allah is full of grace to those who believe.

003.153Behold! ye were climbing up the high ground, without even casting a side glance at any one, and the Messenger in your rear was calling you back. There did Allah give you one distress after another by way of requital, to teach you not to grieve for (the booty) that had escaped you and for (the ill) that had befallen you. For Allah is well aware of all that ye do.

003.154After (the excitement) of the distress, He sent down calm on a band of you overcome with slumber, while another band was stirred to anxiety by their own feelings, Moved by wrong suspicions of Allah-suspicions due to ignorance. They said: “What affair is this of ours?” Say thou: “Indeed, this affair is wholly Allah’s.” They hide in their minds what they dare not reveal to thee. They say (to themselves): “If we had had anything to do with this affair, We should not have been in the slaughter here.” Say: “Even if you had remained in your homes, those for whom death was decreed would certainly have gone forth to the place of their death”; but (all this was) that Allah might test what is in your breasts and purge what is in your hearts. For Allah knoweth well the secrets of your hearts.

003.155Those of you who turned back on the day the two hosts Met,-it was Satan who caused them to fail, because of some (evil) they had done. But Allah Has blotted out (their fault): For Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Forbearing.

003.156O ye who believe! Be not like the Unbelievers, who say of their brethren, when they are travelling through the Earth or engaged in fighting: “If they had stayed with us, they would not have died, or been slain.” This that Allah may make it a cause of sighs and regrets in their hearts. It is Allah that gives Life and Death, and Allah sees well all that ye do.

003.157And if ye are slain, or die, in the way of Allah, forgiveness and mercy from Allah are far better than all they could amass.

003.158And if ye die, or are slain, Lo! it is unto Allah that ye are brought together.

003.159It is part of the Mercy of Allah that thou dost deal gently with them Wert thou severe or harsh-hearted, they would have broken away from about thee: so pass over (Their faults), and ask for (Allah’s) forgiveness for them; and consult them in affairs (of moment). Then, when thou hast Taken a decision put thy trust in Allah. For Allah loves those who put their trust (in Him).

003.160If Allah helps you, none can overcome you: If He forsakes you, who is there, after that, that can help you? in Allah, then, let believers put their trust.

003.161No prophet could (ever) be false to his trust. If any person is so false, He shall, on the Day of Judgment, restore what he misappropriated; then shall every soul receive its due,- whatever it earned,- and none shall be dealt with unjustly.

003.162Is the man who follows the good pleasure of Allah Like the man who draws on himself the wrath of Allah, and whose abode is in Hell?- A woeful refuge!

003.163They are in varying gardens in the sight of Allah, and Allah sees well all that they do.

003.164Allah did confer a great favour on the believers when He sent among them a messenger from among themselves, rehearsing unto them the Signs of Allah, sanctifying them, and instructing them in Scripture and Wisdom, while, before that, they had been in manifest error.

003.165What! When a single disaster smites you, although ye smote (your enemies) with one twice as great, do ye say?- “Whence is this?” Say (to them): “It is from yourselves: For Allah hath power over all things.”

003.166What ye suffered on the day the two armies Met, was with the leave of Allah, in order that He might test the believers,-

003.167And the Hypocrites also. These were told: “Come, fight in the way of Allah, or (at least) drive (The foe from your city).” They said: “Had we known how to fight, we should certainly have followed you.” They were that day nearer to Unbelief than to Faith, saying with their lips what was not in their hearts but Allah hath full knowledge of all they conceal.

003.168(They are) the ones that say, (of their brethren slain), while they themselves sit (at ease): “If only they had listened to us they would not have been slain.” Say: “Avert death from your own selves, if ye speak the truth.”

003.169Think not of those who are slain in Allah’s way as dead. Nay, they live, finding their sustenance in the presence of their Lord;

003.170They rejoice in the bounty provided by Allah: And with regard to those left behind, who have not yet joined them (in their bliss), the (Martyrs) glory in the fact that on them is no fear, nor have they (cause to) grieve.

003.171They glory in the Grace and the bounty from Allah, and in the fact that Allah suffereth not the reward of the Faithful to be lost (in the least).

003.172Of those who answered the call of Allah and the Messenger, even after being wounded, those who do right and refrain from wrong have a great reward;-

003.173Men said to them: “A great army is gathering against you”: And frightened them: But it (only) increased their Faith: They said: “For us Allah sufficeth, and He is the best disposer of affairs.”

003.174And they returned with Grace and bounty from Allah: no harm ever touched them: For they followed the good pleasure of Allah: And Allah is the Lord of bounties unbounded.

003.175It is only the Evil One that suggests to you the fear of his votaries: Be ye not afraid of them, but fear Me, if ye have Faith.

003.176Let not those grieve thee who rush headlong into Unbelief: Not the least harm will they do to Allah: Allah’s plan is that He will give them no portion in the Hereafter, but a severe punishment.

003.177Those who purchase Unbelief at the price of faith,- not the least harm will they do to Allah, but they will have a grievous punishment.

003.178Let not the Unbelievers think that our respite to them is good for themselves: We grant them respite that they may grow in their iniquity: But they will have a shameful punishment.

003.179Allah will not leave the believers in the state in which ye are now, until He separates what is evil from what is good nor will He disclose to you the secrets of the Unseen. But He chooses of His Messengers (For the purpose) whom He pleases. So believe in Allah. And His messengers: And if ye believe and do right, ye have a reward without measure.

003.180And let not those who covetously withhold of the gifts which Allah Hath given them of His Grace, think that it is good for them: Nay, it will be the worse for them: soon shall the things which they covetously withheld be tied to their necks Like a twisted collar, on the Day of Judgment. To Allah belongs the heritage of the heavens and the earth; and Allah is well-acquainted with all that ye do.

003.181Allah hath heard the taunt of those who say: “Truly, Allah is indigent and we are rich!”- We shall certainly record their word and (their act) of slaying the prophets in defiance of right, and We shall say: “Taste ye the penalty of the Scorching Fire!”

003.182“This is because of the (unrighteous deeds) which your hands sent on before ye: For Allah never harms those who serve Him.”

003.183They (also) said: “Allah took our promise not to believe in an messenger unless He showed us a sacrifice consumed by Fire (From heaven).” Say: “There came to you messengers before me, with clear Signs and even with what ye ask for: why then did ye slay them, if ye speak the truth?”

003.184Then if they reject thee, so were rejected messengers before thee, who came with Clear Signs, Books of dark prophecies, and the Book of Enlightenment.

003.185Every soul shall have a taste of death: And only on the Day of Judgment shall you be paid your full recompense. Only he who is saved far from the Fire and admitted to the Garden will have attained the object (of Life): For the life of this world is but goods and chattels of deception.

003.186Ye shall certainly be tried and tested in your possessions and in your personal selves; and ye shall certainly Hear much that will grieve you, from those who received the Book before you and from those who worship many gods. But if ye persevere patiently, and guard against evil,-then that will be a determining factor in all affairs.

003.187And remember Allah took a covenant from the People of the Book, to make it known and clear to mankind, and not to hide it; but they threw it away behind their backs, and purchased with it some miserable gain! And vile was the bargain they made!

003.188Think not that those who exult in what they have brought about, and love to be praised for what they have not done,- think escape the penalty. For them is a penalty Grievous indeed.

003.189To Allah belongeth the dominion of the heavens and the earth; and Allah hath power over all things.

003.190Behold! in the creation of the heavens and the earth, and the alternation of night and day,- there are indeed Signs for men of understanding,-

003.191Men who celebrate the praises of Allah, standing, sitting, and lying down on their sides, and contemplate the (wonders of) creation in the heavens and the earth, (With the thought): “Our Lord! not for naught Hast Thou created (all) this! Glory to Thee! Give us salvation from the penalty of the Fire.”

003.192“Our Lord! any whom Thou dost admit to the Fire, Truly Thou coverest with shame, and never will wrong-doers Find any helpers!”

003.193“Our Lord! we have heard the call of one calling (Us) to Faith, ‘Believe ye in the Lord,’ and we have believed. Our Lord! Forgive us our sins, blot out from us our iniquities, and take to Thyself our souls in the company of the righteous.”

003.194“Our Lord! Grant us what Thou didst promise unto us through Thine messengers, and save us from shame on the Day of Judgment: For Thou never breakest Thy promise.”

003.195And their Lord hath accepted of them, and answered them: “Never will I suffer to be lost the work of any of you, be he male or female: Ye are members, one of another: Those who have left their homes, or been driven out therefrom, or suffered harm in My Cause, or fought or been slain,- verily, I will blot out from them their iniquities, and admit them into Gardens with rivers flowing beneath;- A reward from the presence of Allah, and from His presence is the best of rewards.”

003.196Let not the strutting about of the Unbelievers through the land deceive thee:

003.197Little is it for enjoyment: Their ultimate abode is Hell: what an evil bed (To lie on)!

003.198On the other hand, for those who fear their Lord, are Gardens, with rivers flowing beneath; therein are they to dwell (for ever),- a gift from the presence of Allah; and that which is in the presence of Allah is the best (bliss) for the righteous.

003.199And there are, certainly, among the People of the Book, those who believe in Allah, in the revelation to you, and in the revelation to them, bowing in humility to Allah: They will not sell the Signs of Allah for a miserable gain! For them is a reward with their Lord, and Allah is swift in account.

003.200O ye who believe! Persevere in patience and constancy; vie in such perseverance; strengthen each other; and fear Allah; that ye may prosper.

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

004.001O mankind! reverence your Guardian-Lord, who created you from a single person, created, of like nature, His mate, and from them twain scattered (like seeds) countless men and women;- reverence Allah, through whom ye demand your mutual (rights), and (reverence) the wombs (That bore you): for Allah ever watches over you.

004.002To orphans restore their property (When they reach their age), nor substitute (your) worthless things for (their) good ones; and devour not their substance (by mixing it up) with your won. For this is indeed a great sin.

004.003If ye fear that ye shall not be able to deal justly with the orphans, Marry women of your choice, Two or three or four; but if ye fear that ye shall not be able to deal justly (with them), then only one, or (a captive) that your right hands possess, that will be more suitable, to prevent you from doing injustice.

004.004And give the women (on marriage) their dower as a free gift; but if they, of their own good pleasure, remit any part of it to you, Take it and enjoy it with right good cheer.

004.005To those weak of understanding Make not over your property, which Allah hath made a means of support for you, but feed and clothe them therewith, and speak to them words of kindness and justice.

004.006Make trial of orphans until they reach the age of marriage; if then ye find sound judgment in them, release their property to them; but consume it not wastefully, nor in haste against their growing up. If the guardian is well-off, Let him claim no remuneration, but if he is poor, let him have for himself what is just and reasonable. When ye release their property to them, take witnesses in their presence: But all-sufficient is Allah in taking account.

004.007From what is left by parents and those nearest related there is a share for men and a share for women, whether the property be small or large,-a determinate share.

004.008But if at the time of division other relatives, or orphans or poor, are present, feed them out of the (property), and speak to them words of kindness and justice.

004.009Let those (disposing of an estate) have the same fear in their minds as they would have for their own if they had left a helpless family behind: Let them fear Allah, and speak words of appropriate (comfort).

004.010Those who unjustly eat up the property of orphans, eat up a Fire into their own bodies: They will soon be enduring a Blazing Fire!

004.011Allah (thus) directs you as regards your Children’s (Inheritance): to the male, a portion equal to that of two females: if only daughters, two or more, their share is two-thirds of the inheritance; if only one, her share is a half. For parents, a sixth share of the inheritance to each, if the deceased left children; if no children, and the parents are the (only) heirs, the mother has a third; if the deceased Left brothers (or sisters) the mother has a sixth. (The distribution in all cases is) after the payment of legacies and debts. Ye know not whether your parents or your children are nearest to you in benefit. These are settled portions ordained by Allah; and Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise.

004.012In what your wives leave, your share is a half, if they leave no child; but if they leave a child, ye get a fourth; after payment of legacies and debts. In what ye leave, their share is a fourth, if ye leave no child; but if ye leave a child, they get an eighth; after payment of legacies and debts. If the man or woman whose inheritance is in question, has left neither ascendants nor descendants, but has left a brother or a sister, each one of the two gets a sixth; but if more than two, they share in a third; after payment of legacies and debts; so that no loss is caused (to any one). Thus is it ordained by Allah; and Allah is All-Knowing, Most Forbearing.

004.013Those are limits set by Allah: those who obey Allah and His Messenger will be admitted to Gardens with rivers flowing beneath, to abide therein (for ever) and that will be the supreme achievement.

004.014But those who disobey Allah and His Messenger and transgress His limits will be admitted to a Fire, to abide therein: And they shall have a humiliating punishment.

004.015If any of your women are guilty of lewdness, Take the evidence of four (Reliable) witnesses from amongst you against them; and if they testify, confine them to houses until death do claim them, or Allah ordain for them some (other) way.

004.016If two men among you are guilty of lewdness, punish them both. If they repent and amend, Leave them alone; for Allah is Oft-Returning, Most Merciful.

004.017Allah accept the repentance of those who do evil in ignorance and repent soon afterwards; to them will Allah turn in mercy: For Allah is full of knowledge and wisdom.

004.018Of no effect is the repentance of those who continue to do evil, until death faces one of them, and he says, “Now have I repented indeed;” nor of those who die rejecting Faith: for them have We prepared a punishment most grievous.

004.019O ye who believe! Ye are forbidden to inherit women against their will. Nor should ye treat them with harshness, that ye may Take away part of the dower ye have given them,-except where they have been guilty of open lewdness; on the contrary live with them on a footing of kindness and equity. If ye take a dislike to them it may be that ye dislike a thing, and Allah brings about through it a great deal of good.

004.020But if ye decide to take one wife in place of another, even if ye had given the latter a whole treasure for dower, Take not the least bit of it back: Would ye take it by slander and manifest wrong?

004.021And how could ye take it when ye have gone in unto each other, and they have Taken from you a solemn covenant?

004.022And marry not women whom your fathers married,- except what is past: It was shameful and odious,- an abominable custom indeed.

004.023Prohibited to you (For marriage) are:- Your mothers, daughters, sisters; father’s sisters, Mother’s sisters; brother’s daughters, sister’s daughters; foster-mothers (Who gave you suck), foster-sisters; your wives’ mothers; your step-daughters under your guardianship, born of your wives to whom ye have gone in,- no prohibition if ye have not gone in;- (Those who have been) wives of your sons proceeding from your loins; and two sisters in wedlock at one and the same time, except for what is past; for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful;-

004.024Also (prohibited are) women already married, except those whom your right hands possess: Thus hath Allah ordained (Prohibitions) against you: Except for these, all others are lawful, provided ye seek (them in marriage) with gifts from your property,- desiring chastity, not lust, seeing that ye derive benefit from them, give them their dowers (at least) as prescribed; but if, after a dower is prescribed, agree Mutually (to vary it), there is no blame on you, and Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise.

004.025If any of you have not the means wherewith to wed free believing women, they may wed believing girls from among those whom your right hands possess: And Allah hath full knowledge about your faith. Ye are one from another: Wed them with the leave of their owners, and give them their dowers, according to what is reasonable: They should be chaste, not lustful, nor taking paramours: when they are taken in wedlock, if they fall into shame, their punishment is half that for free women. This (permission) is for those among you who fear sin; but it is better for you that ye practise self-restraint. And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

004.026Allah doth wish to make clear to you and to show you the ordinances of those before you; and (He doth wish to) turn to you (In Mercy): And Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise.

004.027Allah doth wish to Turn to you, but the wish of those who follow their lusts is that ye should turn away (from Him),- far, far away.

004.028Allah doth wish to lighten your (difficulties): For man was created Weak (in flesh).

004.029O ye who believe! Eat not up your property among yourselves in vanities: But let there be amongst you Traffic and trade by mutual good-will: Nor kill (or destroy) yourselves: for verily Allah hath been to you Most Merciful!

004.030If any do that in rancour and injustice,- soon shall We cast them into the Fire: And easy it is for Allah.

004.031If ye (but) eschew the most heinous of the things which ye are forbidden to do, We shall expel out of you all the evil in you, and admit you to a gate of great honour.

004.032And in no wise covet those things in which Allah Hath bestowed His gifts More freely on some of you than on others: To men is allotted what they earn, and to women what they earn: But ask Allah of His bounty. For Allah hath full knowledge of all things.

004.033To (benefit) every one, We have appointed shares and heirs to property left by parents and relatives. To those, also, to whom your right hand was pledged, give their due portion. For truly Allah is witness to all things.

004.034Men are the protectors and maintainers of women, because Allah has given the one more (strength) than the other, and because they support them from their means. Therefore the righteous women are devoutly obedient, and guard in (the husband’s) absence what Allah would have them guard. As to those women on whose part ye fear disloyalty and ill-conduct, admonish them (first), (Next), refuse to share their beds, (And last) beat them (lightly); but if they return to obedience, seek not against them Means (of annoyance): For Allah is Most High, great (above you all).

004.035If ye fear a breach between them twain, appoint (two) arbiters, one from his family, and the other from hers; if they wish for peace, Allah will cause their reconciliation: For Allah hath full knowledge, and is acquainted with all things.

004.036Serve Allah, and join not any partners with Him; and do good- to parents, kinsfolk, orphans, those in need, neighbours who are near, neighbours who are strangers, the companion by your side, the wayfarer (ye meet), and what your right hands possess: For Allah loveth not the arrogant, the vainglorious;-

004.037(Nor) those who are niggardly or enjoin niggardliness on others, or hide the bounties which Allah hath bestowed on them; for We have prepared, for those who resist Faith, a punishment that steeps them in contempt;-

004.038Not those who spend of their substance, to be seen of men, but have no faith in Allah and the Last Day: If any take the Evil One for their intimate, what a dreadful intimate he is!

004.039And what burden Were it on them if they had faith in Allah and in the Last Day, and they spent out of what Allah hath given them for sustenance? For Allah hath full knowledge of them.

004.040Allah is never unjust in the least degree: If there is any good (done), He doubleth it, and giveth from His own presence a great reward.

004.041How then if We brought from each people a witness, and We brought thee as a witness against these people!

004.042On that day those who reject Faith and disobey the messenger will wish that the earth Were made one with them: But never will they hide a single fact from Allah!

004.043O ye who believe! Approach not prayers with a mind befogged, until ye can understand all that ye say,- nor in a state of ceremonial impurity (Except when travelling on the road), until after washing your whole body. If ye are ill, or on a journey, or one of you cometh from offices of nature, or ye have been in contact with women, and ye find no water, then take for yourselves clean sand or earth, and rub therewith your faces and hands. For Allah doth blot out sins and forgive again and again.

004.044Hast thou not turned Thy vision to those who were given a portion of the Book? they traffic in error, and wish that ye should lose the right path.

004.045But Allah hath full knowledge of your enemies: Allah is enough for a protector, and Allah is enough for a Helper.

004.046Of the Jews there are those who displace words from their (right) places, and say: “We hear and we disobey”; and “Hear what is not Heard”; and “Ra’ina”; with a twist of their tongues and a slander to Faith. If only they had said: “We hear and we obey”; and “Do hear”; and “Do look at us”; it would have been better for them, and more proper; but Allah hath cursed them for their Unbelief; and but few of them will believe.

004.047O ye People of the Book! believe in what We have (now) revealed, confirming what was (already) with you, before We change the face and fame of some (of you) beyond all recognition, and turn them hindwards, or curse them as We cursed the Sabbath-breakers, for the decision of Allah must be carried out.

004.048Allah forgiveth not that partners should be set up with Him; but He forgiveth anything else, to whom He pleaseth; to set up partners with Allah is to devise a sin most heinous indeed.

004.049Hast thou not turned Thy vision to those who claim sanctity for themselves? Nay-but Allah Doth sanctify whom He pleaseth. But never will they fail to receive justice in the least little thing.

004.050Behold! how they invent a lie against Allah! but that by itself is a manifest sin!

004.051Hast thou not turned Thy vision to those who were given a portion of the Book? they believe in sorcery and Evil, and say to the Unbelievers that they are better guided in the (right) way Than the believers!

004.052They are (men) whom Allah hath cursed: And those whom Allah Hath cursed, thou wilt find, have no one to help.

004.053Have they a share in dominion or power? Behold, they give not a farthing to their fellow-men?

004.054Or do they envy mankind for what Allah hath given them of his bounty? but We had already given the people of Abraham the Book and Wisdom, and conferred upon them a great kingdom.

004.055Some of them believed, and some of them averted their faces from him: And enough is Hell for a burning fire.

004.056Those who reject our Signs, We shall soon cast into the Fire: as often as their skins are roasted through, We shall change them for fresh skins, that they may taste the penalty: for Allah is Exalted in Power, Wise.

004.057But those who believe and do deeds of righteousness, We shall soon admit to Gardens, with rivers flowing beneath,- their eternal home: Therein shall they have companions pure and holy: We shall admit them to shades, cool and ever deepening.

004.058Allah doth command you to render back your Trusts to those to whom they are due; And when ye judge between man and man, that ye judge with justice: Verily how excellent is the teaching which He giveth you! For Allah is He Who heareth and seeth all things.

004.059O ye who believe! Obey Allah, and obey the Messenger, and those charged with authority among you. If ye differ in anything among yourselves, refer it to Allah and His Messenger, if ye do believe in Allah and the Last Day: That is best, and most suitable for final determination.

004.060Hast thou not turned Thy vision to those who declare that they believe in the revelations that have come to thee and to those before thee? Their (real) wish is to resort together for judgment (in their disputes) to the Evil One, though they were ordered to reject him. But Satan’s wish is to lead them astray far away (from the right).

004.061When it is said to them: “Come to what Allah hath revealed, and to the Messenger”: Thou seest the Hypocrites avert their faces from thee in disgust.

004.062How then, when they are seized by misfortune, because of the deeds which they hands have sent forth? Then they come to thee, swearing by Allah: “We meant no more than good-will and conciliation!”

004.063Those men,-Allah knows what is in their hearts; so keep clear of them, but admonish them, and speak to them a word to reach their very souls.

004.064We sent not a messenger, but to be obeyed, in accordance with the will of Allah. If they had only, when they were unjust to themselves, come unto thee and asked Allah’s forgiveness, and the Messenger had asked forgiveness for them, they would have found Allah indeed Oft-Returning, Most Merciful.

004.065But no, by the Lord, they can have no (real) Faith, until they make thee judge in all disputes between them, and find in their souls no resistance against Thy decisions, but accept them with the fullest conviction.

004.066If We had ordered them to sacrifice their lives or to leave their homes, very few of them would have done it: But if they had done what they were (actually) told, it would have been best for them, and would have gone farthest to strengthen their (faith);

004.067And We should then have given them from our presence a great reward;

004.068And We should have shown them the Straight Way.

004.069All who obey Allah and the messenger are in the company of those on whom is the Grace of Allah,- of the prophets (who teach), the sincere (lovers of Truth), the witnesses (who testify), and the Righteous (who do good): Ah! what a beautiful fellowship!

004.070Such is the bounty from Allah: And sufficient is it that Allah knoweth all.

004.071O ye who believe! Take your precautions, and either go forth in parties or go forth all together.

004.072There are certainly among you men who would tarry behind: If a misfortune befalls you, they say: “Allah did favour us in that we were not present among them.”

004.073But if good fortune comes to you from Allah, they would be sure to say - as if there had never been Ties of affection between you and them- “Oh! I wish I had been with them; a fine thing should I then have made of it!”

004.074Let those fight in the cause of Allah Who sell the life of this world for the hereafter. To him who fighteth in the cause of Allah,- whether he is slain or gets victory - Soon shall We give him a reward of great (value).

004.075And why should ye not fight in the cause of Allah and of those who, being weak, are ill-treated (and oppressed)?- Men, women, and children, whose cry is: “Our Lord! Rescue us from this town, whose people are oppressors; and raise for us from thee one who will protect; and raise for us from thee one who will help!”

004.076Those who believe fight in the cause of Allah, and those who reject Faith Fight in the cause of Evil: So fight ye against the friends of Satan: feeble indeed is the cunning of Satan.

004.077Hast thou not turned Thy vision to those who were told to hold back their hands (from fight) but establish regular prayers and spend in regular charity? When (at length) the order for fighting was issued to them, behold! a section of them feared men as - or even more than - they should have feared Allah: They said: “Our Lord! Why hast Thou ordered us to fight? Wouldst Thou not Grant us respite to our (natural) term, near (enough)?” Say: “Short is the enjoyment of this world: the Hereafter is the best for those who do right: Never will ye be dealt with unjustly in the very least!”

004.078“Wherever ye are, death will find you out, even if ye are in towers built up strong and high!” If some good befalls them, they say, “This is from Allah”; but if evil, they say, “This is from thee” (O Prophet). Say: “All things are from Allah.” But what hath come to these people, that they fail to understand a single fact?

004.079Whatever good, (O man!) happens to thee, is from Allah; but whatever evil happens to thee, is from thy (own) soul. And We have sent thee as a messenger to (instruct) mankind. And enough is Allah for a witness.

004.080He who obeys the Messenger, obeys Allah: But if any turn away, We have not sent thee to watch over their (evil deeds).

004.081They have “Obedience” on their lips; but when they leave thee, a section of them Meditate all night on things very different from what thou tellest them. But Allah records their nightly (plots): So keep clear of them, and put thy trust in Allah, and enough is Allah as a disposer of affairs.

004.082Do they not consider the Qur’an (with care)? Had it been from other Than Allah, they would surely have found therein Much discrepancy.

004.083When there comes to them some matter touching (Public) safety or fear, they divulge it. If they had only referred it to the Messenger, or to those charged with authority among them, the proper investigators would have Tested it from them (direct). Were it not for the Grace and Mercy of Allah unto you, all but a few of you would have fallen into the clutches of Satan.

004.084Then fight in Allah’s cause - Thou art held responsible only for thyself - and rouse the believers. It may be that Allah will restrain the fury of the Unbelievers; for Allah is the strongest in might and in punishment.

004.085Whoever recommends and helps a good cause becomes a partner therein: And whoever recommends and helps an evil cause, shares in its burden: And Allah hath power over all things.

004.086When a (courteous) greeting is offered you, meet it with a greeting still more courteous, or (at least) of equal courtesy. Allah takes careful account of all things.

004.087Allah! There is no god but He: of a surety He will gather you together against the Day of Judgment, about which there is no doubt. And whose word can be truer than Allah’s?

004.088Why should ye be divided into two parties about the Hypocrites? Allah hath upset them for their (evil) deeds. Would ye guide those whom Allah hath thrown out of the Way? For those whom Allah hath thrown out of the Way, never shalt thou find the Way.

004.089They but wish that ye should reject Faith, as they do, and thus be on the same footing (as they): But take not friends from their ranks until they flee in the way of Allah (From what is forbidden). But if they turn renegades, seize them and slay them wherever ye find them; and (in any case) take no friends or helpers from their ranks;-

004.090Except those who join a group between whom and you there is a treaty (of peace), or those who approach you with hearts restraining them from fighting you as well as fighting their own people. If Allah had pleased, He could have given them power over you, and they would have fought you: Therefore if they withdraw from you but fight you not, and (instead) send you (Guarantees of) peace, then Allah Hath opened no way for you (to war against them).

004.091Others you will find that wish to gain your confidence as well as that of their people: Every time they are sent back to temptation, they succumb thereto: if they withdraw not from you nor give you (guarantees) of peace besides restraining their hands, seize them and slay them wherever ye get them: In their case We have provided you with a clear argument against them.

004.092Never should a believer kill a believer; but (If it so happens) by mistake, (Compensation is due): If one (so) kills a believer, it is ordained that he should free a believing slave, and pay compensation to the deceased’s family, unless they remit it freely. If the deceased belonged to a people at war with you, and he was a believer, the freeing of a believing slave (Is enough). If he belonged to a people with whom ye have treaty of Mutual alliance, compensation should be paid to his family, and a believing slave be freed. For those who find this beyond their means, (is prescribed) a fast for two months running: by way of repentance to Allah: for Allah hath all knowledge and all wisdom.

004.093If a man kills a believer intentionally, his recompense is Hell, to abide therein (For ever): And the wrath and the curse of Allah are upon him, and a dreadful penalty is prepared for him.

004.094O ye who believe! When ye go abroad in the cause of Allah, investigate carefully, and say not to any one who offers you a salutation: “Thou art none of a believer!” Coveting the perishable goods of this life: with Allah are profits and spoils abundant. Even thus were ye yourselves before, till Allah conferred on you His favours: Therefore carefully investigate. For Allah is well aware of all that ye do.

004.095Not equal are those believers who sit (at home) and receive no hurt, and those who strive and fight in the cause of Allah with their goods and their persons. Allah hath granted a grade higher to those who strive and fight with their goods and persons than to those who sit (at home). Unto all (in Faith) Hath Allah promised good: But those who strive and fight Hath He distinguished above those who sit (at home) by a special reward,-

004.096Ranks specially bestowed by Him, and Forgiveness and Mercy. For Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

004.097When angels take the souls of those who die in sin against their souls, they say: “In what (plight) Were ye?” They reply: “Weak and oppressed Were we in the earth.” They say: “Was not the earth of Allah spacious enough for you to move yourselves away (From evil)?” Such men will find their abode in Hell,- What an evil refuge! -

004.098Except those who are (really) weak and oppressed - men, women, and children - who have no means in their power, nor (a guide-post) to their way.

004.099For these, there is hope that Allah will forgive: For Allah doth blot out (sins) and forgive again and again.

004.100He who forsakes his home in the cause of Allah, finds in the earth Many a refuge, wide and spacious: Should he die as a refugee from home for Allah and His Messenger, His reward becomes due and sure with Allah: And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

004.101When ye travel through the earth, there is no blame on you if ye shorten your prayers, for fear the Unbelievers May attack you: For the Unbelievers are unto you open enemies.

004.102When thou (O Messenger) art with them, and standest to lead them in prayer, Let one party of them stand up (in prayer) with thee, taking their arms with them: When they finish their prostrations, let them take their position in the rear. And let the other party come up which hath not yet prayed - and let them pray with thee, taking all precaution, and bearing arms: the Unbelievers wish, if ye were negligent of your arms and your baggage, to assault you in a single rush. But there is no blame on you if ye put away your arms because of the inconvenience of rain or because ye are ill; but take (every) precaution for yourselves. For the Unbelievers Allah hath prepared a humiliating punishment.

004.103When ye pass (Congregational) prayers, celebrate Allah’s praises, standing, sitting down, or lying down on your sides; but when ye are free from danger, set up Regular Prayers: For such prayers are enjoined on believers at stated times.

004.104And slacken not in following up the enemy: If ye are suffering hardships, they are suffering similar hardships; but ye have Hope from Allah, while they have none. And Allah is full of knowledge and wisdom.

004.105We have sent down to thee the Book in truth, that thou mightest judge between men, as guided by Allah: so be not (used) as an advocate by those who betray their trust;

004.106But seek the forgiveness of Allah; for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

004.107Contend not on behalf of such as betray their own souls; for Allah loveth not one given to perfidy and crime:

004.108They may hide (Their crimes) from men, but they cannot hide (Them) from Allah, seeing that He is in their midst when they plot by night, in words that He cannot approve: And Allah Doth compass round all that they do.

004.109Ah! These are the sort of men on whose behalf ye may contend in this world; but who will contend with Allah on their behalf on the Day of Judgment, or who will carry their affairs through?

004.110If any one does evil or wrongs his own soul but afterwards seeks Allah’s forgiveness, he will find Allah Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

004.111And if any one earns sin, he earns it against His own soul: for Allah is full of knowledge and wisdom.

004.112But if any one earns a fault or a sin and throws it on to one that is innocent, He carries (on himself) (Both) a falsehood and a flagrant sin.

004.113But for the Grace of Allah to thee and his Mercy, a party of them would certainly have plotted to lead thee astray. But (in fact) they will only Lead their own souls astray, and to thee they can do no harm in the least. For Allah hath sent down to thee the Book and wisdom and taught thee what thou Knewest not (before): And great is the Grace of Allah unto thee.

004.114In most of their secret talks there is no good: But if one exhorts to a deed of charity or justice or conciliation between men, (Secrecy is permissible): To him who does this, seeking the good pleasure of Allah, We shall soon give a reward of the highest (value).

004.115If anyone contends with the Messenger even after guidance has been plainly conveyed to him, and follows a path other than that becoming to men of Faith, We shall leave him in the path he has chosen, and land him in Hell,- what an evil refuge!

004.116Allah forgiveth not (The sin of) joining other gods with Him; but He forgiveth whom He pleaseth other sins than this: one who joins other gods with Allah, Hath strayed far, far away (from the right).

004.117(The Pagans), leaving Him, call but upon female deities: They call but upon Satan the persistent rebel!

004.118Allah did curse him, but he said: “I will take of Thy servants a portion Marked off;”

004.119“I will mislead them, and I will create in them false desires; I will order them to slit the ears of cattle, and to deface the (fair) nature created by Allah.” Whoever, forsaking Allah, takes Satan for a friend, hath of a surety suffered a loss that is manifest.

004.120Satan makes them promises, and creates in them false desires; but Satan’s promises are nothing but deception.

004.121They (his dupes) will have their dwelling in Hell, and from it they will find no way of escape.

004.122But those who believe and do deeds of righteousness,- we shall soon admit them to gardens, with rivers flowing beneath,-to dwell therein for ever. Allah’s promise is the truth, and whose word can be truer than Allah’s?

004.123Not your desires, nor those of the People of the Book (can prevail): whoever works evil, will be requited accordingly. Nor will he find, besides Allah, any protector or helper.

004.124If any do deeds of righteousness,- be they male or female - and have faith, they will enter Heaven, and not the least injustice will be done to them.

004.125Who can be better in religion than one who submits his whole self to Allah, does good, and follows the way of Abraham the true in Faith? For Allah did take Abraham for a friend.

004.126But to Allah belong all things in the heavens and on earth: And He it is that Encompasseth all things.

004.127They ask thy instruction concerning the women say: Allah doth instruct you about them: And (remember) what hath been rehearsed unto you in the Book, concerning the orphans of women to whom ye give not the portions prescribed, and yet whom ye desire to marry, as also concerning the children who are weak and oppressed: that ye stand firm for justice to orphans. There is not a good deed which ye do, but Allah is well-acquainted therewith.

004.128If a wife fears cruelty or desertion on her husband’s part, there is no blame on them if they arrange an amicable settlement between themselves; and such settlement is best; even though men’s souls are swayed by greed. But if ye do good and practise self-restraint, Allah is well-acquainted with all that ye do.

004.129Ye are never able to be fair and just as between women, even if it is your ardent desire: But turn not away (from a woman) altogether, so as to leave her (as it were) hanging (in the air). If ye come to a friendly understanding, and practise self-restraint, Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

004.130But if they disagree (and must part), Allah will provide abundance for all from His all-reaching bounty: for Allah is He that careth for all and is Wise.

004.131To Allah belong all things in the heavens and on earth. Verily we have directed the People of the Book before you, and you (O Muslims) to fear Allah. But if ye deny Him, lo! unto Allah belong all things in the heavens and on earth, and Allah is free of all wants, worthy of all praise.

004.132Yea, unto Allah belong all things in the heavens and on earth, and enough is Allah to carry through all affairs.

004.133If it were His will, He could destroy you, O mankind, and create another race; for He hath power this to do.

004.134If any one desires a reward in this life, in Allah’s (gift) is the reward (both) of this life and of the hereafter: for Allah is He that heareth and seeth (all things).

004.135O ye who believe! stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah, even as against yourselves, or your parents, or your kin, and whether it be (against) rich or poor: for Allah can best protect both. Follow not the lusts (of your hearts), lest ye swerve, and if ye distort (justice) or decline to do justice, verily Allah is well-acquainted with all that ye do.

004.136O ye who believe! Believe in Allah and His Messenger, and the scripture which He hath sent to His Messenger and the scripture which He sent to those before (him). Any who denieth Allah, His angels, His Books, His Messengers, and the Day of Judgment, hath gone far, far astray.

004.137Those who believe, then reject faith, then believe (again) and (again) reject faith, and go on increasing in unbelief,- Allah will not forgive them nor guide them nor guide them on the way.

004.138To the Hypocrites give the glad tidings that there is for them (but) a grievous penalty;-

004.139Yea, to those who take for friends unbelievers rather than believers: is it honour they seek among them? Nay,- all honour is with Allah.

004.140Already has He sent you Word in the Book, that when ye hear the signs of Allah held in defiance and ridicule, ye are not to sit with them unless they turn to a different theme: if ye did, ye would be like them. For Allah will collect the hypocrites and those who defy faith - all in Hell:-

004.141(These are) the ones who wait and watch about you: if ye do gain a victory from Allah, they say: “Were we not with you?”- but if the unbelievers gain a success, they say (to them): “Did we not gain an advantage over you, and did we not guard you from the believers?” but Allah will judge betwixt you on the Day of Judgment. And never will Allah grant to the unbelievers a way (to triumphs) over the believers.

004.142The Hypocrites - they think they are over-reaching Allah, but He will over-reach them: When they stand up to prayer, they stand without earnestness, to be seen of men, but little do they hold Allah in remembrance;

004.143(They are) distracted in mind even in the midst of it,- being (sincerely) for neither one group nor for another whom Allah leaves straying,- never wilt thou find for him the way.

004.144O ye who believe! Take not for friends unbelievers rather than believers: Do ye wish to offer Allah an open proof against yourselves?

004.145The Hypocrites will be in the lowest depths of the Fire: no helper wilt thou find for them;-

004.146Except for those who repent, mend (their lives) hold fast to Allah, and purify their religion as in Allah’s sight: if so they will be (numbered) with the believers. And soon will Allah grant to the believers a reward of immense value.

004.147What can Allah gain by your punishment, if ye are grateful and ye believe? Nay, it is Allah that recogniseth (all good), and knoweth all things.

004.148Allah loveth not that evil should be noised abroad in public speech, except where injustice hath been done; for Allah is He who heareth and knoweth all things.

004.149Whether ye publish a good deed or conceal it or cover evil with pardon, verily Allah doth blot out (sins) and hath power (in the judgment of values).

004.150Those who deny Allah and His messengers, and (those who) wish to separate Allah from His messengers, saying: “We believe in some but reject others”: And (those who) wish to take a course midway,-

004.151They are in truth (equally) unbelievers; and we have prepared for unbelievers a humiliating punishment.

004.152To those who believe in Allah and His messengers and make no distinction between any of the messengers, we shall soon give their (due) rewards: for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

004.153The people of the Book ask thee to cause a book to descend to them from heaven: Indeed they asked Moses for an even greater (miracle), for they said: “Show us Allah in public,” but they were dazed for their presumption, with thunder and lightning. Yet they worshipped the calf even after clear signs had come to them; even so we forgave them; and gave Moses manifest proofs of authority.

004.154And for their covenant we raised over them (the towering height) of Mount (Sinai); and (on another occasion) we said: “Enter the gate with humility”; and (once again) we commanded them: “Transgress not in the matter of the Sabbath.” And we took from them a solemn covenant.

004.155(They have incurred divine displeasure): In that they broke their covenant; that they rejected the signs of Allah; that they slew the Messengers in defiance of right; that they said, “Our hearts are the wrappings (which preserve Allah’s Word; We need no more)”;- Nay, Allah hath set the seal on their hearts for their blasphemy, and little is it they believe;-

004.156That they rejected Faith; that they uttered against Mary a grave false charge;

004.157That they said (in boast), “We killed Christ Jesus the son of Mary, the Messenger of Allah”;- but they killed him not, nor crucified him, but so it was made to appear to them, and those who differ therein are full of doubts, with no (certain) knowledge, but only conjecture to follow, for of a surety they killed him not:-

004.158Nay, Allah raised him up unto Himself; and Allah is Exalted in Power, Wise;-

004.159And there is none of the People of the Book but must believe in him before his death; and on the Day of Judgment he will be a witness against them;-

004.160For the iniquity of the Jews We made unlawful for them certain (foods) good and wholesome which had been lawful for them;- in that they hindered many from Allah’s Way;-

004.161That they took usury, though they were forbidden; and that they devoured men’s substance wrongfully;- we have prepared for those among them who reject faith a grievous punishment.

004.162But those among them who are well-grounded in knowledge, and the believers, believe in what hath been revealed to thee and what was revealed before thee: And (especially) those who establish regular prayer and practise regular charity and believe in Allah and in the Last Day: To them shall We soon give a great reward.

004.163We have sent thee inspiration, as We sent it to Noah and the Messengers after him: we sent inspiration to Abraham, Isma’il, Isaac, Jacob and the Tribes, to Jesus, Job, Jonah, Aaron, and Solomon, and to David We gave the Psalms.

004.164Of some messengers We have already told thee the story; of others We have not;- and to Moses Allah spoke direct;-

004.165Messengers who gave good news as well as warning, that mankind, after (the coming) of the messengers, should have no plea against Allah: For Allah is Exalted in Power, Wise.

004.166But Allah beareth witness that what He hath sent unto thee He hath sent from His (own) knowledge, and the angels bear witness: But enough is Allah for a witness.

004.167Those who reject Faith and keep off (men) from the way of Allah, have verily strayed far, far away from the Path.

004.168Those who reject Faith and do wrong,- Allah will not forgive them nor guide them to any way-

004.169Except the way of Hell, to dwell therein for ever. And this to Allah is easy.

004.170O Mankind! The Messenger hath come to you in truth from Allah: believe in him: It is best for you. But if ye reject Faith, to Allah belong all things in the heavens and on earth: And Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise.

004.171O People of the Book! Commit no excesses in your religion: Nor say of Allah aught but the truth. Christ Jesus the son of Mary was (no more than) a messenger of Allah, and His Word, which He bestowed on Mary, and a spirit proceeding from Him: so believe in Allah and His messengers. Say not “Trinity”: desist: it will be better for you: for Allah is one Allah: Glory be to Him: (far Exalted is He) above having a son. To Him belong all things in the heavens and on earth. And enough is Allah as a Disposer of affairs.

004.172Christ disdaineth nor to serve and worship Allah, nor do the angels, those nearest (to Allah): those who disdain His worship and are arrogant,-He will gather them all together unto Himself to (answer).

004.173But to those who believe and do deeds of righteousness, He will give their (due) rewards,- and more, out of His bounty: But those who are disdainful and arrogant, He will punish with a grievous penalty; Nor will they find, besides Allah, any to protect or help them.

004.174O mankind! verily there hath come to you a convincing proof from your Lord: For We have sent unto you a light (that is) manifest.

004.175Then those who believe in Allah, and hold fast to Him,- soon will He admit them to mercy and grace from Himself, and guide them to Himself by a straight way.

004.176They ask thee for a legal decision. Say: Allah directs (thus) about those who leave no descendants or ascendants as heirs. If it is a man that dies, leaving a sister but no child, she shall have half the inheritance: If (such a deceased was) a woman, who left no child, Her brother takes her inheritance: If there are two sisters, they shall have two-thirds of the inheritance (between them): if there are brothers and sisters, (they share), the male having twice the share of the female. Thus doth Allah make clear to you (His law), lest ye err. And Allah hath knowledge of all things.

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

005.001O ye who believe! fulfil (all) obligations. Lawful unto you (for food) are all four-footed animals, with the exceptions named: But animals of the chase are forbidden while ye are in the sacred precincts or in pilgrim garb: for Allah doth command according to His will and plan.

005.002O ye who believe! Violate not the sanctity of the symbols of Allah, nor of the sacred month, nor of the animals brought for sacrifice, nor the garlands that mark out such animals, nor the people resorting to the sacred house, seeking of the bounty and good pleasure of their Lord. But when ye are clear of the sacred precincts and of pilgrim garb, ye may hunt and let not the hatred of some people in (once) shutting you out of the Sacred Mosque lead you to transgression (and hostility on your part). Help ye one another in righteousness and piety, but help ye not one another in sin and rancour: fear Allah: for Allah is strict in punishment.

005.003Forbidden to you (for food) are: dead meat, blood, the flesh of swine, and that on which hath been invoked the name of other than Allah; that which hath been killed by strangling, or by a violent blow, or by a headlong fall, or by being gored to death; that which hath been (partly) eaten by a wild animal; unless ye are able to slaughter it (in due form); that which is sacrificed on stone (altars); (forbidden) also is the division (of meat) by raffling with arrows: that is impiety. This day have those who reject faith given up all hope of your religion: yet fear them not but fear Me. This day have I perfected your religion for you, completed My favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion. But if any is forced by hunger, with no inclination to transgression, Allah is indeed Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

005.004They ask thee what is lawful to them (as food). Say: lawful unto you are (all) things good and pure: and what ye have taught your trained hunting animals (to catch) in the manner directed to you by Allah: eat what they catch for you, but pronounce the name of Allah over it: and fear Allah; for Allah is swift in taking account.

005.005This day are (all) things good and pure made lawful unto you. The food of the People of the Book is lawful unto you and yours is lawful unto them. (Lawful unto you in marriage) are (not only) chaste women who are believers, but chaste women among the People of the Book, revealed before your time,- when ye give them their due dowers, and desire chastity, not lewdness, nor secret intrigues if any one rejects faith, fruitless is his work, and in the Hereafter he will be in the ranks of those who have lost (all spiritual good).

005.006O ye who believe! when ye prepare for prayer, wash your faces, and your hands (and arms) to the elbows; Rub your heads (with water); and (wash) your feet to the ankles. If ye are in a state of ceremonial impurity, bathe your whole body. But if ye are ill, or on a journey, or one of you cometh from offices of nature, or ye have been in contact with women, and ye find no water, then take for yourselves clean sand or earth, and rub therewith your faces and hands, Allah doth not wish to place you in a difficulty, but to make you clean, and to complete his favour to you, that ye may be grateful.

005.007And call in remembrance the favour of Allah unto you, and His covenant, which He ratified with you, when ye said: “We hear and we obey”: And fear Allah, for Allah knoweth well the secrets of your hearts.

005.008O ye who believe! stand out firmly for Allah, as witnesses to fair dealing, and let not the hatred of others to you make you swerve to wrong and depart from justice. Be just: that is next to piety: and fear Allah. For Allah is well-acquainted with all that ye do.

005.009To those who believe and do deeds of righteousness hath Allah promised forgiveness and a great reward.

005.010Those who reject faith and deny our signs will be companions of Hell-fire.

005.011O ye who believe! Call in remembrance the favour of Allah unto you when certain men formed the design to stretch out their hands against you, but (Allah) held back their hands from you: so fear Allah. And on Allah let believers put (all) their trust.

005.012Allah did aforetime take a covenant from the Children of Israel, and we appointed twelve captains among them. And Allah said: “I am with you: if ye (but) establish regular prayers, practise regular charity, believe in my messengers, honour and assist them, and loan to Allah a beautiful loan, verily I will wipe out from you your evils, and admit you to gardens with rivers flowing beneath; but if any of you, after this, resisteth faith, he hath truly wandered from the path or rectitude.”

005.013But because of their breach of their covenant, We cursed them, and made their hearts grow hard; they change the words from their (right) places and forget a good part of the message that was sent them, nor wilt thou cease to find them- barring a few - ever bent on (new) deceits: but forgive them, and overlook (their misdeeds): for Allah loveth those who are kind.

005.014From those, too, who call themselves Christians, We did take a covenant, but they forgot a good part of the message that was sent them: so we estranged them, with enmity and hatred between the one and the other, to the Day of Judgment. And soon will Allah show them what it is they have done.

005.015O people of the Book! There hath come to you our Messenger, revealing to you much that ye used to hide in the Book, and passing over much (that is now unnecessary): There hath come to you from Allah a (new) light and a perspicuous Book, -

005.016Wherewith Allah guideth all who seek His good pleasure to ways of peace and safety, and leadeth them out of darkness, by His will, unto the light,- guideth them to a path that is straight.

005.017In blasphemy indeed are those that say that Allah is Christ the son of Mary. Say: “Who then hath the least power against Allah, if His will were to destroy Christ the son of Mary, his mother, and all every - one that is on the earth? For to Allah belongeth the dominion of the heavens and the earth, and all that is between. He createth what He pleaseth. For Allah hath power over all things.”

005.018(Both) the Jews and the Christians say: “We are sons of Allah, and his beloved.” Say: “Why then doth He punish you for your sins? Nay, ye are but men,- of the men he hath created: He forgiveth whom He pleaseth, and He punisheth whom He pleaseth: and to Allah belongeth the dominion of the heavens and the earth, and all that is between: and unto Him is the final goal (of all)”

005.019O People of the Book! Now hath come unto you, making (things) clear unto you, Our Messenger, after the break in (the series of) our messengers, lest ye should say: “There came unto us no bringer of glad tidings and no warner (from evil)”: But now hath come unto you a bringer of glad tidings and a warner (from evil). And Allah hath power over all things.

005.020Remember Moses said to his people: “O my people! Call in remembrance the favour of Allah unto you, when He produced prophets among you, made you kings, and gave you what He had not given to any other among the peoples.”

005.021“O my people! Enter the holy land which Allah hath assigned unto you, and turn not back ignominiously, for then will ye be overthrown, to your own ruin.”

005.022They said: “O Moses! In this land are a people of exceeding strength: Never shall we enter it until they leave it: if (once) they leave, then shall we enter.”

005.023(But) among (their) Allah-fearing men were two on whom Allah had bestowed His grace: They said: “Assault them at the (proper) Gate: when once ye are in, victory will be yours; But on Allah put your trust if ye have faith.”

005.024They said: “O Moses! while they remain there, never shall we be able to enter, to the end of time. Go thou, and thy Lord, and fight ye two, while we sit here (and watch).”

005.025He said: “O my Lord! I have power only over myself and my brother: so separate us from this rebellious people!”

005.026Allah said: “Therefore will the land be out of their reach for forty years: In distraction will they wander through the land: But sorrow thou not over these rebellious people.”

005.027Recite to them the truth of the story of the two sons of Adam. Behold! they each presented a sacrifice (to Allah): It was accepted from one, but not from the other. Said the latter: “Be sure I will slay thee.” “Surely,” said the former, “Allah doth accept of the sacrifice of those who are righteous.”

005.028“If thou dost stretch thy hand against me, to slay me, it is not for me to stretch my hand against thee to slay thee: for I do fear Allah, the cherisher of the worlds.”

005.029“For me, I intend to let thee draw on thyself my sin as well as thine, for thou wilt be among the companions of the fire, and that is the reward of those who do wrong.”

005.030The (selfish) soul of the other led him to the murder of his brother: he murdered him, and became (himself) one of the lost ones.

005.031Then Allah sent a raven, who scratched the ground, to show him how to hide the shame of his brother. “Woe is me!” said he; “Was I not even able to be as this raven, and to hide the shame of my brother?” then he became full of regrets-

005.032On that account: We ordained for the Children of Israel that if any one slew a person - unless it be for murder or for spreading mischief in the land - it would be as if he slew the whole people: and if any one saved a life, it would be as if he saved the life of the whole people. Then although there came to them Our messengers with clear signs, yet, even after that, many of them continued to commit excesses in the land.

005.033The punishment of those who wage war against Allah and His Messenger, and strive with might and main for mischief through the land is: execution, or crucifixion, or the cutting off of hands and feet from opposite sides, or exile from the land: that is their disgrace in this world, and a heavy punishment is theirs in the Hereafter;

005.034Except for those who repent before they fall into your power: in that case, know that Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

005.035O ye who believe! Do your duty to Allah, seek the means of approach unto Him, and strive with might and main in his cause: that ye may prosper.

005.036As to those who reject Faith,- if they had everything on earth, and twice repeated, to give as ransom for the penalty of the Day of Judgment, it would never be accepted of them, theirs would be a grievous penalty.

005.037Their wish will be to get out of the Fire, but never will they get out therefrom: their penalty will be one that endures.

005.038As to the thief, Male or female, cut off his or her hands: a punishment by way of example, from Allah, for their crime: and Allah is Exalted in power.

005.039But if the thief repents after his crime, and amends his conduct, Allah turneth to him in forgiveness; for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

005.040Knowest thou not that to Allah (alone) belongeth the dominion of the heavens and the earth? He punisheth whom He pleaseth, and He forgiveth whom He pleaseth: and Allah hath power over all things.

005.041O Messenger! let not those grieve thee, who race each other into unbelief: (whether it be) among those who say “We believe” with their lips but whose hearts have no faith; or it be among the Jews,- men who will listen to any lie,- will listen even to others who have never so much as come to thee. They change the words from their (right) times and places: they say, “If ye are given this, take it, but if not, beware!” If any one’s trial is intended by Allah, thou hast no authority in the least for him against Allah. For such - it is not Allah’s will to purify their hearts. For them there is disgrace in this world, and in the Hereafter a heavy punishment.

005.042(They are fond of) listening to falsehood, of devouring anything forbidden. If they do come to thee, either judge between them, or decline to interfere. If thou decline, they cannot hurt thee in the least. If thou judge, judge in equity between them. For Allah loveth those who judge in equity.

005.043But why do they come to thee for decision, when they have (their own) law before them?- therein is the (plain) command of Allah; yet even after that, they would turn away. For they are not (really) People of Faith.

005.044It was We who revealed the law (to Moses): therein was guidance and light. By its standard have been judged the Jews, by the prophets who bowed (as in Islam) to Allah’s will, by the rabbis and the doctors of law: for to them was entrusted the protection of Allah’s book, and they were witnesses thereto: therefore fear not men, but fear me, and sell not my signs for a miserable price. If any do fail to judge by (the light of) what Allah hath revealed, they are (no better than) Unbelievers.

005.045We ordained therein for them: “Life for life, eye for eye, nose or nose, ear for ear, tooth for tooth, and wounds equal for equal.” But if any one remits the retaliation by way of charity, it is an act of atonement for himself. And if any fail to judge by (the light of) what Allah hath revealed, they are (No better than) wrong-doers.

005.046And in their footsteps We sent Jesus the son of Mary, confirming the Law that had come before him: We sent him the Gospel: therein was guidance and light, and confirmation of the Law that had come before him: a guidance and an admonition to those who fear Allah.

005.047Let the people of the Gospel judge by what Allah hath revealed therein. If any do fail to judge by (the light of) what Allah hath revealed, they are (no better than) those who rebel.

005.048To thee We sent the Scripture in truth, confirming the scripture that came before it, and guarding it in safety: so judge between them by what Allah hath revealed, and follow not their vain desires, diverging from the Truth that hath come to thee. To each among you have we prescribed a law and an open way. If Allah had so willed, He would have made you a single people, but (His plan is) to test you in what He hath given you: so strive as in a race in all virtues. The goal of you all is to Allah; it is He that will show you the truth of the matters in which ye dispute;

005.049And this (He commands): Judge thou between them by what Allah hath revealed, and follow not their vain desires, but beware of them lest they beguile thee from any of that (teaching) which Allah hath sent down to thee. And if they turn away, be assured that for some of their crime it is Allah’s purpose to punish them. And truly most men are rebellious.

005.050Do they then seek after a judgment of (the days of) ignorance? But who, for a people whose faith is assured, can give better judgment than Allah?

005.051O ye who believe! take not the Jews and the Christians for your friends and protectors: They are but friends and protectors to each other. And he amongst you that turns to them (for friendship) is of them. Verily Allah guideth not a people unjust.

005.052Those in whose hearts is a disease - thou seest how eagerly they run about amongst them, saying: “We do fear lest a change of fortune bring us disaster.” Ah! perhaps Allah will give (thee) victory, or a decision according to His will. Then will they repent of the thoughts which they secretly harboured in their hearts.

005.053And those who believe will say: “Are these the men who swore their strongest oaths by Allah, that they were with you?” All that they do will be in vain, and they will fall into (nothing but) ruin.

005.054O ye who believe! if any from among you turn back from his Faith, soon will Allah produce a people whom He will love as they will love Him,- lowly with the believers, mighty against the rejecters, fighting in the way of Allah, and never afraid of the reproaches of such as find fault. That is the grace of Allah, which He will bestow on whom He pleaseth. And Allah encompasseth all, and He knoweth all things.

005.055Your (real) friends are (no less than) Allah, His Messenger, and the (fellowship of) believers,- those who establish regular prayers and regular charity, and they bow down humbly (in worship).

005.056As to those who turn (for friendship) to Allah, His Messenger, and the (fellowship of) believers,- it is the fellowship of Allah that must certainly triumph.

005.057O ye who believe! take not for friends and protectors those who take your religion for a mockery or sport,- whether among those who received the Scripture before you, or among those who reject Faith; but fear ye Allah, if ye have faith (indeed).

005.058When ye proclaim your call to prayer they take it (but) as mockery and sport; that is because they are a people without understanding.

005.059Say: “O people of the Book! Do ye disapprove of us for no other reason than that we believe in Allah, and the revelation that hath come to us and that which came before (us), and (perhaps) that most of you are rebellious and disobedient?”

005.060Say: “Shall I point out to you something much worse than this, (as judged) by the treatment it received from Allah? those who incurred the curse of Allah and His wrath, those of whom some He transformed into apes and swine, those who worshipped evil;- these are (many times) worse in rank, and far more astray from the even path!”

005.061When they come to thee, they say: “We believe”: but in fact they enter with a mind against Faith, and they go out with the same but Allah knoweth fully all that they hide.

005.062Many of them dost thou see, racing each other in sin and rancour, and their eating of things forbidden. Evil indeed are the things that they do.

005.063Why do not the rabbis and the doctors of Law forbid them from their (habit of) uttering sinful words and eating things forbidden? Evil indeed are their works.

005.064The Jews say: “Allah’s hand is tied up.” Be their hands tied up and be they accursed for the (blasphemy) they utter. Nay, both His hands are widely outstretched: He giveth and spendeth (of His bounty) as He pleaseth. But the revelation that cometh to thee from Allah increaseth in most of them their obstinate rebellion and blasphemy. Amongst them we have placed enmity and hatred till the Day of Judgment. Every time they kindle the fire of war, Allah doth extinguish it; but they (ever) strive to do mischief on earth. And Allah loveth not those who do mischief.

005.065If only the People of the Book had believed and been righteous, We should indeed have blotted out their iniquities and admitted them to gardens of bliss.

005.066If only they had stood fast by the Law, the Gospel, and all the revelation that was sent to them from their Lord, they would have enjoyed happiness from every side. There is from among them a party on the right course: but many of them follow a course that is evil.

005.067O Messenger! proclaim the (message) which hath been sent to thee from thy Lord. If thou didst not, thou wouldst not have fulfilled and proclaimed His mission. And Allah will defend thee from men (who mean mischief). For Allah guideth not those who reject Faith.

005.068Say: “O People of the Book! ye have no ground to stand upon unless ye stand fast by the Law, the Gospel, and all the revelation that has come to you from your Lord.” It is the revelation that cometh to thee from thy Lord, that increaseth in most of them their obstinate rebellion and blasphemy. But sorrow thou not over (these) people without Faith.

005.069Those who believe (in the Qur’an), those who follow the Jewish (scriptures), and the Sabians and the Christians,- any who believe in Allah and the Last Day, and work righteousness,- on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.

005.070We took the covenant of the Children of Israel and sent them messengers, every time, there came to them a messenger with what they themselves desired not - some (of these) they called impostors, and some they (go so far as to) slay.

005.071They thought there would be no trial (or punishment); so they became blind and deaf; yet Allah (in mercy) turned to them; yet again many of them became blind and deaf. But Allah sees well all that they do.

005.072They do blaspheme who say: “Allah is Christ the son of Mary.” But said Christ: “O Children of Israel! worship Allah, my Lord and your Lord.” Whoever joins other gods with Allah,- Allah will forbid him the garden, and the Fire will be his abode. There will for the wrong-doers be no one to help.

005.073They do blaspheme who say: Allah is one of three in a Trinity: for there is no god except One Allah. If they desist not from their word (of blasphemy), verily a grievous penalty will befall the blasphemers among them.

005.074Why turn they not to Allah, and seek His forgiveness? For Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

005.075Christ the son of Mary was no more than a messenger; many were the messengers that passed away before him. His mother was a woman of truth. They had both to eat their (daily) food. See how Allah doth make His signs clear to them; yet see in what ways they are deluded away from the truth!

005.076Say: “Will ye worship, besides Allah, something which hath no power either to harm or benefit you? But Allah,- He it is that heareth and knoweth all things.”

005.077Say: “O people of the Book! exceed not in your religion the bounds (of what is proper), trespassing beyond the truth, nor follow the vain desires of people who went wrong in times gone by,- who misled many, and strayed (themselves) from the even way.”

005.078Curses were pronounced on those among the Children of Israel who rejected Faith, by the tongue of David and of Jesus the son of Mary: because they disobeyed and persisted in excesses.

005.079Nor did they (usually) forbid one another the iniquities which they committed: evil indeed were the deeds which they did.

005.080Thou seest many of them turning in friendship to the Unbelievers. Evil indeed are (the works) which their souls have sent forward before them (with the result), that Allah’s wrath is on them, and in torment will they abide.

005.081If only they had believed in Allah, in the Prophet, and in what hath been revealed to him, never would they have taken them for friends and protectors, but most of them are rebellious wrong-doers.

005.082Strongest among men in enmity to the believers wilt thou find the Jews and Pagans; and nearest among them in love to the believers wilt thou find those who say, “We are Christians”: because amongst these are men devoted to learning and men who have renounced the world, and they are not arrogant.

005.083And when they listen to the revelation received by the Messenger, thou wilt see their eyes overflowing with tears, for they recognise the truth: they pray: “Our Lord! we believe; write us down among the witnesses.”

005.084“What cause can we have not to believe in Allah and the truth which has come to us, seeing that we long for our Lord to admit us to the company of the righteous?”

005.085And for this their prayer hath Allah rewarded them with gardens, with rivers flowing underneath,- their eternal home. Such is the recompense of those who do good.

005.086But those who reject Faith and belie our Signs,- they shall be companions of Hell-fire.

005.087O ye who believe! make not unlawful the good things which Allah hath made lawful for you, but commit no excess: for Allah loveth not those given to excess.

005.088Eat of the things which Allah hath provided for you, lawful and good; but fear Allah, in Whom ye believe.

005.089Allah will not call you to account for what is futile in your oaths, but He will call you to account for your deliberate oaths: for expiation, feed ten indigent persons, on a scale of the average for the food of your families; or clothe them; or give a slave his freedom. If that is beyond your means, fast for three days. That is the expiation for the oaths ye have sworn. But keep to your oaths. Thus doth Allah make clear to you His signs, that ye may be grateful.

005.090O ye who believe! Intoxicants and gambling, (dedication of) stones, and (divination by) arrows, are an abomination,- of Satan’s handwork: eschew such (abomination), that ye may prosper.

005.091Satan’s plan is (but) to excite enmity and hatred between you, with intoxicants and gambling, and hinder you from the remembrance of Allah, and from prayer: will ye not then abstain?

005.092Obey Allah, and obey the Messenger, and beware (of evil): if ye do turn back, know ye that it is Our Messenger’s duty to proclaim (the message) in the clearest manner.

005.093On those who believe and do deeds of righteousness there is no blame for what they ate (in the past), when they guard themselves from evil, and believe, and do deeds of righteousness,- (or) again, guard themselves from evil and believe,- (or) again, guard themselves from evil and do good. For Allah loveth those who do good.

005.094O ye who believe! Allah doth but make a trial of you in a little matter of game well within reach of your hands and your lances, that He may test who feareth him unseen: any who transgress thereafter, will have a grievous penalty.

005.095O ye who believe! Kill not game while in the sacred precincts or in pilgrim garb. If any of you doth so intentionally, the compensation is an offering, brought to the Ka’ba, of a domestic animal equivalent to the one he killed, as adjudged by two just men among you; or by way of atonement, the feeding of the indigent; or its equivalent in fasts: that he may taste of the penalty of his deed. Allah forgives what is past: for repetition Allah will exact from him the penalty. For Allah is Exalted, and Lord of Retribution.

005.096Lawful to you is the pursuit of water-game and its use for food,- for the benefit of yourselves and those who travel; but forbidden is the pursuit of land-game;- as long as ye are in the sacred precincts or in pilgrim garb. And fear Allah, to Whom ye shall be gathered back.

005.097Allah made the Ka’ba, the Sacred House, an asylum of security for men, as also the Sacred Months, the animals for offerings, and the garlands that mark them: That ye may know that Allah hath knowledge of what is in the heavens and on earth and that Allah is well acquainted with all things.

005.098Know ye that Allah is strict in punishment and that Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

005.099The Messenger’s duty is but to proclaim (the message). But Allah knoweth all that ye reveal and ye conceal.

005.100Say: “Not equal are things that are bad and things that are good, even though the abundance of the bad may dazzle thee; so fear Allah, O ye that understand; that (so) ye may prosper.”

005.101O ye who believe! Ask not questions about things which, if made plain to you, may cause you trouble. But if ye ask about things when the Qur’an is being revealed, they will be made plain to you, Allah will forgive those: for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Forbearing.

005.102Some people before you did ask such questions, and on that account lost their faith.

005.103It was not Allah who instituted (superstitions like those of) a slit-ear she-camel, or a she-camel let loose for free pasture, or idol sacrifices for twin-births in animals, or stallion-camels freed from work: It is blasphemers who invent a lie against Allah; but most of them lack wisdom.

005.104When it is said to them: “Come to what Allah hath revealed; come to the Messenger”: They say: “Enough for us are the ways we found our fathers following.” what! even though their fathers were void of knowledge and guidance?

005.105O ye who believe! Guard your own souls: If ye follow (right) guidance, no hurt can come to you from those who stray. To goal of you all is to Allah: it is He that will show you the truth of all that ye do.

005.106O ye who believe! When death approaches any of you, (take) witnesses among yourselves when making bequests,- two just men of your own (brotherhood) or others from outside if ye are journeying through the earth, and the chance of death befalls you (thus). If ye doubt (their truth), detain them both after prayer, and let them both swear by Allah: “We wish not in this for any worldly gain, even though the (beneficiary) be our near relation: we shall hide not the evidence before Allah: if we do, then behold! the sin be upon us!”

005.107But if it gets known that these two were guilty of the sin (of perjury), let two others stand forth in their places,- nearest in kin from among those who claim a lawful right: let them swear by Allah: “We affirm that our witness is truer than that of those two, and that we have not trespassed (beyond the truth): if we did, behold! the wrong be upon us!”

005.108That is most suitable: that they may give the evidence in its true nature and shape, or else they would fear that other oaths would be taken after their oaths. But fear Allah, and listen (to His counsel): for Allah guideth not a rebellious people:

005.109One day will Allah gather the messengers together, and ask: “What was the response ye received (from men to your teaching)?” They will say: “We have no knowledge: it is Thou Who knowest in full all that is hidden.”

005.110Then will Allah say: “O Jesus the son of Mary! Recount My favour to thee and to thy mother. Behold! I strengthened thee with the holy spirit, so that thou didst speak to the people in childhood and in maturity. Behold! I taught thee the Book and Wisdom, the Law and the Gospel and behold! thou makest out of clay, as it were, the figure of a bird, by My leave, and thou breathest into it and it becometh a bird by My leave, and thou healest those born blind, and the lepers, by My leave. And behold! thou bringest forth the dead by My leave. And behold! I did restrain the Children of Israel from (violence to) thee when thou didst show them the clear Signs, and the unbelievers among them said: ‘This is nothing but evident magic.’”

005.111“And behold! I inspired the disciples to have faith in Me and Mine Messenger: they said, ‘We have faith, and do thou bear witness that we bow to Allah as Muslims’”.

005.112Behold! the disciples, said: “O Jesus the son of Mary! can thy Lord send down to us a table set (with viands) from heaven?” Said Jesus: “Fear Allah, if ye have faith.”

005.113They said: “We only wish to eat thereof and satisfy our hearts, and to know that thou hast indeed told us the truth; and that we ourselves may be witnesses to the miracle.”

005.114Said Jesus the son of Mary: “O Allah our Lord! Send us from heaven a table set (with viands), that there may be for us - for the first and the last of us - a solemn festival and a sign from thee; and provide for our sustenance, for thou art the best Sustainer (of our needs).”

005.115Allah said: “I will send it down unto you: But if any of you after that resisteth faith, I will punish him with a penalty such as I have not inflicted on any one among all the peoples.”

005.116And behold! Allah will say: “O Jesus the son of Mary! Didst thou say unto men, worship me and my mother as gods in derogation of Allah’?” He will say: “Glory to Thee! never could I say what I had no right (to say). Had I said such a thing, thou wouldst indeed have known it. Thou knowest what is in my heart, Thou I know not what is in Thine. For Thou knowest in full all that is hidden.”

005.117“Never said I to them aught except what Thou didst command me to say, to wit, ‘worship Allah, my Lord and your Lord’; and I was a witness over them whilst I dwelt amongst them; when Thou didst take me up Thou wast the Watcher over them, and Thou art a witness to all things.”

005.118“If Thou dost punish them, they are Thy servant: If Thou dost forgive them, Thou art the Exalted in power, the Wise.”

005.119Allah will say: “This is a day on which the truthful will profit from their truth: theirs are gardens, with rivers flowing beneath,- their eternal Home: Allah well-pleased with them, and they with Allah: That is the great salvation, (the fulfilment of all desires).”

005.120To Allah doth belong the dominion of the heavens and the earth, and all that is therein, and it is He Who hath power over all things.

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

006.001Praise be Allah, Who created the heavens and the earth, and made the darkness and the light. Yet those who reject Faith hold (others) as equal, with their Guardian-Lord.

006.002He it is created you from clay, and then decreed a stated term (for you). And there is in His presence another determined term; yet ye doubt within yourselves!

006.003And He is Allah in the heavens and on earth. He knoweth what ye hide, and what ye reveal, and He knoweth the (recompense) which ye earn (by your deeds).

006.004But never did a single one of the signs of their Lord reach them, but they turned away therefrom.

006.005And now they reject the truth when it reaches them: but soon shall they learn the reality of what they used to mock at.

006.006See they not how many of those before them We did destroy?- generations We had established on the earth, in strength such as We have not given to you - for whom We poured out rain from the skies in abundance, and gave (fertile) streams flowing beneath their (feet): yet for their sins We destroyed them, and raised in their wake fresh generations (to succeed them).

006.007If We had sent unto thee a written (message) on parchment, so that they could touch it with their hands, the Unbelievers would have been sure to say: “This is nothing but obvious magic!”

006.008They say: “Why is not an angel sent down to him?” If we did send down an angel, the matter would be settled at once, and no respite would be granted them.

006.009If We had made it an angel, We should have sent him as a man, and We should certainly have caused them confusion in a matter which they have already covered with confusion.

006.010Mocked were (many) messengers before thee; but their scoffers were hemmed in by the thing that they mocked.

006.011Say: “Travel through the earth and see what was the end of those who rejected Truth.”

006.012Say: “To whom belongeth all that is in the heavens and on earth?” Say: “To Allah. He hath inscribed for Himself (the rule of) Mercy. That He will gather you together for the Day of Judgment, there is no doubt whatever. It is they who have lost their own souls, that will not believe.”

006.013“To him belongeth all that dwelleth (or lurketh) in the night and the day. For he is the one who heareth and knoweth all things.”

006.014Say: “Shall I take for my protector any other than Allah, the Maker of the heavens and the earth? And He it is that feedeth but is not fed.” Say: “Nay! but I am commanded to be the first of those who bow to Allah (in Islam), and be not thou of the company of those who join gods with Allah.”

006.015Say: “I would, if I disobeyed my Lord, indeed have fear of the penalty of a Mighty Day.”

006.016“On that day, if the penalty is averted from any, it is due to Allah’s mercy; And that would be (Salvation), the obvious fulfilment of all desire.”

006.017“If Allah touch thee with affliction, none can remove it but He; if He touch thee with happiness, He hath power over all things.”

006.018“He is the irresistible, (watching) from above over His worshippers; and He is the Wise, acquainted with all things.”

006.019Say: “What thing is most weighty in evidence?” Say: “Allah is witness between me and you; This Qur’an hath been revealed to me by inspiration, that I may warn you and all whom it reaches. Can ye possibly bear witness that besides Allah there is another Allah?” Say: “Nay! I cannot bear witness!” Say: “But in truth He is the one Allah, and I truly am innocent of (your blasphemy of) joining others with Him.”

006.020Those to whom We have given the Book know this as they know their own sons. Those who have lost their own souls refuse therefore to believe.

006.021Who doth more wrong than he who inventeth a lie against Allah or rejecteth His signs? But verily the wrong-doers never shall prosper.

006.022One day shall We gather them all together: We shall say to those who ascribed partners (to Us): “Where are the partners whom ye (invented and) talked about?”

006.023There will then be (left) no subterfuge for them but to say: “By Allah our Lord, we were not those who joined gods with Allah.”

006.024Behold! how they lie against their own souls! But the (lie) which they invented will leave them in the lurch.

006.025Of them there are some who (pretend to) listen to thee; but We have thrown veils on their hearts, So they understand it not, and deafness in their ears; if they saw every one of the signs, not they will believe in them; in so much that when they come to thee, they (but) dispute with thee; the Unbelievers say: “These are nothing but tales of the ancients.”

006.026Others they keep away from it, and themselves they keep away; but they only destroy their own souls, and they perceive it not.

006.027If thou couldst but see when they are confronted with the Fire! They will say: “Would that we were but sent back! Then would we not reject the signs of our Lord, but would be amongst those who believe!”

006.028Yea, in their own (eyes) will become manifest what before they concealed. But if they were returned, they would certainly relapse to the things they were forbidden, for they are indeed liars.

006.029And they (sometimes) say: “There is nothing except our life on this earth, and never shall we be raised up again.”

006.030If thou couldst but see when they are confronted with their Lord! He will say: “Is not this the truth?” They will say: “Yea, by our Lord!” He will say: “Taste ye then the penalty, because ye rejected Faith.”

006.031Lost indeed are they who treat it as a falsehood that they must meet Allah,- until on a sudden the hour is on them, and they say: “Ah! woe unto us that we took no thought of it”; for they bear their burdens on their backs, and evil indeed are the burdens that they bear?

006.032What is the life of this world but play and amusement? But best is the home in the hereafter, for those who are righteous. Will ye not then understand?

006.033We know indeed the grief which their words do cause thee: It is not thee they reject: it is the signs of Allah, which the wicked contemn.

006.034Rejected were the messengers before thee: with patience and constancy they bore their rejection and their wrongs, until Our aid did reach them: there is none that can alter the words (and decrees) of Allah. Already hast thou received some account of those messengers.

006.035If their spurning is hard on thy mind, yet if thou wert able to seek a tunnel in the ground or a ladder to the skies and bring them a sign,- (what good?). If it were Allah’s will, He could gather them together unto true guidance: so be not thou amongst those who are swayed by ignorance (and impatience)!

006.036Those who listen (in truth), be sure, will accept: as to the dead, Allah will raise them up; then will they be turned unto Him.

006.037They say: “Why is not a sign sent down to him from his Lord?” Say: “Allah hath certainly power to send down a sign: but most of them understand not.”

006.038There is not an animal (that lives) on the earth, nor a being that flies on its wings, but (forms part of) communities like you. Nothing have we omitted from the Book, and they (all) shall be gathered to their Lord in the end.

006.039Those who reject our signs are deaf and dumb,- in the midst of darkness profound: whom Allah willeth, He leaveth to wander: whom He willeth, He placeth on the way that is straight.

006.040Say: “Think ye to yourselves, if there come upon you the wrath of Allah, or the Hour (that ye dread), would ye then call upon other than Allah?- (reply) if ye are truthful!”

006.041“Nay,- On Him would ye call, and if it be His will, He would remove (the distress) which occasioned your call upon Him, and ye would forget (the false gods) which ye join with Him!”

006.042Before thee We sent (messengers) to many nations, and We afflicted the nations with suffering and adversity, that they might learn humility.

006.043When the suffering reached them from us, why then did they not learn humility? On the contrary their hearts became hardened, and Satan made their (sinful) acts seem alluring to them.

006.044But when they forgot the warning they had received, We opened to them the gates of all (good) things, until, in the midst of their enjoyment of Our gifts, on a sudden, We called them to account, when lo! they were plunged in despair!

006.045Of the wrong-doers the last remnant was cut off. Praise be to Allah, the Cherisher of the worlds.

006.046Say: “Think ye, if Allah took away your hearing and your sight, and sealed up your hearts, who - a god other than Allah - could restore them to you?” See how We explain the signs by various (symbols); yet they turn aside.

006.047Say: “Think ye, if the punishment of Allah comes to you, whether suddenly or openly, will any be destroyed except those who do wrong?”

006.048We send the messengers only to give good news and to warn: so those who believe and mend (their lives),- upon them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.

006.049But those who reject our signs,- them shall punishment touch, for that they ceased not from transgressing.

006.050Say: “I tell you not that with me are the treasures of Allah, nor do I know what is hidden, nor do I tell you I am an angel. I but follow what is revealed to me.” Say: “can the blind be held equal to the seeing?” Will ye then consider not?

006.051Give this warning to those in whose (hearts) is the fear that they will be brought (to judgment) before their Lord: except for Him they will have no protector nor intercessor: that they may guard (against evil).

006.052Send not away those who call on their Lord morning and evening, seeking His face. In naught art thou accountable for them, and in naught are they accountable for thee, that thou shouldst turn them away, and thus be (one) of the unjust.

006.053Thus did We try some of them by comparison with others, that they should say: “Is it these then that Allah hath favoured from amongst us?” Doth not Allah know best those who are grateful?

006.054When those come to thee who believe in Our signs, Say: “Peace be on you: Your Lord had inscribed for Himself (the rule of) mercy: verily, if any of you did evil in ignorance, and thereafter repented, and amend (his conduct), lo! He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.”

006.055Thus do We explain the signs in detail: that the way of the sinners may be shown up.

006.056Say: “I am forbidden to worship those - others than Allah - whom ye call upon.” Say: “I will not follow your vain desires: If I did, I would stray from the path, and be not of the company of those who receive guidance.”

006.057Say: “For me, I (work) on a clear sign from my Lord, but ye reject Him. What ye would see hastened, is not in my power. The command rests with none but Allah: He declares the truth, and He is the best of judges.”

006.058Say: “If what ye would see hastened were in my power, the matter would be settled at once between you and me. But Allah knoweth best those who do wrong.”

006.059With Him are the keys of the unseen, the treasures that none knoweth but He. He knoweth whatever there is on the earth and in the sea. Not a leaf doth fall but with His knowledge: there is not a grain in the darkness (or depths) of the earth, nor anything fresh or dry (green or withered), but is (inscribed) in a record clear (to those who can read).

006.060It is He who doth take your souls by night, and hath knowledge of all that ye have done by day: by day doth He raise you up again; that a term appointed be fulfilled; In the end unto Him will be your return; then will He show you the truth of all that ye did.

006.061He is the irresistible, (watching) from above over His worshippers, and He sets guardians over you. At length, when death approaches one of you, Our angels take his soul, and they never fail in their duty.

006.062Then are men returned unto Allah, their protector, the (only) reality: Is not His the command? and He is the swiftest in taking account.

006.063Say: “Who is it that delivereth you from the dark recesses of land and sea, when ye call upon Him in humility and silent terror: ‘If He only delivers us from these (dangers), (we vow) we shall truly show our gratitude’?”

006.064Say “It is Allah that delivereth you from these and all (other) distresses: and yet ye worship false gods!”

006.065Say: “He hath power to send calamities on you, from above and below, or to cover you with confusion in party strife, giving you a taste of mutual vengeance - each from the other.” See how We explain the signs by various (symbols); that they may understand.

006.066But thy people reject this, though it is the truth. Say: “Not mine is the responsibility for arranging your affairs;”

006.067“For every message is a limit of time, and soon shall ye know it.”

006.068When thou seest men engaged in vain discourse about Our signs, turn away from them unless they turn to a different theme. If Satan ever makes thee forget, then after recollection, sit not thou in the company of those who do wrong.

006.069On their account no responsibility falls on the righteous, but (their duty) is to remind them, that they may (learn to) fear Allah.

006.070Leave alone those who take their religion to be mere play and amusement, and are deceived by the life of this world. But proclaim (to them) this (truth): that every soul delivers itself to ruin by its own acts: it will find for itself no protector or intercessor except Allah: if it offered every ransom, (or reparation), none will be accepted: such is (the end of) those who deliver themselves to ruin by their own acts: they will have for drink (only) boiling water, and for punishment, one most grievous: for they persisted in rejecting Allah.

006.071Say: “Shall we indeed call on others besides Allah,- things that can do us neither good nor harm,- and turn on our heels after receiving guidance from Allah? - like one whom the evil ones have made into a fool, wandering bewildered through the earth, his friends calling, come to us’, (vainly) guiding him to the path.” Say: “Allah’s guidance is the (only) guidance, and we have been directed to submit ourselves to the Lord of the worlds;-“

006.072“To establish regular prayers and to fear Allah: for it is to Him that we shall be gathered together.”

006.073It is He who created the heavens and the earth in true (proportions): the day He saith, “Be,” behold! it is. His word is the truth. His will be the dominion the day the trumpet will be blown. He knoweth the unseen as well as that which is open. For He is the Wise, well acquainted (with all things).

006.074Lo! Abraham said to his father Azar: “Takest thou idols for gods? For I see thee and thy people in manifest error.”

006.075So also did We show Abraham the power and the laws of the heavens and the earth, that he might (with understanding) have certitude.

006.076When the night covered him over, He saw a star: He said: “This is my Lord.” But when it set, He said: “I love not those that set.”

006.077When he saw the moon rising in splendour, he said: “This is my Lord.” But when the moon set, He said: “unless my Lord guide me, I shall surely be among those who go astray.”

006.078When he saw the sun rising in splendour, he said: “This is my Lord; this is the greatest (of all).” But when the sun set, he said: “O my people! I am indeed free from your (guilt) of giving partners to Allah.”

006.079“For me, I have set my face, firmly and truly, towards Him Who created the heavens and the earth, and never shall I give partners to Allah.”

006.080His people disputed with him. He said: “(Come) ye to dispute with me, about Allah, when He (Himself) hath guided me? I fear not (the beings) ye associate with Allah: Unless my Lord willeth, (nothing can happen). My Lord comprehendeth in His knowledge all things. Will ye not (yourselves) be admonished?”

006.081“How should I fear (the beings) ye associate with Allah, when ye fear not to give partners to Allah without any warrant having been given to you? Which of (us) two parties hath more right to security? (tell me) if ye know.”

006.082“It is those who believe and confuse not their beliefs with wrong - that are (truly) in security, for they are on (right) guidance.”

006.083That was the reasoning about Us, which We gave to Abraham (to use) against his people: We raise whom We will, degree after degree: for thy Lord is full of wisdom and knowledge.

006.084We gave him Isaac and Jacob: all (three) guided: and before him, We guided Noah, and among his progeny, David, Solomon, Job, Joseph, Moses, and Aaron: thus do We reward those who do good:

006.085And Zakariya and John, and Jesus and Elias: all in the ranks of the righteous:

006.086And Isma’il and Elisha, and Jonas, and Lot: and to all We gave favour above the nations:

006.087(To them) and to their fathers, and progeny and brethren: We chose them, and we guided them to a straight way.

006.088This is the guidance of Allah: He giveth that guidance to whom He pleaseth, of His worshippers. If they were to join other gods with Him, all that they did would be vain for them.

006.089These were the men to whom We gave the Book, and authority, and prophethood: if these (their descendants) reject them, Behold! We shall entrust their charge to a new people who reject them not.

006.090Those were the (prophets) who received Allah’s guidance: Copy the guidance they received; Say: “No reward for this do I ask of you: This is no less than a message for the nations.”

006.091No just estimate of Allah do they make when they say: “Nothing doth Allah send down to man (by way of revelation)” Say: “Who then sent down the Book which Moses brought?- a light and guidance to man: But ye make it into (separate) sheets for show, while ye conceal much (of its contents): therein were ye taught that which ye knew not- neither ye nor your fathers.” Say: “Allah (sent it down)”: Then leave them to plunge in vain discourse and trifling.

006.092And this is a Book which We have sent down, bringing blessings, and confirming (the revelations) which came before it: that thou mayest warn the mother of cities and all around her. Those who believe in the Hereafter believe in this (Book), and they are constant in guarding their prayers.

006.093Who can be more wicked than one who inventeth a lie against Allah, or saith, “I have received inspiration,” when he hath received none, or (again) who saith, “I can reveal the like of what Allah hath revealed”? If thou couldst but see how the wicked (do fare) in the flood of confusion at death! - the angels stretch forth their hands, (saying), “Yield up your souls: this day shall ye receive your reward,- a penalty of shame, for that ye used to tell lies against Allah, and scornfully to reject of His signs!”

006.094“And behold! ye come to us bare and alone as We created you for the first time: ye have left behind you all (the favours) which We bestowed on you: We see not with you your intercessors whom ye thought to be partners in your affairs: so now all relations between you have been cut off, and your (pet) fancies have left you in the lurch!”

006.095It is Allah Who causeth the seed-grain and the date-stone to split and sprout. He causeth the living to issue from the dead, and He is the one to cause the dead to issue from the living. That is Allah: then how are ye deluded away from the truth?

006.096He it is that cleaveth the day-break (from the dark): He makes the night for rest and tranquillity, and the sun and moon for the reckoning (of time): Such is the judgment and ordering of (Him), the Exalted in Power, the Omniscient.

006.097It is He Who maketh the stars (as beacons) for you, that ye may guide yourselves, with their help, through the dark spaces of land and sea: We detail Our signs for people who know.

006.098It is He Who hath produced you from a single person: here is a place of sojourn and a place of departure: We detail Our signs for people who understand.

006.099It is He Who sendeth down rain from the skies: with it We produce vegetation of all kinds: from some We produce green (crops), out of which We produce grain, heaped up (at harvest); out of the date-palm and its sheaths (or spathes) (come) clusters of dates hanging low and near: and (then there are) gardens of grapes, and olives, and pomegranates, each similar (in kind) yet different (in variety): when they begin to bear fruit, feast your eyes with the fruit and the ripeness thereof. Behold! in these things there are signs for people who believe.

006.100Yet they make the jinns equals with Allah, though Allah did create the jinns; and they falsely, having no knowledge, attribute to Him sons and daughters. Praise and glory be to Him! (for He is) above what they attribute to Him!

006.101To Him is due the primal origin of the heavens and the earth: How can He have a son when He hath no consort? He created all things, and He hath full knowledge of all things.

006.102That is Allah, your Lord! there is no god but He, the Creator of all things: then worship ye Him: and He hath power to dispose of all affairs.

006.103No vision can grasp Him, but His grasp is over all vision: He is above all comprehension, yet is acquainted with all things.

006.104“Now have come to you, from your Lord, proofs (to open your eyes): if any will see, it will be for (the good of) his own soul; if any will be blind, it will be to his own (harm): I am not (here) to watch over your doings.”

006.105Thus do we explain the signs by various (symbols): that they may say, “Thou hast taught (us) diligently,” and that We may make the matter clear to those who know.

006.106Follow what thou art taught by inspiration from thy Lord: there is no god but He: and turn aside from those who join gods with Allah.

006.107If it had been Allah’s plan, they would not have taken false gods: but We made thee not one to watch over their doings, nor art thou set over them to dispose of their affairs.

006.108Revile not ye those whom they call upon besides Allah, lest they out of spite revile Allah in their ignorance. Thus have We made alluring to each people its own doings. In the end will they return to their Lord, and We shall then tell them the truth of all that they did.

006.109They swear their strongest oaths by Allah, that if a (special) sign came to them, by it they would believe. Say: “Certainly (all) signs are in the power of Allah: but what will make you (Muslims) realise that (even) if (special) signs came, they will not believe.”?

006.110We (too) shall turn to (confusion) their hearts and their eyes, even as they refused to believe in this in the first instance: We shall leave them in their trespasses, to wander in distraction.

006.111Even if We did send unto them angels, and the dead did speak unto them, and We gathered together all things before their very eyes, they are not the ones to believe, unless it is in Allah’s plan. But most of them ignore (the truth).

006.112Likewise did We make for every Messenger an enemy,- evil ones among men and jinns, inspiring each other with flowery discourses by way of deception. If thy Lord had so planned, they would not have done it: so leave them and their inventions alone.

006.113To such (deceit) let the hearts of those incline, who have no faith in the hereafter: let them delight in it, and let them earn from it what they may.

006.114Say: “Shall I seek for judge other than Allah? - when He it is Who hath sent unto you the Book, explained in detail.” They know full well, to whom We have given the Book, that it hath been sent down from thy Lord in truth. Never be then of those who doubt.

006.115The word of thy Lord doth find its fulfilment in truth and in justice: None can change His words: for He is the one who heareth and knoweth all.

006.116Wert thou to follow the common run of those on earth, they will lead thee away from the way of Allah. They follow nothing but conjecture: they do nothing but lie.

006.117Thy Lord knoweth best who strayeth from His way: He knoweth best who they are that receive His guidance.

006.118So eat of (meats) on which Allah’s name hath been pronounced, if ye have faith in His signs.

006.119Why should ye not eat of (meats) on which Allah’s name hath been pronounced, when He hath explained to you in detail what is forbidden to you - except under compulsion of necessity? But many do mislead (men) by their appetites unchecked by knowledge. Thy Lord knoweth best those who transgress.

006.120Eschew all sin, open or secret: those who earn sin will get due recompense for their “earnings.”

006.121Eat not of (meats) on which Allah’s name hath not been pronounced: That would be impiety. But the evil ones ever inspire their friends to contend with you if ye were to obey them, ye would indeed be Pagans.

006.122Can he who was dead, to whom We gave life, and a light whereby he can walk amongst men, be like him who is in the depths of darkness, from which he can never come out? Thus to those without faith their own deeds seem pleasing.

006.123Thus have We placed leaders in every town, its wicked men, to plot (and burrow) therein: but they only plot against their own souls, and they perceive it not.

006.124When there comes to them a sign (from Allah), They say: “We shall not believe until we receive one (exactly) like those received by Allah’s messengers.” Allah knoweth best where (and how) to carry out His mission. Soon will the wicked be overtaken by humiliation before Allah, and a severe punishment, for all their plots.

006.125Those whom Allah (in His plan) willeth to guide,- He openeth their breast to Islam; those whom He willeth to leave straying,- He maketh their breast close and constricted, as if they had to climb up to the skies: thus doth Allah (heap) the penalty on those who refuse to believe.

006.126This is the way of thy Lord, leading straight: We have detailed the signs for those who receive admonition.

006.127For them will be a home of peace in the presence of their Lord: He will be their friend, because they practised (righteousness).

006.128One day will He gather them all together, (and say): “O ye assembly of jinns! Much (toll) did ye take of men.” Their friends amongst men will say: “Our Lord! we made profit from each other: but (alas!) we reached our term - which thou didst appoint for us.” He will say: “The Fire be your dwelling-place: you will dwell therein for ever, except as Allah willeth.” for thy Lord is full of wisdom and knowledge.

006.129Thus do we make the wrong-doers turn to each other, because of what they earn.

006.130“O ye assembly of jinns and men! came there not unto you messengers from amongst you, setting forth unto you My signs, and warning you of the meeting of this Day of yours?” They will say: “We bear witness against ourselves.” It was the life of this world that deceived them. So against themselves will they bear witness that they rejected Faith.

006.131(The messengers were sent) thus, for thy Lord would not destroy for their wrong-doing men’s habitations whilst their occupants were unwarned.

006.132To all are degrees (or ranks) according to their deeds: for thy Lord is not unmindful of anything that they do.

006.133Thy Lord is self-sufficient, full of Mercy: if it were His will, He could destroy you, and in your place appoint whom He will as your successors, even as He raised you up from the posterity of other people.

006.134All that hath been promised unto you will come to pass: nor can ye frustrate it (in the least bit).

006.135Say: “O my people! Do whatever ye can: I will do (my part): soon will ye know who it is whose end will be (best) in the Hereafter: certain it is that the wrong-doers will not prosper.”

006.136Out of what Allah hath produced in abundance in tilth and in cattle, they assigned Him a share: they say, according to their fancies: “This is for Allah, and this” - for our “partners”! but the share of their “partners” reacheth not Allah, whilst the share of Allah reacheth their “partners”! evil (and unjust) is their assignment!

006.137Even so, in the eyes of most of the pagans, their “partners” made alluring the slaughter of their children, in order to lead them to their own destruction, and cause confusion in their religion. If Allah had willed, they would not have done so: But leave alone them and their inventions.

006.138And they say that such and such cattle and crops are taboo, and none should eat of them except those whom - so they say - We wish; further, there are cattle forbidden to yoke or burden, and cattle on which, (at slaughter), the name of Allah is not pronounced; - inventions against Allah’s name: soon will He requite them for their inventions.

006.139They say: “What is in the wombs of such and such cattle is specially reserved (for food) for our men, and forbidden to our women; but if it is still-born, then all have share therein.” For their (false) attribution (of superstitions to Allah), He will soon punish them: for He is full of wisdom and knowledge.

006.140Lost are those who slay their children, from folly, without knowledge, and forbid food which Allah hath provided for them, inventing (lies) against Allah. They have indeed gone astray and heeded no guidance.

006.141It is He Who produceth gardens, with trellises and without, and dates, and tilth with produce of all kinds, and olives and pomegranates, similar (in kind) and different (in variety): eat of their fruit in their season, but render the dues that are proper on the day that the harvest is gathered. But waste not by excess: for Allah loveth not the wasters.

006.142Of the cattle are some for burden and some for meat: eat what Allah hath provided for you, and follow not the footsteps of Satan: for he is to you and avowed enemy.

006.143(Take) eight (head of cattle) in (four) pairs: of sheep a pair, and of goats a pair; say, hath He forbidden the two males, or the two females, or (the young) which the wombs of the two females enclose? Tell me with knowledge if ye are truthful:

006.144Of camels a pair, and oxen a pair; say, hath He forbidden the two males, or the two females, or (the young) which the wombs of the two females enclose? - Were ye present when Allah ordered you such a thing? But who doth more wrong than one who invents a lie against Allah, to lead astray men without knowledge? For Allah guideth not people who do wrong.

006.145Say: “I find not in the message received by me by inspiration any (meat) forbidden to be eaten by one who wishes to eat it, unless it be dead meat, or blood poured forth, or the flesh of swine,- for it is an abomination - or, what is impious, (meat) on which a name has been invoked, other than Allah’s”. But (even so), if a person is forced by necessity, without wilful disobedience, nor transgressing due limits,- thy Lord is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

006.146For those who followed the Jewish Law, We forbade every (animal) with undivided hoof, and We forbade them that fat of the ox and the sheep, except what adheres to their backs or their entrails, or is mixed up with a bone: this in recompense for their wilful disobedience: for We are true (in Our ordinances).

006.147If they accuse thee of falsehood, say: “Your Lord is full of mercy all-embracing; but from people in guilt never will His wrath be turned back.”

006.148Those who give partners (to Allah) will say: “If Allah had wished, we should not have given partners to Him nor would our fathers; nor should we have had any taboos.” So did their ancestors argue falsely, until they tasted of Our wrath. Say: “Have ye any (certain) knowledge? If so, produce it before us. Ye follow nothing but conjecture: ye do nothing but lie.”

006.149Say: “With Allah is the argument that reaches home: if it had been His will, He could indeed have guided you all.”

006.150Say: “Bring forward your witnesses to prove that Allah did forbid so and so.” If they bring such witnesses, be not thou amongst them: Nor follow thou the vain desires of such as treat our signs as falsehoods, and such as believe not in the Hereafter: for they hold others as equal with their Guardian-Lord.

006.151Say: “Come, I will rehearse what Allah hath (really) prohibited you from”: Join not anything as equal with Him; be good to your parents; kill not your children on a plea of want;- We provide sustenance for you and for them;- come not nigh to shameful deeds. Whether open or secret; take not life, which Allah hath made sacred, except by way of justice and law: thus doth He command you, that ye may learn wisdom.

006.152And come not nigh to the orphan’s property, except to improve it, until he attain the age of full strength; give measure and weight with (full) justice;- no burden do We place on any soul, but that which it can bear;- whenever ye speak, speak justly, even if a near relative is concerned; and fulfil the covenant of Allah: thus doth He command you, that ye may remember.

006.153Verily, this is My way, leading straight: follow it: follow not (other) paths: they will scatter you about from His (great) path: thus doth He command you, that ye may be righteous.

006.154Moreover, We gave Moses the Book, completing (Our favour) to those who would do right, and explaining all things in detail,- and a guide and a mercy, that they might believe in the meeting with their Lord.

006.155And this is a Book which We have revealed as a blessing: so follow it and be righteous, that ye may receive mercy:

006.156Lest ye should say: “The Book was sent down to two Peoples before us, and for our part, we remained unacquainted with all that they learned by assiduous study:”

006.157Or lest ye should say: “If the Book had only been sent down to us, we should have followed its guidance better than they.” Now then hath come unto you a clear (sign) from your Lord,- and a guide and a mercy: then who could do more wrong than one who rejecteth Allah’s signs, and turneth away therefrom? In good time shall We requite those who turn away from Our signs, with a dreadful penalty, for their turning away.

006.158Are they waiting to see if the angels come to them, or thy Lord (Himself), or certain of the signs of thy Lord! the day that certain of the signs of thy Lord do come, no good will it do to a soul to believe in them then if it believed not before nor earned righteousness through its faith. Say: “Wait ye: we too are waiting.”

006.159As for those who divide their religion and break up into sects, thou hast no part in them in the least: their affair is with Allah: He will in the end tell them the truth of all that they did.

006.160He that doeth good shall have ten times as much to his credit: He that doeth evil shall only be recompensed according to his evil: no wrong shall be done unto (any of) them.

006.161Say: “Verily, my Lord hath guided me to a way that is straight,- a religion of right,- the path (trod) by Abraham the true in Faith, and he (certainly) joined not gods with Allah.”

006.162Say: “Truly, my prayer and my service of sacrifice, my life and my death, are (all) for Allah, the Cherisher of the Worlds:”

006.163No partner hath He: this am I commanded, and I am the first of those who bow to His will.

006.164Say: “Shall I seek for (my) Cherisher other than Allah, when He is the Cherisher of all things (that exist)? Every soul draws the meed of its acts on none but itself: no bearer of burdens can bear of burdens can bear the burden of another. Your goal in the end is towards Allah: He will tell you the truth of the things wherein ye disputed.”

006.165It is He Who hath made you (His) agents, inheritors of the earth: He hath raised you in ranks, some above others: that He may try you in the gifts He hath given you: for thy Lord is quick in punishment: yet He is indeed Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

007.001Alif, Lam, Mim, Sad.

007.002A Book revealed unto thee,- So let thy heart be oppressed no more by any difficulty on that account,- that with it thou mightest warn (the erring) and teach the Believers.

007.003Follow (O men!) the revelation given unto you from your Lord, and follow not, as friends or protectors, other than Him. Little it is ye remember of admonition.

007.004How many towns have We destroyed (for their sins)? Our punishment took them on a sudden by night or while they slept for their afternoon rest.

007.005When (thus) Our punishment took them, no cry did they utter but this: “Indeed we did wrong.”

007.006Then shall we question those to whom Our message was sent and those by whom We sent it.

007.007And verily, We shall recount their whole story with knowledge, for We were never absent (at any time or place).

007.008The balance that day will be true (to nicety): those whose scale (of good) will be heavy, will prosper:

007.009Those whose scale will be light, will be their souls in perdition, for that they wrongfully treated Our signs.

007.010It is We Who have placed you with authority on earth, and provided you therein with means for the fulfilment of your life: small are the thanks that ye give!

007.011It is We Who created you and gave you shape; then We bade the angels prostrate to Adam, and they prostrate; not so Iblis; He refused to be of those who prostrate.

007.012(Allah) said: “What prevented thee from prostrating when I commanded thee?” He said: “I am better than he: Thou didst create me from fire, and him from clay.”

007.013(Allah) said: “Get thee down from this: it is not for thee to be arrogant here: get out, for thou art of the meanest (of creatures).”

007.014He said: “Give me respite till the day they are raised up.”

007.015(Allah) said: “Be thou among those who have respite.”

007.016He said: “Because thou hast thrown me out of the way, lo! I will lie in wait for them on thy straight way:”

007.017“Then will I assault them from before them and behind them, from their right and their left: Nor wilt thou find, in most of them, gratitude (for thy mercies).”

007.018(Allah) said: “Get out from this, disgraced and expelled. If any of them follow thee,- Hell will I fill with you all.”

007.019“O Adam! dwell thou and thy wife in the Garden, and enjoy (its good things) as ye wish: but approach not this tree, or ye run into harm and transgression.”

007.020Then began Satan to whisper suggestions to them, bringing openly before their minds all their shame that was hidden from them (before): he said: “Your Lord only forbade you this tree, lest ye should become angels or such beings as live for ever.”

007.021And he swore to them both, that he was their sincere adviser.

007.022So by deceit he brought about their fall: when they tasted of the tree, their shame became manifest to them, and they began to sew together the leaves of the garden over their bodies. And their Lord called unto them: “Did I not forbid you that tree, and tell you that Satan was an avowed enemy unto you?”

007.023They said: “Our Lord! We have wronged our own souls: If thou forgive us not and bestow not upon us Thy Mercy, we shall certainly be lost.”

007.024(Allah) said: “Get ye down. With enmity between yourselves. On earth will be your dwelling-place and your means of livelihood,- for a time.”

007.025He said: “Therein shall ye live, and therein shall ye die; but from it shall ye be taken out (at last).”

007.026O ye Children of Adam! We have bestowed raiment upon you to cover your shame, as well as to be an adornment to you. But the raiment of righteousness,- that is the best. Such are among the Signs of Allah, that they may receive admonition!

007.027O ye Children of Adam! Let not Satan seduce you, in the same manner as He got your parents out of the Garden, stripping them of their raiment, to expose their shame: for he and his tribe watch you from a position where ye cannot see them: We made the evil ones friends (only) to those without faith.

007.028When they do aught that is shameful, they say: “We found our fathers doing so”; and “Allah commanded us thus”: Say: “Nay, Allah never commands what is shameful: do ye say of Allah what ye know not?”

007.029Say: “My Lord hath commanded justice; and that ye set your whole selves (to Him) at every time and place of prayer, and call upon Him, making your devotion sincere as in His sight: such as He created you in the beginning, so shall ye return.”

007.030Some He hath guided: Others have (by their choice) deserved the loss of their way; in that they took the evil ones, in preference to Allah, for their friends and protectors, and think that they receive guidance.

007.031O Children of Adam! wear your beautiful apparel at every time and place of prayer: eat and drink: But waste not by excess, for Allah loveth not the wasters.

007.032Say: Who hath forbidden the beautiful (gifts) of Allah, which He hath produced for His servants, and the things, clean and pure, (which He hath provided) for sustenance? Say: They are, in the life of this world, for those who believe, (and) purely for them on the Day of Judgment. Thus do We explain the signs in detail for those who understand.

007.033Say: the things that my Lord hath indeed forbidden are: shameful deeds, whether open or secret; sins and trespasses against truth or reason; assigning of partners to Allah, for which He hath given no authority; and saying things about Allah of which ye have no knowledge.

007.034To every people is a term appointed: when their term is reached, not an hour can they cause delay, nor (an hour) can they advance (it in anticipation).

007.035O ye Children of Adam! whenever there come to you messengers from amongst you, rehearsing My signs unto you,- those who are righteous and mend (their lives),- on them shall be no fear nor shall they grieve.

007.036But those who reject Our signs and treat them with arrogance,- they are companions of the Fire, to dwell therein (for ever).

007.037Who is more unjust than one who invents a lie against Allah or rejects His Signs? For such, their portion appointed must reach them from the Book (of decrees): until, when our messengers (of death) arrive and take their souls, they say: “Where are the things that ye used to invoke besides Allah?” They will reply, “They have left us in the lurch,” And they will bear witness against themselves, that they had rejected Allah.

007.038He will say: “Enter ye in the company of the peoples who passed away before you - men and jinns, - into the Fire.” Every time a new people enters, it curses its sister-people (that went before), until they follow each other, all into the Fire. Saith the last about the first: “Our Lord! it is these that misled us: so give them a double penalty in the Fire.” He will say: “Doubled for all”: but this ye do not understand.

007.039Then the first will say to the last: “See then! No advantage have ye over us; so taste ye of the penalty for all that ye did!”

007.040To those who reject Our signs and treat them with arrogance, no opening will there be of the gates of heaven, nor will they enter the garden, until the camel can pass through the eye of the needle: Such is Our reward for those in sin.

007.041For them there is Hell, as a couch (below) and folds and folds of covering above: such is Our requital of those who do wrong.

007.042But those who believe and work righteousness,- no burden do We place on any soul, but that which it can bear,- they will be Companions of the Garden, therein to dwell (for ever).

007.043And We shall remove from their hearts any lurking sense of injury;- beneath them will be rivers flowing;- and they shall say: “Praise be to Allah, who hath guided us to this (felicity): never could we have found guidance, had it not been for the guidance of Allah: indeed it was the truth, that the messengers of our Lord brought unto us.” And they shall hear the cry: “Behold! the garden before you! Ye have been made its inheritors, for your deeds (of righteousness).”

007.044The Companions of the Garden will call out to the Companions of the Fire: “We have indeed found the promises of our Lord to us true: Have you also found Your Lord’s promises true?” They shall say, “Yes”; but a crier shall proclaim between them: “The curse of Allah is on the wrong-doers;-“

007.045“Those who would hinder (men) from the path of Allah and would seek in it something crooked: they were those who denied the Hereafter.”

007.046Between them shall be a veil, and on the heights will be men who would know every one by his marks: they will call out to the Companions of the Garden, “peace on you”: they will not have entered, but they will have an assurance (thereof).

007.047When their eyes shall be turned towards the Companions of the Fire, they will say: “Our Lord! send us not to the company of the wrong-doers.”

007.048The men on the heights will call to certain men whom they will know from their marks, saying: “Of what profit to you were your hoards and your arrogant ways?”

007.049“Behold! are these not the men whom you swore that Allah with His Mercy would never bless? Enter ye the Garden: no fear shall be on you, nor shall ye grieve.”

007.050The Companions of the Fire will call to the Companions of the Garden: “Pour down to us water or anything that Allah doth provide for your sustenance.” They will say: “Both these things hath Allah forbidden to those who rejected Him.”

007.051“Such as took their religion to be mere amusement and play, and were deceived by the life of the world.” That day shall We forget them as they forgot the meeting of this day of theirs, and as they were wont to reject Our signs.

007.052For We had certainly sent unto them a Book, based on knowledge, which We explained in detail,- a guide and a mercy to all who believe.

007.053Do they just wait for the final fulfilment of the event? On the day the event is finally fulfilled, those who disregarded it before will say: “The messengers of our Lord did indeed bring true (tidings). Have we no intercessors now to intercede on our behalf? Or could we be sent back? then should we behave differently from our behaviour in the past.” In fact they will have lost their souls, and the things they invented will leave them in the lurch.

007.054Your Guardian-Lord is Allah, Who created the heavens and the earth in six days, and is firmly established on the throne (of authority): He draweth the night as a veil o’er the day, each seeking the other in rapid succession: He created the sun, the moon, and the stars, (all) governed by laws under His command. Is it not His to create and to govern? Blessed be Allah, the Cherisher and Sustainer of the worlds!

007.055Call on your Lord with humility and in private: for Allah loveth not those who trespass beyond bounds.

007.056Do no mischief on the earth, after it hath been set in order, but call on Him with fear and longing (in your hearts): for the Mercy of Allah is (always) near to those who do good.

007.057It is He Who sendeth the winds like heralds of glad tidings, going before His mercy: when they have carried the heavy-laden clouds, We drive them to a land that is dead, make rain to descend thereon, and produce every kind of harvest therewith: thus shall We raise up the dead: perchance ye may remember.

007.058From the land that is clean and good, by the will of its Cherisher, springs up produce, (rich) after its kind: but from the land that is bad, springs up nothing but that which is niggardly: thus do we explain the signs by various (symbols) to those who are grateful.

007.059We sent Noah to his people. He said: “O my people! worship Allah! ye have no other god but Him. I fear for you the punishment of a dreadful day!”

007.060The leaders of his people said: “Ah! we see thee evidently wandering (in mind).”

007.061He said: “O my people! No wandering is there in my (mind): on the contrary I am a messenger from the Lord and Cherisher of the worlds!”

007.062“I but fulfil towards you the duties of my Lord’s mission: Sincere is my advice to you, and I know from Allah something that ye know not.”

007.063“Do ye wonder that there hath come to you a message from your Lord, through a man of your own people, to warn you,- so that ye may fear Allah and haply receive His Mercy?”

007.064But they rejected him, and We delivered him, and those with him, in the Ark: but We overwhelmed in the flood those who rejected Our signs. They were indeed a blind people!

007.065To the ‘Ad people, (We sent) Hud, one of their (own) brethren: He said: “O my people! worship Allah! ye have no other god but Him will ye not fear (Allah)?”

007.066The leaders of the Unbelievers among his people said: “Ah! we see thou art an imbecile!” and “We think thou art a liar!”

007.067He said: “O my people! I am no imbecile, but (I am) a messenger from the Lord and Cherisher of the Worlds!”

007.068“I but fulfil towards you the duties of my Lord’s mission: I am to you a sincere and trustworthy adviser.”

007.069“Do ye wonder that there hath come to you a message from your Lord through a man of your own people, to warn you? call in remembrance that He made you inheritors after the people of Noah, and gave you a stature tall among the nations. Call in remembrance the benefits (ye have received) from Allah: that so ye may prosper.”

007.070They said: “Comest thou to us, that we may worship Allah alone, and give up the cult of our fathers? bring us what thou threatenest us with, if so be that thou tellest the truth!”

007.071He said: “Punishment and wrath have already come upon you from your Lord: dispute ye with me over names which ye have devised - ye and your fathers,- without authority from Allah? then wait: I am amongst you, also waiting.”

007.072We saved him and those who adhered to him. By Our mercy, and We cut off the roots of those who rejected Our signs and did not believe.

007.073To the Thamud people (We sent) Salih, one of their own brethren: He said: “O my people! worship Allah: ye have no other god but Him. Now hath come unto you a clear (Sign) from your Lord! This she-camel of Allah is a Sign unto you: So leave her to graze in Allah’s earth, and let her come to no harm, or ye shall be seized with a grievous punishment.”

007.074“And remember how He made you inheritors after the ‘Ad people and gave you habitations in the land: ye build for yourselves palaces and castles in (open) plains, and carve out homes in the mountains; so bring to remembrance the benefits (ye have received) from Allah, and refrain from evil and mischief on the earth.”

007.075The leaders of the arrogant party among his people said to those who were reckoned powerless - those among them who believed: “know ye indeed that Salih is a messenger from his Lord?” They said: “We do indeed believe in the revelation which hath been sent through him.”

007.076The Arrogant party said: “For our part, we reject what ye believe in.”

007.077Then they ham-strung the she-camel, and insolently defied the order of their Lord, saying: “O Salih! bring about thy threats, if thou art a messenger (of Allah)!”

007.078So the earthquake took them unawares, and they lay prostrate in their homes in the morning!

007.079So Salih left them, saying: “O my people! I did indeed convey to you the message for which I was sent by my Lord: I gave you good counsel, but ye love not good counsellors!”

007.080We also (sent) Lut: He said to his people: “Do ye commit lewdness such as no people in creation (ever) committed before you?”

007.081“For ye practise your lusts on men in preference to women: ye are indeed a people transgressing beyond bounds.”

007.082And his people gave no answer but this: they said, “Drive them out of your city: these are indeed men who want to be clean and pure!”

007.083But we saved him and his family, except his wife: she was of those who legged behind.

007.084And we rained down on them a shower (of brimstone): Then see what was the end of those who indulged in sin and crime!

007.085To the Madyan people We sent Shu’aib, one of their own brethren: he said: “O my people! worship Allah; Ye have no other god but Him. Now hath come unto you a clear (Sign) from your Lord! Give just measure and weight, nor withhold from the people the things that are their due; and do no mischief on the earth after it has been set in order: that will be best for you, if ye have Faith.”

007.086“And squat not on every road, breathing threats, hindering from the path of Allah those who believe in Him, and seeking in it something crooked; But remember how ye were little, and He gave you increase. And hold in your mind’s eye what was the end of those who did mischief.”

007.087“And if there is a party among you who believes in the message with which I have been sent, and a party which does not believe, hold yourselves in patience until Allah doth decide between us: for He is the best to decide.”

007.088The leaders, the arrogant party among his people, said: “O Shu’aib! we shall certainly drive thee out of our city - (thee) and those who believe with thee; or else ye (thou and they) shall have to return to our ways and religion.” He said: “What! even though we do detest (them)?”

007.089“We should indeed invent a lie against Allah, if we returned to your ways after Allah hath rescued us therefrom; nor could we by any manner of means return thereto unless it be as in the will and plan of Allah, Our Lord. Our Lord can reach out to the utmost recesses of things by His knowledge. In Allah is our trust. Our Lord! decide Thou between us and our people in truth, for Thou art the best to decide.”

007.090The leaders, the unbelievers among his people, said: “If ye follow Shu’aib, be sure then ye are ruined!”

007.091But the earthquake took them unawares, and they lay prostrate in their homes before the morning!

007.092The men who reject Shu’aib became as if they had never been in the homes where they had flourished: the men who rejected Shu’aib - it was they who were ruined!

007.093So Shu’aib left them, saying: “O my people! I did indeed convey to you the messages for which I was sent by my Lord: I gave you good counsel, but how shall I lament over a people who refuse to believe!”

007.094Whenever We sent a prophet to a town, We took up its people in suffering and adversity, in order that they might learn humility.

007.095Then We changed their suffering into prosperity, until they grew and multiplied, and began to say: “Our fathers (too) were touched by suffering and affluence” … Behold! We called them to account of a sudden, while they realised not (their peril).

007.096If the people of the towns had but believed and feared Allah, We should indeed have opened out to them (All kinds of) blessings from heaven and earth; but they rejected (the truth), and We brought them to book for their misdeeds.

007.097Did the people of the towns feel secure against the coming of Our wrath by night while they were asleep?

007.098Or else did they feel secure against its coming in broad daylight while they played about (care-free)?

007.099Did they then feel secure against the plan of Allah?- but no one can feel secure from the Plan of Allah, except those (doomed) to ruin!

007.100To those who inherit the earth in succession to its (previous) possessors, is it not a guiding, (lesson) that, if We so willed, We could punish them (too) for their sins, and seal up their hearts so that they could not hear?

007.101Such were the towns whose story We (thus) relate unto thee: There came indeed to them their messengers with clear (signs): But they would not believe what they had rejected before. Thus doth Allah seal up the hearts of those who reject faith.

007.102Most of them We found not men (true) to their covenant: but most of them We found rebellious and disobedient.

007.103Then after them We sent Moses with Our signs to Pharaoh and his chiefs, but they wrongfully rejected them: So see what was the end of those who made mischief.

007.104Moses said: “O Pharaoh! I am a messenger from the Lord of the worlds,-“

007.105“One for whom it is right to say nothing but truth about Allah. Now have I come unto you (people), from your Lord, with a clear (Sign): So let the Children of Israel depart along with me.”

007.106(Pharaoh) said: “If indeed thou hast come with a Sign, show it forth,- if thou tellest the truth.”

007.107Then (Moses) threw his rod, and behold! it was a serpent, plain (for all to see)!

007.108And he drew out his hand, and behold! it was white to all beholders!

007.109Said the Chiefs of the people of Pharaoh: “This is indeed a sorcerer well-versed.”

007.110“His plan is to get you out of your land: then what is it ye counsel?”

007.111They said: “Keep him and his brother in suspense (for a while); and send to the cities men to collect-“

007.112“And bring up to thee all (our) sorcerers well-versed.”

007.113So there came the sorcerers to Pharaoh: They said, “of course we shall have a (suitable) reward if we win!”

007.114He said: “Yea, (and more),- for ye shall in that case be (raised to posts) nearest (to my person).”

007.115They said: “O Moses! wilt thou throw (first), or shall we have the (first) throw?”

007.116Said Moses: “Throw ye (first).” So when they threw, they bewitched the eyes of the people, and struck terror into them: for they showed a great (feat of) magic.

007.117We put it into Moses’s mind by inspiration: “Throw (now) thy rod”: and behold! it swallows up straight away all the falsehoods which they fake!

007.118Thus truth was confirmed, and all that they did was made of no effect.

007.119So the (great ones) were vanquished there and then, and were made to look small.

007.120But the sorcerers fell down prostrate in adoration.

007.121Saying: “We believe in the Lord of the Worlds,-“

007.122“The Lord of Moses and Aaron.”

007.123Said Pharaoh: “Believe ye in Him before I give you permission? Surely this is a trick which ye have planned in the city to drive out its people: but soon shall ye know (the consequences).”

007.124“Be sure I will cut off your hands and your feet on apposite sides, and I will cause you all to die on the cross.”

007.125They said: “For us, We are but sent back unto our Lord:”

007.126“But thou dost wreak thy vengeance on us simply because we believed in the Signs of our Lord when they reached us! Our Lord! pour out on us patience and constancy, and take our souls unto thee as Muslims (who bow to thy will)!”

007.127Said the chiefs of Pharaoh’s people: “Wilt thou leave Moses and his people, to spread mischief in the land, and to abandon thee and thy gods?” He said: “Their male children will we slay; (only) their females will we save alive; and we have over them (power) irresistible.”

007.128Said Moses to his people: “Pray for help from Allah, and (wait) in patience and constancy: for the earth is Allah’s, to give as a heritage to such of His servants as He pleaseth; and the end is (best) for the righteous.”

007.129They said: “We have had (nothing but) trouble, both before and after thou camest to us.” He said: “It may be that your Lord will destroy your enemy and make you inheritors in the earth; that so He may try you by your deeds.”

007.130We punished the people of Pharaoh with years (of droughts) and shortness of crops; that they might receive admonition.

007.131But when good (times) came, they said, “This is due to us;” When gripped by calamity, they ascribed it to evil omens connected with Moses and those with him! Behold! in truth the omens of evil are theirs in Allah’s sight, but most of them do not understand!

007.132They said (to Moses): “Whatever be the Signs thou bringest, to work therewith thy sorcery on us, we shall never believe in thee.”

007.133So We sent (plagues) on them: Wholesale death, Locusts, Lice, Frogs, And Blood: Signs openly self-explained: but they were steeped in arrogance,- a people given to sin.

007.134Every time the penalty fell on them, they said: “O Moses! on your behalf call on thy Lord in virtue of his promise to thee: If thou wilt remove the penalty from us, we shall truly believe in thee, and we shall send away the Children of Israel with thee.”

007.135But every time We removed the penalty from them according to a fixed term which they had to fulfil,- Behold! they broke their word!

007.136So We exacted retribution from them: We drowned them in the sea, because they rejected Our Signs and failed to take warning from them.

007.137And We made a people, considered weak (and of no account), inheritors of lands in both east and west, - lands whereon We sent down Our blessings. The fair promise of thy Lord was fulfilled for the Children of Israel, because they had patience and constancy, and We levelled to the ground the great works and fine buildings which Pharaoh and his people erected (with such pride).

007.138We took the Children of Israel (with safety) across the sea. They came upon a people devoted entirely to some idols they had. They said: “O Moses! fashion for us a god like unto the gods they have.” He said: “Surely ye are a people without knowledge.”

007.139“As to these folk,- the cult they are in is (but) a fragment of a ruin, and vain is the (worship) which they practise.”

007.140He said: “Shall I seek for you a god other than the (true) Allah, when it is Allah Who hath endowed you with gifts above the nations?”

007.141And remember We rescued you from Pharaoh’s people, who afflicted you with the worst of penalties, who slew your male children and saved alive your females: in that was a momentous trial from your Lord.

007.142We appointed for Moses thirty nights, and completed (the period) with ten (more): thus was completed the term (of communion) with his Lord, forty nights. And Moses had charged his brother Aaron (before he went up): “Act for me amongst my people: Do right, and follow not the way of those who do mischief.”

007.143When Moses came to the place appointed by Us, and his Lord addressed him, He said: “O my Lord! show (Thyself) to me, that I may look upon thee.” Allah said: “By no means canst thou see Me (direct); But look upon the mount; if it abide in its place, then shalt thou see Me.” When his Lord manifested His glory on the Mount, He made it as dust. And Moses fell down in a swoon. When he recovered his senses he said: “Glory be to Thee! to Thee I turn in repentance, and I am the first to believe.”

007.144(Allah) said: “O Moses! I have chosen thee above (other) men, by the mission I (have given thee) and the words I (have spoken to thee): take then the (revelation) which I give thee, and be of those who give thanks.”

007.145And We ordained laws for him in the tablets in all matters, both commanding and explaining all things, (and said): “Take and hold these with firmness, and enjoin thy people to hold fast by the best in the precepts: soon shall I show you the homes of the wicked,- (How they lie desolate).”

007.146Those who behave arrogantly on the earth in defiance of right - them will I turn away from My signs: Even if they see all the signs, they will not believe in them; and if they see the way of right conduct, they will not adopt it as the way; but if they see the way of error, that is the way they will adopt. For they have rejected our signs, and failed to take warning from them.

007.147Those who reject Our signs and the meeting in the Hereafter,- vain are their deeds: Can they expect to be rewarded except as they have wrought?

007.148The people of Moses made, in his absence, out of their ornaments, the image of calf, (for worship): it seemed to low: did they not see that it could neither speak to them, nor show them the way? They took it for worship and they did wrong.

007.149When they repented, and saw that they had erred, they said: “If our Lord have not mercy upon us and forgive us, we shall indeed be of those who perish.”

007.150When Moses came back to his people, angry and grieved, he said:

“Evil it is that ye have done in my place in my absence: did ye make haste to bring on the judgment of your Lord?” He put down the tablets, seized his brother by (the hair of) his head, and dragged him to him. Aaron said: “Son of my mother! the people did indeed reckon me as naught, and went near to slaying me! Make not the enemies rejoice over my misfortune, nor count thou me amongst the people of sin.”

007.151Moses prayed: “O my Lord! forgive me and my brother! admit us to Thy mercy! for Thou art the Most Merciful of those who show mercy!”

007.152Those who took the calf (for worship) will indeed be overwhelmed with wrath from their Lord, and with shame in this life: thus do We recompense those who invent (falsehoods).

007.153But those who do wrong but repent thereafter and (truly) believe,- verily thy Lord is thereafter Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

007.154When the anger of Moses was appeased, he took up the tablets: in the writing thereon was guidance and Mercy for such as fear their Lord.

007.155And Moses chose seventy of his people for Our place of meeting: when they were seized with violent quaking, he prayed: “O my Lord! if it had been Thy will Thou couldst have destroyed, long before, both them and me: wouldst Thou destroy us for the deeds of the foolish ones among us? this is no more than Thy trial: by it Thou causest whom Thou wilt to stray, and Thou leadest whom Thou wilt into the right path. Thou art our Protector: so forgive us and give us Thy mercy; for Thou art the best of those who forgive.”

007.156“And ordain for us that which is good, in this life and in the Hereafter: for we have turned unto Thee.” He said: “With My punishment I visit whom I will; but My mercy extendeth to all things. That (mercy) I shall ordain for those who do right, and practise regular charity, and those who believe in Our signs;-“

007.157“Those who follow the messenger, the unlettered Prophet, whom they find mentioned in their own (scriptures),- in the law and the Gospel;- for he commands them what is just and forbids them what is evil; he allows them as lawful what is good (and pure) and prohibits them from what is bad (and impure); He releases them from their heavy burdens and from the yokes that are upon them. So it is those who believe in him, honour him, help him, and follow the light which is sent down with him,- it is they who will prosper.”

007.158Say: “O men! I am sent unto you all, as the Messenger of Allah, to Whom belongeth the dominion of the heavens and the earth: there is no god but He: it is He That giveth both life and death. So believe in Allah and His Messenger, the Unlettered Prophet, who believeth in Allah and His words: follow him that (so) ye may be guided.”

007.159Of the people of Moses there is a section who guide and do justice in the light of truth.

007.160We divided them into twelve tribes or nations. We directed Moses by inspiration, when his (thirsty) people asked him for water: “Strike the rock with thy staff”: out of it there gushed forth twelve springs: Each group knew its own place for water. We gave them the shade of clouds, and sent down to them manna and quails, (saying): “Eat of the good things We have provided for you”: (but they rebelled); to Us they did no harm, but they harmed their own souls.

007.161And remember it was said to them: “Dwell in this town and eat therein as ye wish, but say the word of humility and enter the gate in a posture of humility: We shall forgive you your faults; We shall increase (the portion of) those who do good.”

007.162But the transgressors among them changed the word from that which had been given them so we sent on them a plague from heaven. For that they repeatedly transgressed.

007.163Ask them concerning the town standing close by the sea. Behold! they transgressed in the matter of the Sabbath. For on the day of their Sabbath their fish did come to them, openly holding up their heads, but on the day they had no Sabbath, they came not: thus did We make a trial of them, for they were given to transgression.

007.164When some of them said: “Why do ye preach to a people whom Allah will destroy or visit with a terrible punishment?”- said the preachers: “To discharge our duty to your Lord, and perchance they may fear Him.”

007.165When they disregarded the warnings that had been given them, We rescued those who forbade Evil; but We visited the wrong-doers with a grievous punishment because they were given to transgression.

007.166When in their insolence they transgressed (all) prohibitions, We said to them: “Be ye apes, despised and rejected.”

007.167Behold! thy Lord did declare that He would send against them, to the Day of Judgment, those who would afflict them with grievous penalty. Thy Lord is quick in retribution, but He is also Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

007.168We broke them up into sections on this earth. There are among them some that are the righteous, and some that are the opposite. We have tried them with both prosperity and adversity: In order that they might turn (to us).

007.169After them succeeded an (evil) generation: They inherited the Book, but they chose (for themselves) the vanities of this world, saying (for excuse): “(Everything) will be forgiven us.” (Even so), if similar vanities came their way, they would (again) seize them. Was not the covenant of the Book taken from them, that they would not ascribe to Allah anything but the truth? and they study what is in the Book. But best for the righteous is the home in the Hereafter. Will ye not understand?

007.170As to those who hold fast by the Book and establish regular prayer,- never shall We suffer the reward of the righteous to perish.

007.171When We shook the Mount over them, as if it had been a canopy, and they thought it was going to fall on them (We said): “Hold firmly to what We have given you, and bring (ever) to remembrance what is therein; perchance ye may fear Allah.”

007.172When thy Lord drew forth from the Children of Adam - from their loins - their descendants, and made them testify concerning themselves, (saying): “Am I not your Lord (who cherishes and sustains you)?”- They said: “Yea! We do testify!” (This), lest ye should say on the Day of Judgment: “Of this we were never mindful”:

007.173Or lest ye should say: “Our fathers before us may have taken false gods, but we are (their) descendants after them: wilt Thou then destroy us because of the deeds of men who were futile?”

007.174Thus do We explain the signs in detail; and perchance they may turn (unto Us).

007.175Relate to them the story of the man to whom We sent Our signs, but he passed them by: so Satan followed him up, and he went astray.

007.176If it had been Our will, We should have elevated him with Our signs; but he inclined to the earth, and followed his own vain desires. His similitude is that of a dog: if you attack him, he lolls out his tongue, or if you leave him alone, he (still) lolls out his tongue. That is the similitude of those who reject Our signs; So relate the story; perchance they may reflect.

007.177Evil as an example are people who reject Our signs and wrong their own souls.

007.178Whom Allah doth guide,- he is on the right path: whom He rejects from His guidance,- such are the persons who perish.

007.179Many are the jinns and men we have made for Hell: They have hearts wherewith they understand not, eyes wherewith they see not, and ears wherewith they hear not. They are like cattle,- nay more misguided: for they are heedless (of warning).

007.180The most beautiful names belong to Allah: so call on him by them; but shun such men as use profanity in his names: for what they do, they will soon be requited.

007.181Of those We have created are people who direct (others) with truth. And dispense justice therewith.

007.182Those who reject Our signs, We shall gradually visit with punishment, in ways they perceive not;

007.183Respite will I grant unto them: for My scheme is strong (and unfailing).

007.184Do they not reflect? Their companion is not seized with madness: he is but a perspicuous warner.

007.185Do they see nothing in the government of the heavens and the earth and all that Allah hath created? (Do they not see) that it may well be that their term is nigh drawing to an end? In what message after this will they then believe?

007.186To such as Allah rejects from His guidance, there can be no guide: He will leave them in their trespasses, wandering in distraction.

007.187They ask thee about the (final) Hour - when will be its appointed time? Say: “The knowledge thereof is with my Lord (alone): None but He can reveal as to when it will occur. Heavy were its burden through the heavens and the earth. Only, all of a sudden will it come to you.” They ask thee as if thou Wert eager in search thereof: Say: “The knowledge thereof is with Allah (alone), but most men know not.”

007.188Say: “I have no power over any good or harm to myself except as Allah willeth. If I had knowledge of the unseen, I should have multiplied all good, and no evil should have touched me: I am but a warner, and a bringer of glad tidings to those who have faith.”

007.189It is He Who created you from a single person, and made his mate of like nature, in order that he might dwell with her (in love). When they are united, she bears a light burden and carries it about (unnoticed). When she grows heavy, they both pray to Allah their Lord, (saying): “If Thou givest us a goodly child, we vow we shall (ever) be grateful.”

007.190But when He giveth them a goodly child, they ascribe to others a share in the gift they have received: but Allah is Exalted high above the partners they ascribe to Him.

007.191Do they indeed ascribe to Him as partners things that can create nothing, but are themselves created?

007.192No aid can they give them, nor can they aid themselves!

007.193If ye call them to guidance, they will not obey: For you it is the same whether ye call them or ye hold your peace!

007.194Verily those whom ye call upon besides Allah are servants like unto you: Call upon them, and let them listen to your prayer, if ye are (indeed) truthful!

007.195Have they feet to walk with? Or hands to lay hold with? Or eyes to see with? Or ears to hear with? Say: “Call your ‘god-partners’, scheme (your worst) against me, and give me no respite!”

007.196“For my Protector is Allah, Who revealed the Book (from time to time), and He will choose and befriend the righteous.”

007.197“But those ye call upon besides Him, are unable to help you, and indeed to help themselves.”

007.198If thou callest them to guidance, they hear not. Thou wilt see them looking at thee, but they see not.

007.199Hold to forgiveness; command what is right; But turn away from the ignorant.

007.200If a suggestion from Satan assail thy (mind), seek refuge with Allah; for He heareth and knoweth (all things).

007.201Those who fear Allah, when a thought of evil from Satan assaults them, bring Allah to remembrance, when lo! they see (aright)!

007.202But their brethren (the evil ones) plunge them deeper into error, and never relax (their efforts).

007.203If thou bring them not a revelation, they say: “Why hast thou not got it together?” Say: “I but follow what is revealed to me from my Lord: this is (nothing but) lights from your Lord, and Guidance, and mercy, for any who have faith.”

007.204When the Qur’an is read, listen to it with attention, and hold your peace: that ye may receive Mercy.

007.205And do thou (O reader!) Bring thy Lord to remembrance in thy (very) soul, with humility and in reverence, without loudness in words, in the mornings and evenings; and be not thou of those who are unheedful.

007.206Those who are near to thy Lord, disdain not to do Him worship: They celebrate His praises, and prostrate before Him.

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

008.001They ask thee concerning (things taken as) spoils of war. Say: “(such) spoils are at the disposal of Allah and the Messenger: So fear Allah, and keep straight the relations between yourselves: Obey Allah and His Messenger, if ye do believe.”

008.002For, Believers are those who, when Allah is mentioned, feel a tremor in their hearts, and when they hear His signs rehearsed, find their faith strengthened, and put (all) their trust in their Lord;

008.003Who establish regular prayers and spend (freely) out of the gifts We have given them for sustenance:

008.004Such in truth are the believers: they have grades of dignity with their Lord, and forgiveness, and generous sustenance:

008.005Just as thy Lord ordered thee out of thy house in truth, even though a party among the Believers disliked it,

008.006Disputing with thee concerning the truth after it was made manifest, as if they were being driven to death and they (actually) saw it.

008.007Behold! Allah promised you one of the two (enemy) parties, that it should be yours: Ye wished that the one unarmed should be yours, but Allah willed to justify the Truth according to His words and to cut off the roots of the Unbelievers;-

008.008That He might justify Truth and prove Falsehood false, distasteful though it be to those in guilt.

008.009Remember ye implored the assistance of your Lord, and He answered you: “I will assist you with a thousand of the angels, ranks on ranks.”

008.010Allah made it but a message of hope, and an assurance to your hearts: (in any case) there is no help except from Allah: and Allah is Exalted in Power, Wise.

008.011Remember He covered you with a sort of drowsiness, to give you calm as from Himself, and he caused rain to descend on you from heaven, to clean you therewith, to remove from you the stain of Satan, to strengthen your hearts, and to plant your feet firmly therewith.

008.012Remember thy Lord inspired the angels (with the message): “I am with you: give firmness to the Believers: I will instil terror into the hearts of the Unbelievers: smite ye above their necks and smite all their finger-tips off them.”

008.013This because they contended against Allah and His Messenger: If any contend against Allah and His Messenger, Allah is strict in punishment.

008.014Thus (will it be said): “Taste ye then of the (punishment): for those who resist Allah, is the penalty of the Fire.”

008.015O ye who believe! when ye meet the Unbelievers in hostile array, never turn your backs to them.

008.016If any do turn his back to them on such a day - unless it be in a stratagem of war, or to retreat to a troop (of his own)- he draws on himself the wrath of Allah, and his abode is Hell,- an evil refuge (indeed)!

008.017It is not ye who slew them; it was Allah: when thou threwest (a handful of dust), it was not thy act, but Allah’s: in order that He might test the Believers by a gracious trial from Himself: for Allah is He Who heareth and knoweth (all things).

008.018That, and also because Allah is He Who makes feeble the plans and stratagem of the Unbelievers.

008.019(O Unbelievers!) if ye prayed for victory and judgment, now hath the judgment come to you: if ye desist (from wrong), it will be best for you: if ye return (to the attack), so shall We. Not the least good will your forces be to you even if they were multiplied: for verily Allah is with those who believe!

008.020O ye who believe! Obey Allah and His Messenger, and turn not away from him when ye hear (him speak).

008.021Nor be like those who say, “We hear,” but listen not:

008.022For the worst of beasts in the sight of Allah are the deaf and the dumb,- those who understand not.

008.023If Allah had found in them any good. He would indeed have made them listen: (As it is), if He had made them listen, they would but have turned back and declined (Faith).

008.024O ye who believe! give your response to Allah and His Messenger, when He calleth you to that which will give you life; and know that Allah cometh in between a man and his heart, and that it is He to Whom ye shall (all) be gathered.

008.025And fear tumult or oppression, which affecteth not in particular (only) those of you who do wrong: and know that Allah is strict in punishment.

008.026Call to mind when ye were a small (band), despised through the land, and afraid that men might despoil and kidnap you; But He provided a safe asylum for you, strengthened you with His aid, and gave you Good things for sustenance: that ye might be grateful.

008.027O ye that believe! betray not the trust of Allah and the Messenger, nor misappropriate knowingly things entrusted to you.

008.028And know ye that your possessions and your progeny are but a trial; and that it is Allah with Whom lies your highest reward.

008.029O ye who believe! if ye fear Allah, He will grant you a criterion (to judge between right and wrong), remove from you (all) evil (that may afflict) you, and forgive you: for Allah is the Lord of grace unbounded.

008.030Remember how the Unbelievers plotted against thee, to keep thee in bonds, or slay thee, or get thee out (of thy home). They plot and plan, and Allah too plans; but the best of planners is Allah.

008.031When Our Signs are rehearsed to them, they say: “We have heard this (before): if we wished, we could say (words) like these: these are nothing but tales of the ancients.”

008.032Remember how they said: “O Allah if this is indeed the Truth from Thee, rain down on us a shower of stones form the sky, or send us a grievous penalty.”

008.033But Allah was not going to send them a penalty whilst thou wast amongst them; nor was He going to send it whilst they could ask for pardon.

008.034But what plea have they that Allah should not punish them, when they keep out (men) from the sacred Mosque - and they are not its guardians? No men can be its guardians except the righteous; but most of them do not understand.

008.035Their prayer at the House (of Allah) is nothing but whistling and clapping of hands: (Its only answer can be), “Taste ye the penalty because ye blasphemed.”

008.036The Unbelievers spend their wealth to hinder (man) from the path of Allah, and so will they continue to spend; but in the end they will have (only) regrets and sighs; at length they will be overcome: and the Unbelievers will be gathered together to Hell;-

008.037In order that Allah may separate the impure from the pure, put the impure, one on another, heap them together, and cast them into Hell. They will be the ones to have lost.

008.038Say to the Unbelievers, if (now) they desist (from Unbelief), their past would be forgiven them; but if they persist, the punishment of those before them is already (a matter of warning for them).

008.039And fight them on until there is no more tumult or oppression, and there prevail justice and faith in Allah altogether and everywhere; but if they cease, verily Allah doth see all that they do.

008.040If they refuse, be sure that Allah is your Protector - the best to protect and the best to help.

008.041And know that out of all the booty that ye may acquire (in war), a fifth share is assigned to Allah,- and to the Messenger, and to near relatives, orphans, the needy, and the wayfarer,- if ye do believe in Allah and in the revelation We sent down to Our servant on the Day of Testing,- the Day of the meeting of the two forces. For Allah hath power over all things.

008.042Remember ye were on the hither side of the valley, and they on the farther side, and the caravan on lower ground than ye. Even if ye had made a mutual appointment to meet, ye would certainly have failed in the appointment: But (thus ye met), that Allah might accomplish a matter already enacted; that those who died might die after a clear Sign (had been given), and those who lived might live after a Clear Sign (had been given). And verily Allah is He Who heareth and knoweth (all things).

008.043Remember in thy dream Allah showed them to thee as few: if He had shown them to thee as many, ye would surely have been discouraged, and ye would surely have disputed in (your) decision; but Allah saved (you): for He knoweth well the (secrets) of (all) hearts.

008.044And remember when ye met, He showed them to you as few in your eyes, and He made you appear as contemptible in their eyes: that Allah might accomplish a matter already enacted. For to Allah do all questions go back (for decision).

008.045O ye who believe! When ye meet a force, be firm, and call Allah in remembrance much (and often); that ye may prosper:

008.046And obey Allah and His Messenger; and fall into no disputes, lest ye lose heart and your power depart; and be patient and persevering: For Allah is with those who patiently persevere:

008.047And be not like those who started from their homes insolently and to be seen of men, and to hinder (men) from the path of Allah: For Allah compasseth round about all that they do.

008.048Remember Satan made their (sinful) acts seem alluring to them, and said: “No one among men can overcome you this day, while I am near to you”: But when the two forces came in sight of each other, he turned on his heels, and said: “Lo! I am clear of you; lo! I see what ye see not; Lo! I fear Allah: for Allah is strict in punishment.”

008.049Lo! the hypocrites say, and those in whose hearts is a disease: “These people,- their religion has misled them.” But if any trust in Allah, behold! Allah is Exalted in might, Wise.

008.050If thou couldst see, when the angels take the souls of the Unbelievers (at death), (How) they smite their faces and their backs, (saying): “Taste the penalty of the blazing Fire-“

008.051“Because of (the deeds) which your (own) hands sent forth; for Allah is never unjust to His servants:”

008.052“(Deeds) after the manner of the people of Pharaoh and of those before them: They rejected the Signs of Allah, and Allah punished them for their crimes: for Allah is Strong, and Strict in punishment:”

008.053“Because Allah will never change the grace which He hath bestowed on a people until they change what is in their (own) souls: and verily Allah is He Who heareth and knoweth (all things).”

008.054“(Deeds) after the manner of the people of Pharaoh and those before them”: They treated as false the Signs of their Lord: so We destroyed them for their crimes, and We drowned the people of Pharaoh: for they were all oppressors and wrong-doers.

008.055For the worst of beasts in the sight of Allah are those who reject Him: They will not believe.

008.056They are those with whom thou didst make a covenant, but they break their covenant every time, and they have not the fear (of Allah).

008.057If ye gain the mastery over them in war, disperse, with them, those who follow them, that they may remember.

008.058If thou fearest treachery from any group, throw back (their covenant) to them, (so as to be) on equal terms: for Allah loveth not the treacherous.

008.059Let not the unbelievers think that they can get the better (of the godly): they will never frustrate (them).

008.060Against them make ready your strength to the utmost of your power, including steeds of war, to strike terror into (the hearts of) the enemies, of Allah and your enemies, and others besides, whom ye may not know, but whom Allah doth know. Whatever ye shall spend in the cause of Allah, shall be repaid unto you, and ye shall not be treated unjustly.

008.061But if the enemy incline towards peace, do thou (also) incline towards peace, and trust in Allah: for He is One that heareth and knoweth (all things).

008.062Should they intend to deceive thee,- verily Allah sufficeth thee: He it is That hath strengthened thee with His aid and with (the company of) the Believers;

008.063And (moreover) He hath put affection between their hearts: not if thou hadst spent all that is in the earth, couldst thou have produced that affection, but Allah hath done it: for He is Exalted in might, Wise.

008.064O Prophet! sufficient unto thee is Allah,- (unto thee) and unto those who follow thee among the Believers.

008.065O Prophet! rouse the Believers to the fight. If there are twenty amongst you, patient and persevering, they will vanquish two hundred: if a hundred, they will vanquish a thousand of the Unbelievers: for these are a people without understanding.

008.066For the present, Allah hath lightened your (task), for He knoweth that there is a weak spot in you: But (even so), if there are a hundred of you, patient and persevering, they will vanquish two hundred, and if a thousand, they will vanquish two thousand, with the leave of Allah: for Allah is with those who patiently persevere.

008.067It is not fitting for a prophet that he should have prisoners of war until he hath thoroughly subdued the land. Ye look for the temporal goods of this world; but Allah looketh to the Hereafter: And Allah is Exalted in might, Wise.

008.068Had it not been for a previous ordainment from Allah, a severe penalty would have reached you for the (ransom) that ye took.

008.069But (now) enjoy what ye took in war, lawful and good: but fear Allah: for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

008.070O Prophet! say to those who are captives in your hands: “If Allah findeth any good in your hearts, He will give you something better than what has been taken from you, and He will forgive you: for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.”

008.071But if they have treacherous designs against thee, (O Messenger!), they have already been in treason against Allah, and so hath He given (thee) power over them. And Allah so He Who hath (full) knowledge and wisdom.

008.072Those who believed, and adopted exile, and fought for the Faith, with their property and their persons, in the cause of Allah, as well as those who gave (them) asylum and aid,- these are (all) friends and protectors, one of another. As to those who believed but came not into exile, ye owe no duty of protection to them until they come into exile; but if they seek your aid in religion, it is your duty to help them, except against a people with whom ye have a treaty of mutual alliance. And (remember) Allah seeth all that ye do.

008.073The Unbelievers are protectors, one of another: Unless ye do this, (protect each other), there would be tumult and oppression on earth, and great mischief.

008.074Those who believe, and adopt exile, and fight for the Faith, in the cause of Allah as well as those who give (them) asylum and aid,- these are (all) in very truth the Believers: for them is the forgiveness of sins and a provision most generous.

008.075And those who accept Faith subsequently, and adopt exile, and fight for the Faith in your company,- they are of you. But kindred by blood have prior rights against each other in the Book of Allah. Verily Allah is well-acquainted with all things.

009.001A (declaration) of immunity from Allah and His Messenger, to those of the Pagans with whom ye have contracted mutual alliances:-

009.002Go ye, then, for four months, backwards and forwards, (as ye will), throughout the land, but know ye that ye cannot frustrate Allah (by your falsehood) but that Allah will cover with shame those who reject Him.

009.003And an announcement from Allah and His Messenger, to the people (assembled) on the day of the Great Pilgrimage,- that Allah and His Messenger dissolve (treaty) obligations with the Pagans. If then, ye repent, it were best for you; but if ye turn away, know ye that ye cannot frustrate Allah. And proclaim a grievous penalty to those who reject Faith.

009.004(But the treaties are) not dissolved with those Pagans with whom ye have entered into alliance and who have not subsequently failed you in aught, nor aided any one against you. So fulfil your engagements with them to the end of their term: for Allah loveth the righteous.

009.005But when the forbidden months are past, then fight and slay the Pagans wherever ye find them, an seize them, beleaguer them, and lie in wait for them in every stratagem (of war); but if they repent, and establish regular prayers and practise regular charity, then open the way for them: for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

009.006If one amongst the Pagans ask thee for asylum, grant it to him, so that he may hear the word of Allah; and then escort him to where he can be secure. That is because they are men without knowledge.

009.007How can there be a league, before Allah and His Messenger, with the Pagans, except those with whom ye made a treaty near the sacred Mosque? As long as these stand true to you, stand ye true to them: for Allah doth love the righteous.

009.008How (can there be such a league), seeing that if they get an advantage over you, they respect not in you the ties either of kinship or of covenant? With (fair words from) their mouths they entice you, but their hearts are averse from you; and most of them are rebellious and wicked.

009.009The Signs of Allah have they sold for a miserable price, and (many) have they hindered from His way: evil indeed are the deeds they have done.

009.010In a Believer they respect not the ties either of kinship or of covenant! It is they who have transgressed all bounds.

009.011But (even so), if they repent, establish regular prayers, and practise regular charity,- they are your brethren in Faith: (thus) do We explain the Signs in detail, for those who understand.

009.012But if they violate their oaths after their covenant, and taunt you for your Faith,- fight ye the chiefs of Unfaith: for their oaths are nothing to them: that thus they may be restrained.

009.013Will ye not fight people who violated their oaths, plotted to expel the Messenger, and took the aggressive by being the first (to assault) you? Do ye fear them? Nay, it is Allah Whom ye should more justly fear, if ye believe!

009.014Fight them, and Allah will punish them by your hands, cover them with shame, help you (to victory) over them, heal the breasts of Believers,

009.015And still the indignation of their hearts. For Allah will turn (in mercy) to whom He will; and Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise.

009.016Or think ye that ye shall be abandoned, as though Allah did not know those among you who strive with might and main, and take none for friends and protectors except Allah, His Messenger, and the (community of) Believers? But Allah is well-acquainted with (all) that ye do.

009.017It is not for such as join gods with Allah, to visit or maintain the mosques of Allah while they witness against their own souls to infidelity. The works of such bear no fruit: In Fire shall they dwell.

009.018The mosques of Allah shall be visited and maintained by such as believe in Allah and the Last Day, establish regular prayers, and practise regular charity, and fear none (at all) except Allah. It is they who are expected to be on true guidance.

009.019Do ye make the giving of drink to pilgrims, or the maintenance of the Sacred Mosque, equal to (the pious service of) those who believe in Allah and the Last Day, and strive with might and main in the cause of Allah? They are not comparable in the sight of Allah: and Allah guides not those who do wrong.

009.020Those who believe, and suffer exile and strive with might and main, in Allah’s cause, with their goods and their persons, have the highest rank in the sight of Allah: they are the people who will achieve (salvation).

009.021Their Lord doth give them glad tidings of a Mercy from Himself, of His good pleasure, and of gardens for them, wherein are delights that endure:

009.022They will dwell therein for ever. Verily in Allah’s presence is a reward, the greatest (of all).

009.023O ye who believe! take not for protectors your fathers and your brothers if they love infidelity above Faith: if any of you do so, they do wrong.

009.024Say: If it be that your fathers, your sons, your brothers, your mates, or your kindred; the wealth that ye have gained; the commerce in which ye fear a decline: or the dwellings in which ye delight - are dearer to you than Allah, or His Messenger, or the striving in His cause;- then wait until Allah brings about His decision: and Allah guides not the rebellious.

009.025Assuredly Allah did help you in many battle-fields and on the day of Hunain: Behold! your great numbers elated you, but they availed you naught: the land, for all that it is wide, did constrain you, and ye turned back in retreat.

009.026But Allah did pour His calm on the Messenger and on the Believers, and sent down forces which ye saw not: He punished the Unbelievers; thus doth He reward those without Faith.

009.027Again will Allah, after this, turn (in mercy) to whom He will: for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

009.028O ye who believe! Truly the Pagans are unclean; so let them not, after this year of theirs, approach the Sacred Mosque. And if ye fear poverty, soon will Allah enrich you, if He wills, out of His bounty, for Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise.

009.029Fight those who believe not in Allah nor the Last Day, nor hold that forbidden which hath been forbidden by Allah and His Messenger, nor acknowledge the religion of Truth, (even if they are) of the People of the Book, until they pay the Jizya with willing submission, and feel themselves subdued.

009.030The Jews call ‘Uzair a son of Allah, and the Christians call Christ the son of Allah. That is a saying from their mouth; (in this) they but imitate what the unbelievers of old used to say. Allah’s curse be on them: how they are deluded away from the Truth!

009.031They take their priests and their anchorites to be their lords in derogation of Allah, and (they take as their Lord) Christ the son of Mary; yet they were commanded to worship but One Allah: there is no god but He. Praise and glory to Him: (Far is He) from having the partners they associate (with Him).

009.032Fain would they extinguish Allah’s light with their mouths, but Allah will not allow but that His light should be perfected, even though the Unbelievers may detest (it).

009.033It is He Who hath sent His Messenger with guidance and the Religion of Truth, to proclaim it over all religion, even though the Pagans may detest (it).

009.034O ye who believe! there are indeed many among the priests and anchorites, who in Falsehood devour the substance of men and hinder (them) from the way of Allah. And there are those who bury gold and silver and spend it not in the way of Allah: announce unto them a most grievous penalty-

009.035On the Day when heat will be produced out of that (wealth) in the fire of Hell, and with it will be branded their foreheads, their flanks, and their backs, their flanks, and their backs.- “This is the (treasure) which ye buried for yourselves: taste ye, then, the (treasures) ye buried!”

009.036The number of months in the sight of Allah is twelve (in a year)- so ordained by Him the day He created the heavens and the earth; of them four are sacred: that is the straight usage. So wrong not yourselves therein, and fight the Pagans all together as they fight you all together. But know that Allah is with those who restrain themselves.

009.037Verily the transposing (of a prohibited month) is an addition to Unbelief: the Unbelievers are led to wrong thereby: for they make it lawful one year, and forbidden another year, in order to adjust the number of months forbidden by Allah and make such forbidden ones lawful. The evil of their course seems pleasing to them. But Allah guideth not those who reject Faith.

009.038O ye who believe! what is the matter with you, that, when ye are asked to go forth in the cause of Allah, ye cling heavily to the earth? Do ye prefer the life of this world to the Hereafter? But little is the comfort of this life, as compared with the Hereafter.

009.039Unless ye go forth, He will punish you with a grievous penalty, and put others in your place; but Him ye would not harm in the least. For Allah hath power over all things.

009.040If ye help not (your leader), (it is no matter): for Allah did indeed help him, when the Unbelievers drove him out: he had no more than one companion; they two were in the cave, and he said to his companion, “Have no fear, for Allah is with us”: then Allah sent down His peace upon him, and strengthened him with forces which ye saw not, and humbled to the depths the word of the Unbelievers. But the word of Allah is exalted to the heights: for Allah is Exalted in Might, Wise.

009.041Go ye forth, (whether equipped) lightly or heavily, and strive and struggle, with your goods and your persons, in the cause of Allah. That is best for you, if ye (but) knew.

009.042If there had been immediate gain (in sight), and the journey easy, they would (all) without doubt have followed thee, but the distance was long, (and weighed) on them. They would indeed swear by Allah, “If we only could, we should certainly have come out with you”: They would destroy their own souls; for Allah doth know that they are certainly lying.

009.043Allah give thee grace! why didst thou grant them exemption until those who told the truth were seen by thee in a clear light, and thou hadst proved the liars?

009.044Those who believe in Allah and the Last Day ask thee for no exemption from fighting with their goods and persons. And Allah knoweth well those who do their duty.

009.045Only those ask thee for exemption who believe not in Allah and the Last Day, and whose hearts are in doubt, so that they are tossed in their doubts to and fro.

009.046If they had intended to come out, they would certainly have made some preparation therefor; but Allah was averse to their being sent forth; so He made them lag behind, and they were told, “Sit ye among those who sit (inactive).”

009.047If they had come out with you, they would not have added to your (strength) but only (made for) disorder, hurrying to and fro in your midst and sowing sedition among you, and there would have been some among you who would have listened to them. But Allah knoweth well those who do wrong.

009.048Indeed they had plotted sedition before, and upset matters for thee, until,- the Truth arrived, and the Decree of Allah became manifest much to their disgust.

009.049Among them is (many) a man who says: “Grant me exemption and draw me not into trial.” Have they not fallen into trial already? and indeed Hell surrounds the Unbelievers (on all sides).

009.050If good befalls thee, it grieves them; but if a misfortune befalls thee, they say, “We took indeed our precautions beforehand,” and they turn away rejoicing.

009.051Say: “Nothing will happen to us except what Allah has decreed for us: He is our protector”: and on Allah let the Believers put their trust.

009.052Say: “Can you expect for us (any fate) other than one of two glorious things- (Martyrdom or victory)? But we can expect for you either that Allah will send his punishment from Himself, or by our hands. So wait (expectant); we too will wait with you.”

009.053Say: “Spend (for the cause) willingly or unwillingly: not from you will it be accepted: for ye are indeed a people rebellious and wicked.”

009.054The only reasons why their contributions are not accepted are: that they reject Allah and His Messenger; that they come to prayer without earnestness; and that they offer contributions unwillingly.

009.055Let not their wealth nor their (following in) sons dazzle thee: in reality Allah’s plan is to punish them with these things in this life, and that their souls may perish in their (very) denial of Allah.

009.056They swear by Allah that they are indeed of you; but they are not of you: yet they are afraid (to appear in their true colours).

009.057If they could find a place to flee to, or caves, or a place of concealment, they would turn straightaway thereto, with an obstinate rush.

009.058And among them are men who slander thee in the matter of (the distribution of) the alms: if they are given part thereof, they are pleased, but if not, behold! they are indignant!

009.059If only they had been content with what Allah and His Messenger gave them, and had said, “Sufficient unto us is Allah! Allah and His Messenger will soon give us of His bounty: to Allah do we turn our hopes!” (that would have been the right course).

009.060Alms are for the poor and the needy, and those employed to administer the (funds); for those whose hearts have been (recently) reconciled (to Truth); for those in bondage and in debt; in the cause of Allah; and for the wayfarer: (thus is it) ordained by Allah, and Allah is full of knowledge and wisdom.

009.061Among them are men who molest the Prophet and say, “He is (all) ear.” Say, “He listens to what is best for you: he believes in Allah, has faith in the Believers, and is a Mercy to those of you who believe.” But those who molest the Messenger will have a grievous penalty.

009.062To you they swear by Allah. In order to please you: But it is more fitting that they should please Allah and His Messenger, if they are Believers.

009.063Know they not that for those who oppose Allah and His Messenger, is the Fire of Hell?- wherein they shall dwell. That is the supreme disgrace.

009.064The Hypocrites are afraid lest a Sura should be sent down about them, showing them what is (really passing) in their hearts. Say: “Mock ye! But verily Allah will bring to light all that ye fear (should be revealed).”

009.065If thou dost question them, they declare (with emphasis): “We were only talking idly and in play.” Say: “Was it at Allah, and His Signs, and His Messenger, that ye were mocking?”

009.066Make ye no excuses: ye have rejected Faith after ye had accepted it. If We pardon some of you, We will punish others amongst you, for that they are in sin.

009.067The Hypocrites, men and women, (have an understanding) with each other: They enjoin evil, and forbid what is just, and are close with their hands. They have forgotten Allah; so He hath forgotten them. Verily the Hypocrites are rebellious and perverse.

009.068Allah hath promised the Hypocrites men and women, and the rejecters, of Faith, the fire of Hell: Therein shall they dwell: Sufficient is it for them: for them is the curse of Allah, and an enduring punishment,-

009.069As in the case of those before you: they were mightier than you in power, and more flourishing in wealth and children. They had their enjoyment of their portion: and ye have of yours, as did those before you; and ye indulge in idle talk as they did. They!- their work are fruitless in this world and in the Hereafter, and they will lose (all spiritual good).

009.070Hath not the story reached them of those before them?- the People of Noah, and ‘Ad, and Thamud; the People of Abraham, the men of Midian, and the cities overthrown. To them came their messengers with clear signs. It is not Allah Who wrongs them, but they wrong their own souls.

009.071The Believers, men and women, are protectors one of another: they enjoin what is just, and forbid what is evil: they observe regular prayers, practise regular charity, and obey Allah and His Messenger. On them will Allah pour His mercy: for Allah is Exalted in Power, Wise.

009.072Allah hath promised to Believers, men and women, gardens under which rivers flow, to dwell therein, and beautiful mansions in gardens of everlasting bliss. But the greatest bliss is the good pleasure of Allah: that is the supreme felicity.

009.073O Prophet! strive hard against the unbelievers and the Hypocrites, and be firm against them. Their abode is Hell,- an evil refuge indeed.

009.074They swear by Allah that they said nothing (evil), but indeed they uttered blasphemy, and they did it after accepting Islam; and they meditated a plot which they were unable to carry out: this revenge of theirs was (their) only return for the bounty with which Allah and His Messenger had enriched them! If they repent, it will be best for them; but if they turn back (to their evil ways), Allah will punish them with a grievous penalty in this life and in the Hereafter: They shall have none on earth to protect or help them.

009.075Amongst them are men who made a covenant with Allah, that if He bestowed on them of His bounty, they would give (largely) in charity, and be truly amongst those who are righteous.

009.076But when He did bestow of His bounty, they became covetous, and turned back (from their covenant), averse (from its fulfilment).

009.077So He hath put as a consequence hypocrisy into their hearts, (to last) till the Day, whereon they shall meet Him: because they broke their covenant with Allah, and because they lied (again and again).

009.078Know they not that Allah doth know their secret (thoughts) and their secret counsels, and that Allah knoweth well all things unseen?

009.079Those who slander such of the believers as give themselves freely to (deeds of) charity, as well as such as can find nothing to give except the fruits of their labour,- and throw ridicule on them,- Allah will throw back their ridicule on them: and they shall have a grievous penalty.

009.080Whether thou ask for their forgiveness, or not, (their sin is unforgivable): if thou ask seventy times for their forgiveness, Allah will not forgive them: because they have rejected Allah and His Messenger: and Allah guideth not those who are perversely rebellious.

009.081Those who were left behind (in the Tabuk expedition) rejoiced in their inaction behind the back of the Messenger of Allah: they hated to strive and fight, with their goods and their persons, in the cause of Allah: they said, “Go not forth in the heat.” Say, “The fire of Hell is fiercer in heat.” If only they could understand!

009.082Let them laugh a little: much will they weep: a recompense for the (evil) that they do.

009.083If, then, Allah bring thee back to any of them, and they ask thy permission to come out (with thee), say: “Never shall ye come out with me, nor fight an enemy with me: for ye preferred to sit inactive on the first occasion: Then sit ye (now) with those who lag behind.”

009.084Nor do thou ever pray for any of them that dies, nor stand at his grave; for they rejected Allah and His Messenger, and died in a state of perverse rebellion.

009.085Nor let their wealth nor their (following in) sons dazzle thee: Allah’s plan is to punish them with these things in this world, and that their souls may perish in their (very) denial of Allah.

009.086When a Sura comes down, enjoining them to believe in Allah and to strive and fight along with His Messenger, those with wealth and influence among them ask thee for exemption, and say: “Leave us (behind): we would be with those who sit (at home).”

009.087They prefer to be with (the women), who remain behind (at home): their hearts are sealed and so they understand not.

009.088But the Messenger, and those who believe with him, strive and fight with their wealth and their persons: for them are (all) good things: and it is they who will prosper.

009.089Allah hath prepared for them gardens under which rivers flow, to dwell therein: that is the supreme felicity.

009.090And there were, among the desert Arabs (also), men who made excuses and came to claim exemption; and those who were false to Allah and His Messenger (merely) sat inactive. Soon will a grievous penalty seize the Unbelievers among them.

009.091There is no blame on those who are infirm, or ill, or who find no resources to spend (on the cause), if they are sincere (in duty) to Allah and His Messenger: no ground (of complaint) can there be against such as do right: and Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

009.092Nor (is there blame) on those who came to thee to be provided with mounts, and when thou saidst, “I can find no mounts for you,” they turned back, their eyes streaming with tears of grief that they had no resources wherewith to provide the expenses.

009.093The ground (of complaint) is against such as claim exemption while they are rich. They prefer to stay with the (women) who remain behind: Allah hath sealed their hearts; so they know not (What they miss).

009.094They will present their excuses to you when ye return to them. Say thou: “Present no excuses: we shall not believe you: Allah hath already informed us of the true state of matters concerning you: It is your actions that Allah and His Messenger will observe: in the end will ye be brought back to Him Who knoweth what is hidden and what is open: then will He show you the truth of all that ye did.”

009.095They will swear to you by Allah, when ye return to them, that ye may leave them alone. So leave them alone: For they are an abomination, and Hell is their dwelling-place,-a fitting recompense for the (evil) that they did.

009.096They will swear unto you, that ye may be pleased with them but if ye are pleased with them, Allah is not pleased with those who disobey.

009.097The Arabs of the desert are the worst in Unbelief and hypocrisy, and most fitted to be in ignorance of the command which Allah hath sent down to His Messenger: But Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise.

009.098Some of the desert Arabs look upon their payments as a fine, and watch for disasters for you: on them be the disaster of evil: for Allah is He That heareth and knoweth (all things).

009.099But some of the desert Arabs believe in Allah and the Last Day, and look on their payments as pious gifts bringing them nearer to Allah and obtaining the prayers of the Messenger. Aye, indeed they bring them nearer (to Him): soon will Allah admit them to His Mercy: for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

009.100The vanguard (of Islam)- the first of those who forsook (their homes) and of those who gave them aid, and (also) those who follow them in (all) good deeds,- well-pleased is Allah with them, as are they with Him: for them hath He prepared gardens under which rivers flow, to dwell therein for ever: that is the supreme felicity.

009.101Certain of the desert Arabs round about you are hypocrites, as well as (desert Arabs) among the Medina folk: they are obstinate in hypocrisy: thou knowest them not: We know them: twice shall We punish them: and in addition shall they be sent to a grievous penalty.

009.102Others (there are who) have acknowledged their wrong-doings: they have mixed an act that was good with another that was evil. Perhaps Allah will turn unto them (in Mercy): for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

009.103Of their goods, take alms, that so thou mightest purify and sanctify them; and pray on their behalf. Verily thy prayers are a source of security for them: And Allah is One Who heareth and knoweth.

009.104Know they not that Allah doth accept repentance from His votaries and receives their gifts of charity, and that Allah is verily He, the Oft-Returning, Most Merciful?

009.105And say: “Work (righteousness): Soon will Allah observe your work, and His Messenger, and the Believers: Soon will ye be brought back to the knower of what is hidden and what is open: then will He show you the truth of all that ye did.”

009.106There are (yet) others, held in suspense for the command of Allah, whether He will punish them, or turn in mercy to them: and Allah is All-Knowing, Wise.

009.107And there are those who put up a mosque by way of mischief and infidelity - to disunite the Believers - and in preparation for one who warred against Allah and His Messenger aforetime. They will indeed swear that their intention is nothing but good; But Allah doth declare that they are certainly liars.

009.108Never stand thou forth therein. There is a mosque whose foundation was laid from the first day on piety; it is more worthy of the standing forth (for prayer) therein. In it are men who love to be purified; and Allah loveth those who make themselves pure.

009.109Which then is best? - he that layeth his foundation on piety to Allah and His good pleasure? - or he that layeth his foundation on an undermined sand-cliff ready to crumble to pieces? and it doth crumble to pieces with him, into the fire of Hell. And Allah guideth not people that do wrong.

009.110The foundation of those who so build is never free from suspicion and shakiness in their hearts, until their hearts are cut to pieces. And Allah is All-Knowing, Wise.

009.111Allah hath purchased of the believers their persons and their goods; for theirs (in return) is the garden (of Paradise): they fight in His cause, and slay and are slain: a promise binding on Him in truth, through the Law, the Gospel, and the Qur’an: and who is more faithful to his covenant than Allah? then rejoice in the bargain which ye have concluded: that is the achievement supreme.

009.112Those that turn (to Allah) in repentance; that serve Him, and praise Him; that wander in devotion to the cause of Allah: that bow down and prostrate themselves in prayer; that enjoin good and forbid evil; and observe the limit set by Allah;- (These do rejoice). So proclaim the glad tidings to the Believers.

009.113It is not fitting, for the Prophet and those who believe, that they should pray for forgiveness for Pagans, even though they be of kin, after it is clear to them that they are companions of the Fire.

009.114And Abraham prayed for his father’s forgiveness only because of a promise he had made to him. But when it became clear to him that he was an enemy to Allah, he dissociated himself from him: for Abraham was most tender-hearted, forbearing.

009.115And Allah will not mislead a people after He hath guided them, in order that He may make clear to them what to fear (and avoid)- for Allah hath knowledge of all things.

009.116Unto Allah belongeth the dominion of the heavens and the earth. He giveth life and He taketh it. Except for Him ye have no protector nor helper.

009.117Allah turned with favour to the Prophet, the Muhajirs, and the Ansar,- who followed him in a time of distress, after that the hearts of a part of them had nearly swerved (from duty); but He turned to them (also): for He is unto them Most Kind, Most Merciful.

009.118(He turned in mercy also) to the three who were left behind; (they felt guilty) to such a degree that the earth seemed constrained to them, for all its spaciousness, and their (very) souls seemed straitened to them,- and they perceived that there is no fleeing from Allah (and no refuge) but to Himself. Then He turned to them, that they might repent: for Allah is Oft-Returning, Most Merciful.

009.119O ye who believe! Fear Allah and be with those who are true (in word and deed).

009.120It was not fitting for the people of Medina and the Bedouin Arabs of the neighbourhood, to refuse to follow Allah’s Messenger, nor to prefer their own lives to his: because nothing could they suffer or do, but was reckoned to their credit as a deed of righteousness,- whether they suffered thirst, or fatigue, or hunger, in the cause of Allah, or trod paths to raise the ire of the Unbelievers, or received any injury whatever from an enemy: for Allah suffereth not the reward to be lost of those who do good;-

009.121Nor could they spend anything (for the cause) - small or great- nor cut across a valley, but the deed is inscribed to their credit: that Allah may requite their deed with the best (possible reward).

009.122Nor should the Believers all go forth together: if a contingent from every expedition remained behind, they could devote themselves to studies in religion, and admonish the people when they return to them,- that thus they (may learn) to guard themselves (against evil).

009.123O ye who believe! fight the unbelievers who gird you about, and let them find firmness in you: and know that Allah is with those who fear Him.

009.124Whenever there cometh down a sura, some of them say: “Which of you has had his faith increased by it?” Yea, those who believe,- their faith is increased and they do rejoice.

009.125But those in whose hearts is a disease,- it will add doubt to their doubt, and they will die in a state of Unbelief.

009.126See they not that they are tried every year once or twice? Yet they turn not in repentance, and they take no heed.

009.127Whenever there cometh down a Sura, they look at each other, (saying), “Doth anyone see you?” Then they turn aside: Allah hath turned their hearts (from the light); for they are a people that understand not.

009.128Now hath come unto you a Messenger from amongst yourselves: it grieves him that ye should perish: ardently anxious is he over you: to the Believers is he most kind and merciful.

009.129But if they turn away, Say: “Allah sufficeth me: there is no god but He: On Him is my trust,- He the Lord of the Throne (of Glory) Supreme!”

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

010.001A.L.R. These are the ayats of the Book of Wisdom.

010.002Is it a matter of wonderment to men that We have sent Our inspiration to a man from among themselves?- that he should warn mankind (of their danger), and give the good news to the Believers that they have before their Lord the lofty rank of truth. (But) say the Unbelievers: “This is indeed an evident sorcerer!”

010.003Verily your Lord is Allah, who created the heavens and the earth in six days, and is firmly established on the throne (of authority), regulating and governing all things. No intercessor (can plead with Him) except after His leave (hath been obtained). This is Allah your Lord; Him therefore serve ye: will ye not receive admonition?

010.004To Him will be your return- of all of you. The promise of Allah is true and sure. It is He Who beginneth the process of creation, and repeateth it, that He may reward with justice those who believe and work righteousness; but those who reject Him will have draughts of boiling fluids, and a penalty grievous, because they did reject Him.

010.005It is He Who made the sun to be a shining glory and the moon to be a light (of beauty), and measured out stages for her; that ye might know the number of years and the count (of time). Nowise did Allah create this but in truth and righteousness. (Thus) doth He explain His Signs in detail, for those who understand.

010.006Verily, in the alternation of the night and the day, and in all that Allah hath created, in the heavens and the earth, are signs for those who fear Him.

010.007Those who rest not their hope on their meeting with Us, but are pleased and satisfied with the life of the present, and those who heed not Our Signs,-

010.008Their abode is the Fire, because of the (evil) they earned.

010.009Those who believe, and work righteousness,- their Lord will guide them because of their faith: beneath them will flow rivers in gardens of bliss.

010.010(This will be) their cry therein: “Glory to Thee, O Allah!” And “Peace” will be their greeting therein! and the close of their cry will be: “Praise be to Allah, the Cherisher and Sustainer of the worlds!”

010.011If Allah were to hasten for men the ill (they have earned) as they would fain hasten on the good,- then would their respite be settled at once. But We leave those who rest not their hope on their meeting with Us, in their trespasses, wandering in distraction to and fro.

010.012When trouble toucheth a man, He crieth unto Us (in all postures)- lying down on his side, or sitting, or standing. But when We have solved his trouble, he passeth on his way as if he had never cried to Us for a trouble that touched him! thus do the deeds of transgressors seem fair in their eyes!

010.013Generations before you We destroyed when they did wrong: their messengers came to them with clear-signs, but they would not believe! thus do We requite those who sin!

010.014Then We made you heirs in the land after them, to see how ye would behave!

010.015But when Our Clear Signs are rehearsed unto them, those who rest not their hope on their meeting with Us, Say: “Bring us a reading other than this, or change this,” Say: “It is not for me, of my own accord, to change it: I follow naught but what is revealed unto me: if I were to disobey my Lord, I should myself fear the penalty of a Great Day (to come).”

010.016Say: “If Allah had so willed, I should not have rehearsed it to you, nor would He have made it known to you. A whole life-time before this have I tarried amongst you: will ye not then understand?”

010.017Who doth more wrong than such as forge a lie against Allah, or deny His Signs? But never will prosper those who sin.

010.018They serve, besides Allah, things that hurt them not nor profit them, and they say: “These are our intercessors with Allah.” Say: “Do ye indeed inform Allah of something He knows not, in the heavens or on earth?- Glory to Him! and far is He above the partners they ascribe (to Him)!”

010.019Mankind was but one nation, but differed (later). Had it not been for a word that went forth before from thy Lord, their differences would have been settled between them.

010.020They say: “Why is not a sign sent down to him from his Lord?” Say: “The Unseen is only for Allah (to know), then wait ye: I too will wait with you.”

010.021When We make mankind taste of some mercy after adversity hath touched them, behold! they take to plotting against Our Signs! Say: “Swifter to plan is Allah!” Verily, Our messengers record all the plots that ye make!

010.022He it is Who enableth you to traverse through land and sea; so that ye even board ships;- they sail with them with a favourable wind, and they rejoice there at; then comes a stormy wind and the waves come to them from all sides, and they think they are being overwhelmed: they cry unto Allah, sincerely offering (their) duty unto Him saying, “If thou dost deliver us from this, we shall truly show our gratitude!”

010.023But when He delivereth them, behold! they transgress insolently through the earth in defiance of right! O mankind! your insolence is against your own souls,- an enjoyment of the life of the present: in the end, to Us is your return, and We shall show you the truth of all that ye did.

010.024The likeness of the life of the present is as the rain which We send down from the skies: by its mingling arises the produce of the earth- which provides food for men and animals: (It grows) till the earth is clad with its golden ornaments and is decked out (in beauty): the people to whom it belongs think they have all powers of disposal over it: There reaches it Our command by night or by day, and We make it like a harvest clean-mown, as if it had not flourished only the day before! thus do We explain the Signs in detail for those who reflect.

010.025But Allah doth call to the Home of Peace: He doth guide whom He pleaseth to a way that is straight.

010.026To those who do right is a goodly (reward)- Yea, more (than in measure)! No darkness nor shame shall cover their faces! they are companions of the garden; they will abide therein (for aye)!

010.027But those who have earned evil will have a reward of like evil: ignominy will cover their (faces): No defender will they have from (the wrath of) Allah: Their faces will be covered, as it were, with pieces from the depth of the darkness of night: they are companions of the Fire: they will abide therein (for aye)!

010.028One day shall We gather them all together. Then shall We say to those who joined gods (with Us): “To your place! ye and those ye joined as ‘partners’.” We shall separate them, and their ‘Partners’ shall say: “It was not us that ye worshipped!”

010.029“Enough is Allah for a witness between us and you: we certainly knew nothing of your worship of us!”

010.030There will every soul prove (the fruits of) the deeds it sent before: they will be brought back to Allah their rightful Lord, and their invented falsehoods will leave them in the lurch.

010.031Say: “Who is it that sustains you (in life) from the sky and from the earth? or who is it that has power over hearing and sight? And who is it that brings out the living from the dead and the dead from the living? and who is it that rules and regulates all affairs?” They will soon say,

“Allah”. Say, “will ye not then show piety (to Him)?”

010.032Such is Allah, your real Cherisher and Sustainer: apart from truth, what (remains) but error? How then are ye turned away?

010.033Thus is the word of thy Lord proved true against those who rebel: Verily they will not believe.

010.034Say: “Of your ‘partners’, can any originate creation and repeat it?” Say: “It is Allah Who originates creation and repeats it: then how are ye deluded away (from the truth)?”

010.035Say: “Of your ‘partners’ is there any that can give any guidance towards truth?” Say: “It is Allah Who gives guidance towards truth, is then He Who gives guidance to truth more worthy to be followed, or he who finds not guidance (himself) unless he is guided? what then is the matter with you? How judge ye?”

010.036But most of them follow nothing but fancy: truly fancy can be of no avail against truth. Verily Allah is well aware of all that they do.

010.037This Qur’an is not such as can be produced by other than Allah; on the contrary it is a confirmation of (revelations) that went before it, and a fuller explanation of the Book - wherein there is no doubt - from the Lord of the worlds.

010.038Or do they say, “He forged it”? say: “Bring then a Sura like unto it, and call (to your aid) anyone you can besides Allah, if it be ye speak the truth!”

010.039Nay, they charge with falsehood that whose knowledge they cannot compass, even before the elucidation thereof hath reached them: thus did those before them make charges of falsehood: but see what was the end of those who did wrong!

010.040Of them there are some who believe therein, and some who do not: and thy Lord knoweth best those who are out for mischief.

010.041If they charge thee with falsehood, say: “My work to me, and yours to you! ye are free from responsibility for what I do, and I for what ye do!”

010.042Among them are some who (pretend to) listen to thee: But canst thou make the deaf to hear,- even though they are without understanding?

010.043And among them are some who look at thee: but canst thou guide the blind,- even though they will not see?

010.044Verily Allah will not deal unjustly with man in aught: It is man that wrongs his own soul.

010.045One day He will gather them together: (It will be) as if they had tarried but an hour of a day: they will recognise each other: assuredly those will be lost who denied the meeting with Allah and refused to receive true guidance.

010.046Whether We show thee (realised in thy life-time) some part of what We promise them,- or We take thy soul (to Our Mercy) (Before that),- in any case, to Us is their return: ultimately Allah is witness, to all that they do.

010.047To every people (was sent) a messenger: when their messenger comes (before them), the matter will be judged between them with justice, and they will not be wronged.

010.048They say: “When will this promise come to pass,- if ye speak the truth?”

010.049Say: “I have no power over any harm or profit to myself except as Allah willeth. To every people is a term appointed: when their term is reached, not an hour can they cause delay, nor (an hour) can they advance (it in anticipation).”

010.050Say: “Do ye see,- if His punishment should come to you by night or by day,- what portion of it would the sinners wish to hasten?”

010.051“Would ye then believe in it at last, when it actually cometh to pass?” (It will then be said): ‘Ah! now? and ye wanted (aforetime) to hasten it on!’

010.052“At length will be said to the wrong-doers: ‘Taste ye the enduring punishment! ye get but the recompense of what ye earned!’”

010.053They seek to be informed by thee: “Is that true?” Say: “Aye! by my Lord! it is the very truth! and ye cannot frustrate it!”

010.054Every soul that hath sinned, if it possessed all that is on earth, would fain give it in ransom: They would declare (their) repentance when they see the penalty: but the judgment between them will be with justice, and no wrong will be done unto them.

010.055Is it not (the case) that to Allah belongeth whatever is in the heavens and on earth? Is it not (the case) that Allah’s promise is assuredly true? Yet most of them understand not.

010.056It is He Who giveth life and who taketh it, and to Him shall ye all be brought back.

010.057O mankind! there hath come to you a direction from your Lord and a healing for the (diseases) in your hearts,- and for those who believe, a guidance and a Mercy.

010.058Say: “In the bounty of Allah. And in His Mercy,- in that let them rejoice”: that is better than the (wealth) they hoard.

010.059Say: “See ye what things Allah hath sent down to you for sustenance? Yet ye hold forbidden some things thereof and (some things) lawful.” Say: “Hath Allah indeed permitted you, or do ye invent (things) to attribute to Allah?”

010.060And what think those who invent lies against Allah, of the Day of Judgment? Verily Allah is full of bounty to mankind, but most of them are ungrateful.

010.061In whatever business thou mayest be, and whatever portion thou mayest be reciting from the Qur’an,- and whatever deed ye (mankind) may be doing,- We are witnesses thereof when ye are deeply engrossed therein. Nor is hidden from thy Lord (so much as) the weight of an atom on the earth or in heaven. And not the least and not the greatest of these things but are recorded in a clear record.

010.062Behold! verily on the friends of Allah there is no fear, nor shall they grieve;

010.063Those who believe and (constantly) guard against evil;-

010.064For them are glad tidings, in the life of the present and in the Hereafter; no change can there be in the words of Allah. This is indeed the supreme felicity.

010.065Let not their speech grieve thee: for all power and honour belong to Allah: It is He Who heareth and knoweth (all things).

010.066Behold! verily to Allah belong all creatures, in the heavens and on earth. What do they follow who worship as His “partners” other than Allah? They follow nothing but fancy, and they do nothing but lie.

010.067He it is That hath made you the night that ye may rest therein, and the day to make things visible (to you). Verily in this are signs for those who listen (to His Message).

010.068They say: “Allah hath begotten a son!” - Glory be to Him! He is self-sufficient! His are all things in the heavens and on earth! No warrant have ye for this! say ye about Allah what ye know not?

010.069Say: “Those who invent a lie against Allah will never prosper.”

010.070A little enjoyment in this world!- and then, to Us will be their return, then shall We make them taste the severest penalty for their blasphemies.

010.071Relate to them the story of Noah. Behold! he said to his people: “O my people, if it be hard on your (mind) that I should stay (with you) and commemorate the signs of Allah,- yet I put my trust in Allah. Get ye then an agreement about your plan and among your partners, so your plan be on to you dark and dubious. Then pass your sentence on me, and give me no respite.”

010.072“But if ye turn back, (consider): no reward have I asked of you: my reward is only due from Allah, and I have been commanded to be of those who submit to Allah’s will (in Islam).”

010.073They rejected Him, but We delivered him, and those with him, in the Ark, and We made them inherit (the earth), while We overwhelmed in the flood those who rejected Our Signs. Then see what was the end of those who were warned (but heeded not)!

010.074Then after him We sent (many) messengers to their peoples: they brought them Clear Signs, but they would not believe what they had already rejected beforehand. Thus do We seal the hearts of the transgressors.

010.075Then after them sent We Moses and Aaron to Pharaoh and his chiefs with Our Signs. But they were arrogant: they were a people in sin.

010.076When the Truth did come to them from Us, they said: “This is indeed evident sorcery!”

010.077Said Moses: “Say ye (this) about the truth when it hath (actually) reached you? Is sorcery (like) this? But sorcerers will not prosper.”

010.078They said: “Hast thou come to us to turn us away from the ways we found our fathers following,- in order that thou and thy brother may have greatness in the land? But not we shall believe in you!”

010.079Said Pharaoh: “Bring me every sorcerer well versed.”

010.080When the sorcerers came, Moses said to them: “Throw ye what ye (wish) to throw!”

010.081When they had had their throw, Moses said: “What ye have brought is sorcery: Allah will surely make it of no effect: for Allah prospereth not the work of those who make mischief.”

010.082“And Allah by His words doth prove and establish His truth, however much the sinners may hate it!”

010.083But none believed in Moses except some children of his people, because of the fear of Pharaoh and his chiefs, lest they should persecute them; and certainly Pharaoh was mighty on the earth and one who transgressed all bounds.

010.084Moses said: “O my people! If ye do (really) believe in Allah, then in Him put your trust if ye submit (your will to His).”

010.085They said: “In Allah do we put out trust. Our Lord! make us not a trial for those who practise oppression;”

010.086“And deliver us by Thy Mercy from those who reject (Thee).”

010.087We inspired Moses and his brother with this Message: “Provide dwellings for your people in Egypt, make your dwellings into places of worship, and establish regular prayers: and give glad tidings to those who believe!”

010.088Moses prayed: “Our Lord! Thou hast indeed bestowed on Pharaoh and his chiefs splendour and wealth in the life of the present, and so, Our Lord, they mislead (men) from Thy Path. Deface our Lord, the features of their wealth, and send hardness to their hearts, so they will not believe until they see the grievous penalty.”

010.089Allah said: “Accepted is your prayer (O Moses and Aaron)! So stand ye straight, and follow not the path of those who know not.”

010.090We took the Children of Israel across the sea: Pharaoh and his hosts followed them in insolence and spite. At length, when overwhelmed with the flood, he said: “I believe that there is no god except Him Whom the Children of Israel believe in: I am of those who submit (to Allah in Islam).”

010.091(It was said to him): “Ah now!- But a little while before, wast thou in rebellion!- and thou didst mischief (and violence)!”

010.092“This day shall We save thee in the body, that thou mayest be a sign to those who come after thee! but verily, many among mankind are heedless of Our Signs!”

010.093We settled the Children of Israel in a beautiful dwelling-place, and provided for them sustenance of the best: it was after knowledge had been granted to them, that they fell into schisms. Verily Allah will judge between them as to the schisms amongst them, on the Day of Judgment.

010.094If thou wert in doubt as to what We have revealed unto thee, then ask those who have been reading the Book from before thee: the Truth hath indeed come to thee from thy Lord: so be in no wise of those in doubt.

010.095Nor be of those who reject the signs of Allah, or thou shalt be of those who perish.

010.096Those against whom the word of thy Lord hath been verified would not believe-

010.097Even if every Sign was brought unto them,- until they see (for themselves) the penalty grievous.

010.098Why was there not a single township (among those We warned), which believed,- so its faith should have profited it,- except the people of Jonah? When they believed, We removed from them the penalty of ignominy in the life of the present, and permitted them to enjoy (their life) for a while.

010.099If it had been thy Lord’s will, they would all have believed,- all who are on earth! wilt thou then compel mankind, against their will, to believe!

010.100No soul can believe, except by the will of Allah, and He will place doubt (or obscurity) on those who will not understand.

010.101Say: “Behold all that is in the heavens and on earth”; but neither Signs nor Warners profit those who believe not.

010.102Do they then expect (any thing) but (what happened in) the days of the men who passed away before them? Say: “Wait ye then: for I, too, will wait with you.”

010.103In the end We deliver Our messengers and those who believe: Thus is it fitting on Our part that We should deliver those who believe!

010.104Say: “O ye men! If ye are in doubt as to my religion, (behold!) I worship not what ye worship, other than Allah! But I worship Allah - Who will take your souls (at death): I am commanded to be (in the ranks) of the Believers,”

010.105“And further (thus): ‘set thy face towards religion with true piety, and never in any wise be of the Unbelievers;’”

010.106“‘Nor call on any, other than Allah;- Such will neither profit thee nor hurt thee: if thou dost, behold! thou shalt certainly be of those who do wrong.’”

010.107If Allah do touch thee with hurt, there is none can remove it but He: if He do design some benefit for thee, there is none can keep back His favour: He causeth it to reach whomsoever of His servants He pleaseth. And He is the Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

010.108Say: “O ye men! Now Truth hath reached you from your Lord! those who receive guidance, do so for the good of their own souls; those who stray, do so to their own loss: and I am not (set) over you to arrange your affairs.”

010.109Follow thou the inspiration sent unto thee, and be patient and constant, till Allah do decide: for He is the best to decide.

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

011.001A. L. R. (This is) a Book, with verses basic or fundamental (of established meaning), further explained in detail,- from One Who is Wise and Well-acquainted (with all things):

011.002(It teacheth) that ye should worship none but Allah. (Say): “Verily I am (sent) unto you from Him to warn and to bring glad tidings:”

011.003“(And to preach thus), ‘Seek ye the forgiveness of your Lord, and turn to Him in repentance; that He may grant you enjoyment, good (and true), for a term appointed, and bestow His abounding grace on all who abound in merit! But if ye turn away, then I fear for you the penalty of a great day:’”

011.004“‘To Allah is your return, and He hath power over all things.’”

011.005Behold! they fold up their hearts, that they may lie hid from Him! Ah even when they cover themselves with their garments, He knoweth what they conceal, and what they reveal: for He knoweth well the (inmost secrets) of the hearts.

011.006There is no moving creature on earth but its sustenance dependeth on Allah: He knoweth the time and place of its definite abode and its temporary deposit: All is in a clear Record.

011.007He it is Who created the heavens and the earth in six Days - and His Throne was over the waters - that He might try you, which of you is best in conduct. But if thou wert to say to them, “Ye shall indeed be raised up after death”, the Unbelievers would be sure to say, “This is nothing but obvious sorcery!”

011.008If We delay the penalty for them for a definite term, they are sure to say, “What keeps it back?” Ah! On the day it (actually) reaches them, nothing will turn it away from them, and they will be completely encircled by that which they used to mock at!

011.009If We give man a taste of Mercy from Ourselves, and then withdraw it from him, behold! he is in despair and (falls into) blasphemy.

011.010But if We give him a taste of (Our) favours after adversity hath touched him, he is sure to say, “All evil has departed from me:” Behold! he falls into exultation and pride.

011.011Not so do those who show patience and constancy, and work righteousness; for them is forgiveness (of sins) and a great reward.

011.012Perchance thou mayest (feel the inclination) to give up a part of what is revealed unto thee, and thy heart feeleth straitened lest they say, “Why is not a treasure sent down unto him, or why does not an angel come down with him?” But thou art there only to warn! It is Allah that arrangeth all affairs!

011.013Or they may say, “He forged it,” Say, “Bring ye then ten suras forged, like unto it, and call (to your aid) whomsoever ye can, other than Allah!- If ye speak the truth!”

011.014“If then they (your false gods) answer not your (call), know ye that this revelation is sent down (replete) with the knowledge of Allah, and that there is no god but He! will ye even then submit (to Islam)?”

011.015Those who desire the life of the present and its glitter,- to them we shall pay (the price of) their deeds therein,- without diminution.

011.016They are those for whom there is nothing in the Hereafter but the Fire: vain are the designs they frame therein, and of no effect and the deeds that they do!

011.017Can they be (like) those who accept a Clear (Sign) from their Lord, and whom a witness from Himself doth teach, as did the Book of Moses before it,- a guide and a mercy? They believe therein; but those of the Sects that reject it,- the Fire will be their promised meeting-place. Be not then in doubt thereon: for it is the truth from thy Lord: yet many among men do not believe!

011.018Who doth more wrong than those who invent a lie against Allah? They will be turned back to the presence of their Lord, and the witnesses will say, “These are the ones who lied against their Lord! Behold! the Curse of Allah is on those who do wrong!-“

011.019“Those who would hinder (men) from the path of Allah and would seek in it something crooked: these were they who denied the Hereafter!”

011.020They will in no wise frustrate (His design) on earth, nor have they protectors besides Allah! Their penalty will be doubled! They lost the power to hear, and they did not see!

011.021They are the ones who have lost their own souls: and the (fancies) they invented have left them in the lurch!

011.022Without a doubt, these are the very ones who will lose most in the Hereafter!

011.023But those who believe and work righteousness, and humble themselves before their Lord,- They will be companions of the gardens, to dwell therein for aye!

011.024These two kinds (of men) may be compared to the blind and deaf, and those who can see and hear well. Are they equal when compared? Will ye not then take heed?

011.025We sent Noah to his people (with a mission): “I have come to you with a Clear Warning:”

011.026“That ye serve none but Allah: Verily I do fear for you the penalty of a grievous day.”

011.027But the chiefs of the Unbelievers among his people said: “We see (in) thee nothing but a man like ourselves: Nor do we see that any follow thee but the meanest among us, in judgment immature: Nor do we see in you (all) any merit above us: in fact we thing ye are liars!”

011.028He said: “O my people! See ye if (it be that) I have a Clear Sign from my Lord, and that He hath sent Mercy unto me from His own presence, but that the Mercy hath been obscured from your sight? shall we compel you to accept it when ye are averse to it?”

011.029“And O my people! I ask you for no wealth in return: my reward is from none but Allah: But I will not drive away (in contempt) those who believe: for verily they are to meet their Lord, and ye I see are the ignorant ones!”

011.030“And O my people! who would help me against Allah if I drove them away? Will ye not then take heed?”

011.031“I tell you not that with me are the treasures of Allah, nor do I know what is hidden, nor claim I to be an angel. Nor yet do I say, of those whom your eyes do despise that Allah will not grant them (all) that is good: Allah knoweth best what is in their souls: I should, if I did, indeed be a wrong-doer.”

011.032They said: “O Noah! thou hast disputed with us, and (much) hast thou prolonged the dispute with us: now bring upon us what thou threatenest us with, if thou speakest the truth!”

011.033He said: “Truly, Allah will bring it on you if He wills,- and then, ye will not be able to frustrate it!”

011.034“Of no profit will be my counsel to you, much as I desire to give you (good) counsel, if it be that Allah willeth to leave you astray: He is your Lord! and to Him will ye return!”

011.035Or do they say, “He has forged it”? Say: “If I had forged it, on me were my sins! and I am free of the sins of which ye are guilty!”

011.036It was revealed to Noah: “None of thy people will believe except those who have believed already! So grieve no longer over their (evil) deeds.”

011.037“But construct an Ark under Our eyes and Our inspiration, and address Me no (further) on behalf of those who are in sin: for they are about to be overwhelmed (in the Flood).”

011.038Forthwith he (starts) constructing the Ark: Every time that the chiefs of his people passed by him, they threw ridicule on him. He said: “If ye ridicule us now, we (in our turn) can look down on you with ridicule likewise!”

011.039“But soon will ye know who it is on whom will descend a penalty that will cover them with shame,- on whom will be unloosed a penalty lasting:”

011.040At length, behold! there came Our command, and the fountains of the earth gushed forth! We said: “Embark therein, of each kind two, male and female, and your family - except those against whom the word has already gone forth,- and the Believers.” but only a few believed with him.

011.041So he said: “Embark ye on the Ark, In the name of Allah, whether it move or be at rest! For my Lord is, be sure, Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful!”

011.042So the Ark floated with them on the waves (towering) like mountains, and Noah called out to his son, who had separated himself (from the rest): “O my son! embark with us, and be not with the unbelievers!”

011.043The son replied: “I will betake myself to some mountain: it will save me from the water.” Noah said: “This day nothing can save, from the command of Allah, any but those on whom He hath mercy!” And the waves came between them, and the son was among those overwhelmed in the Flood.

011.044Then the word went forth: “O earth! swallow up thy water, and O sky! Withhold (thy rain)!” and the water abated, and the matter was ended. The Ark rested on Mount Judi, and the word went forth: “Away with those who do wrong!”

011.045And Noah called upon his Lord, and said: “O my Lord! surely my son is of my family! and Thy promise is true, and Thou art the Justest of Judges!”

011.046He said: “O Noah! He is not of thy family: For his conduct is unrighteous. So ask not of Me that of which thou hast no knowledge! I give thee counsel, lest thou act like the ignorant!”

011.047Noah said: “O my Lord! I do seek refuge with Thee, lest I ask Thee for that of which I have no knowledge. And unless thou forgive me and have Mercy on me, I should indeed be lost!”

011.048The word came: “O Noah! Come down (from the Ark) with peace from Us, and blessing on thee and on some of the peoples (who will spring) from those with thee: but (there will be other) peoples to whom We shall grant their pleasures (for a time), but in the end will a grievous penalty reach them from Us.”

011.049Such are some of the stories of the unseen, which We have revealed unto thee: before this, neither thou nor thy people knew them. So persevere patiently: for the End is for those who are righteous.

011.050To the ‘Ad People (We sent) Hud, one of their own brethren. He said: “O my people! worship Allah! ye have no other god but Him. (Your other gods) ye do nothing but invent!”

011.051“O my people! I ask of you no reward for this (Message). My reward is from none but Him who created me: Will ye not then understand?”

011.052“And O my people! Ask forgiveness of your Lord, and turn to Him (in repentance): He will send you the skies pouring abundant rain, and add strength to your strength: so turn ye not back in sin!”

011.053They said: “O Hud! No Clear (Sign) that hast thou brought us, and we are not the ones to desert our gods on thy word! Nor shall we believe in thee!”

011.054“We say nothing but that (perhaps) some of our gods may have seized thee with imbecility.” He said: “I call Allah to witness, and do ye bear witness, that I am free from the sin of ascribing, to Him,”

011.055“Other gods as partners! so scheme (your worst) against me, all of you, and give me no respite.”

011.056“I put my trust in Allah, My Lord and your Lord! There is not a moving creature, but He hath grasp of its forelock. Verily, it is my Lord that is on a straight Path.”

011.057“If ye turn away,- I (at least) have conveyed the Message with which I was sent to you. My Lord will make another people to succeed you, and you will not harm Him in the least. For my Lord hath care and watch over all things.”

011.058So when Our decree issued, We saved Hud and those who believed with him, by (special) Grace from Ourselves: We saved them from a severe penalty.

011.059Such were the ‘Ad People: they rejected the Signs of their Lord and Cherisher; disobeyed His messengers; And followed the command of every powerful, obstinate transgressor.

011.060And they were pursued by a Curse in this life,- and on the Day of Judgment. Ah! Behold! for the ‘Ad rejected their Lord and Cherisher! Ah! Behold! removed (from sight) were ‘Ad the people of Hud!

011.061To the Thamud People (We sent) Salih, one of their own brethren. He said: “O my people! Worship Allah: ye have no other god but Him. It is He Who hath produced you from the earth and settled you therein: then ask forgiveness of Him, and turn to Him (in repentance): for my Lord is (always) near, ready to answer.”

011.062They said: “O Salih! thou hast been of us! a centre of our hopes hitherto! dost thou (now) forbid us the worship of what our fathers worshipped? But we are really in suspicious (disquieting) doubt as to that to which thou invitest us.”

011.063He said: “O my people! do ye see? if I have a Clear (Sign) from my Lord and He hath sent Mercy unto me from Himself,- who then can help me against Allah if I were to disobey Him? What then would ye add to my (portion) but perdition?”

011.064“And O my people! This she-camel of Allah is a symbol to you: leave her to feed on Allah’s (free) earth, and inflict no harm on her, or a swift penalty will seize you!”

011.065But they did ham-string her. So he said: “Enjoy yourselves in your homes for three days: (Then will be your ruin): (Behold) there a promise not to be belied!”

011.066When Our Decree issued, We saved Salih and those who believed with him, by (special) Grace from Ourselves - and from the Ignominy of that day. For thy Lord - He is the Strong One, and able to enforce His Will.

011.067The (mighty) Blast overtook the wrong-doers, and they lay prostrate in their homes before the morning,-

011.068As if they had never dwelt and flourished there. Ah! Behold! for the Thamud rejected their Lord and Cherisher! Ah! Behold! removed (from sight) were the Thamud!

011.069There came Our messengers to Abraham with glad tidings. They said, “Peace!” He answered, “Peace!” and hastened to entertain them with a roasted calf.

011.070But when he saw their hands went not towards the (meal), he felt some mistrust of them, and conceived a fear of them. They said: “Fear not: We have been sent against the people of Lut.”

011.071And his wife was standing (there), and she laughed: But we gave her glad tidings of Isaac, and after him, of Jacob.

011.072She said: “Alas for me! shall I bear a child, seeing I am an old woman, and my husband here is an old man? That would indeed be a wonderful thing!”

011.073They said: “Dost thou wonder at Allah’s decree? The grace of Allah and His blessings on you, O ye people of the house! for He is indeed worthy of all praise, full of all glory!”

011.074When fear had passed from (the mind of) Abraham and the glad tidings had reached him, he began to plead with us for Lut’s people.

011.075For Abraham was, without doubt, forbearing (of faults), compassionate, and given to look to Allah.

011.076O Abraham! Seek not this. The decree of thy Lord hath gone forth: for them there cometh a penalty that cannot be turned back!

011.077When Our messengers came to Lut, he was grieved on their account and felt himself powerless (to protect) them. He said: “This is a distressful day.”

011.078And his people came rushing towards him, and they had been long in the habit of practising abominations. He said: “O my people! Here are my daughters: they are purer for you (if ye marry)! Now fear Allah, and cover me not with shame about my guests! Is there not among you a single right-minded man?”

011.079They said: “Well dost thou know we have no need of thy daughters: indeed thou knowest quite well what we want!”

011.080He said: “Would that I had power to suppress you or that I could betake myself to some powerful support.”

011.081(The Messengers) said: “O Lut! We are Messengers from thy Lord! By no means shall they reach thee! now travel with thy family while yet a part of the night remains, and let not any of you look back: but thy wife (will remain behind): To her will happen what happens to the people. Morning is their time appointed: Is not the morning nigh?”

011.082When Our Decree issued, We turned (the cities) upside down, and rained down on them brimstones hard as baked clay, spread, layer on layer,-

011.083Marked as from thy Lord: Nor are they ever far from those who do wrong!

011.084To the Madyan People (We sent) Shu’aib, one of their own brethren: he said: “O my people! worship Allah: Ye have no other god but Him. And give not short measure or weight: I see you in prosperity, but I fear for you the penalty of a day that will compass (you) all round.”

011.085“And O my people! give just measure and weight, nor withhold from the people the things that are their due: commit not evil in the land with intent to do mischief.”

011.086“That which is left you by Allah is best for you, if ye (but) believed! but I am not set over you to keep watch!”

011.087They said: “O Shu’aib! Does thy (religion of) prayer command thee that we leave off the worship which our fathers practised, or that we leave off doing what we like with our property? truly, thou art the one that forbeareth with faults and is right-minded!”

011.088He said: “O my people! see ye whether I have a Clear (Sign) from my Lord, and He hath given me sustenance (pure and) good as from Himself? I wish not, in opposition to you, to do that which I forbid you to do. I only desire (your) betterment to the best of my power; and my success (in my task) can only come from Allah. In Him I trust, and unto Him I look.”

011.089“And O my people! let not my dissent (from you) cause you to sin, lest ye suffer a fate similar to that of the people of Noah or of Hud or of Salih, nor are the people of Lut far off from you!”

011.090“But ask forgiveness of your Lord, and turn unto Him (in repentance): For my Lord is indeed full of mercy and loving-kindness.”

011.091They said: “O Shu’aib! much of what thou sayest we do not understand! In fact among us we see that thou hast no strength! Were it not for thy family, we should certainly have stoned thee! for thou hast among us no great position!”

011.092He said: “O my people! is then my family of more consideration with you than Allah? For ye cast Him away behind your backs (with contempt). But verily my Lord encompasseth on all sides all that ye do!”

011.093“And O my people! Do whatever ye can: I will do (my part): Soon will ye know who it is on whom descends the penalty of ignominy; and who is a liar! and watch ye! for I too am watching with you!”

011.094When Our decree issued, We saved Shu’aib and those who believed with him, by (special) mercy from Ourselves: But the (mighty) blast did seize the wrong-doers, and they lay prostrate in their homes by the morning,-

011.095As if they had never dwelt and flourished there! Ah! Behold! How the Madyan were removed (from sight) as were removed the Thamud!

011.096And we sent Moses, with Our Clear (Signs) and an authority manifest,

011.097Unto Pharaoh and his chiefs: but they followed the command of Pharaoh and the command of Pharaoh was no right (guide).

011.098He will go before his people on the Day of Judgment, and lead them into the Fire (as cattle are led to water): But woeful indeed will be the place to which they are led!

011.099And they are followed by a curse in this (life) and on the Day of Judgment: and woeful is the gift which shall be given (unto them)!

011.100These are some of the stories of communities which We relate unto thee: of them some are standing, and some have been mown down (by the sickle of time).

011.101It was not We that wronged them: They wronged their own souls: the deities, other than Allah, whom they invoked, profited them no whit when there issued the decree of thy Lord: Nor did they add aught (to their lot) but perdition!

011.102Such is the chastisement of thy Lord when He chastises communities in the midst of their wrong: grievous, indeed, and severe is His chastisement.

011.103In that is a Sign for those who fear the penalty of the Hereafter: that is a Day for which mankind will be gathered together: that will be a Day of Testimony.

011.104Nor shall We delay it but for a term appointed.

011.105The day it arrives, no soul shall speak except by His leave: of those (gathered) some will be wretched and some will be blessed.

011.106Those who are wretched shall be in the Fire: There will be for them therein (nothing but) the heaving of sighs and sobs:

011.107They will dwell therein for all the time that the heavens and the earth endure, except as thy Lord willeth: for thy Lord is the (sure) accomplisher of what He planneth.

011.108And those who are blessed shall be in the Garden: They will dwell therein for all the time that the heavens and the earth endure, except as thy Lord willeth: a gift without break.

011.109Be not then in doubt as to what these men worship. They worship nothing but what their fathers worshipped before (them): but verily We shall pay them back (in full) their portion without (the least) abatement.

011.110We certainly gave the Book to Moses, but differences arose therein: had it not been that a word had gone forth before from thy Lord, the matter would have been decided between them, but they are in suspicious doubt concerning it.

011.111And, of a surety, to all will your Lord pay back (in full the recompense) of their deeds: for He knoweth well all that they do.

011.112Therefore stand firm (in the straight Path) as thou art commanded,- thou and those who with thee turn (unto Allah); and transgress not (from the Path): for He seeth well all that ye do.

011.113And incline not to those who do wrong, or the Fire will seize you; and ye have no protectors other than Allah, nor shall ye be helped.

011.114And establish regular prayers at the two ends of the day and at the approaches of the night: For those things, that are good remove those that are evil: Be that the word of remembrance to those who remember (their Lord):

011.115And be steadfast in patience; for verily Allah will not suffer the reward of the righteous to perish.

011.116Why were there not, among the generations before you, persons possessed of balanced good sense, prohibiting (men) from mischief in the earth - except a few among them whom We saved (from harm)? But the wrong-doers pursued the enjoyment of the good things of life which were given them, and persisted in sin.

011.117Nor would thy Lord be the One to destroy communities for a single wrong-doing, if its members were likely to mend.

011.118If thy Lord had so willed, He could have made mankind one people: but they will not cease to dispute.

011.119Except those on whom thy Lord hath bestowed His Mercy: and for this did He create them: and the Word of thy Lord shall be fulfilled: “I will fill Hell with jinns and men all together.”

011.120All that we relate to thee of the stories of the messengers,- with it We make firm thy heart: in them there cometh to thee the Truth, as well as an exhortation and a message of remembrance to those who believe.

011.121Say to those who do not believe: “Do what ever ye can: We shall do our part;”

011.122“And wait ye! We too shall wait.”

011.123To Allah do belong the unseen (secrets) of the heavens and the earth, and to Him goeth back every affair (for decision): then worship Him, and put thy trust in Him: and thy Lord is not unmindful of aught that ye do.

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

012.001A.L.R. These are the symbols (or Verses) of the perspicuous Book.

012.002We have sent it down as an Arabic Qur’an, in order that ye may learn wisdom.

012.003We do relate unto thee the most beautiful of stories, in that We reveal to thee this (portion of the) Qur’an: before this, thou too was among those who knew it not.

012.004Behold! Joseph said to his father: “O my father! I did see eleven stars and the sun and the moon: I saw them prostrate themselves to me!”

012.005Said (the father): “My (dear) little son! relate not thy vision to thy brothers, lest they concoct a plot against thee: for Satan is to man an avowed enemy!”

012.006“Thus will thy Lord choose thee and teach thee the interpretation of stories (and events) and perfect His favour to thee and to the posterity of Jacob - even as He perfected it to thy fathers Abraham and Isaac aforetime! for Allah is full of knowledge and wisdom.”

012.007Verily in Joseph and his brethren are signs (or symbols) for seekers (after Truth).

012.008They said: “Truly Joseph and his brother are loved more by our father than we: But we are a goodly body! really our father is obviously wandering (in his mind)!”

012.009“Slay ye Joseph or cast him out to some (unknown) land, that so the favour of your father may be given to you alone: (there will be time enough) for you to be righteous after that!”

012.010Said one of them: “Slay not Joseph, but if ye must do something, throw him down to the bottom of the well: he will be picked up by some caravan of travellers.”

012.011They said: “O our father! why dost thou not trust us with Joseph,- seeing we are indeed his sincere well-wishers?”

012.012“Send him with us tomorrow to enjoy himself and play, and we shall take every care of him.”

012.013(Jacob) said: “Really it saddens me that ye should take him away: I fear lest the wolf should devour him while ye attend not to him.”

012.014They said: “If the wolf were to devour him while we are (so large) a party, then should we indeed (first) have perished ourselves!”

012.015So they did take him away, and they all agreed to throw him down to the bottom of the well: and We put into his heart (this Message): ‘Of a surety thou shalt (one day) tell them the truth of this their affair while they know (thee) not’

012.016Then they came to their father in the early part of the night, weeping.

012.017They said: “O our father! We went racing with one another, and left Joseph with our things; and the wolf devoured him…. But thou wilt never believe us even though we tell the truth.”

012.018They stained his shirt with false blood. He said: “Nay, but your minds have made up a tale (that may pass) with you, (for me) patience is most fitting: Against that which ye assert, it is Allah (alone) Whose help can be sought”..

012.019Then there came a caravan of travellers: they sent their water-carrier (for water), and he let down his bucket (into the well)…He said: “Ah there! Good news! Here is a (fine) young man!” So they concealed him as a treasure! But Allah knoweth well all that they do!

012.020The (Brethren) sold him for a miserable price, for a few dirhams counted out: in such low estimation did they hold him!

012.021The man in Egypt who bought him, said to his wife: “Make his stay (among us) honourable: may be he will bring us much good, or we shall adopt him as a son.” Thus did We establish Joseph in the land, that We might teach him the interpretation of stories (and events). And Allah hath full power and control over His affairs; but most among mankind know it not.

012.022When Joseph attained His full manhood, We gave him power and knowledge: thus do We reward those who do right.

012.023But she in whose house he was, sought to seduce him from his (true) self: she fastened the doors, and said: “Now come, thou (dear one)!” He said: “Allah forbid! truly (thy husband) is my lord! he made my sojourn agreeable! truly to no good come those who do wrong!”

012.024And (with passion) did she desire him, and he would have desired her, but that he saw the evidence of his Lord: thus (did We order) that We might turn away from him (all) evil and shameful deeds: for he was one of Our servants, sincere and purified.

012.025So they both raced each other to the door, and she tore his shirt from the back: they both found her lord near the door. She said: “What is the (fitting) punishment for one who formed an evil design against thy wife, but prison or a grievous chastisement?”

012.026He said: “It was she that sought to seduce me - from my (true) self.” And one of her household saw (this) and bore witness, (thus):- “If it be that his shirt is rent from the front, then is her tale true, and he is a liar!”

012.027“But if it be that his shirt is torn from the back, then is she the liar, and he is telling the truth!”

012.028So when he saw his shirt,- that it was torn at the back,- (her husband) said: “Behold! It is a snare of you women! truly, mighty is your snare!”

012.029“O Joseph, pass this over! (O wife), ask forgiveness for thy sin, for truly thou hast been at fault!”

012.030Ladies said in the City: “The wife of the (great) ‘Aziz is seeking to seduce her slave from his (true) self: Truly hath he inspired her with violent love: we see she is evidently going astray.”

012.031When she heard of their malicious talk, she sent for them and prepared a banquet for them: she gave each of them a knife: and she said (to Joseph), “Come out before them.” When they saw him, they did extol him, and (in their amazement) cut their hands: they said, “Allah preserve us! no mortal is this! this is none other than a noble angel!”

012.032She said: “There before you is the man about whom ye did blame me! I did seek to seduce him from his (true) self but he did firmly save himself guiltless!…. And now, if he doth not my bidding, he shall certainly be cast into prison, and (what is more) be of the company of the vilest!”

012.033He said: “O my Lord! the prison is more to my liking than that to which they invite me: Unless Thou turn away their snare from me, I should (in my youthful folly) feel inclined towards them and join the ranks of the ignorant.”

012.034So his Lord hearkened to him (in his prayer), and turned away from him their snare: Verily He heareth and knoweth (all things).

012.035Then it occurred to the men, after they had seen the signs, (that it was best) to imprison him for a time.

012.036Now with him there came into the prison two young men. Said one of them: “I see myself (in a dream) pressing wine.” said the other: “I see myself (in a dream) carrying bread on my head, and birds are eating, thereof.” “Tell us” (they said) “The truth and meaning thereof: for we see thou art one that doth good (to all).”

012.037He said: “Before any food comes (in due course) to feed either of you, I will surely reveal to you the truth and meaning of this ere it befall you: that is part of the (duty) which my Lord hath taught me. I have (I assure you) abandoned the ways of a people that believe not in Allah and that (even) deny the Hereafter.”

012.038“And I follow the ways of my fathers,- Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; and never could we attribute any partners whatever to Allah: that (comes) of the grace of Allah to us and to mankind: yet most men are not grateful.”

012.039“O my two companions of the prison! (I ask you): are many lords differing among themselves better, or the One Allah, Supreme and Irresistible?”

012.040“If not Him, ye worship nothing but names which ye have named,- ye and your fathers,- for which Allah hath sent down no authority: the command is for none but Allah: He hath commanded that ye worship none but Him: that is the right religion, but most men understand not…”

012.041“O my two companions of the prison! As to one of you, he will pour out the wine for his lord to drink: as for the other, he will hang from the cross, and the birds will eat from off his head. (So) hath been decreed that matter whereof ye twain do enquire…”

012.042And of the two, to that one whom he consider about to be saved, he said: “Mention me to thy lord.” But Satan made him forget to mention him to his lord: and (Joseph) lingered in prison a few (more) years.

012.043The king (of Egypt) said: “I do see (in a vision) seven fat kine, whom seven lean ones devour, and seven green ears of corn, and seven (others) withered. O ye chiefs! Expound to me my vision if it be that ye can interpret visions.”

012.044They said: “A confused medley of dreams: and we are not skilled in the interpretation of dreams.”

012.045But the man who had been released, one of the two (who had been in prison) and who now bethought him after (so long) a space of time, said: “I will tell you the truth of its interpretation: send ye me (therefore).”

012.046“O Joseph!” (he said) “O man of truth! Expound to us (the dream) of seven fat kine whom seven lean ones devour, and of seven green ears of corn and (seven) others withered: that I may return to the people, and that they may understand.”

012.047(Joseph) said: “For seven years shall ye diligently sow as is your wont: and the harvests that ye reap, ye shall leave them in the ear,- except a little, of which ye shall eat.”

012.048“Then will come after that (period) seven dreadful (years), which will devour what ye shall have laid by in advance for them,- (all) except a little which ye shall have (specially) guarded.”

012.049“Then will come after that (period) a year in which the people will have abundant water, and in which they will press (wine and oil).”

012.050So the king said: “Bring ye him unto me.” But when the messenger came to him, (Joseph) said: “Go thou back to thy lord, and ask him, ‘What is the state of mind of the ladies who cut their hands’? For my Lord is certainly well aware of their snare.”

012.051(The king) said (to the ladies): “What was your affair when ye did seek to seduce Joseph from his (true) self?” The ladies said: “Allah preserve us! no evil know we against him!” Said the ‘Aziz’s wife: “Now is the truth manifest (to all): it was I who sought to seduce him from his (true) self: He is indeed of those who are (ever) true (and virtuous).”

012.052“This (say I), in order that He may know that I have never been false to him in his absence, and that Allah will never guide the snare of the false ones.”

012.053“Nor do I absolve my own self (of blame): the (human) soul is certainly prone to evil, unless my Lord do bestow His Mercy: but surely my Lord is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.”

012.054So the king said: “Bring him unto me; I will take him specially to serve about my own person.” Therefore when he had spoken to him, he said: “Be assured this day, thou art, before our own presence, with rank firmly established, and fidelity fully proved!”

012.055(Joseph) said: “Set me over the store-houses of the land: I will indeed guard them, as one that knows (their importance).”

012.056Thus did We give established power to Joseph in the land, to take possession therein as, when, or where he pleased. We bestow of our Mercy on whom We please, and We suffer not, to be lost, the reward of those who do good.

012.057But verily the reward of the Hereafter is the best, for those who believe, and are constant in righteousness.

012.058Then came Joseph’s brethren: they entered his presence, and he knew them, but they knew him not.

012.059And when he had furnished them forth with provisions (suitable) for them, he said: “Bring unto me a brother ye have, of the same father as yourselves, (but a different mother): see ye not that I pay out full measure, and that I do provide the best hospitality?”

012.060“Now if ye bring him not to me, ye shall have no measure (of corn) from me, nor shall ye (even) come near me.”

012.061They said: “We shall certainly seek to get our wish about him from his father: Indeed we shall do it.”

012.062And (Joseph) told his servants to put their stock-in-trade (with which they had bartered) into their saddle-bags, so they should know it only when they returned to their people, in order that they might come back.

012.063Now when they returned to their father, they said: “O our father! No more measure of grain shall we get (unless we take our brother): So send our brother with us, that we may get our measure; and we will indeed take every care of him.”

012.064He said: “Shall I trust you with him with any result other than when I trusted you with his brother aforetime? But Allah is the best to take care (of him), and He is the Most Merciful of those who show mercy!”

012.065Then when they opened their baggage, they found their stock-in-trade had been returned to them. They said: “O our father! What (more) can we desire? this our stock-in-trade has been returned to us: so we shall get (more) food for our family; We shall take care of our brother; and add (at the same time) a full camel’s load (of grain to our provisions). This is but a small quantity.”

012.066(Jacob) said: “Never will I send him with you until ye swear a solemn oath to me, in Allah’s name, that ye will be sure to bring him back to me unless ye are yourselves hemmed in (and made powerless).” And when they had sworn their solemn oath, he said: “Over all that we say, be Allah the witness and guardian!”

012.067Further he said: “O my sons! enter not all by one gate: enter ye by different gates. Not that I can profit you aught against Allah (with my advice): None can command except Allah: On Him do I put my trust: and let all that trust put their trust on Him.”

012.068And when they entered in the manner their father had enjoined, it did not profit them in the least against (the plan of) Allah: It was but a necessity of Jacob’s soul, which he discharged. For he was, by our instruction, full of knowledge (and experience): but most men know not.

012.069Now when they came into Joseph’s presence, he received his (full) brother to stay with him. He said (to him): “Behold! I am thy (own) brother; so grieve not at aught of their doings.”

012.070At length when he had furnished them forth with provisions (suitable) for them, he put the drinking cup into his brother’s saddle-bag. Then shouted out a crier: “O ye (in) the caravan! behold! ye are thieves, without doubt!”

012.071They said, turning towards them: “What is it that ye miss?”

012.072They said: “We miss the great beaker of the king; for him who produces it, is (the reward of) a camel load; I will be bound by it.”

012.073(The brothers) said: “By Allah! well ye know that we came not to make mischief in the land, and we are no thieves!”

012.074(The Egyptians) said: “What then shall be the penalty of this, if ye are (proved) to have lied?”

012.075They said: “The penalty should be that he in whose saddle-bag it is found, should be held (as bondman) to atone for the (crime). Thus it is we punish the wrong-doers!”

012.076So he began (the search) with their baggage, before (he came to) the baggage of his brother: at length he brought it out of his brother’s baggage. Thus did We plan for Joseph. He could not take his brother by the law of the king except that Allah willed it (so). We raise to degrees (of wisdom) whom We please: but over all endued with knowledge is one, the All-Knowing.

012.077They said: “If he steals, there was a brother of his who did steal before (him).” But these things did Joseph keep locked in his heart, revealing not the secrets to them. He (simply) said (to himself): “Ye are the worse situated; and Allah knoweth best the truth of what ye assert!”

012.078They said: “O exalted one! Behold! he has a father, aged and venerable, (who will grieve for him); so take one of us in his place; for we see that thou art (gracious) in doing good.”

012.079He said: “Allah forbid that we take other than him with whom we found our property: indeed (if we did so), we should be acting wrongfully.”

012.080Now when they saw no hope of his (yielding), they held a conference in private. The leader among them said: “Know ye not that your father did take an oath from you in Allah’s name, and how, before this, ye did fail in your duty with Joseph? Therefore will I not leave this land until my father permits me, or Allah commands me; and He is the best to command.”

012.081“Turn ye back to your father, and say, ‘O our father! behold! thy son committed theft! we bear witness only to what we know, and we could not well guard against the unseen!”

012.082“‘Ask at the town where we have been and the caravan in which we returned, and (you will find) we are indeed telling the truth.’”

012.083Jacob said: “Nay, but ye have yourselves contrived a story (good enough) for you. So patience is most fitting (for me). Maybe Allah will bring them (back) all to me (in the end). For He is indeed full of knowledge and wisdom.”

012.084And he turned away from them, and said: “How great is my grief for Joseph!” And his eyes became white with sorrow, and he fell into silent melancholy.

012.085They said: “By Allah! (never) wilt thou cease to remember Joseph until thou reach the last extremity of illness, or until thou die!”

012.086He said: “I only complain of my distraction and anguish to Allah, and I know from Allah that which ye know not…”

012.087“O my sons! go ye and enquire about Joseph and his brother, and never give up hope of Allah’s Soothing Mercy: truly no one despairs of Allah’s Soothing Mercy, except those who have no faith.”

012.088Then, when they came (back) into (Joseph’s) presence they said: “O exalted one! distress has seized us and our family: we have (now) brought but scanty capital: so pay us full measure, (we pray thee), and treat it as charity to us: for Allah doth reward the charitable.”

012.089He said: “Know ye how ye dealt with Joseph and his brother, not knowing (what ye were doing)?”

012.090They said: “Art thou indeed Joseph?” He said, “I am Joseph, and this is my brother: Allah has indeed been gracious to us (all): behold, he that is righteous and patient,- never will Allah suffer the reward to be lost, of those who do right.”

012.091They said: “By Allah! indeed has Allah preferred thee above us, and we certainly have been guilty of sin!”

012.092He said: “This day let no reproach be (cast) on you: Allah will forgive you, and He is the Most Merciful of those who show mercy!”

012.093“Go with this my shirt, and cast it over the face of my father: he will come to see (clearly). Then come ye (here) to me together with all your family.”

012.094When the caravan left (Egypt), their father said: “I do indeed scent the presence of Joseph: Nay, think me not a dotard.”

012.095They said: “By Allah! truly thou art in thine old wandering mind.”

012.096Then when the bearer of the good news came, He cast (the shirt) over his face, and he forthwith regained clear sight. He said: “Did I not say to you, ‘I know from Allah that which ye know not?’”

012.097They said: “O our father! ask for us forgiveness for our sins, for we were truly at fault.”

012.098He said: “Soon will I ask my Lord for forgiveness for you: for he is indeed Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.”

012.099Then when they entered the presence of Joseph, he provided a home for his parents with himself, and said: “Enter ye Egypt (all) in safety if it please Allah.”

012.100And he raised his parents high on the throne (of dignity), and they fell down in prostration, (all) before him. He said: “O my father! this is the fulfilment of my vision of old! Allah hath made it come true! He was indeed good to me when He took me out of prison and brought you (all here) out of the desert, (even) after Satan had sown enmity between me and my brothers. Verily my Lord understandeth best the mysteries of all that He planneth to do, for verily He is full of knowledge and wisdom.”

012.101“O my Lord! Thou hast indeed bestowed on me some power, and taught me something of the interpretation of dreams and events,- O Thou Creator of the heavens and the earth! Thou art my Protector in this world and in the Hereafter. Take Thou my soul (at death) as one submitting to Thy will (as a Muslim), and unite me with the righteous.”

012.102Such is one of the stories of what happened unseen, which We reveal by inspiration unto thee; nor wast thou (present) with them then when they concerted their plans together in the process of weaving their plots.

012.103Yet no faith will the greater part of mankind have, however ardently thou dost desire it.

012.104And no reward dost thou ask of them for this: it is no less than a message for all creatures.

012.105And how many Signs in the heavens and the earth do they pass by? Yet they turn (their faces) away from them!

012.106And most of them believe not in Allah without associating (other as partners) with Him!

012.107Do they then feel secure from the coming against them of the covering veil of the wrath of Allah,- or of the coming against them of the (final) Hour all of a sudden while they perceive not?

012.108Say thou: “This is my way: I do invite unto Allah,- on evidence clear as the seeing with one’s eyes,- I and whoever follows me. Glory to Allah! and never will I join gods with Allah!”

012.109Nor did We send before thee (as messengers) any but men, whom we did inspire,- (men) living in human habitations. Do they not travel through the earth, and see what was the end of those before them? But the home of the hereafter is best, for those who do right. Will ye not then understand?

012.110(Respite will be granted) until, when the messengers give up hope (of their people) and (come to) think that they were treated as liars, there reaches them Our help, and those whom We will are delivered into safety. But never will be warded off our punishment from those who are in sin.

012.111There is, in their stories, instruction for men endued with understanding. It is not a tale invented, but a confirmation of what went before it,- a detailed exposition of all things, and a guide and a mercy to any such as believe.

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

013.001A.L.M.R. These are the signs (or verses) of the Book: that which hath been revealed unto thee from thy Lord is the Truth; but most men believe not.

013.002Allah is He Who raised the heavens without any pillars that ye can see; is firmly established on the throne (of authority); He has subjected the sun and the moon (to his Law)! Each one runs (its course) for a term appointed. He doth regulate all affairs, explaining the signs in detail, that ye may believe with certainty in the meeting with your Lord.

013.003And it is He who spread out the earth, and set thereon mountains standing firm and (flowing) rivers: and fruit of every kind He made in pairs, two and two: He draweth the night as a veil o’er the Day. Behold, verily in these things there are signs for those who consider!

013.004And in the earth are tracts (diverse though) neighbouring, and gardens of vines and fields sown with corn, and palm trees - growing out of single roots or otherwise: watered with the same water, yet some of them We make more excellent than others to eat. Behold, verily in these things there are signs for those who understand!

013.005If thou dost marvel (at their want of faith), strange is their saying: “When we are (actually) dust, shall we indeed then be in a creation renewed?” They are those who deny their Lord! They are those round whose necks will be yokes (of servitude): they will be Companions of the Fire, to dwell therein (for aye)!

013.006They ask thee to hasten on the evil in preference to the good: Yet have come to pass, before them, (many) exemplary punishments! But verily thy Lord is full of forgiveness for mankind for their wrong-doing, and verily thy Lord is (also) strict in punishment.

013.007And the Unbelievers say: “Why is not a sign sent down to him from his Lord?” But thou art truly a warner, and to every people a guide.

013.008Allah doth know what every female (womb) doth bear, by how much the wombs fall short (of their time or number) or do exceed. Every single thing is before His sight, in (due) proportion.

013.009He knoweth the unseen and that which is open: He is the Great, the Most High.

013.010It is the same (to Him) whether any of you conceal his speech or declare it openly; whether he lie hid by night or walk forth freely by day.

013.011For each (such person) there are (angels) in succession, before and behind him: They guard him by command of Allah. Allah does not change a people’s lot unless they change what is in their hearts. But when (once) Allah willeth a people’s punishment, there can be no turning it back, nor will they find, besides Him, any to protect.

013.012It is He Who doth show you the lightning, by way both of fear and of hope: It is He Who doth raise up the clouds, heavy with (fertilising) rain!

013.013Nay, thunder repeateth His praises, and so do the angels, with awe: He flingeth the loud-voiced thunder-bolts, and therewith He striketh whomsoever He will..yet these (are the men) who (dare to) dispute about Allah, with the strength of His power (supreme)!

013.014For Him (alone) is prayer in Truth: any others that they call upon besides Him hear them no more than if they were to stretch forth their hands for water to reach their mouths but it reaches them not: for the prayer of those without Faith is nothing but (futile) wandering (in the mind).

013.015Whatever beings there are in the heavens and the earth do prostrate themselves to Allah (Acknowledging subjection),- with good-will or in spite of themselves: so do their shadows in the morning and evenings.

013.016Say: “Who is the Lord and Sustainer of the heavens and the earth?” Say: “(It is) Allah.” Say: “Do ye then take (for worship) protectors other than Him, such as have no power either for good or for harm to themselves?” Say: “Are the blind equal with those who see? Or the depths of darkness equal with light?” Or do they assign to Allah partners who have created (anything) as He has created, so that the creation seemed to them similar? Say: “Allah is the Creator of all things: He is the One, the Supreme and Irresistible.”

013.017He sends down water from the skies, and the channels flow, each according to its measure: But the torrent bears away to foam that mounts up to the surface. Even so, from that (ore) which they heat in the fire, to make ornaments or utensils therewith, there is a scum likewise. Thus doth Allah (by parables) show forth Truth and Vanity. For the scum disappears like forth cast out; while that which is for the good of mankind remains on the earth. Thus doth Allah set forth parables.

013.018For those who respond to their Lord, are (all) good things. But those who respond not to Him,- Even if they had all that is in the heavens and on earth, and as much more, (in vain) would they offer it for ransom. For them will the reckoning be terrible: their abode will be Hell,- what a bed of misery!

013.019Is then one who doth know that that which hath been revealed unto thee from thy Lord is the Truth, like one who is blind? It is those who are endued with understanding that receive admonition;-

013.020Those who fulfil the covenant of Allah and fail not in their plighted word;

013.021Those who join together those things which Allah hath commanded to be joined, hold their Lord in awe, and fear the terrible reckoning;

013.022Those who patiently persevere, seeking the countenance of their Lord; Establish regular prayers; spend, out of (the gifts) We have bestowed for their sustenance, secretly and openly; and turn off Evil with good: for such there is the final attainment of the (eternal) home,-

013.023Gardens of perpetual bliss: they shall enter there, as well as the righteous among their fathers, their spouses, and their offspring: and angels shall enter unto them from every gate (with the salutation):

013.024“Peace unto you for that ye persevered in patience! Now how excellent is the final home!”

013.025But those who break the Covenant of Allah, after having plighted their word thereto, and cut asunder those things which Allah has commanded to be joined, and work mischief in the land;- on them is the curse; for them is the terrible home!

013.026Allah doth enlarge, or grant by (strict) measure, the sustenance (which He giveth) to whomso He pleaseth. (The wordly) rejoice in the life of this world: But the life of this world is but little comfort in the Hereafter.

013.027The Unbelievers say: “Why is not a sign sent down to him from his Lord?” Say: “Truly Allah leaveth, to stray, whom He will; But He guideth to Himself those who turn to Him in penitence,-“

013.028“Those who believe, and whose hearts find satisfaction in the remembrance of Allah: for without doubt in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find satisfaction.”

013.029“For those who believe and work righteousness, is (every) blessedness, and a beautiful place of (final) return.”

013.030Thus have we sent thee amongst a People before whom (long since) have (other) Peoples (gone and) passed away; in order that thou mightest rehearse unto them what We send down unto thee by inspiration; yet do they reject (Him), the Most Gracious! Say: “He is my Lord! There is no god but He! On Him is my trust, and to Him do I turn!”

013.031If there were a Qur’an with which mountains were moved, or the earth were cloven asunder, or the dead were made to speak, (this would be the one!) But, truly, the command is with Allah in all things! Do not the Believers know, that, had Allah (so) willed, He could have guided all mankind (to the right)? But the Unbelievers,- never will disaster cease to seize them for their (ill) deeds, or to settle close to their homes, until the promise of Allah come to pass, for, verily, Allah will not fail in His promise.

013.032Mocked were (many) messengers before thee: but I granted respite to the unbelievers, and finally I punished them: Then how (terrible) was my requital!

013.033Is then He who standeth over every soul (and knoweth) all that it doth, (like any others)? And yet they ascribe partners to Allah. Say: “But name them! is it that ye will inform Him of something he knoweth not on earth, or is it (just) a show of words?” Nay! to those who believe not, their pretence seems pleasing, but they are kept back (thereby) from the path. And those whom Allah leaves to stray, no one can guide.

013.034For them is a penalty in the life of this world, but harder, truly, is the penalty of the Hereafter: and defender have they none against Allah.

013.035The parable of the Garden which the righteous are promised!- beneath it flow rivers: perpetual is the enjoyment thereof and the shade therein: such is the end of the Righteous; and the end of Unbelievers in the Fire.

013.036Those to whom We have given the Book rejoice at what hath been revealed unto thee: but there are among the clans those who reject a part thereof. Say: “I am commanded to worship Allah, and not to join partners with Him. Unto Him do I call, and unto Him is my return.”

013.037Thus have We revealed it to be a judgment of authority in Arabic. Wert thou to follow their (vain) desires after the knowledge which hath reached thee, then wouldst thou find neither protector nor defender against Allah.

013.038We did send messengers before thee, and appointed for them wives and children: and it was never the part of a messenger to bring a sign except as Allah permitted (or commanded). For each period is a Book (revealed).

013.039Allah doth blot out or confirm what He pleaseth: with Him is the Mother of the Book.

013.040Whether We shall show thee (within thy life-time) part of what we promised them or take to ourselves thy soul (before it is all accomplished),- thy duty is to make (the Message) reach them: it is our part to call them to account.

013.041See they not that We gradually reduce the land (in their control) from its outlying borders? (Where) Allah commands, there is none to put back His Command: and He is swift in calling to account.

013.042Those before them did (also) devise plots; but in all things the master-planning is Allah’s He knoweth the doings of every soul: and soon will the Unbelievers know who gets home in the end.

013.043The Unbelievers say: “No messenger art thou.” Say: “Enough for a witness between me and you is Allah, and such as have knowledge of the Book.”

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

014.001A. L. R. A Book which We have revealed unto thee, in order that thou mightest lead mankind out of the depths of darkness into light - by the leave of their Lord - to the Way of (Him) the Exalted in power, worthy of all praise!-

014.002Of Allah, to Whom do belong all things in the heavens and on earth! But alas for the Unbelievers for a terrible penalty (their Unfaith will bring them)!-

014.003Those who love the life of this world more than the Hereafter, who hinder (men) from the Path of Allah and seek therein something crooked: they are astray by a long distance.

014.004We sent not a messenger except (to teach) in the language of his (own) people, in order to make (things) clear to them. Now Allah leaves straying those whom He pleases and guides whom He pleases: and He is Exalted in power, full of Wisdom.

014.005We sent Moses with Our signs (and the command). “Bring out thy people from the depths of darkness into light, and teach them to remember the Days of Allah.” Verily in this there are Signs for such as are firmly patient and constant,- grateful and appreciative.

014.006Remember! Moses said to his people: “Call to mind the favour of Allah to you when He delivered you from the people of Pharaoh: they set you hard tasks and punishments, slaughtered your sons, and let your women-folk live: therein was a tremendous trial from your Lord.”

014.007And remember! your Lord caused to be declared (publicly): “If ye are grateful, I will add more (favours) unto you; But if ye show ingratitude, truly My punishment is terrible indeed.”

014.008And Moses said: “If ye show ingratitude, ye and all on earth together, yet is Allah free of all wants, worthy of all praise.”

014.009Has not the story reached you, (O people!), of those who (went) before you? - of the people of Noah, and ‘Ad, and Thamud? - And of those who (came) after them? None knows them but Allah. To them came messengers with Clear (Signs); but they put their hands up to their mouths, and said: “We do deny (the mission) on which ye have been sent, and we are really in suspicious (disquieting) doubt as to that to which ye invite us.”

014.010Their messengers said: “Is there a doubt about Allah, The Creator of the heavens and the earth? It is He Who invites you, in order that He may forgive you your sins and give you respite for a term appointed!” They said: “Ah! ye are no more than human, like ourselves! Ye wish to turn us away from the (gods) our fathers used to worship: then bring us some clear authority.”

014.011Their messengers said to them: “True, we are human like yourselves, but Allah doth grant His grace to such of his servants as He pleases. It is not for us to bring you an authority except as Allah permits. And on Allah let all men of faith put their trust.”

014.012“No reason have we why we should not put our trust on Allah. Indeed He Has guided us to the Ways we (follow). We shall certainly bear with patience all the hurt you may cause us. For those who put their trust should put their trust on Allah.”

014.013And the Unbelievers said to their messengers: “Be sure we shall drive you out of our land, or ye shall return to our religion.” But their Lord inspired (this Message) to them: “Verily We shall cause the wrong-doers to perish!”

014.014“And verily We shall cause you to abide in the land, and succeed them. This for such as fear the Time when they shall stand before My tribunal,- such as fear the punishment denounced.”

014.015But they sought victory and decision (there and then), and frustration was the lot of every powerful obstinate transgressor.

014.016In front of such a one is Hell, and he is given, for drink, boiling fetid water.

014.017In gulps will he sip it, but never will he be near swallowing it down his throat: death will come to him from every quarter, yet will he not die: and in front of him will be a chastisement unrelenting.

014.018The parable of those who reject their Lord is that their works are as ashes, on which the wind blows furiously on a tempestuous day: No power have they over aught that they have earned: that is the straying far, far (from the goal).

014.019Seest thou not that Allah created the heavens and the earth in Truth? If He so will, He can remove you and put (in your place) a new creation?

014.020Nor is that for Allah any great matter.

014.021They will all be marshalled before Allah together: then will the weak say to those who were arrogant, “For us, we but followed you; can ye then avail us to all against the wrath of Allah?” They will reply, “If we had received the Guidance of Allah, we should have given it to you: to us it makes no difference (now) whether we rage, or bear (these torments) with patience: for ourselves there is no way of escape.”

014.022And Satan will say when the matter is decided: “It was Allah Who gave you a promise of Truth: I too promised, but I failed in my promise to you. I had no authority over you except to call you but ye listened to me: then reproach not me, but reproach your own souls. I cannot listen to your cries, nor can ye listen to mine. I reject your former act in associating me with Allah. For wrong-doers there must be a grievous penalty.”

014.023But those who believe and work righteousness will be admitted to gardens beneath which rivers flow,- to dwell therein for aye with the leave of their Lord. Their greeting therein will be: “Peace!”

014.024Seest thou not how Allah sets forth a parable? - A goodly word like a goodly tree, whose root is firmly fixed, and its branches (reach) to the heavens,- of its Lord. So Allah sets forth parables for men, in order that they may receive admonition.

014.025It brings forth its fruit at all times, by the leave of its Lord. So Allah sets forth parables for men, in order that they may receive admonition.

014.026And the parable of an evil Word is that of an evil tree: It is torn up by the root from the surface of the earth: it has no stability.

014.027Allah will establish in strength those who believe, with the word that stands firm, in this world and in the Hereafter; but Allah will leave, to stray, those who do wrong: Allah doeth what He willeth.

014.028Hast thou not turned thy vision to those who have changed the favour of Allah. Into blasphemy and caused their people to descend to the House of Perdition?-

014.029Into Hell? They will burn therein,- an evil place to stay in!

014.030And they set up (idols) as equal to Allah, to mislead (men) from the Path! Say: “Enjoy (your brief power)! But verily ye are making straightway for Hell!”

014.031Speak to my servants who have believed, that they may establish regular prayers, and spend (in charity) out of the sustenance we have given them, secretly and openly, before the coming of a Day in which there will be neither mutual bargaining nor befriending.

014.032It is Allah Who hath created the heavens and the earth and sendeth down rain from the skies, and with it bringeth out fruits wherewith to feed you; it is He Who hath made the ships subject to you, that they may sail through the sea by His command; and the rivers (also) hath He made subject to you.

014.033And He hath made subject to you the sun and the moon, both diligently pursuing their courses; and the night and the day hath he (also) made subject to you.

014.034And He giveth you of all that ye ask for. But if ye count the favours of Allah, never will ye be able to number them. Verily, man is given up to injustice and ingratitude.

014.035Remember Abraham said: “O my Lord! make this city one of peace and security: and preserve me and my sons from worshipping idols.”

014.036“O my Lord! they have indeed led astray many among mankind; He then who follows my (ways) is of me, and he that disobeys me,- but Thou art indeed Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.”

014.037“O our Lord! I have made some of my offspring to dwell in a valley without cultivation, by Thy Sacred House; in order, O our Lord, that they may establish regular Prayer: so fill the hearts of some among men with love towards them, and feed them with fruits: so that they may give thanks.”

014.038“O our Lord! truly Thou dost know what we conceal and what we reveal: for nothing whatever is hidden from Allah, whether on earth or in heaven.”

014.039“Praise be to Allah, Who hath granted unto me in old age Isma’il and Isaac: for truly my Lord is He, the Hearer of Prayer!”

014.040O my Lord! make me one who establishes regular Prayer, and also (raise such) among my offspring O our Lord! and accept Thou my Prayer.

014.041“O our Lord! cover (us) with Thy Forgiveness - me, my parents, and (all) Believers, on the Day that the Reckoning will be established!”

014.042Think not that Allah doth not heed the deeds of those who do wrong. He but giveth them respite against a Day when the eyes will fixedly stare in horror,-

014.043They running forward with necks outstretched, their heads uplifted, their gaze returning not towards them, and their hearts a (gaping) void!

014.044So warn mankind of the Day when the Wrath will reach them: then will the wrong-doers say: “Our Lord! respite us (if only) for a short term: we will answer Thy call, and follow the messengers!” “What! were ye not wont to swear aforetime that ye should suffer no decline?”

014.045“And ye dwelt in the dwellings of men who wronged their own souls; ye were clearly shown how We dealt with them; and We put forth (many) parables in your behoof!”

014.046Mighty indeed were the plots which they made, but their plots were (well) within the sight of Allah, even though they were such as to shake the hills!

014.047Never think that Allah would fail his messengers in His promise: for Allah is Exalted in power, - the Lord of Retribution.

014.048One day the earth will be changed to a different earth, and so will be the heavens, and (men) will be marshalled forth, before Allah, the One, the Irresistible;

014.049And thou wilt see the sinners that day bound together in fetters;-

014.050Their garments of liquid pitch, and their faces covered with Fire;

014.051That Allah may requite each soul according to its deserts; and verily Allah is swift in calling to account.

014.052Here is a Message for mankind: Let them take warning therefrom, and let them know that He is (no other than) One Allah: let men of understanding take heed.

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

015.001A. L. R. These are the Ayats of Revelation,- of a Qur’an that makes things clear.

015.002Again and again will those who disbelieve, wish that they had bowed (to Allah’s will) in Islam.

015.003Leave them alone, to enjoy (the good things of this life) and to please themselves: let (false) hope amuse them: soon will knowledge (undeceive them).

015.004Never did We destroy a population that had not a term decreed and assigned beforehand.

015.005Neither can a people anticipate its term, nor delay it.

015.006They say: “O thou to whom the Message is being revealed! truly thou art mad (or possessed)!”

015.007“Why bringest thou not angels to us if it be that thou hast the Truth?”

015.008We send not the angels down except for just cause: if they came (to the ungodly), behold! no respite would they have!

015.009We have, without doubt, sent down the Message; and We will assuredly guard it (from corruption).

015.010We did send messengers before thee amongst the religious sects of old:

015.011But never came a messenger to them but they mocked him.

015.012Even so do we let it creep into the hearts of the sinners -

015.013That they should not believe in the (Message); but the ways of the ancients have passed away.

015.014Even if We opened out to them a gate from heaven, and they were to continue (all day) ascending therein,

015.015They would only say: “Our eyes have been intoxicated: Nay, we have been bewitched by sorcery.”

015.016It is We Who have set out the zodiacal signs in the heavens, and made them fair-seeming to (all) beholders;

015.017And (moreover) We have guarded them from every cursed devil:

015.018But any that gains a hearing by stealth, is pursued by a flaming fire, bright (to see).

015.019And the earth We have spread out (like a carpet); set thereon mountains firm and immovable; and produced therein all kinds of things in due balance.

015.020And We have provided therein means of subsistence,- for you and for those for whose sustenance ye are not responsible.

015.021And there is not a thing but its (sources and) treasures (inexhaustible) are with Us; but We only send down thereof in due and ascertainable measures.

015.022And We send the fecundating winds, then cause the rain to descend from the sky, therewith providing you with water (in abundance), though ye are not the guardians of its stores.

015.023And verily, it is We Who give life, and Who give death: it is We Who remain inheritors (after all else passes away).

015.024To Us are known those of you who hasten forward, and those who lag behind.

015.025Assuredly it is thy Lord Who will gather them together: for He is perfect in Wisdom and Knowledge.

015.026We created man from sounding clay, from mud moulded into shape;

015.027And the jinn race, We had created before, from the fire of a scorching wind.

015.028Behold! thy Lord said to the angels: “I am about to create man, from sounding clay from mud moulded into shape;”

015.029“When I have fashioned him (in due proportion) and breathed into him of My spirit, fall ye down in obeisance unto him.”

015.030So the angels prostrated themselves, all of them together:

015.031Not so Iblis: he refused to be among those who prostrated themselves.

015.032(Allah) said: “O Iblis! what is your reason for not being among those who prostrated themselves?”

015.033(Iblis) said: “I am not one to prostrate myself to man, whom Thou didst create from sounding clay, from mud moulded into shape.”

015.034(Allah) said: “Then get thee out from here; for thou art rejected, accursed.”

015.035“And the curse shall be on thee till the day of Judgment.”

015.036(Iblis) said: “O my Lord! give me then respite till the Day the (dead) are raised.”

015.037(Allah) said: “Respite is granted thee-“

015.038“Till the Day of the Time appointed.”

015.039(Iblis) said: “O my Lord! because Thou hast put me in the wrong, I will make (wrong) fair-seeming to them on the earth, and I will put them all in the wrong,-“

015.040“Except Thy servants among them, sincere and purified (by Thy Grace).”

015.041(Allah) said: “This (way of My sincere servants) is indeed a way that leads straight to Me.”

015.042“For over My servants no authority shalt thou have, except such as put themselves in the wrong and follow thee.”

015.043And verily, Hell is the promised abode for them all!

015.044To it are seven gates: for each of those gates is a (special) class (of sinners) assigned.

015.045The righteous (will be) amid gardens and fountains (of clear-flowing water).

015.046(Their greeting will be): “Enter ye here in peace and security.”

015.047And We shall remove from their hearts any lurking sense of injury: (they will be) brothers (joyfully) facing each other on thrones (of dignity).

015.048There no sense of fatigue shall touch them, nor shall they (ever) be asked to leave.

015.049Tell My servants that I am indeed the Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful;

015.050And that My Penalty will be indeed the most grievous Penalty.

015.051Tell them about the guests of Abraham.

015.052When they entered his presence and said, “Peace!” He said, “We feel afraid of you!”

015.053They said: “Fear not! We give thee glad tidings of a son endowed with wisdom.”

015.054He said: “Do ye give me glad tidings that old age has seized me? Of what, then, is your good news?”

015.055They said: “We give thee glad tidings in truth: be not then in despair!”

015.056He said: “And who despairs of the mercy of his Lord, but such as go astray?”

015.057Abraham said: “What then is the business on which ye (have come), O ye messengers (of Allah)?”

015.058They said: “We have been sent to a people (deep) in sin,”

015.059“Excepting the adherents of Lut: them we are certainly (charged) to save (from harm),- All -“

015.060“Except his wife, who, We have ascertained, will be among those who will lag behind.”

015.061At length when the messengers arrived among the adherents of Lut,

015.062He said: “Ye appear to be uncommon folk.”

015.063They said: “Yea, we have come to thee to accomplish that of which they doubt.”

015.064“We have brought to thee that which is inevitably due, and assuredly we tell the truth.”

015.065“Then travel by night with thy household, when a portion of the night (yet remains), and do thou bring up the rear: let no one amongst you look back, but pass on whither ye are ordered.”

015.066And We made known this decree to him, that the last remnants of those (sinners) should be cut off by the morning.

015.067The inhabitants of the city came in (mad) joy (at news of the young men).

015.068Lut said: “These are my guests: disgrace me not:”

015.069“But fear Allah, and shame me not.”

015.070They said: “Did we not forbid thee (to speak) for all and sundry?”

015.071He said: “There are my daughters (to marry), if ye must act (so).”

015.072Verily, by thy life (O Prophet), in their wild intoxication, they wander in distraction, to and fro.

015.073But the (mighty) Blast overtook them before morning,

015.074And We turned (the cities) upside down, and rained down on them brimstones hard as baked clay.

015.075Behold! in this are Signs for those who by tokens do understand.

015.076And the (cities were) right on the high-road.

015.077Behold! in this is a sign for those who believed.

015.078And the Companions of the Wood were also wrong-doers;

015.079So We exacted retribution from them. They were both on an open highway, plain to see.

015.080The Companions of the Rocky Tract also rejected the messengers:

015.081We sent them Our Signs, but they persisted in turning away from them.

015.082Out of the mountains did they hew (their) edifices, (feeling themselves) secure.

015.083But the (mighty) Blast seized them of a morning,

015.084And of no avail to them was all that they did (with such art and care)!

015.085We created not the heavens, the earth, and all between them, but for just ends. And the Hour is surely coming (when this will be manifest). So overlook (any human faults) with gracious forgiveness.

015.086For verily it is thy Lord who is the Master-Creator, knowing all things.

015.087And We have bestowed upon thee the Seven oft-repeated (verses) and the Grand Qur’an.

015.088Strain not thine eyes. (Wistfully) at what We have bestowed on certain classes of them, nor grieve over them: but lower thy wing (in gentleness) to the believers.

015.089And say: “I am indeed he that warneth openly and without ambiguity,”-

015.090(Of just such wrath) as We sent down on those who divided (Scripture into arbitrary parts),-

015.091(So also on such) as have made Qur’an into shreds (as they please).

015.092Therefore, by the Lord, We will, of a surety, call them to account,

015.093For all their deeds.

015.094Therefore expound openly what thou art commanded, and turn away from those who join false gods with Allah.

015.095For sufficient are We unto thee against those who scoff,-

015.096Those who adopt, with Allah, another god: but soon will they come to know.

015.097We do indeed know how thy heart is distressed at what they say.

015.098But celebrate the praises of thy Lord, and be of those who prostrate themselves in adoration.

015.099And serve thy Lord until there come unto thee the Hour that is Certain.

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

016.001(Inevitable) cometh (to pass) the Command of Allah: seek ye not then to hasten it: Glory to Him, and far is He above having the partners they ascribe unto Him!

016.002He doth send down His angels with inspiration of His Command, to such of His servants as He pleaseth, (saying): “Warn (Man) that there is no god but I: so do your duty unto Me.”

016.003He has created the heavens and the earth for just ends: Far is He above having the partners they ascribe to Him!

016.004He has created man from a sperm-drop; and behold this same (man) becomes an open disputer!

016.005And cattle He has created for you (men): from them ye derive warmth, and numerous benefits, and of their (meat) ye eat.

016.006And ye have a sense of pride and beauty in them as ye drive them home in the evening, and as ye lead them forth to pasture in the morning.

016.007And they carry your heavy loads to lands that ye could not (otherwise) reach except with souls distressed: for your Lord is indeed Most Kind, Most Merciful,

016.008And (He has created) horses, mules, and donkeys, for you to ride and use for show; and He has created (other) things of which ye have no knowledge.

016.009And unto Allah leads straight the Way, but there are ways that turn aside: if Allah had willed, He could have guided all of you.

016.010It is He who sends down rain from the sky: from it ye drink, and out of it (grows) the vegetation on which ye feed your cattle.

016.011With it He produces for you corn, olives, date-palms, grapes and every kind of fruit: verily in this is a sign for those who give thought.

016.012He has made subject to you the Night and the Day; the sun and the moon; and the stars are in subjection by His Command: verily in this are Signs for men who are wise.

016.013And the things on this earth which He has multiplied in varying colours (and qualities): verily in this is a sign for men who celebrate the praises of Allah (in gratitude).

016.014It is He Who has made the sea subject, that ye may eat thereof flesh that is fresh and tender, and that ye may extract therefrom ornaments to wear; and thou seest the ships therein that plough the waves, that ye may seek (thus) of the bounty of Allah and that ye may be grateful.

016.015And He has set up on the earth mountains standing firm, lest it should shake with you; and rivers and roads; that ye may guide yourselves;

016.016And marks and sign-posts; and by the stars (men) guide themselves.

016.017Is then He Who creates like one that creates not? Will ye not receive admonition?

016.018If ye would count up the favours of Allah, never would ye be able to number them: for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

016.019And Allah doth know what ye conceal, and what ye reveal.

016.020Those whom they invoke besides Allah create nothing and are themselves created.

016.021(They are things) dead, lifeless: nor do they know when they will be raised up.

016.022Your Allah is one Allah: as to those who believe not in the Hereafter, their hearts refuse to know, and they are arrogant.

016.023Undoubtedly Allah doth know what they conceal, and what they reveal: verily He loveth not the arrogant.

016.024When it is said to them, “What is it that your Lord has revealed?” they say, “Tales of the ancients!”

016.025Let them bear, on the Day of Judgment, their own burdens in full, and also (something) of the burdens of those without knowledge, whom they misled. Alas, how grievous the burdens they will bear!

016.026Those before them did also plot (against Allah’s Way): but Allah took their structures from their foundations, and the roof fell down on them from above; and the Wrath seized them from directions they did not perceive.

016.027Then, on the Day of Judgment, He will cover them with shame, and say: “Where are My ‘partners’ concerning whom ye used to dispute (with the godly)?” Those endued with knowledge will say: “This Day, indeed, are the Unbelievers covered with shame and misery,-“

016.028“(Namely) those whose lives the angels take in a state of wrong-doing to their own souls.” Then would they offer submission (with the pretence), “We did no evil (knowingly).” (The angels will reply), “Nay, but verily Allah knoweth all that ye did;”

016.029“So enter the gates of Hell, to dwell therein. Thus evil indeed is the abode of the arrogant.”

016.030To the righteous (when) it is said, “What is it that your Lord has revealed?” they say, “All that is good.” To those who do good, there is good in this world, and the Home of the Hereafter is even better and excellent indeed is the Home of the righteous,-

016.031Gardens of Eternity which they will enter: beneath them flow (pleasant) rivers: they will have therein all that they wish: thus doth Allah reward the righteous,-

016.032(Namely) those whose lives the angels take in a state of purity, saying (to them), “Peace be on you; enter ye the Garden, because of (the good) which ye did (in the world).”

016.033Do the (ungodly) wait until the angels come to them, or there comes the Command of thy Lord (for their doom)? So did those who went before them. But Allah wronged them not: nay, they wronged their own souls.

016.034But the evil results of their deeds overtook them, and that very (Wrath) at which they had scoffed hemmed them in.

016.035The worshippers of false gods say: “If Allah had so willed, we should not have worshipped aught but Him - neither we nor our fathers,- nor should we have prescribed prohibitions other than His.” So did those who went before them. But what is the mission of messengers but to preach the Clear Message?

016.036For We assuredly sent amongst every People a messenger, (with the Command), “Serve Allah, and eschew Evil”: of the People were some whom Allah guided, and some on whom error became inevitably (established). So travel through the earth, and see what was the end of those who denied (the Truth).

016.037If thou art anxious for their guidance, yet Allah guideth not such as He leaves to stray, and there is none to help them.

016.038They swear their strongest oaths by Allah, that Allah will not raise up those who die: Nay, but it is a promise (binding) on Him in truth: but most among mankind realise it not.

016.039(They must be raised up), in order that He may manifest to them the truth of that wherein they differ, and that the rejecters of Truth may realise that they had indeed (surrendered to) Falsehood.

016.040For to anything which We have willed, We but say the word, “Be”, and it is.

016.041To those who leave their homes in the cause of Allah, after suffering oppression,- We will assuredly give a goodly home in this world; but truly the reward of the Hereafter will be greater. If they only realised (this)!

016.042(They are) those who persevere in patience, and put their trust on their Lord.

016.043And before thee also the messengers We sent were but men, to whom We granted inspiration: if ye realise this not, ask of those who possess the Message.

016.044(We sent them) with Clear Signs and Books of dark prophecies; and We have sent down unto thee (also) the Message; that thou mayest explain clearly to men what is sent for them, and that they may give thought.

016.045Do then those who devise evil (plots) feel secure that Allah will not cause the earth to swallow them up, or that the Wrath will not seize them from directions they little perceive?-

016.046Or that He may not call them to account in the midst of their goings to and fro, without a chance of their frustrating Him?-

016.047Or that He may not call them to account by a process of slow wastage - for thy Lord is indeed full of kindness and mercy.

016.048Do they not look at Allah’s creation, (even) among (inanimate) things,- How their (very) shadows turn round, from the right and the left, prostrating themselves to Allah, and that in the humblest manner?

016.049And to Allah doth obeisance all that is in the heavens and on earth, whether moving (living) creatures or the angels: for none are arrogant (before their Lord).

016.050They all revere their Lord, high above them, and they do all that they are commanded.

016.051Allah has said: “Take not (for worship) two gods: for He is just One Allah: then fear Me (and Me alone).”

016.052To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and on earth, and to Him is duty due always: then will ye fear other than Allah?

016.053And ye have no good thing but is from Allah: and moreover, when ye are touched by distress, unto Him ye cry with groans;

016.054Yet, when He removes the distress from you, behold! some of you turn to other gods to join with their Lord-

016.055(As if) to show their ingratitude for the favours we have bestowed on them! then enjoy (your brief day): but soon will ye know (your folly)!

016.056And they (even) assign, to things they do not know, a portion out of that which We have bestowed for their sustenance! By Allah, ye shall certainly be called to account for your false inventions.

016.057And they assign daughters for Allah! - Glory be to Him! - and for themselves (sons,- the issue) they desire!

016.058When news is brought to one of them, of (the birth of) a female (child), his face darkens, and he is filled with inward grief!

016.059With shame does he hide himself from his people, because of the bad news he has had! Shall he retain it on (sufferance and) contempt, or bury it in the dust? Ah! what an evil (choice) they decide on?

016.060To those who believe not in the Hereafter, applies the similitude of evil: to Allah applies the highest similitude: for He is the Exalted in Power, full of Wisdom.

016.061If Allah were to punish men for their wrong-doing, He would not leave, on the (earth), a single living creature: but He gives them respite for a stated Term: When their Term expires, they would not be able to delay (the punishment) for a single hour, just as they would not be able to anticipate it (for a single hour).

016.062They attribute to Allah what they hate (for themselves), and their tongues assert the falsehood that all good things are for themselves: without doubt for them is the Fire, and they will be the first to be hastened on into it!

016.063By Allah, We (also) sent (Our messengers) to Peoples before thee; but Satan made, (to the wicked), their own acts seem alluring: He is also their patron today, but they shall have a most grievous penalty.

016.064And We sent down the Book to thee for the express purpose, that thou shouldst make clear to them those things in which they differ, and that it should be a guide and a mercy to those who believe.

016.065And Allah sends down rain from the skies, and gives therewith life to the earth after its death: verily in this is a Sign for those who listen.

016.066And verily in cattle (too) will ye find an instructive sign. From what is within their bodies between excretions and blood, We produce, for your drink, milk, pure and agreeable to those who drink it.

016.067And from the fruit of the date-palm and the vine, ye get out wholesome drink and food: behold, in this also is a sign for those who are wise.

016.068And thy Lord taught the Bee to build its cells in hills, on trees, and in (men’s) habitations;

016.069Then to eat of all the produce (of the earth), and find with skill the spacious paths of its Lord: there issues from within their bodies a drink of varying colours, wherein is healing for men: verily in this is a Sign for those who give thought.

016.070It is Allah who creates you and takes your souls at death; and of you there are some who are sent back to a feeble age, so that they know nothing after having known (much): for Allah is All-Knowing, All-Powerful.

016.071Allah has bestowed His gifts of sustenance more freely on some of you than on others: those more favoured are not going to throw back their gifts to those whom their right hands possess, so as to be equal in that respect. Will they then deny the favours of Allah?

016.072And Allah has made for you mates (and companions) of your own nature, and made for you, out of them, sons and daughters and grandchildren, and provided for you sustenance of the best: will they then believe in vain things, and be ungrateful for Allah’s favours?-

016.073And worship others than Allah,- such as have no power of providing them, for sustenance, with anything in heavens or earth, and cannot possibly have such power?

016.074Invent not similitudes for Allah: for Allah knoweth, and ye know not.

016.075Allah sets forth the Parable (of two men: one) a slave under the dominion of another; He has no power of any sort; and (the other) a man on whom We have bestowed goodly favours from Ourselves, and he spends thereof (freely), privately and publicly: are the two equal? (By no means;) praise be to Allah. But most of them understand not.

016.076Allah sets forth (another) Parable of two men: one of them dumb, with no power of any sort; a wearisome burden is he to his master; whichever way be directs him, he brings no good: is such a man equal with one who commands Justice, and is on a Straight Way?

016.077To Allah belongeth the Mystery of the heavens and the earth. And the Decision of the Hour (of Judgment) is as the twinkling of an eye, or even quicker: for Allah hath power over all things.

016.078It is He Who brought you forth from the wombs of your mothers when ye knew nothing; and He gave you hearing and sight and intelligence and affections: that ye may give thanks (to Allah).

016.079Do they not look at the birds, held poised in the midst of (the air and) the sky? Nothing holds them up but (the power of) Allah. Verily in this are signs for those who believe.

016.080It is Allah Who made your habitations homes of rest and quiet for you; and made for you, out of the skins of animals, (tents for) dwellings, which ye find so light (and handy) when ye travel and when ye stop (in your travels); and out of their wool, and their soft fibres (between wool and hair), and their hair, rich stuff and articles of convenience (to serve you) for a time.

016.081It is Allah Who made out of the things He created, some things to give you shade; of the hills He made some for your shelter; He made you garments to protect you from heat, and coats of mail to protect you from your (mutual) violence. Thus does He complete His favours on you, that ye may bow to His Will (in Islam).

016.082But if they turn away, thy duty is only to preach the clear Message.

016.083They recognise the favours of Allah; then they deny them; and most of them are (creatures) ungrateful.

016.084One Day We shall raise from all Peoples a Witness: then will no excuse be accepted from Unbelievers, nor will they receive any favours.

016.085When the wrong-doers (actually) see the Penalty, then will it in no way be mitigated, nor will they then receive respite.

016.086When those who gave partners to Allah will see their “partners”, they will say: “Our Lord! these are our ‘partners,’ those whom we used to invoke besides Thee.” But they will throw back their word at them (and say): “Indeed ye are liars!”

016.087That Day shall they (openly) show (their) submission to Allah; and all their inventions shall leave them in the lurch.

016.088Those who reject Allah and hinder (men) from the Path of Allah - for them will We add Penalty to Penalty; for that they used to spread mischief.

016.089One day We shall raise from all Peoples a witness against them, from amongst themselves: and We shall bring thee as a witness against these (thy people): and We have sent down to thee the Book explaining all things, a Guide, a Mercy, and Glad Tidings to Muslims.

016.090Allah commands justice, the doing of good, and liberality to kith and kin, and He forbids all shameful deeds, and injustice and rebellion: He instructs you, that ye may receive admonition.

016.091Fulfil the Covenant of Allah when ye have entered into it, and break not your oaths after ye have confirmed them; indeed ye have made Allah your surety; for Allah knoweth all that ye do.

016.092And be not like a woman who breaks into untwisted strands the yarn which she has spun, after it has become strong. Nor take your oaths to practise deception between yourselves, lest one party should be more numerous than another: for Allah will test you by this; and on the Day of Judgment He will certainly make clear to you (the truth of) that wherein ye disagree.

016.093If Allah so willed, He could make you all one people: But He leaves straying whom He pleases, and He guides whom He pleases: but ye shall certainly be called to account for all your actions.

016.094And take not your oaths, to practise deception between yourselves, with the result that someone’s foot may slip after it was firmly planted, and ye may have to taste the evil (consequences) of having hindered (men) from the Path of Allah, and a Mighty Wrath descend on you.

016.095Nor sell the covenant of Allah for a miserable price: for with Allah is (a prize) far better for you, if ye only knew.

016.096What is with you must vanish: what is with Allah will endure. And We will certainly bestow, on those who patiently persevere, their reward according to the best of their actions.

016.097Whoever works righteousness, man or woman, and has Faith, verily, to him will We give a new Life, a life that is good and pure and We will bestow on such their reward according to the best of their actions.

016.098When thou dost read the Qur’an, seek Allah’s protection from Satan the rejected one.

016.099No authority has he over those who believe and put their trust in their Lord.

016.100His authority is over those only, who take him as patron and who join partners with Allah.

016.101When We substitute one revelation for another,- and Allah knows best what He reveals (in stages),- they say, “Thou art but a forger”: but most of them understand not.

016.102Say, the Holy Spirit has brought the revelation from thy Lord in Truth, in order to strengthen those who believe, and as a Guide and Glad Tidings to Muslims.

016.103We know indeed that they say, “It is a man that teaches him.” The tongue of him they wickedly point to is notably foreign, while this is Arabic, pure and clear.

016.104Those who believe not in the Signs of Allah,- Allah will not guide them, and theirs will be a grievous Penalty.

016.105It is those who believe not in the Signs of Allah, that forge falsehood: it is they who lie!

016.106Any one who, after accepting faith in Allah, utters Unbelief,- except under compulsion, his heart remaining firm in Faith - but such as open their breast to Unbelief, on them is Wrath from Allah, and theirs will be a dreadful Penalty.

016.107This because they love the life of this world better than the Hereafter: and Allah will not guide those who reject Faith.

016.108Those are they whose hearts, ears, and eyes Allah has sealed up, and they take no heed.

016.109Without doubt, in the Hereafter they will perish.

016.110But verily thy Lord,- to those who leave their homes after trials and persecutions,- and who thereafter strive and fight for the faith and patiently persevere,- Thy Lord, after all this is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

016.111One Day every soul will come up struggling for itself, and every soul will be recompensed (fully) for all its actions, and none will be unjustly dealt with.

016.112Allah sets forth a Parable: a city enjoying security and quiet, abundantly supplied with sustenance from every place: Yet was it ungrateful for the favours of Allah: so Allah made it taste of hunger and terror (in extremes) (closing in on it) like a garment (from every side), because of the (evil) which (its people) wrought.

016.113And there came to them a Messenger from among themselves, but they falsely rejected him; so the Wrath seized them even in the midst of their iniquities.

016.114So eat of the sustenance which Allah has provided for you, lawful and good; and be grateful for the favours of Allah, if it is He Whom ye serve.

016.115He has only forbidden you dead meat, and blood, and the flesh of swine, and any (food) over which the name of other than Allah has been invoked. But if one is forced by necessity, without wilful disobedience, nor transgressing due limits,- then Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

016.116But say not - for any false thing that your tongues may put forth,- “This is lawful, and this is forbidden,” so as to ascribe false things to Allah. For those who ascribe false things to Allah, will never prosper.

016.117(In such falsehood) is but a paltry profit; but they will have a most grievous Penalty.

016.118To the Jews We prohibited such things as We have mentioned to thee before: We did them no wrong, but they were used to doing wrong to themselves.

016.119But verily thy Lord,- to those who do wrong in ignorance, but who thereafter repent and make amends,- thy Lord, after all this, is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

016.120Abraham was indeed a model, devoutly obedient to Allah, (and) true in Faith, and he joined not gods with Allah:

016.121He showed his gratitude for the favours of Allah, who chose him, and guided him to a Straight Way.

016.122And We gave him Good in this world, and he will be, in the Hereafter, in the ranks of the Righteous.

016.123So We have taught thee the inspired (Message), “Follow the ways of Abraham the True in Faith, and he joined not gods with Allah.”

016.124The Sabbath was only made (strict) for those who disagreed (as to its observance); But Allah will judge between them on the Day of Judgment, as to their differences.

016.125Invite (all) to the Way of thy Lord with wisdom and beautiful preaching; and argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious: for thy Lord knoweth best, who have strayed from His Path, and who receive guidance.

016.126And if ye do catch them out, catch them out no worse than they catch you out: But if ye show patience, that is indeed the best (course) for those who are patient.

016.127And do thou be patient, for thy patience is but from Allah; nor grieve over them: and distress not thyself because of their plots.

016.128For Allah is with those who restrain themselves, and those who do good.

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

017.001Glory to (Allah) Who did take His servant for a Journey by night from the Sacred Mosque to the farthest Mosque, whose precincts We did bless,- in order that We might show him some of Our Signs: for He is the One Who heareth and seeth (all things).

017.002We gave Moses the Book, and made it a Guide to the Children of Israel, (commanding): “Take not other than Me as Disposer of (your) affairs.”

017.003O ye that are sprung from those whom We carried (in the Ark) with Noah! Verily he was a devotee most grateful.

017.004And We gave (Clear) Warning to the Children of Israel in the Book, that twice would they do mischief on the earth and be elated with mighty arrogance (and twice would they be punished)!

017.005When the first of the warnings came to pass, We sent against you Our servants given to terrible warfare: They entered the very inmost parts of your homes; and it was a warning (completely) fulfilled.

017.006Then did We grant you the Return as against them: We gave you increase in resources and sons, and made you the more numerous in man-power.

017.007If ye did well, ye did well for yourselves; if ye did evil, (ye did it) against yourselves. So when the second of the warnings came to pass, (We permitted your enemies) to disfigure your faces, and to enter your Temple as they had entered it before, and to visit with destruction all that fell into their power.

017.008It may be that your Lord may (yet) show Mercy unto you; but if ye revert (to your sins), We shall revert (to Our punishments): And we have made Hell a prison for those who reject (all Faith).

017.009Verily this Qur’an doth guide to that which is most right (or stable), and giveth the Glad Tidings to the Believers who work deeds of righteousness, that they shall have a magnificent reward;

017.010And to those who believe not in the Hereafter, (it announceth) that We have prepared for them a Penalty Grievous (indeed).

017.011The prayer that man should make for good, he maketh for evil; for man is given to hasty (deeds).

017.012We have made the Night and the Day as two (of Our) Signs: the Sign of the Night have We obscured, while the Sign of the Day We have made to enlighten you; that ye may seek bounty from your Lord, and that ye may know the number and count of the years: all things have We explained in detail.

017.013Every man’s fate We have fastened on his own neck: On the Day of Judgment We shall bring out for him a scroll, which he will see spread open.

017.014(It will be said to him:) “Read thine (own) record: Sufficient is thy soul this day to make out an account against thee.”

017.015Who receiveth guidance, receiveth it for his own benefit: who goeth astray doth so to his own loss: No bearer of burdens can bear the burden of another: nor would We visit with Our Wrath until We had sent a messenger (to give warning).

017.016When We decide to destroy a population, We (first) send a definite order to those among them who are given the good things of this life and yet transgress; so that the word is proved true against them: then (it is) We destroy them utterly.

017.017How many generations have We destroyed after Noah? and enough is thy Lord to note and see the sins of His servants.

017.018If any do wish for the transitory things (of this life), We readily grant them - such things as We will, to such person as We will: in the end have We provided Hell for them: they will burn therein, disgraced and rejected.

017.019Those who do wish for the (things of) the Hereafter, and strive therefor with all due striving, and have Faith,- they are the ones whose striving is acceptable (to Allah).

017.020Of the bounties of thy Lord We bestow freely on all- These as well as those: The bounties of thy Lord are not closed (to anyone).

017.021See how We have bestowed more on some than on others; but verily the Hereafter is more in rank and gradation and more in excellence.

017.022Take not with Allah another object of worship; or thou (O man!) wilt sit in disgrace and destitution.

017.023Thy Lord hath decreed that ye worship none but Him, and that ye be kind to parents. Whether one or both of them attain old age in thy life, say not to them a word of contempt, nor repel them, but address them in terms of honour.

017.024And, out of kindness, lower to them the wing of humility, and say: “My Lord! bestow on them thy Mercy even as they cherished me in childhood.”

017.025Your Lord knoweth best what is in your hearts: If ye do deeds of righteousness, verily He is Most Forgiving to those who turn to Him again and again (in true penitence).

017.026And render to the kindred their due rights, as (also) to those in want, and to the wayfarer: But squander not (your wealth) in the manner of a spendthrift.

017.027Verily spendthrifts are brothers of the Evil Ones; and the Evil One is to his Lord (himself) ungrateful.

017.028And even if thou hast to turn away from them in pursuit of the Mercy from thy Lord which thou dost expect, yet speak to them a word of easy kindness.

017.029Make not thy hand tied (like a niggard’s) to thy neck, nor stretch it forth to its utmost reach, so that thou become blameworthy and destitute.

017.030Verily thy Lord doth provide sustenance in abundance for whom He pleaseth, and He provideth in a just measure. For He doth know and regard all His servants.

017.031Kill not your children for fear of want: We shall provide sustenance for them as well as for you. Verily the killing of them is a great sin.

017.032Nor come nigh to adultery: for it is a shameful (deed) and an evil, opening the road (to other evils).

0.033Nor take life - which Allah has made sacred - except for just cause. And if anyone is slain wrongfully, we have given his heir authority (to demand qisas or to forgive): but let him not exceed bounds in the matter of taking life; for he is helped (by the Law).

017.034Come not nigh to the orphan’s property except to improve it, until he attains the age of full strength; and fulfil (every) engagement, for (every) engagement will be enquired into (on the Day of Reckoning).

017.035Give full measure when ye measure, and weigh with a balance that is straight: that is the most fitting and the most advantageous in the final determination.

017.036And pursue not that of which thou hast no knowledge; for every act of hearing, or of seeing or of (feeling in) the heart will be enquired into (on the Day of Reckoning).

017.037Nor walk on the earth with insolence: for thou canst not rend the earth asunder, nor reach the mountains in height.

017.038Of all such things the evil is hateful in the sight of thy Lord.

017.039These are among the (precepts of) wisdom, which thy Lord has revealed to thee. Take not, with Allah, another object of worship, lest thou shouldst be thrown into Hell, blameworthy and rejected.

017.040Has then your Lord (O Pagans!) preferred for you sons, and taken for Himself daughters among the angels? Truly ye utter a most dreadful saying!

017.041We have explained (things) in various (ways) in this Qur’an, in order that they may receive admonition, but it only increases their flight (from the Truth)!

017.042Say: If there had been (other) gods with Him, as they say,- behold, they would certainly have sought out a way to the Lord of the Throne!

017.043Glory to Him! He is high above all that they say!- Exalted and Great (beyond measure)!

017.044The seven heavens and the earth, and all beings therein, declare His glory: there is not a thing but celebrates His praise; And yet ye understand not how they declare His glory! Verily He is Oft-Forbearing, Most Forgiving!

017.045When thou dost recite the Qur’an, We put, between thee and those who believe not in the Hereafter, a veil invisible:

017.046And We put coverings over their hearts (and minds) lest they should understand the Qur’an, and deafness into their ears: when thou dost commemorate thy Lord and Him alone in the Qur’an, they turn on their backs, fleeing (from the Truth).

017.047We know best why it is they listen, when they listen to thee; and when they meet in private conference, behold, the wicked say, “Ye follow none other than a man bewitched!”

017.048See what similes they strike for thee: but they have gone astray, and never can they find a way.

017.049They say: “What! when we are reduced to bones and dust, should we really be raised up (to be) a new creation?”

017.050Say: “(Nay!) be ye stones or iron,”

017.051“Or created matter which, in your minds, is hardest (to be raised up),- (Yet shall ye be raised up)!” then will they say: “Who will cause us to return?” Say: “He who created you first!” Then will they wag their heads towards thee, and say, “When will that be?” Say, “May be it will be quite soon!”

017.052“It will be on a Day when He will call you, and ye will answer (His call) with (words of) His praise, and ye will think that ye tarried but a little while!”

017.053Say to My servants that they should (only) say those things that are best: for Satan doth sow dissensions among them: For Satan is to man an avowed enemy.

017.054It is your Lord that knoweth you best: If He please, He granteth you mercy, or if He please, punishment: We have not sent thee to be a disposer of their affairs for them.

017.055And it is your Lord that knoweth best all beings that are in the heavens and on earth: We did bestow on some prophets more (and other) gifts than on others: and We gave to David (the gift of) the Psalms.

017.056Say: “Call on those - besides Him - whom ye fancy: they have neither the power to remove your troubles from you nor to change them.”

017.057Those whom they call upon do desire (for themselves) means of access to their Lord, - even those who are nearest: they hope for His Mercy and fear His Wrath: for the Wrath of thy Lord is something to take heed of.

017.058There is not a population but We shall destroy it before the Day of Judgment or punish it with a dreadful Penalty: that is written in the (eternal) Record.

017.059And We refrain from sending the signs, only because the men of former generations treated them as false: We sent the she-camel to the Thamud to open their eyes, but they treated her wrongfully: We only send the Signs by way of terror (and warning from evil).

017.060Behold! We told thee that thy Lord doth encompass mankind round about: We granted the vision which We showed thee, but as a trial for men,- as also the Cursed Tree (mentioned) in the Qur’an: We put terror (and warning) into them, but it only increases their inordinate transgression!

017.061Behold! We said to the angels: “Bow down unto Adam”: They bowed down except Iblis: He said, “Shall I bow down to one whom Thou didst create from clay?”

017.062He said: “Seest Thou? this is the one whom Thou hast honoured above me! If Thou wilt but respite me to the Day of Judgment, I will surely bring his descendants under my sway - all but a few!”

017.063(Allah) said: “Go thy way; if any of them follow thee, verily Hell will be the recompense of you (all)- an ample recompense.”

017.064“Lead to destruction those whom thou canst among them, with thy (seductive) voice; make assaults on them with thy cavalry and thy infantry; mutually share with them wealth and children; and make promises to them.” But Satan promises them nothing but deceit.

017.065“As for My servants, no authority shalt thou have over them:” Enough is thy Lord for a Disposer of affairs.

017.066Your Lord is He That maketh the Ship go smoothly for you through the sea, in order that ye may seek of his Bounty. For he is unto you most Merciful.

017.067When distress seizes you at sea, those that ye call upon - besides Himself - leave you in the lurch! but when He brings you back safe to land, ye turn away (from Him). Most ungrateful is man!

017.068Do ye then feel secure that He will not cause you to be swallowed up beneath the earth when ye are on land, or that He will not send against you a violent tornado (with showers of stones) so that ye shall find no one to carry out your affairs for you?

017.069Or do ye feel secure that He will not send you back a second time to sea and send against you a heavy gale to drown you because of your ingratitude, so that ye find no helper. Therein against Us?

017.070We have honoured the sons of Adam; provided them with transport on land and sea; given them for sustenance things good and pure; and conferred on them special favours, above a great part of our creation.

017.071One day We shall call together all human beings with their (respective) Imams: those who are given their record in their right hand will read it (with pleasure), and they will not be dealt with unjustly in the least.

017.072But those who were blind in this world, will be blind in the hereafter, and most astray from the Path.

017.073And their purpose was to tempt thee away from that which We had revealed unto thee, to substitute in our name something quite different; (in that case), behold! they would certainly have made thee (their) friend!

017.074And had We not given thee strength, thou wouldst nearly have inclined to them a little.

017.075In that case We should have made thee taste an equal portion (of punishment) in this life, and an equal portion in death: and moreover thou wouldst have found none to help thee against Us!

017.076Their purpose was to scare thee off the land, in order to expel thee; but in that case they would not have stayed (therein) after thee, except for a little while.

017.077(This was Our) way with the messengers We sent before thee: thou wilt find no change in Our ways.

017.078Establish regular prayers - at the sun’s decline till the darkness of the night, and the morning prayer and reading: for the prayer and reading in the morning carry their testimony.

017.079And pray in the small watches of the morning: (it would be) an additional prayer (or spiritual profit) for thee: soon will thy Lord raise thee to a Station of Praise and Glory!

017.080Say: “O my Lord! Let my entry be by the Gate of Truth and Honour, and likewise my exit by the Gate of Truth and Honour; and grant me from Thy Presence an authority to aid (me).”

017.081And say: “Truth has (now) arrived, and Falsehood perished: for Falsehood is (by its nature) bound to perish.”

017.082We send down (stage by stage) in the Qur’an that which is a healing and a mercy to those who believe: to the unjust it causes nothing but loss after loss.

017.083Yet when We bestow Our favours on man, he turns away and becomes remote on his side (instead of coming to Us), and when evil seizes him he gives himself up to despair!

017.084Say: “Everyone acts according to his own disposition: But your Lord knows best who it is that is best guided on the Way.”

017.085They ask thee concerning the Spirit (of inspiration). Say: “The Spirit (cometh) by command of my Lord: of knowledge it is only a little that is communicated to you, (O men!)”

017.086If it were Our Will, We could take away that which We have sent thee by inspiration: then wouldst thou find none to plead thy affair in that matter as against Us,-

017.087Except for Mercy from thy Lord: for his bounty is to thee (indeed) great.

017.088Say: “If the whole of mankind and jinns were to gather together to produce the like of this Qur’an, they could not produce the like thereof, even if they backed up each other with help and support.”

017.089And We have explained to man, in this Qur’an, every kind of similitude: yet the greater part of men refuse (to receive it) except with ingratitude!

017.090They say: “We shall not believe in thee, until thou cause a spring to gush forth for us from the earth,”

017.091“Or (until) thou have a garden of date trees and vines, and cause rivers to gush forth in their midst, carrying abundant water;”

017.092“Or thou cause the sky to fall in pieces, as thou sayest (will happen), against us; or thou bring Allah and the angels before (us) face to face:”

017.093“Or thou have a house adorned with gold, or thou mount a ladder right into the skies. No, we shall not even believe in thy mounting until thou send down to us a book that we could read.” Say: “Glory to my Lord! Am I aught but a man,- a messenger?”

017.094What kept men back from belief when Guidance came to them, was nothing but this: they said, “Has Allah sent a man (like us) to be (His) Messenger?”

017.095Say, “If there were settled, on earth, angels walking about in peace and quiet, We should certainly have sent them down from the heavens an angel for a messenger.”

017.096Say: “Enough is Allah for a witness between me and you: for He is well acquainted with His servants, and He sees (all things).”

017.097It is he whom Allah guides, that is on true Guidance; but he whom He leaves astray - for such wilt thou find no protector besides Him. On the Day of Judgment We shall gather, them together, prone on their faces, blind, dumb, and deaf: their abode will be Hell: every time it shows abatement, We shall increase from them the fierceness of the Fire.

017.098That is their recompense, because they rejected Our signs, and said, “When we are reduced to bones and broken dust, should we really be raised up (to be) a new Creation?”

017.099See they not that Allah, Who created the heavens and the earth, has power to create the like of them (anew)? Only He has decreed a term appointed, of which there is no doubt. But the unjust refuse (to receive it) except with ingratitude.

017.100Say: “If ye had control of the Treasures of the Mercy of my Lord, behold, ye would keep them back, for fear of spending them: for man is (every) niggardly!”

017.101To Moses We did give Nine Clear Signs: As the Children of Israel: when he came to them, Pharaoh said to him: “O Moses! I consider thee, indeed, to have been worked upon by sorcery!”

017.102Moses said, “Thou knowest well that these things have been sent down by none but the Lord of the heavens and the earth as eye-opening evidence: and I consider thee indeed, O Pharaoh, to be one doomed to destruction!”

017.103So he resolved to remove them from the face of the earth: but We did drown him and all who were with him.

017.104And We said thereafter to the Children of Israel, “Dwell securely in the land (of promise)”: but when the second of the warnings came to pass, We gathered you together in a mingled crowd.

017.105We sent down the (Qur’an) in Truth, and in Truth has it descended: and We sent thee but to give Glad Tidings and to warn (sinners).

017.106(It is) a Qur’an which We have divided (into parts from time to time), in order that thou mightest recite it to men at intervals: We have revealed it by stages.

017.107Say: “Whether ye believe in it or not, it is true that those who were given knowledge beforehand, when it is recited to them, fall down on their faces in humble prostration,”

017.108“And they say: ‘Glory to our Lord! Truly has the promise of our Lord been fulfilled!’”

017.109They fall down on their faces in tears, and it increases their (earnest) humility.

017.110Say: “Call upon Allah, or call upon Rahman: by whatever name ye call upon Him, (it is well): for to Him belong the Most Beautiful Names. Neither speak thy Prayer aloud, nor speak it in a low tone, but seek a middle course between.”

017.111Say: “Praise be to Allah, who begets no son, and has no partner in (His) dominion: Nor (needs) He any to protect Him from humiliation: yea, magnify Him for His greatness and glory!”

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

018.001Praise be to Allah, Who hath sent to His Servant the Book, and hath allowed therein no Crookedness:

018.002(He hath made it) Straight (and Clear) in order that He may warn (the godless) of a terrible Punishment from Him, and that He may give Glad Tidings to the Believers who work righteous deeds, that they shall have a goodly Reward,

018.003Wherein they shall remain for ever:

018.004Further, that He may warn those (also) who say, “Allah hath begotten a son”:

018.005No knowledge have they of such a thing, nor had their fathers. It is a grievous thing that issues from their mouths as a saying what they say is nothing but falsehood!

018.006Thou wouldst only, perchance, fret thyself to death, following after them, in grief, if they believe not in this Message.

018.007That which is on earth we have made but as a glittering show for the earth, in order that We may test them - as to which of them are best in conduct.

018.008Verily what is on earth we shall make but as dust and dry soil (without growth or herbage).

018.009Or dost thou reflect that the Companions of the Cave and of the Inscription were wonders among Our Sign?

018.010Behold, the youths betook themselves to the Cave: they said, “Our Lord! bestow on us Mercy from Thyself, and dispose of our affair for us in the right way!”

018.011Then We draw (a veil) over their ears, for a number of years, in the Cave, (so that they heard not):

018.012Then We roused them, in order to test which of the two parties was best at calculating the term of years they had tarried!

018.013We relate to thee their story in truth: they were youths who believed in their Lord, and We advanced them in guidance:

018.014We gave strength to their hearts: Behold, they stood up and said: “Our Lord is the Lord of the heavens and of the earth: never shall we call upon any god other than Him: if we did, we should indeed have uttered an enormity!”

018.015“These our people have taken for worship gods other than Him: why do they not bring forward an authority clear (and convincing) for what they do? Who doth more wrong than such as invent a falsehood against Allah?”

018.016“When ye turn away from them and the things they worship other than Allah, betake yourselves to the Cave: Your Lord will shower His mercies on you and disposes of your affair towards comfort and ease.”

018.017Thou wouldst have seen the sun, when it rose, declining to the right from their Cave, and when it set, turning away from them to the left, while they lay in the open space in the midst of the Cave. Such are among the Signs of Allah: He whom Allah, guides is rightly guided; but he whom Allah leaves to stray,- for him wilt thou find no protector to lead him to the Right Way.

018.018Thou wouldst have deemed them awake, whilst they were asleep, and We turned them on their right and on their left sides: their dog stretching forth his two fore-legs on the threshold: if thou hadst come up on to them, thou wouldst have certainly turned back from them in flight, and wouldst certainly have been filled with terror of them.

018.019Such (being their state), we raised them up (from sleep), that they might question each other. Said one of them, “How long have ye stayed (here)?” They said, “We have stayed (perhaps) a day, or part of a day.” (At length) they (all) said, “Allah (alone) knows best how long ye have stayed here…. Now send ye then one of you with this money of yours to the town: let him find out which is the best food (to be had) and bring some to you, that (ye may) satisfy your hunger therewith: And let him behave with care and courtesy, and let him not inform any one about you.”

018.020“For if they should come upon you, they would stone you or force you to return to their cult, and in that case ye would never attain prosperity.”

018.021Thus did We make their case known to the people, that they might know that the promise of Allah is true, and that there can be no doubt about the Hour of Judgment. Behold, they dispute among themselves as to their affair. (Some) said, “Construct a building over them”: Their Lord knows best about them: those who prevailed over their affair said, “Let us surely build a place of worship over them.”

018.022(Some) say they were three, the dog being the fourth among them; (others) say they were five, the dog being the sixth,- doubtfully guessing at the unknown; (yet others) say they were seven, the dog being the eighth. Say thou: “My Lord knoweth best their number; It is but few that know their (real case).” Enter not, therefore, into controversies concerning them, except on a matter that is clear, nor consult any of them about (the affair of) the Sleepers.

018.023Nor say of anything, “I shall be sure to do so and so tomorrow”-

018.024Without adding, “So please Allah!” and call thy Lord to mind when thou forgettest, and say, “I hope that my Lord will guide me ever closer (even) than this to the right road.”

018.025So they stayed in their Cave three hundred years, and (some) add nine (more)

018.026Say: “Allah knows best how long they stayed: with Him is (the knowledge of) the secrets of the heavens and the earth: how clearly He sees, how finely He hears (everything)! They have no protector other than Him; nor does He share His Command with any person whatsoever.”

018.027And recite (and teach) what has been revealed to thee of the Book of thy Lord: none can change His Words, and none wilt thou find as a refuge other than Him.

018.028And keep thy soul content with those who call on their Lord morning and evening, seeking His Face; and let not thine eyes pass beyond them, seeking the pomp and glitter of this Life; no obey any whose heart We have permitted to neglect the remembrance of Us, one who follows his own desires, whose case has gone beyond all bounds.

018.029Say, “The truth is from your Lord”: Let him who will believe, and let him who will, reject (it): for the wrong-doers We have prepared a Fire whose (smoke and flames), like the walls and roof of a tent, will hem them in: if they implore relief they will be granted water like melted brass, that will scald their faces, how dreadful the drink! How uncomfortable a couch to recline on!

018.030As to those who believe and work righteousness, verily We shall not suffer to perish the reward of any who do a (single) righteous deed.

018.031For them will be Gardens of Eternity; beneath them rivers will flow; they will be adorned therein with bracelets of gold, and they will wear green garments of fine silk and heavy brocade: They will recline therein on raised thrones. How good the recompense! How beautiful a couch to recline on!

018.032Set forth to them the parable of two men: for one of them We provided two gardens of grape-vines and surrounded them with date palms; in between the two We placed corn-fields.

018.033Each of those gardens brought forth its produce, and failed not in the least therein: in the midst of them We caused a river to flow.

018.034(Abundant) was the produce this man had: he said to his companion, in the course of a mutual argument: “more wealth have I than you, and more honour and power in (my following of) men.”

018.035He went into his garden in a state (of mind) unjust to his soul: He said, “I deem not that this will ever perish,”

018.036“Nor do I deem that the Hour (of Judgment) will (ever) come: Even if I am brought back to my Lord, I shall surely find (there) something better in exchange.”

018.037His companion said to him, in the course of the argument with him: “Dost thou deny Him Who created thee out of dust, then out of a sperm-drop, then fashioned thee into a man?”

018.038“But (I think) for my part that He is Allah, My Lord, and none shall I associate with my Lord.”

018.039“Why didst thou not, as thou wentest into thy garden, say: ‘Allah’s will (be done)! There is no power but with Allah!’ If thou dost see me less than thee in wealth and sons,”

018.040“It may be that my Lord will give me something better than thy garden, and that He will send on thy garden thunderbolts (by way of reckoning) from heaven, making it (but) slippery sand!-“

018.041“Or the water of the garden will run off underground so that thou wilt never be able to find it.”

018.042So his fruits (and enjoyment) were encompassed (with ruin), and he remained twisting and turning his hands over what he had spent on his property, which had (now) tumbled to pieces to its very foundations, and he could only say, “Woe is me! Would I had never ascribed partners to my Lord and Cherisher!”

018.043Nor had he numbers to help him against Allah, nor was he able to deliver himself.

018.044There, the (only) protection comes from Allah, the True One. He is the Best to reward, and the Best to give success.

018.045Set forth to them the similitude of the life of this world: It is like the rain which we send down from the skies: the earth’s vegetation absorbs it, but soon it becomes dry stubble, which the winds do scatter: it is (only) Allah who prevails over all things.

018.046Wealth and sons are allurements of the life of this world: But the things that endure, good deeds, are best in the sight of thy Lord, as rewards, and best as (the foundation for) hopes.

018.047One Day We shall remove the mountains, and thou wilt see the earth as a level stretch, and We shall gather them, all together, nor shall We leave out any one of them.

018.048And they will be marshalled before thy Lord in ranks, (with the announcement), “Now have ye come to Us (bare) as We created you first: aye, ye thought We shall not fulfill the appointment made to you to meet (Us)!”:

018.049And the Book (of Deeds) will be placed (before you); and thou wilt see the sinful in great terror because of what is (recorded) therein; they will say, “Ah! woe to us! what a Book is this! It leaves out nothing small or great, but takes account thereof!” They will find all that they did, placed before them: And not one will thy Lord treat with injustice.

018.050Behold! We said to the angels, “Bow down to Adam”: They bowed down except Iblis. He was one of the jinns, and he broke the Command of his Lord. Will ye then take him and his progeny as protectors rather than Me? And they are enemies to you! Evil would be the exchange for the wrong-doers!

018.051I called them not to witness the creation of the heavens and the earth, nor (even) their own creation: nor is it for helpers such as Me to take as lead (men) astray!

018.052One Day He will say, “Call on those whom ye thought to be My partners,” and they will call on them, but they will not listen to them; and We shall make for them a place of common perdition.

018.053And the Sinful shall see the fire and apprehend that they have to fall therein: no means will they find to turn away therefrom.

018.054We have explained in detail in this Qur’an, for the benefit of mankind, every kind of similitude: but man is, in most things, contentious.

018.055And what is there to keep back men from believing, now that Guidance has come to them, nor from praying for forgiveness from their Lord, but that (they ask that) the ways of the ancients be repeated with them, or the Wrath be brought to them face to face?

018.056We only send the messengers to give Glad Tidings and to give warnings: But the unbelievers dispute with vain argument, in order therewith to weaken the truth, and they treat My Signs as a jest, as also the fact that they are warned!

018.057And who doth more wrong than one who is reminded of the Signs of his Lord, but turns away from them, forgetting the (deeds) which his hands have sent forth? Verily We have set veils over their hearts lest they should understand this, and over their ears, deafness, if thou callest them to guidance, even then will they never accept guidance.

018.058But your Lord is Most Forgiving, Full of Mercy. If He were to call them (at once) to account for what they have earned, then surely He would have hastened their punishment: but they have their appointed time, beyond which they will find no refuge.

018.059Such were the populations we destroyed when they committed iniquities; but we fixed an appointed time for their destruction.

018.060Behold, Moses said to his attendant, “I will not give up until I reach the junction of the two seas or (until) I spend years and years in travel.”

018.061But when they reached the Junction, they forgot (about) their Fish, which took its course through the sea (straight) as in a tunnel.

018.062When they had passed on (some distance), Moses said to his attendant: “Bring us our early meal; truly we have suffered much fatigue at this (stage of) our journey.”

018.063He replied: “Sawest thou (what happened) when we betook ourselves to the rock? I did indeed forget (about) the Fish: none but Satan made me forget to tell (you) about it: it took its course through the sea in a marvellous way!”

018.064Moses said: “That was what we were seeking after:” So they went back on their footsteps, following (the path they had come).

018.065So they found one of Our servants, on whom We had bestowed Mercy from Ourselves and whom We had taught knowledge from Our own Presence.

018.066Moses said to him: “May I follow thee, on the footing that thou teach me something of the (Higher) Truth which thou hast been taught?”

018.067(The other) said: “Verily thou wilt not be able to have patience with me!”

018.068“And how canst thou have patience about things about which thy understanding is not complete?”

018.069Moses said: “Thou wilt find me, if Allah so will, (truly) patient: nor shall I disobey thee in aught.”

018.070The other said: “If then thou wouldst follow me, ask me no questions about anything until I myself speak to thee concerning it.”

018.071So they both proceeded: until, when they were in the boat, he scuttled it. Said Moses: “Hast thou scuttled it in order to drown those in it? Truly a strange thing hast thou done!”

018.072He answered: “Did I not tell thee that thou canst have no patience with me?”

018.073Moses said: “Rebuke me not for forgetting, nor grieve me by raising difficulties in my case.”

018.074Then they proceeded: until, when they met a young man, he slew him. Moses said: “Hast thou slain an innocent person who had slain none? Truly a foul (unheard of) thing hast thou done!”

018.075He answered: “Did I not tell thee that thou canst have no patience with me?”

018.076(Moses) said: “If ever I ask thee about anything after this, keep me not in thy company: then wouldst thou have received (full) excuse from my side.”

018.077Then they proceeded: until, when they came to the inhabitants of a town, they asked them for food, but they refused them hospitality. They found there a wall on the point of falling down, but he set it up straight. (Moses) said: “If thou hadst wished, surely thou couldst have exacted some recompense for it!”

018.078He answered: “This is the parting between me and thee: now will I tell thee the interpretation of (those things) over which thou wast unable to hold patience.”

018.079“As for the boat, it belonged to certain men in dire want: they plied on the water: I but wished to render it unserviceable, for there was after them a certain king who seized on every boat by force.”

018.080“As for the youth, his parents were people of Faith, and we feared that he would grieve them by obstinate rebellion and ingratitude (to Allah and man).”

018.081“So we desired that their Lord would give them in exchange (a son) better in purity (of conduct) and closer in affection.”

018.082“As for the wall, it belonged to two youths, orphans, in the Town; there was, beneath it, a buried treasure, to which they were entitled: their father had been a righteous man: So thy Lord desired that they should attain their age of full strength and get out their treasure - a mercy (and favour) from thy Lord. I did it not of my own accord. Such is the interpretation of (those things) over which thou wast unable to hold patience.”

018.083They ask thee concerning Zul-qarnain. Say, “I will rehearse to you something of his story.”

018.084Verily We established his power on earth, and We gave him the ways and the means to all ends.

018.085One (such) way he followed,

018.086Until, when he reached the setting of the sun, he found it set in a spring of murky water: Near it he found a People: We said: “O Zul-qarnain! (thou hast authority,) either to punish them, or to treat them with kindness.”

018.087He said: “Whoever doth wrong, him shall we punish; then shall he be sent back to his Lord; and He will punish him with a punishment unheard-of (before).”

018.088“But whoever believes, and works righteousness,- he shall have a goodly reward, and easy will be his task as We order it by our Command.”

018.089Then followed he (another) way,

018.090Until, when he came to the rising of the sun, he found it rising on a people for whom We had provided no covering protection against the sun.

018.091(He left them) as they were: We completely understood what was before him.

018.092Then followed he (another) way,

018.093Until, when he reached (a tract) between two mountains, he found, beneath them, a people who scarcely understood a word.

018.094They said: “O Zul-qarnain! the Gog and Magog (People) do great mischief on earth: shall we then render thee tribute in order that thou mightest erect a barrier between us and them?”

018.095He said: “(The power) in which my Lord has established me is better (than tribute): Help me therefore with strength (and labour): I will erect a strong barrier between you and them:”

018.096“Bring me blocks of iron.” At length, when he had filled up the space between the two steep mountain-sides, He said, “Blow (with your bellows)” Then, when he had made it (red) as fire, he said: “Bring me, that I may pour over it, molten lead.”

018.097Thus were they made powerless to scale it or to dig through it.

018.098He said: “This is a mercy from my Lord: But when the promise of my Lord comes to pass, He will make it into dust; and the promise of my Lord is true.”

018.099On that day We shall leave them to surge like waves on one another: the trumpet will be blown, and We shall collect them all together.

018.100And We shall present Hell that day for Unbelievers to see, all spread out,-

018.101(Unbelievers) whose eyes had been under a veil from remembrance of Me, and who had been unable even to hear.

018.102Do the Unbelievers think that they can take My servants as protectors besides Me? Verily We have prepared Hell for the Unbelievers for (their) entertainment.

018.103Say: “Shall we tell you of those who lose most in respect of their deeds?”-

018.104“Those whose efforts have been wasted in this life, while they thought that they were acquiring good by their works?”

018.105They are those who deny the Signs of their Lord and the fact of their having to meet Him (in the Hereafter): vain will be their works, nor shall We, on the Day of Judgment, give them any weight.

018.106That is their reward, Hell, because they rejected Faith, and took My Signs and My Messengers by way of jest.

018.107As to those who believe and work righteous deeds, they have, for their entertainment, the Gardens of Paradise,

018.108Wherein they shall dwell (for aye): no change will they wish for from them.

018.109Say: “If the ocean were ink (wherewith to write out) the words of my Lord, sooner would the ocean be exhausted than would the words of my Lord, even if we added another ocean like it, for its aid.”

018.110Say: “I am but a man like yourselves, (but) the inspiration has come to me, that your Allah is one Allah: whoever expects to meet his Lord, let him work righteousness, and, in the worship of his Lord, admit no one as partner.”

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

019.001Kaf. Ha. Ya. ‘Ain. Sad.

019.002(This is) a recital of the Mercy of thy Lord to His servant Zakariya.

019.003Behold! he cried to his Lord in secret,

019.004Praying: “O my Lord! infirm indeed are my bones, and the hair of my head doth glisten with grey: but never am I unblest, O my Lord, in my prayer to Thee!”

019.005“Now I fear (what) my relatives (and colleagues) (will do) after me: but my wife is barren: so give me an heir as from Thyself,”-

019.006“(One that) will (truly) represent me, and represent the posterity of Jacob; and make him, O my Lord! one with whom Thou art well-pleased!”

019.007(His prayer was answered): “O Zakariya! We give thee good news of a son: His name shall be Yahya: on none by that name have We conferred distinction before.”

019.008He said: “O my Lord! How shall I have a son, when my wife is barren and I have grown quite decrepit from old age?”

019.009He said: “So (it will be) thy Lord saith, ‘that is easy for Me: I did indeed create thee before, when thou hadst been nothing!’”

019.010(Zakariya) said: “O my Lord! give me a Sign.” “Thy Sign,” was the answer, “Shall be that thou shalt speak to no man for three nights, although thou art not dumb.”

019.011So Zakariya came out to his people from him chamber: He told them by signs to celebrate Allah’s praises in the morning and in the evening.

019.012(To his son came the command): “O Yahya! take hold of the Book with might”: and We gave him Wisdom even as a youth,

019.013And piety (for all creatures) as from Us, and purity: He was devout,

019.014And kind to his parents, and he was not overbearing or rebellious.

019.015So Peace on him the day he was born, the day that he dies, and the day that he will be raised up to life (again)!

019.016Relate in the Book (the story of) Mary, when she withdrew from her family to a place in the East.

019.017She placed a screen (to screen herself) from them; then We sent her our angel, and he appeared before her as a man in all respects.

019.018She said: “I seek refuge from thee to (Allah) Most Gracious: (come not near) if thou dost fear Allah.”

019.019He said: “Nay, I am only a messenger from thy Lord, (to announce) to thee the gift of a holy son.”

019.020She said: “How shall I have a son, seeing that no man has touched me, and I am not unchaste?”

019.021He said: “So (it will be): Thy Lord saith, ‘that is easy for Me: and (We wish) to appoint him as a Sign unto men and a Mercy from Us’: It is a matter (so) decreed.”

019.022So she conceived him, and she retired with him to a remote place.

019.023And the pains of childbirth drove her to the trunk of a palm-tree: She cried (in her anguish): “Ah! would that I had died before this! would that I had been a thing forgotten and out of sight!”

019.024But (a voice) cried to her from beneath the (palm-tree): “Grieve not! for thy Lord hath provided a rivulet beneath thee;”

019.025“And shake towards thyself the trunk of the palm-tree: It will let fall fresh ripe dates upon thee.”

019.026“So eat and drink and cool (thine) eye. And if thou dost see any man, say, ‘I have vowed a fast to (Allah) Most Gracious, and this day will I enter into not talk with any human being’”

019.027At length she brought the (babe) to her people, carrying him (in her arms). They said: “O Mary! truly an amazing thing hast thou brought!”

019.028“O sister of Aaron! Thy father was not a man of evil, nor thy mother a woman unchaste!”

019.029But she pointed to the babe. They said: “How can we talk to one who is a child in the cradle?”

019.030He said: “I am indeed a servant of Allah: He hath given me revelation and made me a prophet;”

019.031“And He hath made me blessed wheresoever I be, and hath enjoined on me Prayer and Charity as long as I live;”

019.032“(He) hath made me kind to my mother, and not overbearing or miserable;”

019.033“So peace is on me the day I was born, the day that I die, and the day that I shall be raised up to life (again)”!

019.034Such (was) Jesus the son of Mary: (it is) a statement of truth, about which they (vainly) dispute.

019.035It is not befitting to (the majesty of) Allah that He should beget a son. Glory be to Him! when He determines a matter, He only says to it, “Be”, and it is.

019.036Verily Allah is my Lord and your Lord: Him therefore serve ye: this is a Way that is straight.

019.037But the sects differ among themselves: and woe to the unbelievers because of the (coming) Judgment of a Momentous Day!

019.038How plainly will they see and hear, the Day that they will appear before Us! but the unjust today are in error manifest!

019.039But warn them of the Day of Distress, when the matter will be determined: for (behold,) they are negligent and they do not believe!

019.040It is We Who will inherit the earth, and all beings thereon: to Us will they all be returned.

019.041(Also) mention in the Book (the story of) Abraham: He was a man of Truth, a prophet.

019.042Behold, he said to his father: “O my father! why worship that which heareth not and seeth not, and can profit thee nothing?”

019.043“O my father! to me hath come knowledge which hath not reached thee: so follow me: I will guide thee to a way that is even and straight.”

019.044“O my father! serve not Satan: for Satan is a rebel against (Allah) Most Gracious.”

019.045“O my father! I fear lest a Penalty afflict thee from (Allah) Most Gracious, so that thou become to Satan a friend.”

019.046(The father) replied: “Dost thou hate my gods, O Abraham? If thou forbear not, I will indeed stone thee: Now get away from me for a good long while!”

019.047Abraham said: “Peace be on thee: I will pray to my Lord for thy forgiveness: for He is to me Most Gracious.”

019.048“And I will turn away from you (all) and from those whom ye invoke besides Allah: I will call on my Lord: perhaps, by my prayer to my Lord, I shall be not unblest.”

019.049When he had turned away from them and from those whom they worshipped besides Allah, We bestowed on him Isaac and Jacob, and each one of them We made a prophet.

019.050And We bestowed of Our Mercy on them, and We granted them lofty honour on the tongue of truth.

019.051Also mention in the Book (the story of) Moses: for he was specially chosen, and he was a messenger (and) a prophet.

019.052And we called him from the right side of Mount (Sinai), and made him draw near to Us, for mystic (converse).

019.053And, out of Our Mercy, We gave him his brother Aaron, (also) a prophet.

019.054Also mention in the Book (the story of) Isma’il: He was (strictly) true to what he promised, and he was a messenger (and) a prophet.

019.055He used to enjoin on his people Prayer and Charity, and he was most acceptable in the sight of his Lord.

019.056Also mention in the Book the case of Idris: He was a man of truth (and sincerity), (and) a prophet:

019.057And We raised him to a lofty station.

019.058Those were some of the prophets on whom Allah did bestow His Grace,- of the posterity of Adam, and of those who We carried (in the Ark) with Noah, and of the posterity of Abraham and Israel of those whom We guided and chose. Whenever the Signs of (Allah) Most Gracious were rehearsed to them, they would fall down in prostrate adoration and in tears.

019.059But after them there followed a posterity who missed prayers and followed after lusts soon, then, will they face Destruction,-

019.060Except those who repent and believe, and work righteousness: for these will enter the Garden and will not be wronged in the least,-

019.061Gardens of Eternity, those which (Allah) Most Gracious has promised to His servants in the Unseen: for His promise must (necessarily) come to pass.

019.062They will not there hear any vain discourse, but only salutations of Peace: And they will have therein their sustenance, morning and evening.

019.063Such is the Garden which We give as an inheritance to those of Our servants who guard against Evil.

019.064(The angels say:) “We descend not but by command of thy Lord: to Him belongeth what is before us and what is behind us, and what is between: and thy Lord never doth forget,”-

019.065“Lord of the heavens and of the earth, and of all that is between them; so worship Him, and be constant and patient in His worship: knowest thou of any who is worthy of the same Name as He?”

019.066Man says: “What! When I am dead, shall I then be raised up alive?”

019.067But does not man call to mind that We created him before out of nothing?

019.068So, by thy Lord, without doubt, We shall gather them together, and (also) the Evil Ones (with them); then shall We bring them forth on their knees round about Hell;

019.069Then shall We certainly drag out from every sect all those who were worst in obstinate rebellion against (Allah) Most Gracious.

019.070And certainly We know best those who are most worthy of being burned therein.

019.071Not one of you but will pass over it: this is, with thy Lord, a Decree which must be accomplished.

019.072But We shall save those who guarded against evil, and We shall leave the wrong-doers therein, (humbled) to their knees.

019.073When Our Clear Signs are rehearsed to them, the Unbelievers say to those who believe, “Which of the two sides is best in point of position? Which makes the best show in council?”

019.074But how many (countless) generations before them have we destroyed, who were even better in equipment and in glitter to the eye?

019.075Say: “If any men go astray, (Allah) Most Gracious extends (the rope) to them, until, when they see the warning of Allah (being fulfilled) - either in punishment or in (the approach of) the Hour,- they will at length realise who is worst in position, and (who) weakest in forces!”

019.076“And Allah doth advance in guidance those who seek guidance: and the things that endure, Good Deeds, are best in the sight of thy Lord, as rewards, and best in respect of (their) eventual return.”

019.077Hast thou then seen the (sort of) man who rejects Our Signs, yet says: “I shall certainly be given wealth and children?”

019.078Has he penetrated to the Unseen, or has he taken a contract with (Allah) Most Gracious?

019.079Nay! We shall record what he says, and We shall add and add to his punishment.

019.080To Us shall return all that he talks of and he shall appear before Us bare and alone.

019.081And they have taken (for worship) gods other than Allah, to give them power and glory!

019.082Instead, they shall reject their worship, and become adversaries against them.

019.083Seest thou not that We have set the Evil Ones on against the unbelievers, to incite them with fury?

019.084So make no haste against them, for We but count out to them a (limited) number (of days).

019.085The day We shall gather the righteous to (Allah) Most Gracious, like a band presented before a king for honours,

019.086And We shall drive the sinners to Hell, like thirsty cattle driven down to water,-

019.087None shall have the power of intercession, but such a one as has received permission (or promise) from (Allah) Most Gracious.

019.088They say: “(Allah) Most Gracious has begotten a son!”

019.089Indeed ye have put forth a thing most monstrous!

019.090At it the skies are ready to burst, the earth to split asunder, and the mountains to fall down in utter ruin,

019.091That they should invoke a son for (Allah) Most Gracious.

019.092For it is not consonant with the majesty of (Allah) Most Gracious that He should beget a son.

019.093Not one of the beings in the heavens and the earth but must come to (Allah) Most Gracious as a servant.

019.094He does take an account of them (all), and hath numbered them (all) exactly.

019.095And everyone of them will come to Him singly on the Day of Judgment.

019.096On those who believe and work deeds of righteousness, will (Allah) Most Gracious bestow love.

019.097So have We made the (Qur’an) easy in thine own tongue, that with it thou mayest give Glad Tidings to the righteous, and warnings to people given to contention.

019.098But how many (countless) generations before them have We destroyed? Canst thou find a single one of them (now) or hear (so much as) a whisper of them?

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

020.001Ta-Ha.

020.002We have not sent down the Qur’an to thee to be (an occasion) for thy distress,

020.003But only as an admonition to those who fear (Allah),-

020.004A revelation from Him Who created the earth and the heavens on high.

020.005(Allah) Most Gracious is firmly established on the throne (of authority).

020.006To Him belongs what is in the heavens and on earth, and all between them, and all beneath the soil.

020.007If thou pronounce the word aloud, (it is no matter): for verily He knoweth what is secret and what is yet more hidden.

020.008Allah! there is no god but He! To Him belong the most Beautiful Names.

020.009Has the story of Moses reached thee?

020.010Behold, he saw a fire: So he said to his family, “Tarry ye; I perceive a fire; perhaps I can bring you some burning brand therefrom, or find some guidance at the fire.”

020.011But when he came to the fire, a voice was heard: “O Moses!”

020.012“Verily I am thy Lord! therefore (in My presence) put off thy shoes: thou art in the sacred valley Tuwa.”

020.013“I have chosen thee: listen, then, to the inspiration (sent to thee).”

020.014“Verily, I am Allah: There is no god but I: So serve thou Me (only), and establish regular prayer for celebrating My praise.”

020.015“Verily the Hour is coming - My design is to keep it hidden - for every soul to receive its reward by the measure of its Endeavour.”

020.016“Therefore let not such as believe not therein but follow their own lusts, divert thee therefrom, lest thou perish!”..

020.017“And what is that in the right hand, O Moses?”

020.018He said, “It is my rod: on it I lean; with it I beat down fodder for my flocks; and in it I find other uses.”

020.019(Allah) said, “Throw it, O Moses!”

020.020He threw it, and behold! It was a snake, active in motion.

020.021(Allah) said, “Seize it, and fear not: We shall return it at once to its former condition”..

020.022“Now draw thy hand close to thy side: It shall come forth white (and shining), without harm (or stain),- as another Sign,”-

020.023“In order that We may show thee (two) of our Greater Signs.”

020.024“Go thou to Pharaoh, for he has indeed transgressed all bounds.”

020.025(Moses) said: “O my Lord! expand me my breast;”

020.026“Ease my task for me;”

020.027“And remove the impediment from my speech,”

020.028“So they may understand what I say:”

020.029“And give me a Minister from my family,”

020.030“Aaron, my brother;”

020.031“Add to my strength through him,”

020.032“And make him share my task:”

020.033“That we may celebrate Thy praise without stint,”

020.034“And remember Thee without stint:”

020.035“For Thou art He that (ever) regardeth us.”

020.036(Allah) said: “Granted is thy prayer, O Moses!”

020.037“And indeed We conferred a favour on thee another time (before).”

020.038“Behold! We sent to thy mother, by inspiration, the message:”

020.039“‘Throw (the child) into the chest, and throw (the chest) into the river: the river will cast him up on the bank, and he will be taken up by one who is an enemy to Me and an enemy to him’: But I cast (the garment of) love over thee from Me: and (this) in order that thou mayest be reared under Mine eye.”

020.040“Behold! thy sister goeth forth and saith, ‘shall I show you one who will nurse and rear the (child)?’ So We brought thee back to thy mother, that her eye might be cooled and she should not grieve. Then thou didst slay a man, but We saved thee from trouble, and We tried thee in various ways. Then didst thou tarry a number of years with the people of Midian. Then didst thou come hither as ordained, O Moses!”

020.041“And I have prepared thee for Myself (for service)”..

020.042“Go, thou and thy brother, with My Signs, and slacken not, either of you, in keeping Me in remembrance.”

020.043“Go, both of you, to Pharaoh, for he has indeed transgressed all bounds;”

020.044“But speak to him mildly; perchance he may take warning or fear (Allah).”

020.045They (Moses and Aaron) said: “Our Lord! We fear lest he hasten with insolence against us, or lest he transgress all bounds.”

020.046He said: “Fear not: for I am with you: I hear and see (everything).”

020.047“So go ye both to him, and say, ‘Verily we are messengers sent by thy Lord: Send forth, therefore, the Children of Israel with us, and afflict them not: with a Sign, indeed, have we come from thy Lord! and peace to all who follow guidance!”

020.048“‘Verily it has been revealed to us that the Penalty (awaits) those who reject and turn away.’”

020.049(When this message was delivered), (Pharaoh) said: “Who, then, O Moses, is the Lord of you two?”

020.050He said: “Our Lord is He Who gave to each (created) thing its form and nature, and further, gave (it) guidance.”

020.051(Pharaoh) said: “What then is the condition of previous generations?”

020.052He replied: “The knowledge of that is with my Lord, duly recorded: my Lord never errs, nor forgets,”-

020.053“He Who has, made for you the earth like a carpet spread out; has enabled you to go about therein by roads (and channels); and has sent down water from the sky.” With it have We produced diverse pairs of plants each separate from the others.

020.054Eat (for yourselves) and pasture your cattle: verily, in this are Signs for men endued with understanding.

020.055From the (earth) did We create you, and into it shall We return you, and from it shall We bring you out once again.

020.056And We showed Pharaoh all Our Signs, but he did reject and refuse.

020.057He said: “Hast thou come to drive us out of our land with thy magic, O Moses?”

020.058“But we can surely produce magic to match thine! So make a tryst between us and thee, which we shall not fail to keep - neither we nor thou - in a place where both shall have even chances.”

020.059Moses said: “Your tryst is the Day of the Festival, and let the people be assembled when the sun is well up.”

020.060So Pharaoh withdrew: He concerted his plan, and then came (back).

020.061Moses said to him: “Woe to you! Forge not ye a lie against Allah, lest He destroy you (at once) utterly by chastisement: the forger must suffer frustration!”

020.062So they disputed, one with another, over their affair, but they kept their talk secret.

020.063They said: “These two are certainly (expert) magicians: their object is to drive you out from your land with their magic, and to do away with your most cherished institutions”.

020.064“Therefore concert your plan, and then assemble in (serried) ranks: He wins (all along) today who gains the upper hand.”

020.065They said: “O Moses! whether wilt thou that thou throw (first) or that we be the first to throw?”

020.066He said, “Nay, throw ye first!” Then behold their ropes and their rods-so it seemed to him on account of their magic - began to be in lively motion!

020.067So Moses conceived in his mind a (sort of) fear.

020.068We said: “Fear not! for thou hast indeed the upper hand:”

020.069“Throw that which is in thy right hand: Quickly will it swallow up that which they have faked what they have faked is but a magician’s trick: and the magician thrives not, (no matter) where he goes.”

020.070So the magicians were thrown down to prostration: they said, “We believe in the Lord of Aaron and Moses”.

020.071(Pharaoh) said: “Believe ye in Him before I give you permission? Surely this must be your leader, who has taught you magic! be sure I will cut off your hands and feet on opposite sides, and I will have you crucified on trunks of palm-trees: so shall ye know for certain, which of us can give the more severe and the more lasting punishment!”

020.072They said: “Never shall we regard thee as more than the Clear Signs that have come to us, or than Him Who created us! so decree whatever thou desirest to decree: for thou canst only decree (touching) the life of this world.”

020.073“For us, we have believed in our Lord: may He forgive us our faults, and the magic to which thou didst compel us: for Allah is Best and Most Abiding.”

020.074Verily he who comes to his Lord as a sinner (at Judgment),- for him is Hell: therein shall he neither die nor live.

020.075But such as come to Him as Believers who have worked righteous deeds,- for them are ranks exalted,-

020.076Gardens of Eternity, beneath which flow rivers: they will dwell therein for aye: such is the reward of those who purify themselves (from evil).

020.077We sent an inspiration to Moses: “Travel by night with My servants, and strike a dry path for them through the sea, without fear of being overtaken (by Pharaoh) and without (any other) fear.”

020.078Then Pharaoh pursued them with his forces, but the waters completely overwhelmed them and covered them up.

020.079Pharaoh led his people astray instead of leading them aright.

020.080O ye Children of Israel! We delivered you from your enemy, and We made a Covenant with you on the right side of Mount (Sinai), and We sent down to you Manna and quails:

020.081(Saying): “Eat of the good things We have provided for your sustenance, but commit no excess therein, lest My Wrath should justly descend on you: and those on whom descends My Wrath do perish indeed!”

020.082“But, without doubt, I am (also) He that forgives again and again, to those who repent, believe, and do right, who,- in fine, are ready to receive true guidance.”

020.083(When Moses was up on the Mount, Allah said:) “What made thee hasten in advance of thy people, O Moses?”

020.084He replied: “Behold, they are close on my footsteps: I hastened to thee, O my Lord, to please thee.”

020.085(Allah) said: “We have tested thy people in thy absence: the Samiri has led them astray.”

020.086So Moses returned to his people in a state of indignation and sorrow. He said: “O my people! did not your Lord make a handsome promise to you? Did then the promise seem to you long (in coming)? Or did ye desire that Wrath should descend from your Lord on you, and so ye broke your promise to me?”

020.087They said: “We broke not the promise to thee, as far as lay in our power: but we were made to carry the weight of the ornaments of the (whole) people, and we threw them (into the fire), and that was what the Samiri suggested.”

020.088“Then he brought out (of the fire) before the (people) the image of a calf: It seemed to low: so they said: This is your god, and the god of Moses, but (Moses) has forgotten!”

020.089Could they not see that it could not return them a word (for answer), and that it had no power either to harm them or to do them good?

020.090Aaron had already, before this said to them: “O my people! ye are being tested in this: for verily your Lord is (Allah) Most Gracious; so follow me and obey my command.”

020.091They had said: “We will not abandon this cult, but we will devote ourselves to it until Moses returns to us.”

020.092(Moses) said: “O Aaron! what kept thee back, when thou sawest them going wrong,”

020.093“From following me? Didst thou then disobey my order?”

020.094(Aaron) replied: “O son of my mother! Seize (me) not by my beard nor by (the hair of) my head! Truly I feared lest thou shouldst say, ‘Thou has caused a division among the children of Israel, and thou didst not respect my word!’”

020.095(Moses) said: “What then is thy case, O Samiri?”

020.096He replied: “I saw what they saw not: so I took a handful (of dust) from the footprint of the Messenger, and threw it (into the calf): thus did my soul suggest to me.”

020.097(Moses) said: “Get thee gone! but thy (punishment) in this life will be that thou wilt say, ‘touch me not’; and moreover (for a future penalty) thou hast a promise that will not fail: Now look at thy god, of whom thou hast become a devoted worshipper: We will certainly (melt) it in a blazing fire and scatter it broadcast in the sea!”

020.098But the god of you all is the One Allah: there is no god but He: all things He comprehends in His knowledge.

020.099Thus do We relate to thee some stories of what happened before: for We have sent thee a Message from Our own Presence.

020.100If any do turn away therefrom, verily they will bear a burden on the Day of judgment;

020.101They will abide in this (state): and grievous will the burden be to them on that Day,-

020.102The Day when the Trumpet will be sounded: that Day, We shall gather the sinful, blear-eyed (with terror).

020.103In whispers will they consult each other: “Yet tarried not longer than ten (Days);”

020.104We know best what they will say, when their leader most eminent in conduct will say: “Ye tarried not longer than a day!”

020.105They ask thee concerning the Mountains: say, “My Lord will uproot them and scatter them as dust;”

020.106“He will leave them as plains smooth and level;”

020.107“Nothing crooked or curved wilt thou see in their place.”

020.108On that Day will they follow the Caller (straight): no crookedness (can they show) him: all sounds shall humble themselves in the Presence of (Allah) Most Gracious: nothing shalt thou hear but the tramp of their feet (as they march).

020.109On that Day shall no intercession avail except for those for whom permission has been granted by (Allah) Most Gracious and whose word is acceptable to Him.

020.110He knows what (appears to His creatures as) before or after or behind them: but they shall not compass it with their knowledge.

020.111(All) faces shall be humbled before (Him) - the Living, the Self-Subsisting, Eternal: hopeless indeed will be the man that carries iniquity (on his back).

020.112But he who works deeds of righteousness, and has faith, will have no fear of harm nor of any curtailment (of what is his due).

020.113Thus have We sent this down - an Arabic Qur’an - and explained therein in detail some of the warnings, in order that they may fear Allah, or that it may cause their remembrance (of Him).

020.114High above all is Allah, the King, the Truth! Be not in haste with the Qur’an before its revelation to thee is completed, but say, “O my Lord! advance me in knowledge.”

020.115We had already, beforehand, taken the covenant of Adam, but he forgot: and We found on his part no firm resolve.

020.116When We said to the angels, “Prostrate yourselves to Adam”, they prostrated themselves, but not Iblis: he refused.

020.117Then We said: “O Adam! verily, this is an enemy to thee and thy wife: so let him not get you both out of the Garden, so that thou art landed in misery.”

020.118“There is therein (enough provision) for thee not to go hungry nor to go naked,”

020.119“Nor to suffer from thirst, nor from the sun’s heat.”

020.120But Satan whispered evil to him: he said, “O Adam! shall I lead thee to the Tree of Eternity and to a kingdom that never decays?”

020.121In the result, they both ate of the tree, and so their nakedness appeared to them: they began to sew together, for their covering, leaves from the Garden: thus did Adam disobey his Lord, and allow himself to be seduced.

020.122But his Lord chose him (for His Grace): He turned to him, and gave him Guidance.

020.123He said: “Get ye down, both of you,- all together, from the Garden, with enmity one to another: but if, as is sure, there comes to you Guidance from Me, whosoever follows My Guidance, will not lose his way, nor fall into misery.”

020.124“But whosoever turns away from My Message, verily for him is a life narrowed down, and We shall raise him up blind on the Day of Judgment.”

020.125He will say: “O my Lord! why hast Thou raised me up blind, while I had sight (before)?”

020.126(Allah) will say: “Thus didst Thou, when Our Signs came unto thee, disregard them: so wilt thou, this day, be disregarded.”

020.127And thus do We recompense him who transgresses beyond bounds and believes not in the Signs of his Lord: and the Penalty of the Hereafter is far more grievous and more enduring.

020.128Is it not a warning to such men (to call to mind) how many generations before them We destroyed, in whose haunts they (now) move? Verily, in this are Signs for men endued with understanding.

020.129Had it not been for a Word that went forth before from thy Lord, (their punishment) must necessarily have come; but there is a Term appointed (for respite).

020.130Therefore be patient with what they say, and celebrate (constantly) the praises of thy Lord, before the rising of the sun, and before its setting; yea, celebrate them for part of the hours of the night, and at the sides of the day: that thou mayest have (spiritual) joy.

020.131Nor strain thine eyes in longing for the things We have given for enjoyment to parties of them, the splendour of the life of this world, through which We test them: but the provision of thy Lord is better and more enduring.

020.132Enjoin prayer on thy people, and be constant therein. We ask thee not to provide sustenance: We provide it for thee. But the (fruit of) the Hereafter is for righteousness.

020.133They say: “Why does he not bring us a sign from his Lord?” Has not a Clear Sign come to them of all that was in the former Books of revelation?

020.134And if We had inflicted on them a penalty before this, they would have said: “Our Lord! If only Thou hadst sent us a messenger, we should certainly have followed Thy Signs before we were humbled and put to shame.”

020.135Say: “Each one (of us) is waiting: wait ye, therefore, and soon shall ye know who it is that is on the straight and even way, and who it is that has received Guidance.”

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

021.001Closer and closer to mankind comes their Reckoning: yet they heed not and they turn away.

021.002Never comes (aught) to them of a renewed Message from their Lord, but they listen to it as in jest,-

021.003Their hearts toying as with trifles. The wrong-doers conceal their private counsels, (saying), “Is this (one) more than a man like yourselves? Will ye go to witchcraft with your eyes open?”

021.004Say: “My Lord knoweth (every) word (spoken) in the heavens and on earth: He is the One that heareth and knoweth (all things).”

021.005“Nay,” they say, “(these are) medleys of dream! - Nay, He forged it! - Nay, He is (but) a poet! Let him then bring us a Sign like the ones that were sent to (Prophets) of old!”

021.006(As to those) before them, not one of the populations which We destroyed believed: will these believe?

021.007Before thee, also, the messengers We sent were but men, to whom We granted inspiration: If ye realise this not, ask of those who possess the Message.

021.008Nor did We give them bodies that ate no food, nor were they exempt from death.

021.009In the end We fulfilled to them Our Promise, and We saved them and those whom We pleased, but We destroyed those who transgressed beyond bounds.

021.010We have revealed for you (O men!) a book in which is a Message for you: will ye not then understand?

021.011How many were the populations We utterly destroyed because of their iniquities, setting up in their places other peoples?

021.012Yet, when they felt Our Punishment (coming), behold, they (tried to) flee from it.

021.013Flee not, but return to the good things of this life which were given you, and to your homes in order that ye may be called to account.

021.014They said: “Ah! woe to us! We were indeed wrong-doers!”

021.015And that cry of theirs ceased not, till We made them as a field that is mown, as ashes silent and quenched.

021.016Not for (idle) sport did We create the heavens and the earth and all that is between!

021.017If it had been Our wish to take (just) a pastime, We should surely have taken it from the things nearest to Us, if We would do (such a thing)!

021.018Nay, We hurl the Truth against falsehood, and it knocks out its brain, and behold, falsehood doth perish! Ah! woe be to you for the (false) things ye ascribe (to Us).

021.019To Him belong all (creatures) in the heavens and on earth: Even those who are in His (very) Presence are not too proud to serve Him, nor are they (ever) weary (of His service):

021.020They celebrate His praises night and day, nor do they ever flag or intermit.

021.021Or have they taken (for worship) gods from the earth who can raise (the dead)?

021.022If there were, in the heavens and the earth, other gods besides Allah, there would have been confusion in both! but glory to Allah, the Lord of the Throne: (High is He) above what they attribute to Him!

021.023He cannot be questioned for His acts, but they will be questioned (for theirs).

021.024Or have they taken for worship (other) gods besides him? Say, “Bring your convincing proof: this is the Message of those with me and the Message of those before me.” But most of them know not the Truth, and so turn away.

021.025Not a messenger did We send before thee without this inspiration sent by Us to him: that there is no god but I; therefore worship and serve Me.

021.026And they say: “(Allah) Most Gracious has begotten offspring.” Glory to Him! they are (but) servants raised to honour.

021.027They speak not before He speaks, and they act (in all things) by His Command.

021.028He knows what is before them, and what is behind them, and they offer no intercession except for those who are acceptable, and they stand in awe and reverence of His (Glory).

021.029If any of them should say, “I am a god besides Him”, such a one We should reward with Hell: thus do We reward those who do wrong.

021.030Do not the Unbelievers see that the heavens and the earth were joined together (as one unit of creation), before we clove them asunder? We made from water every living thing. Will they not then believe?

021.031And We have set on the earth mountains standing firm, lest it should shake with them, and We have made therein broad highways (between mountains) for them to pass through: that they may receive Guidance.

021.032And We have made the heavens as a canopy well guarded: yet do they turn away from the Signs which these things (point to)!

021.033It is He Who created the Night and the Day, and the sun and the moon: all (the celestial bodies) swim along, each in its rounded course.

021.034We granted not to any man before thee permanent life (here): if then thou shouldst die, would they live permanently?

021.035Every soul shall have a taste of death: And We test you by evil and by good by way of trial: To Us must ye return.

021.036When the Unbelievers see thee, they treat thee not except with ridicule. “Is this,” (they say), “the one who talks of your gods?” and they blaspheme at the mention of (Allah) Most Gracious!

021.037Man is a creature of haste: soon (enough) will I show you My Signs; then ye will not ask Me to hasten them!

021.038They say: “When will this promise come to pass, if ye are telling the truth?”

021.039If only the Unbelievers knew (the time) when they will not be able to ward off the fire from their faces, nor yet from their backs, and (when) no help can reach them!

021.040Nay, it may come to them all of a sudden and confound them: no power will they have then to avert it, nor will they (then) get respite.

021.041Mocked were (many) messenger before thee; But their scoffers were hemmed in by the thing that they mocked.

021.042Say: “Who can keep you safe by night and by day from (the Wrath of) (Allah) Most Gracious?” Yet they turn away from the mention of their Lord.

021.043Or have they gods that can guard them from Us? They have no power to aid themselves, nor can they be defended from Us.

021.044Nay, We gave the good things of this life to these men and their fathers until the period grew long for them; See they not that We gradually reduce the land (in their control) from its outlying borders? Is it then they who will win?

021.045Say, “I do but warn you according to revelation”: But the deaf will not hear the call, (even) when they are warned!

021.046If but a breath of the Wrath of thy Lord do touch them, they will then say, “Woe to us! we did wrong indeed!”

021.047We shall set up scales of justice for the Day of Judgment, so that not a soul will be dealt with unjustly in the least, and if there be (no more than) the weight of a mustard seed, We will bring it (to account): and enough are We to take account.

021.048In the past We granted to Moses and Aaron the criterion (for judgment), and a Light and a Message for those who would do right,-

021.049Those who fear their Lord in their most secret thoughts, and who hold the Hour (of Judgment) in awe.

021.050And this is a blessed Message which We have sent down: will ye then reject it?

021.051We bestowed aforetime on Abraham his rectitude of conduct, and well were We acquainted with him.

021.052Behold! he said to his father and his people, “What are these images, to which ye are (so assiduously) devoted?”

021.053They said, “We found our fathers worshipping them.”

021.054He said, “Indeed ye have been in manifest error - ye and your fathers.”

021.055They said, “Have you brought us the Truth, or are you one of those who jest?”

021.056He said, “Nay, your Lord is the Lord of the heavens and the earth, He Who created them (from nothing): and I am a witness to this (Truth).”

021.057“And by Allah, I have a plan for your idols - after ye go away and turn your backs”..

021.058So he broke them to pieces, (all) but the biggest of them, that they might turn (and address themselves) to it.

021.059They said, “Who has done this to our gods? He must indeed be some man of impiety!”

021.060They said, “We heard a youth talk of them: He is called Abraham.”

021.061They said, “Then bring him before the eyes of the people, that they may bear witness.”

021.062They said, “Art thou the one that did this with our gods, O Abraham?”

021.063He said: “Nay, this was done by - this is their biggest one! ask them, if they can speak intelligently!”

021.064So they turned to themselves and said, “Surely ye are the ones in the wrong!”

021.065Then were they confounded with shame: (they said), “Thou knowest full well that these (idols) do not speak!”

021.066(Abraham) said, “Do ye then worship, besides Allah, things that can neither be of any good to you nor do you harm?”

021.067“Fie upon you, and upon the things that ye worship besides Allah! Have ye no sense?”..

021.068They said, “Burn him and protect your gods, if ye do (anything at all)!”

021.069We said, “O Fire! be thou cool, and (a means of) safety for Abraham!”

021.070Then they sought a stratagem against him: but We made them the ones that lost most!

021.071But We delivered him and (his nephew) Lut (and directed them) to the land which We have blessed for the nations.

021.072And We bestowed on him Isaac and, as an additional gift, (a grandson), Jacob, and We made righteous men of every one (of them).

021.073And We made them leaders, guiding (men) by Our Command, and We sent them inspiration to do good deeds, to establish regular prayers, and to practise regular charity; and they constantly served Us (and Us only).

021.074And to Lut, too, We gave Judgment and Knowledge, and We saved him from the town which practised abominations: truly they were a people given to Evil, a rebellious people.

021.075And We admitted him to Our Mercy: for he was one of the Righteous.

021.076(Remember) Noah, when he cried (to Us) aforetime: We listened to his (prayer) and delivered him and his family from great distress.

021.077We helped him against people who rejected Our Signs: truly they were a people given to Evil: so We drowned them (in the Flood) all together.

021.078And remember David and Solomon, when they gave judgment in the matter of the field into which the sheep of certain people had strayed by night: We did witness their judgment.

021.079To Solomon We inspired the (right) understanding of the matter: to each (of them) We gave Judgment and Knowledge; it was Our power that made the hills and the birds celebrate Our praises, with David: it was We Who did (all these things).

021.080It was We Who taught him the making of coats of mail for your benefit, to guard you from each other’s violence: will ye then be grateful?

021.081(It was Our power that made) the violent (unruly) wind flow (tamely) for Solomon, to his order, to the land which We had blessed: for We do know all things.

021.082And of the evil ones, were some who dived for him, and did other work besides; and it was We Who guarded them.

021.083And (remember) Job, when He cried to his Lord, “Truly distress has seized me, but Thou art the Most Merciful of those that are merciful.”

021.084So We listened to him: We removed the distress that was on him, and We restored his people to him, and doubled their number,- as a Grace from Ourselves, and a thing for commemoration, for all who serve Us.

021.085And (remember) Isma’il, Idris, and Zul-kifl, all (men) of constancy and patience;

021.086We admitted them to Our mercy: for they were of the righteous ones.

021.087And remember Zun-nun, when he departed in wrath: He imagined that We had no power over him! But he cried through the depths of darkness, “There is no god but Thou: glory to Thee: I was indeed wrong!”

021.088So We listened to him: and delivered him from distress: and thus do We deliver those who have faith.

021.089And (remember) Zakariya, when he cried to his Lord: “O my Lord! leave me not without offspring, though thou art the best of inheritors.”

021.090So We listened to him: and We granted him Yahya: We cured his wife’s (Barrenness) for him. These (three) were ever quick in emulation in good works; they used to call on Us with love and reverence, and humble themselves before Us.

021.091And (remember) her who guarded her chastity: We breathed into her of Our spirit, and We made her and her son a sign for all peoples.

021.092Verily, this brotherhood of yours is a single brotherhood, and I am your Lord and Cherisher: therefore serve Me (and no other).

021.093But (later generations) cut off their affair (of unity), one from another: (yet) will they all return to Us.

021.094Whoever works any act of righteousness and has faith,- his endeavour will not be rejected: We shall record it in his favour.

021.095But there is a ban on any population which We have destroyed: that they shall not return,

021.096Until the Gog and Magog (people) are let through (their barrier), and they swiftly swarm from every hill.

021.097Then will the true promise draw nigh (of fulfilment): then behold! the eyes of the Unbelievers will fixedly stare in horror: “Ah! Woe to us! we were indeed heedless of this; nay, we truly did wrong!”

021.098Verily ye, (unbelievers), and the (false) gods that ye worship besides Allah, are (but) fuel for Hell! to it will ye (surely) come!

021.099If these had been gods, they would not have got there! but each one will abide therein.

021.100There, sobbing will be their lot, nor will they there hear (aught else).

021.101Those for whom the good (record) from Us has gone before, will be removed far therefrom.

021.102Not the slightest sound will they hear of Hell: what their souls desired, in that will they dwell.

021.103The Great Terror will bring them no grief: but the angels will meet them (with mutual greetings): “This is your Day,- (the Day) that ye were promised.”

021.104The Day that We roll up the heavens like a scroll rolled up for books (completed),- even as We produced the first creation, so shall We produce a new one: a promise We have undertaken: truly shall We fulfil it.

021.105Before this We wrote in the Psalms, after the Message (given to Moses): “My servants the righteous, shall inherit the earth.”

021.106Verily in this (Qur’an) is a Message for people who would (truly) worship Allah.

021.107We sent thee not, but as a Mercy for all creatures.

021.108Say: “What has come to me by inspiration is that your Allah is One Allah: will ye therefore bow to His Will (in Islam)?”

021.109But if they turn back, say: “I have proclaimed the Message to you all alike and in truth; but I know not whether that which ye are promised is near or far.”

021.110“It is He Who knows what is open in speech and what ye hide (in your hearts).”

021.111“I know not but that it may be a trial for you, and a grant of (worldly) livelihood (to you) for a time.”

021.112Say: “O my Lord! judge Thou in truth!” “Our Lord Most Gracious is the One Whose assistance should be sought against the blasphemies ye utter!”

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

022.001O mankind! fear your Lord! for the convulsion of the Hour (of Judgment) will be a thing terrible!

022.002The Day ye shall see it, every mother giving suck shall forget her suckling-babe, and every pregnant female shall drop her load (unformed): thou shalt see mankind as in a drunken riot, yet not drunk: but dreadful will be the Wrath of Allah.

022.003And yet among men there are such as dispute about Allah, without knowledge, and follow every evil one obstinate in rebellion!

022.004About the (Evil One) it is decreed that whoever turns to him for friendship, him will he lead astray, and he will guide him to the Penalty of the Fire.

022.005O mankind! if ye have a doubt about the Resurrection, (consider) that We created you out of dust, then out of sperm, then out of a leech-like clot, then out of a morsel of flesh, partly formed and partly unformed, in order that We may manifest (our power) to you; and We cause whom We will to rest in the wombs for an appointed term, then do We bring you out as babes, then (foster you) that ye may reach your age of full strength; and some of you are called to die, and some are sent back to the feeblest old age, so that they know nothing after having known (much), and (further), thou seest the earth barren and lifeless, but when We pour down rain on it, it is stirred (to life), it swells, and it puts forth every kind of beautiful growth (in pairs).

022.006This is so, because Allah is the Reality: it is He Who gives life to the dead, and it is He Who has power over all things.

022.007And verily the Hour will come: there can be no doubt about it, or about (the fact) that Allah will raise up all who are in the graves.

022.008Yet there is among men such a one as disputes about Allah, without Knowledge, without Guidance, and without a Book of Enlightenment,-

022.009(Disdainfully) bending his side, in order to lead (men) astray from the Path of Allah: for him there is disgrace in this life, and on the Day of Judgment We shall make him taste the Penalty of burning (Fire).

022.010(It will be said): “This is because of the deeds which thy hands sent forth, for verily Allah is not unjust to His servants.”

022.011There are among men some who serve Allah, as it were, on the verge: if good befalls them, they are, therewith, well content; but if a trial comes to them, they turn on their faces: they lose both this world and the Hereafter: that is loss for all to see!

022.012They call on such deities, besides Allah, as can neither hurt nor profit them: that is straying far indeed (from the Way)!

022.013(Perhaps) they call on one whose hurt is nearer than his profit: evil, indeed, is the patron, and evil the companion (or help)!

022.014Verily Allah will admit those who believe and work righteous deeds, to Gardens, beneath which rivers flow: for Allah carries out all that He plans.

022.015If any think that Allah will not help him (His Messenger) in this world and the Hereafter, let him stretch out a rope to the ceiling and cut (himself) off: then let him see whether his plan will remove that which enrages (him)!

022.016Thus have We sent down Clear Signs; and verily Allah doth guide whom He will!

022.017Those who believe (in the Qur’an), those who follow the Jewish (scriptures), and the Sabians, Christians, Magians, and Polytheists,- Allah will judge between them on the Day of Judgment: for Allah is witness of all things.

022.018Seest thou not that to Allah bow down in worship all things that are in the heavens and on earth,- the sun, the moon, the stars; the hills, the trees, the animals; and a great number among mankind? But a great number are (also) such as are fit for Punishment: and such as Allah shall disgrace,- None can raise to honour: for Allah carries out all that He wills.

022.019These two antagonists dispute with each other about their Lord: But those who deny (their Lord),- for them will be cut out a garment of Fire: over their heads will be poured out boiling water.

022.020With it will be scalded what is within their bodies, as well as (their) skins.

022.021In addition there will be maces of iron (to punish) them.

022.022Every time they wish to get away therefrom, from anguish, they will be forced back therein, and (it will be said), “Taste ye the Penalty of Burning!”

022.023Allah will admit those who believe and work righteous deeds, to Gardens beneath which rivers flow: they shall be adorned therein with bracelets of gold and pearls; and their garments there will be of silk.

022.024For they have been guided (in this life) to the purest of speeches; they have been guided to the Path of Him Who is Worthy of (all) Praise.

022.025As to those who have rejected (Allah), and would keep back (men) from the Way of Allah, and from the Sacred Mosque, which We have made (open) to (all) men - equal is the dweller there and the visitor from the country - and any whose purpose therein is profanity or wrong-doing - them will We cause to taste of a most Grievous Penalty.

022.026Behold! We gave the site, to Abraham, of the (Sacred) House, (saying): “Associate not anything (in worship) with Me; and sanctify My House for those who compass it round, or stand up, or bow, or prostrate themselves (therein in prayer).”

022.027“And proclaim the Pilgrimage among men: they will come to thee on foot and (mounted) on every kind of camel, lean on account of journeys through deep and distant mountain highways;”

022.028“That they may witness the benefits (provided) for them, and celebrate the name of Allah, through the Days appointed, over the cattle which He has provided for them (for sacrifice): then eat ye thereof and feed the distressed ones in want.”

022.029“Then let them complete the rites prescribed for them, perform their vows, and (again) circumambulate the Ancient House.”

022.030Such (is the Pilgrimage): whoever honours the sacred rites of Allah, for him it is good in the Sight of his Lord. Lawful to you (for food in Pilgrimage) are cattle, except those mentioned to you (as exception): but shun the abomination of idols, and shun the word that is false,-

022.031Being true in faith to Allah, and never assigning partners to Him: if anyone assigns partners to Allah, is as if he had fallen from heaven and been snatched up by birds, or the wind had swooped (like a bird on its prey) and thrown him into a far-distant place.

022.032Such (is his state): and whoever holds in honour the symbols of Allah, (in the sacrifice of animals), such (honour) should come truly from piety of heart.

022.033In them ye have benefits for a term appointed: in the end their place of sacrifice is near the Ancient House.

022.034To every people did We appoint rites (of sacrifice), that they might celebrate the name of Allah over the sustenance He gave them from animals (fit for food). But your Allah is One Allah: submit then your wills to Him (in Islam): and give thou the good news to those who humble themselves,-

022.035To those whose hearts when Allah is mentioned, are filled with fear, who show patient perseverance over their afflictions, keep up regular prayer, and spend (in charity) out of what We have bestowed upon them.

022.036The sacrificial camels we have made for you as among the symbols from Allah: in them is (much) good for you: then pronounce the name of Allah over them as they line up (for sacrifice): when they are down on their sides (after slaughter), eat ye thereof, and feed such as (beg not but) live in contentment, and such as beg with due humility: thus have We made animals subject to you, that ye may be grateful.

022.037It is not their meat nor their blood, that reaches Allah: it is your piety that reaches Him: He has thus made them subject to you, that ye may glorify Allah for His Guidance to you and proclaim the good news to all who do right.

022.038Verily Allah will defend (from ill) those who believe: verily, Allah loveth not any that is a traitor to faith, or show ingratitude.

022.039To those against whom war is made, permission is given (to fight), because they are wronged;- and verily, Allah is most powerful for their aid;-

022.040(They are) those who have been expelled from their homes in defiance of right,- (for no cause) except that they say, “Our Lord is Allah”. Did not Allah check one set of people by means of another, there would surely have been pulled down monasteries, churches, synagogues, and mosques, in which the name of Allah is commemorated in abundant measure. Allah will certainly aid those who aid his (cause);- for verily Allah is full of Strength, Exalted in Might, (able to enforce His Will).

022.041(They are) those who, if We establish them in the land, establish regular prayer and give regular charity, enjoin the right and forbid wrong: with Allah rests the end (and decision) of (all) affairs.

022.042If they treat thy (mission) as false, so did the peoples before them (with their prophets),- the People of Noah, and ‘Ad and Thamud;

022.043Those of Abraham and Lut;

022.044And the Companions of the Madyan People; and Moses was rejected (in the same way). But I granted respite to the Unbelievers, and (only) after that did I punish them: but how (terrible) was my rejection (of them)!

022.045How many populations have We destroyed, which were given to wrong-doing? They tumbled down on their roofs. And how many wells are lying idle and neglected, and castles lofty and well-built?

022.046Do they not travel through the land, so that their hearts (and minds) may thus learn wisdom and their ears may thus learn to hear? Truly it is not their eyes that are blind, but their hearts which are in their breasts.

022.047Yet they ask thee to hasten on the Punishment! But Allah will not fail in His Promise. Verily a Day in the sight of thy Lord is like a thousand years of your reckoning.

022.048And to how many populations did I give respite, which were given to wrong-doing? in the end I punished them. To me is the destination (of all).

022.049Say: “O men! I am (sent) to you only to give a Clear Warning:”

022.050“Those who believe and work righteousness, for them is forgiveness and a sustenance most generous.”

022.051“But those who strive against Our Signs, to frustrate them,- they will be Companions of the Fire.”

022.052Never did We send a messenger or a prophet before thee, but, when he framed a desire, Satan threw some (vanity) into his desire: but Allah will cancel anything (vain) that Satan throws in, and Allah will confirm (and establish) His Signs: for Allah is full of Knowledge and Wisdom:

022.053That He may make the suggestions thrown in by Satan, but a trial for those in whose hearts is a disease and who are hardened of heart: verily the wrong-doers are in a schism far (from the Truth):

022.054And that those on whom knowledge has been bestowed may learn that the (Qur’an) is the Truth from thy Lord, and that they may believe therein, and their hearts may be made humbly (open) to it: for verily Allah is the Guide of those who believe, to the Straight Way.

022.055Those who reject Faith will not cease to be in doubt concerning (Revelation) until the Hour (of Judgment) comes suddenly upon them, or there comes to them the Penalty of a Day of Disaster.

022.056On that Day of Dominion will be that of Allah: He will judge between them: so those who believe and work righteous deeds will be in Gardens of Delight.

022.057And for those who reject Faith and deny our Signs, there will be a humiliating Punishment.

022.058Those who leave their homes in the cause of Allah, and are then slain or die,- On them will Allah bestow verily a goodly Provision: Truly Allah is He Who bestows the best provision.

022.059Verily He will admit them to a place with which they shall be well pleased: for Allah is All-Knowing, Most Forbearing.

022.060That (is so). And if one has retaliated to no greater extent than the injury he received, and is again set upon inordinately, Allah will help him: for Allah is One that blots out (sins) and forgives (again and again).

022.061That is because Allah merges night into day, and He merges day into night, and verily it is Allah Who hears and sees (all things).

022.062That is because Allah - He is the Reality; and those besides Him whom they invoke,- they are but vain Falsehood: verily Allah is He, Most High, Most Great.

022.063Seest thou not that Allah sends down rain from the sky, and forthwith the earth becomes clothed with green? for Allah is He Who understands the finest mysteries, and is well-acquainted (with them).

022.064To Him belongs all that is in the heavens and on earth: for verily Allah,- He is free of all wants, Worthy of all Praise.

022.065Seest thou not that Allah has made subject to you (men) all that is on the earth, and the ships that sail through the sea by His Command? He withholds the sky (rain) from failing on the earth except by His leave: for Allah is Most Kind and Most Merciful to man.

022.066It is He Who gave you life, will cause you to die, and will again give you life: Truly man is a most ungrateful creature!

022.067To every People have We appointed rites and ceremonies which they must follow: let them not then dispute with thee on the matter, but do thou invite (them) to thy Lord: for thou art assuredly on the Right Way.

022.068If they do wrangle with thee, say, “Allah knows best what it is ye are doing.”

022.069“Allah will judge between you on the Day of Judgment concerning the matters in which ye differ.”

022.070Knowest thou not that Allah knows all that is in heaven and on earth? Indeed it is all in a Record, and that is easy for Allah.

022.071Yet they worship, besides Allah, things for which no authority has been sent down to them, and of which they have (really) no knowledge: for those that do wrong there is no helper.

022.072When Our Clear Signs are rehearsed to them, thou wilt notice a denial on the faces of the Unbelievers! they nearly attack with violence those who rehearse Our Signs to them. Say, “Shall I tell you of something (far) worse than these Signs? It is the Fire (of Hell)! Allah has promised it to the Unbelievers! and evil is that destination!”

022.073O men! Here is a parable set forth! listen to it! Those on whom, besides Allah, ye call, cannot create (even) a fly, if they all met together for the purpose! and if the fly should snatch away anything from them, they would have no power to release it from the fly. Feeble are those who petition and those whom they petition!

022.074No just estimate have they made of Allah: for Allah is He Who is strong and able to Carry out His Will.

022.075Allah chooses messengers from angels and from men for Allah is He Who hears and sees (all things).

022.076He knows what is before them and what is behind them: and to Allah go back all questions (for decision).

022.077O ye who believe! bow down, prostrate yourselves, and adore your Lord; and do good; that ye may prosper.

022.078And strive in His cause as ye ought to strive, (with sincerity and under discipline). He has chosen you, and has imposed no difficulties on you in religion; it is the cult of your father Abraham. It is He Who has named you Muslims, both before and in this (Revelation); that the Messenger may be a witness for you, and ye be witnesses for mankind! So establish regular Prayer, give regular Charity, and hold fast to Allah! He is your Protector - the Best to protect and the Best to help!

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

023.001The believers must (eventually) win through,-

023.002Those who humble themselves in their prayers;

023.003Who avoid vain talk;

023.004Who are active in deeds of charity;

023.005Who abstain from sex,

023.006Except with those joined to them in the marriage bond, or (the captives) whom their right hands possess,- for (in their case) they are free from blame,

023.007But those whose desires exceed those limits are transgressors;-

023.008Those who faithfully observe their trusts and their covenants;

023.009And who (strictly) guard their prayers;-

023.010These will be the heirs,

023.011Who will inherit Paradise: they will dwell therein (for ever).

023.012Man We did create from a quintessence (of clay);

023.013Then We placed him as (a drop of) sperm in a place of rest, firmly fixed;

023.014Then We made the sperm into a clot of congealed blood; then of that clot We made a (foetus) lump; then we made out of that lump bones and clothed the bones with flesh; then we developed out of it another creature. So blessed be Allah, the best to create!

023.015After that, at length ye will die.

023.016Again, on the Day of Judgment, will ye be raised up.

023.017And We have made, above you, seven tracts; and We are never unmindful of (our) Creation.

023.018And We send down water from the sky according to (due) measure, and We cause it to soak in the soil; and We certainly are able to drain it off (with ease).

023.019With it We grow for you gardens of date-palms and vines: in them have ye abundant fruits: and of them ye eat (and have enjoyment),-

023.020Also a tree springing out of Mount Sinai, which produces oil, and relish for those who use it for food.

023.021And in cattle (too) ye have an instructive example: from within their bodies We produce (milk) for you to drink; there are, in them, (besides), numerous (other) benefits for you; and of their (meat) ye eat;

023.022An on them, as well as in slips, ye side.

023.023(Further, We sent a long line of prophets for your instruction). We sent Noah to his people: He said, “O my people! worship Allah! Ye have no other god but Him. Will ye not fear (Him)?”

023.024The chiefs of the Unbelievers among his people said: “He is no more than a man like yourselves: his wish is to assert his superiority over you: if Allah had wished (to send messengers), He could have sent down angels; never did we hear such a thing (as he says), among our ancestors of old.”

023.025(And some said): “He is only a man possessed: wait (and have patience) with him for a time.”

023.026(Noah) said: “O my Lord! help me: for that they accuse me of falsehood!”

023.027So We inspired him (with this message): “Construct the Ark within Our sight and under Our guidance: then when comes Our Command, and the fountains of the earth gush forth, take thou on board pairs of every species, male and female, and thy family- except those of them against whom the Word has already gone forth: And address Me not in favour of the wrong-doers; for they shall be drowned (in the Flood).”

023.028And when thou hast embarked on the Ark - thou and those with thee,- say: “Praise be to Allah, Who has saved us from the people who do wrong.”

023.029And say: “O my Lord! enable me to disembark with thy blessing: for Thou art the Best to enable (us) to disembark.”

023.030Verily in this there are Signs (for men to understand); (thus) do We try (men).

023.031Then We raised after them another generation.

023.032And We sent to them a messenger from among themselves, (saying), “Worship Allah! ye have no other god but Him. Will ye not fear (Him)?”

023.033And the chiefs of his people, who disbelieved and denied the Meeting in the Hereafter, and on whom We had bestowed the good things of this life, said: “He is no more than a man like yourselves: he eats of that of which ye eat, and drinks of what ye drink.”

023.034“If ye obey a man like yourselves, behold, it is certain ye will be lost.”

023.035“Does he promise that when ye die and become dust and bones, ye shall be brought forth (again)?”

023.036“Far, very far is that which ye are promised!”

023.037“There is nothing but our life in this world! We shall die and we live! But we shall never be raised up again!”

023.038“He is only a man who invents a lie against Allah, but we are not the ones to believe in him!”

023.039(The prophet) said: “O my Lord! help me: for that they accuse me of falsehood.”

023.040(Allah) said: “In but a little while, they are sure to be sorry!”

023.041Then the Blast overtook them with justice, and We made them as rubbish of dead leaves (floating on the stream of Time)! So away with the people who do wrong!

023.042Then We raised after them other generations.

023.043No people can hasten their term, nor can they delay (it).

023.044Then sent We our messengers in succession: every time there came to a people their messenger, they accused him of falsehood: so We made them follow each other (in punishment): We made them as a tale (that is told): So away with a people that will not believe!

023.045Then We sent Moses and his brother Aaron, with Our Signs and authority manifest,

023.046To Pharaoh and his Chiefs: But these behaved insolently: they were an arrogant people.

023.047They said: “Shall we believe in two men like ourselves? And their people are subject to us!”

023.048So they accused them of falsehood, and they became of those who were destroyed.

023.049And We gave Moses the Book, in order that they might receive guidance.

023.050And We made the son of Mary and his mother as a Sign: We gave them both shelter on high ground, affording rest and security and furnished with springs.

023.051O ye messengers! enjoy (all) things good and pure, and work righteousness: for I am well-acquainted with (all) that ye do.

023.052And verily this Brotherhood of yours is a single Brotherhood, and I am your Lord and Cherisher: therefore fear Me (and no other).

023.053But people have cut off their affair (of unity), between them, into sects: each party rejoices in that which is with itself.

023.054But leave them in their confused ignorance for a time.

023.055Do they think that because We have granted them abundance of wealth and sons,

023.056We would hasten them on in every good? Nay, they do not understand.

023.057Verily those who live in awe for fear of their Lord;

023.058Those who believe in the Signs of their Lord;

023.059Those who join not (in worship) partners with their Lord;

023.060And those who dispense their charity with their hearts full of fear, because they will return to their Lord;-

023.061It is these who hasten in every good work, and these who are foremost in them.

023.062On no soul do We place a burden greater than it can bear: before Us is a record which clearly shows the truth: they will never be wronged.

023.063But their hearts are in confused ignorance of this; and there are, besides that, deeds of theirs, which they will (continue) to do,-

023.064Until, when We seize in Punishment those of them who received the good things of this world, behold, they will groan in supplication!

023.065(It will be said): “Groan not in supplication this day: for ye shall certainly not be helped by Us.”

023.066“My Signs used to be rehearsed to you, but ye used to turn back on your heels”-

023.067“In arrogance: talking nonsense about the (Qur’an), like one telling fables by night.”

023.068Do they not ponder over the Word (of Allah), or has anything (new) come to them that did not come to their fathers of old?

023.069Or do they not recognise their Messenger, that they deny him?

023.070Or do they say, “He is possessed”? Nay, he has brought them the Truth, but most of them hate the Truth.

023.071If the Truth had been in accord with their desires, truly the heavens and the earth, and all beings therein would have been in confusion and corruption! Nay, We have sent them their admonition, but they turn away from their admonition.

023.072Or is it that thou askest them for some recompense? But the recompense of thy Lord is best: He is the Best of those who give sustenance.

023.073But verily thou callest them to the Straight Way;

023.074And verily those who believe not in the Hereafter are deviating from that Way.

023.075If We had mercy on them and removed the distress which is on them, they would obstinately persist in their transgression, wandering in distraction to and fro.

023.076We inflicted Punishment on them, but they humbled not themselves to their Lord, nor do they submissively entreat (Him)!-

023.077Until We open on them a gate leading to a severe Punishment: then Lo! they will be plunged in despair therein!

023.078It is He Who has created for you (the faculties of) hearing, sight, feeling and understanding: little thanks it is ye give!

023.079And He has multiplied you through the earth, and to Him shall ye be gathered back.

023.080It is He Who gives life and death, and to Him (is due) the alternation of Night and Day: will ye not then understand?

023.081On the contrary they say things similar to what the ancients said.

023.082They say: “What! when we die and become dust and bones, could we really be raised up again?”

023.083“Such things have been promised to us and to our fathers before! they are nothing but tales of the ancients!”

023.084Say: “To whom belong the earth and all beings therein? (say) if ye know!”

023.085They will say, “To Allah!” say: “Yet will ye not receive admonition?”

023.086Say: “Who is the Lord of the seven heavens, and the Lord of the Throne (of Glory) Supreme?”

023.087They will say, “(They belong) to Allah.” Say: “Will ye not then be filled with awe?”

023.088Say: “Who is it in whose hands is the governance of all things,- who protects (all), but is not protected (of any)? (say) if ye know.”

023.089They will say, “(It belongs) to Allah.” Say: “Then how are ye deluded?”

023.090We have sent them the Truth: but they indeed practise falsehood!

023.091No son did Allah beget, nor is there any god along with Him: (if there were many gods), behold, each god would have taken away what he had created, and some would have lorded it over others! Glory to Allah! (He is free) from the (sort of) things they attribute to Him!

023.092He knows what is hidden and what is open: too high is He for the partners they attribute to Him!

023.093Say: “O my Lord! if Thou wilt show me (in my lifetime) that which they are warned against,”-

023.094“Then, O my Lord! put me not amongst the people who do wrong!”

023.095And We are certainly able to show thee (in fulfilment) that against which they are warned.

023.096Repel evil with that which is best: We are well acquainted with the things they say.

023.097And say “O my Lord! I seek refuge with Thee from the suggestions of the Evil Ones.”

023.098“And I seek refuge with Thee O my Lord! lest they should come near me.”

023.099(In Falsehood will they be) Until, when death comes to one of them, he says: “O my Lord! send me back (to life),”-

023.100“In order that I may work righteousness in the things I neglected.” - “By no means! It is but a word he says.”- Before them is a Partition till the Day they are raised up.

023.101Then when the Trumpet is blown, there will be no more relationships between them that day, nor will one ask after another!

023.102Then those whose balance (of good deeds) is heavy,- they will attain salvation:

023.103But those whose balance is light, will be those who have lost their souls, in Hell will they abide.

023.104The Fire will burn their faces, and they will therein grin, with their lips displaced.

023.105“Were not My Signs rehearsed to you, and ye did but treat them as falsehood?”

023.106They will say: “Our Lord! Our misfortune overwhelmed us, and we became a people astray!”

023.107“Our Lord! bring us out of this: if ever we return (to Evil), then shall we be wrong-doers indeed!”

023.108He will say: “Be ye driven into it (with ignominy)! And speak ye not to Me!”

023.109“A part of My servants there was, who used to pray ‘our Lord! we believe; then do Thou forgive us, and have mercy upon us: For Thou art the Best of those who show mercy!”

023.110“But ye treated them with ridicule, so much so that (ridicule of) them made you forget My Message while ye were laughing at them!”

023.111“I have rewarded them this Day for their patience and constancy: they are indeed the ones that have achieved Bliss…”

023.112He will say: “What number of years did ye stay on earth?”

023.113They will say: “We stayed a day or part of a day: but ask those who keep account.”

023.114He will say: “Ye stayed not but a little,- if ye had only known!”

023.115“Did ye then think that We had created you in jest, and that ye would not be brought back to Us (for account)?”

023.116Therefore exalted be Allah, the King, the Reality: there is no god but He, the Lord of the Throne of Honour!

023.117If anyone invokes, besides Allah, any other god, he has no authority therefor; and his reckoning will be only with his Lord! and verily the Unbelievers will fail to win through!

023.118So say: “O my Lord! grant Thou forgiveness and mercy for Thou art the Best of those who show mercy!”

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

024.001A sura which We have sent down and which We have ordained in it have We sent down Clear Signs, in order that ye may receive admonition.

024.002The woman and the man guilty of adultery or fornication,- flog each of them with a hundred stripes: Let not compassion move you in their case, in a matter prescribed by Allah, if ye believe in Allah and the Last Day: and let a party of the Believers witness their punishment.

024.003Let no man guilty of adultery or fornication marry and but a woman similarly guilty, or an Unbeliever: nor let any but such a man or an unbeliever marry such a woman: to the Believers such a thing is forbidden.

024.004And those who launch a charge against chaste women, and produce not four witnesses (to support their allegations),- flog them with eighty stripes; and reject their evidence ever after: for such men are wicked transgressors;-

024.005Unless they repent thereafter and mend (their conduct); for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

024.006And for those who launch a charge against their spouses, and have (in support) no evidence but their own,- their solitary evidence (can be received) if they bear witness four times (with an oath) by Allah that they are solemnly telling the truth;

024.007And the fifth (oath) (should be) that they solemnly invoke the curse of Allah on themselves if they tell a lie.

024.008But it would avert the punishment from the wife, if she bears witness four times (with an oath) By Allah, that (her husband) is telling a lie;

024.009And the fifth (oath) should be that she solemnly invokes the wrath of Allah on herself if (her accuser) is telling the truth.

024.010If it were not for Allah’s grace and mercy on you, and that Allah is Oft-Returning, Full of Wisdom,- (Ye would be ruined indeed).

024.011Those who brought forward the lie are a body among yourselves: think it not to be an evil to you; On the contrary it is good for you: to every man among them (will come the punishment) of the sin that he earned, and to him who took on himself the lead among them, will be a penalty grievous.

024.012Why did not the believers - men and women - when ye heard of the affair,- put the best construction on it in their own minds and say, “This (charge) is an obvious lie”?

024.013Why did they not bring four witnesses to prove it? When they have not brought the witnesses, such men, in the sight of Allah, (stand forth) themselves as liars!

024.014Were it not for the grace and mercy of Allah on you, in this world and the Hereafter, a grievous penalty would have seized you in that ye rushed glibly into this affair.

024.015Behold, ye received it on your tongues, and said out of your mouths things of which ye had no knowledge; and ye thought it to be a light matter, while it was most serious in the sight of Allah.

024.016And why did ye not, when ye heard it, say? - “It is not right of us to speak of this: Glory to Allah! this is a most serious slander!”

024.017Allah doth admonish you, that ye may never repeat such (conduct), if ye are (true) Believers.

024.018And Allah makes the Signs plain to you: for Allah is full of knowledge and wisdom.

024.019Those who love (to see) scandal published broadcast among the Believers, will have a grievous Penalty in this life and in the Hereafter: Allah knows, and ye know not.

024.020Were it not for the grace and mercy of Allah on you, and that Allah is full of kindness and mercy, (ye would be ruined indeed).

024.021O ye who believe! follow not Satan’s footsteps: if any will follow the footsteps of Satan, he will (but) command what is shameful and wrong: and were it not for the grace and mercy of Allah on you, not one of you would ever have been pure: but Allah doth purify whom He pleases: and Allah is One Who hears and knows (all things).

024.022Let not those among you who are endued with grace and amplitude of means resolve by oath against helping their kinsmen, those in want, and those who have left their homes in Allah’s cause: let them forgive and overlook, do you not wish that Allah should forgive you? For Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

024.023Those who slander chaste women, indiscreet but believing, are cursed in this life and in the Hereafter: for them is a grievous Penalty,-

024.024On the Day when their tongues, their hands, and their feet will bear witness against them as to their actions.

024.025On that Day Allah will pay them back (all) their just dues, and they will realise that Allah is the (very) Truth, that makes all things manifest.

024.026Women impure are for men impure, and men impure for women impure and women of purity are for men of purity, and men of purity are for women of purity: these are not affected by what people say: for them there is forgiveness, and a provision honourable.

024.027O ye who believe! enter not houses other than your own, until ye have asked permission and saluted those in them: that is best for you, in order that ye may heed (what is seemly).

024.028If ye find no one in the house, enter not until permission is given to you: if ye are asked to go back, go back: that makes for greater purity for yourselves: and Allah knows well all that ye do.

024.029It is no fault on your part to enter houses not used for living in, which serve some (other) use for you: And Allah has knowledge of what ye reveal and what ye conceal.

024.030Say to the believing men that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty: that will make for greater purity for them: And Allah is well acquainted with all that they do.

024.031And say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty; that they should not display their beauty and ornaments except what (must ordinarily) appear thereof; that they should draw their veils over their bosoms and not display their beauty except to their husbands, their fathers, their husband’s fathers, their sons, their husbands’ sons, their brothers or their brothers’ sons, or their sisters’ sons, or their women, or the slaves whom their right hands possess, or male servants free of physical needs, or small children who have no sense of the shame of sex; and that they should not strike their feet in order to draw attention to their hidden ornaments. And O ye Believers! turn ye all together towards Allah, that ye may attain Bliss.

024.032Marry those among you who are single, or the virtuous ones among yourselves, male or female: if they are in poverty, Allah will give them means out of His grace: for Allah encompasseth all, and he knoweth all things.

024.033Let those who find not the wherewithal for marriage keep themselves chaste, until Allah gives them means out of His grace. And if any of your slaves ask for a deed in writing (to enable them to earn their freedom for a certain sum), give them such a deed if ye know any good in them: yea, give them something yourselves out of the means which Allah has given to you. But force not your maids to prostitution when they desire chastity, in order that ye may make a gain in the goods of this life. But if anyone compels them, yet, after such compulsion, is Allah, Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful (to them),

024.034We have already sent down to you verses making things clear, an illustration from (the story of) people who passed away before you, and an admonition for those who fear (Allah).

024.035Allah is the Light of the heavens and the earth. The Parable of His Light is as if there were a Niche and within it a Lamp: the Lamp enclosed in Glass: the glass as it were a brilliant star: Lit from a blessed Tree, an Olive, neither of the east nor of the west, whose oil is well-nigh luminous, though fire scarce touched it: Light upon Light! Allah doth guide whom He will to His Light: Allah doth set forth Parables for men: and Allah doth know all things.

024.036(Lit is such a Light) in houses, which Allah hath permitted to be raised to honour; for the celebration, in them, of His name: In them is He glorified in the mornings and in the evenings, (again and again),-

024.037By men whom neither traffic nor merchandise can divert from the Remembrance of Allah, nor from regular Prayer, nor from the practice of regular Charity: Their (only) fear is for the Day when hearts and eyes will be transformed (in a world wholly new),-

024.038That Allah may reward them according to the best of their deeds, and add even more for them out of His Grace: for Allah doth provide for those whom He will, without measure.

024.039But the Unbelievers,- their deeds are like a mirage in sandy deserts, which the man parched with thirst mistakes for water; until when he comes up to it, he finds it to be nothing: But he finds Allah (ever) with him, and Allah will pay him his account: and Allah is swift in taking account.

024.040Or (the Unbelievers’ state) is like the depths of darkness in a vast deep ocean, overwhelmed with billow topped by billow, topped by (dark) clouds: depths of darkness, one above another: if a man stretches out his hands, he can hardly see it! for any to whom Allah giveth not light, there is no light!

024.041Seest thou not that it is Allah Whose praises all beings in the heavens and on earth do celebrate, and the birds (of the air) with wings outspread? Each one knows its own (mode of) prayer and praise. And Allah knows well all that they do.

024.042Yea, to Allah belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth; and to Allah is the final goal (of all).

024.043Seest thou not that Allah makes the clouds move gently, then joins them together, then makes them into a heap? - then wilt thou see rain issue forth from their midst. And He sends down from the sky mountain masses (of clouds) wherein is hail: He strikes therewith whom He pleases and He turns it away from whom He pleases, the vivid flash of His lightning well-nigh blinds the sight.

024.044It is Allah Who alternates the Night and the Day: verily in these things is an instructive example for those who have vision!

024.045And Allah has created every animal from water: of them there are some that creep on their bellies; some that walk on two legs; and some that walk on four. Allah creates what He wills for verily Allah has power over all things.

024.046We have indeed sent down signs that make things manifest: and Allah guides whom He wills to a way that is straight.

024.047They say, “We believe in Allah and in the messenger, and we obey”: but even after that, some of them turn away: they are not (really) Believers.

024.048When they are summoned to Allah and His messenger, in order that He may judge between them, behold some of them decline (to come).

024.049But if the right is on their side, they come to him with all submission.

024.050Is it that there is a disease in their hearts? or do they doubt, or are they in fear, that Allah and His Messenger will deal unjustly with them? Nay, it is they themselves who do wrong.

024.051The answer of the Believers, when summoned to Allah and His Messenger, in order that He may judge between them, is no other than this: they say, “We hear and we obey”: it is such as these that will attain felicity.

024.052It is such as obey Allah and His Messenger, and fear Allah and do right, that will win (in the end),

024.053They swear their strongest oaths by Allah that, if only thou wouldst command them, they would leave (their homes). Say: “Swear ye not; Obedience is (more) reasonable; verily, Allah is well acquainted with all that ye do.”

024.054Say: “Obey Allah, and obey the Messenger: but if ye turn away, he is only responsible for the duty placed on him and ye for that placed on you. If ye obey him, ye shall be on right guidance. The Messenger’s duty is only to preach the clear (Message).”

024.055Allah has promised, to those among you who believe and work righteous deeds, that He will, of a surety, grant them in the land, inheritance (of power), as He granted it to those before them; that He will establish in authority their religion - the one which He has chosen for them; and that He will change (their state), after the fear in which they (lived), to one of security and peace: ‘They will worship Me (alone) and not associate aught with Me. ‘If any do reject Faith after this, they are rebellious and wicked.

024.056So establish regular Prayer and give regular Charity; and obey the Messenger; that ye may receive mercy.

024.057Never think thou that the Unbelievers are going to frustrate (Allah’s Plan) on earth: their abode is the Fire,- and it is indeed an evil refuge!

024.058O ye who believe! let those whom your right hands possess, and the (children) among you who have not come of age ask your permission (before they come to your presence), on three occasions: before morning prayer; the while ye doff your clothes for the noonday heat; and after the late-night prayer: these are your three times of undress: outside those times it is not wrong for you or for them to move about attending to each other: Thus does Allah make clear the Signs to you: for Allah is full of knowledge and wisdom.

024.059But when the children among you come of age, let them (also) ask for permission, as do those senior to them (in age): Thus does Allah make clear His Signs to you: for Allah is full of knowledge and wisdom.

024.060Such elderly women as are past the prospect of marriage,- there is no blame on them if they lay aside their (outer) garments, provided they make not a wanton display of their beauty: but it is best for them to be modest: and Allah is One Who sees and knows all things.

024.061It is no fault in the blind nor in one born lame, nor in one afflicted with illness, nor in yourselves, that ye should eat in your own houses, or those of your fathers, or your mothers, or your brothers, or your sisters, or your father’s brothers or your father’s sisters, or your mother’s brothers, or your mother’s sisters, or in houses of which the keys are in your possession, or in the house of a sincere friend of yours: there is no blame on you, whether ye eat in company or separately. But if ye enter houses, salute each other - a greeting of blessing and purity as from Allah. Thus does Allah make clear the signs to you: that ye may understand.

024.062Only those are believers, who believe in Allah and His Messenger: when they are with him on a matter requiring collective action, they do not depart until they have asked for his leave; those who ask for thy leave are those who believe in Allah and His Messenger; so when they ask for thy leave, for some business of theirs, give leave to those of them whom thou wilt, and ask Allah for their forgiveness: for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

024.063Deem not the summons of the Messenger among yourselves like the summons of one of you to another: Allah doth know those of you who slip away under shelter of some excuse: then let those beware who withstand the Messenger’s order, lest some trial befall them, or a grievous penalty be inflicted on them.

024.064Be quite sure that to Allah doth belong whatever is in the heavens and on earth. Well doth He know what ye are intent upon: and one day they will be brought back to Him, and He will tell them the truth of what they did: for Allah doth know all things.

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

025.001Blessed is He who sent down the criterion to His servant, that it may be an admonition to all creatures;-

025.002He to Whom belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth: no son has He begotten, nor has He a partner in His dominion: it is He who created all things, and ordered them in due proportions.

025.003Yet have they taken, besides him, gods that can create nothing but are themselves created; that have no control of hurt or good to themselves; nor can they control death nor life nor resurrection.

025.004But the misbelievers say: “Naught is this but a lie which he has forged, and others have helped him at it.” In truth it is they who have put forward an iniquity and a falsehood.

025.005And they say: “Tales of the ancients, which he has caused to be written: and they are dictated before him morning and evening.”

025.006Say: “The (Qur’an) was sent down by Him who knows the mystery (that is) in the heavens and the earth: verily He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.”

025.007And they say: “What sort of a messenger is this, who eats food, and walks through the streets? Why has not an angel been sent down to him to give admonition with him?”

025.008“Or (Why) has not a treasure been bestowed on him, or why has he (not) a garden for enjoyment?” The wicked say: “Ye follow none other than a man bewitched.”

025.009See what kinds of comparisons they make for thee! But they have gone astray, and never a way will they be able to find!

025.010Blessed is He who, if that were His will, could give thee better (things) than those,- Gardens beneath which rivers flow; and He could give thee palaces (secure to dwell in).

025.011Nay they deny the hour (of the judgment to come): but We have prepared a blazing fire for such as deny the hour:

025.012When it sees them from a place far off, they will hear its fury and its ranging sigh.

025.013And when they are cast, bound together into a constricted place therein, they will plead for destruction there and then!

025.014“This day plead not for a single destruction: plead for destruction oft-repeated!”

025.015Say: “Is that best, or the eternal garden, promised to the righteous? for them, that is a reward as well as a goal (of attainment).”

025.016“For them there will be therein all that they wish for: they will dwell (there) for aye: A promise to be prayed for from thy Lord.”

025.017The day He will gather them together as well as those whom they worship besides Allah, He will ask: “Was it ye who let these My servants astray, or did they stray from the Path themselves?”

025.018They will say: “Glory to Thee! not meet was it for us that we should take for protectors others besides Thee: But Thou didst bestow, on them and their fathers, good things (in life), until they forgot the Message: for they were a people (worthless and) lost.”

025.019(Allah will say): “Now have they proved you liars in what ye say: so ye cannot avert (your penalty) nor (get) help.” And whoever among you does wrong, him shall We cause to taste of a grievous Penalty.

025.020And the messengers whom We sent before thee were all (men) who ate food and walked through the streets: We have made some of you as a trial for others: will ye have patience? for Allah is One Who sees (all things).

025.021Such as fear not the meeting with Us (for Judgment) say: “Why are not the angels sent down to us, or (why) do we not see our Lord?” Indeed they have an arrogant conceit of themselves, and mighty is the insolence of their impiety!

025.022The Day they see the angels,- no joy will there be to the sinners that Day: The (angels) will say: “There is a barrier forbidden (to you) altogether!”

025.023And We shall turn to whatever deeds they did (in this life), and We shall make such deeds as floating dust scattered about.

025.024The Companions of the Garden will be well, that Day, in their abode, and have the fairest of places for repose.

025.025The Day the heaven shall be rent asunder with clouds, and angels shall be sent down, descending (in ranks),-

025.026That Day, the dominion as of right and truth, shall be (wholly) for (Allah) Most Merciful: it will be a Day of dire difficulty for the Misbelievers.

025.027The Day that the wrong-doer will bite at his hands, he will say, “Oh! would that I had taken a (straight) path with the Messenger!”

025.028“Ah! woe is me! Would that I had never taken such a one for a friend!”

025.029“He did lead me astray from the Message (of Allah) after it had come to me! Ah! the Evil One is but a traitor to man!”

025.030Then the Messenger will say: “O my Lord! Truly my people took this Qur’an for just foolish nonsense.”

025.031Thus have We made for every prophet an enemy among the sinners: but enough is thy Lord to guide and to help.

025.032Those who reject Faith say: “Why is not the Qur’an revealed to him all at once? Thus (is it revealed), that We may strengthen thy heart thereby, and We have rehearsed it to thee in slow, well-arranged stages, gradually.”

025.033And no question do they bring to thee but We reveal to thee the truth and the best explanation (thereof).

025.034Those who will be gathered to Hell (prone) on their faces,- they will be in an evil plight, and, as to Path, most astray.

025.035(Before this,) We sent Moses The Book, and appointed his brother Aaron with him as minister;

025.036And We command: “Go ye both, to the people who have rejected our Signs:” And those (people) We destroyed with utter destruction.

025.037And the people of Noah,- when they rejected the messengers, We drowned them, and We made them as a Sign for mankind; and We have prepared for (all) wrong-doers a grievous Penalty;-

025.038As also ‘Ad and Thamud, and the Companions of the Rass, and many a generation between them.

025.039To each one We set forth Parables and examples; and each one We broke to utter annihilation (for their sins).

025.040And the (Unbelievers) must indeed have passed by the town on which was rained a shower of evil: did they not then see it (with their own eyes)? But they fear not the Resurrection.

025.041When they see thee, they treat thee no otherwise than in mockery:

“Is this the one whom Allah has sent as a messenger?”

025.042“He indeed would well-nigh have misled us from our gods, had it not been that we were constant to them!” - Soon will they know, when they see the Penalty, who it is that is most misled in Path!

025.043Seest thou such a one as taketh for his god his own passion (or impulse)? Couldst thou be a disposer of affairs for him?

025.044Or thinkest thou that most of them listen or understand? They are only like cattle;- nay, they are worse astray in Path.

025.045Hast thou not turned thy vision to thy Lord?- How He doth prolong the shadow! If He willed, He could make it stationary! then do We make the sun its guide;

025.046Then We draw it in towards Ourselves,- a contraction by easy stages.

025.047And He it is Who makes the Night as a Robe for you, and Sleep as Repose, and makes the Day (as it were) a Resurrection.

025.048And He it is Who sends the winds as heralds of glad tidings, going before His mercy, and We send down pure water from the sky,-

025.049That with it We may give life to a dead land, and slake the thirst of things We have created,- cattle and men in great numbers.

025.050And We have distributed the (water) amongst them, in order that they may celebrate (our) praises, but most men are averse (to aught) but (rank) ingratitude.

025.051Had it been Our Will, We could have sent a warner to every centre of population.

025.052Therefore listen not to the Unbelievers, but strive against them with the utmost strenuousness, with the (Qur’an).

025.053It is He Who has let free the two bodies of flowing water: One palatable and sweet, and the other salt and bitter; yet has He made a barrier between them, a partition that is forbidden to be passed.

025.054It is He Who has created man from water: then has He established relationships of lineage and marriage: for thy Lord has power (over all things).

025.055Yet do they worship, besides Allah, things that can neither profit them nor harm them: and the Misbeliever is a helper (of Evil), against his own Lord!

025.056But thee We only sent to give glad tidings and admonition.

025.057Say: “No reward do I ask of you for it but this: that each one who will may take a (straight) Path to his Lord.”

025.058And put thy trust in Him Who lives and dies not; and celebrate his praise; and enough is He to be acquainted with the faults of His servants;-

025.059He Who created the heavens and the earth and all that is between, in six days, and is firmly established on the Throne (of Authority): Allah Most Gracious: ask thou, then, about Him of any acquainted (with such things).

025.060When it is said to them, “Prostrate to (Allah) Most Gracious!”, they say, “And what is (Allah) Most Gracious? Shall we prostrate to that which thou commandest us?” And it increases their flight (from the Truth).

025.061Blessed is He Who made constellations in the skies, and placed therein a Lamp and a Moon giving light;

025.062And it is He Who made the Night and the Day to follow each other: for such as have the will to celebrate His praises or to show their gratitude.

025.063And the servants of (Allah) Most Gracious are those who walk on the earth in humility, and when the ignorant address them, they say,

“Peace!”;

025.064Those who spend the night in adoration of their Lord prostrate and standing;

025.065Those who say, “Our Lord! avert from us the Wrath of Hell, for its Wrath is indeed an affliction grievous,”-

025.066“Evil indeed is it as an abode, and as a place to rest in”;

025.067Those who, when they spend, are not extravagant and not niggardly, but hold a just (balance) between those (extremes);

025.068Those who invoke not, with Allah, any other god, nor slay such life as Allah has made sacred except for just cause, nor commit fornication; - and any that does this (not only) meets punishment,

025.069(But) the Penalty on the Day of Judgment will be doubled to him, and he will dwell therein in ignominy,-

025.070Unless he repents, believes, and works righteous deeds, for Allah will change the evil of such persons into good, and Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful,

025.071And whoever repents and does good has truly turned to Allah with an (acceptable) conversion;-

025.072Those who witness no falsehood, and, if they pass by futility, they pass by it with honourable (avoidance);

025.073Those who, when they are admonished with the Signs of their Lord, droop not down at them as if they were deaf or blind;

025.074And those who pray, “Our Lord! Grant unto us wives and offspring who will be the comfort of our eyes, and give us (the grace) to lead the righteous.”

025.075Those are the ones who will be rewarded with the highest place in heaven, because of their patient constancy: therein shall they be met with salutations and peace,

025.076Dwelling therein;- how beautiful an abode and place of rest!

025.077Say (to the Rejecters): “My Lord is not uneasy because of you if ye call not on Him: But ye have indeed rejected (Him), and soon will come the inevitable (punishment)!”

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

026.001Ta. Sin. Mim.

026.002These are verses of the Book that makes (things) clear.

026.003It may be thou frettest thy soul with grief, that they do not become Believers.

026.004If (such) were Our Will, We could send down to them from the sky a Sign, to which they would bend their necks in humility.

026.005But there comes not to them a newly-revealed Message from (Allah) Most Gracious, but they turn away therefrom.

026.006They have indeed rejected (the Message): so they will know soon (enough) the truth of what they mocked at!

026.007Do they not look at the earth,- how many noble things of all kinds We have produced therein?

026.008Verily, in this is a Sign: but most of them do not believe.

026.009And verily, thy Lord is He, the Exalted in Might, Most Merciful.

026.010Behold, thy Lord called Moses: “Go to the people of iniquity,”-

026.011“The people of the Pharaoh: will they not fear Allah?”

026.012He said: “O my Lord! I do fear that they will charge me with falsehood:”

026.013“My breast will be straitened. And my speech may not go (smoothly): so send unto Aaron.”

026.014“And (further), they have a charge of crime against me; and I fear they may slay me.”

026.015Allah said: “By no means! proceed then, both of you, with Our Signs; We are with you, and will listen (to your call).”

026.016“So go forth, both of you, to Pharaoh, and say: ‘We have been sent by the Lord and Cherisher of the worlds;’”

026.017“‘Send thou with us the Children of Israel.’”

026.018(Pharaoh) said: “Did we not cherish thee as a child among us, and didst thou not stay in our midst many years of thy life?”

026.019“And thou didst a deed of thine which (thou knowest) thou didst, and thou art an ungrateful (wretch)!”

026.020Moses said: “I did it then, when I was in error.”

026.021“So I fled from you (all) when I feared you; but my Lord has (since) invested me with judgment (and wisdom) and appointed me as one of the messengers.”

026.022“And this is the favour with which thou dost reproach me,- that thou hast enslaved the Children of Israel!”

026.023Pharaoh said: “And what is the ‘Lord and Cherisher of the worlds’?”

026.024(Moses) said: “The Lord and Cherisher of the heavens and the earth, and all between,- if ye want to be quite sure.”

026.025(Pharaoh) said to those around: “Did ye not listen (to what he says)?”

026.026(Moses) said: “Your Lord and the Lord of your fathers from the beginning!”

026.027(Pharaoh) said: “Truly your messenger who has been sent to you is a veritable madman!”

026.028(Moses) said: “Lord of the East and the West, and all between! if ye only had sense!”

026.029(Pharaoh) said: “If thou dost put forward any god other than me, I will certainly put thee in prison!”

026.030(Moses) said: “Even if I showed you something clear (and) convincing?”

026.031(Pharaoh) said: “Show it then, if thou tellest the truth!”

026.032So (Moses) threw his rod, and behold, it was a serpent, plain (for all to see)!

026.033And he drew out his hand, and behold, it was white to all beholders!

026.034(Pharaoh) said to the Chiefs around him: “This is indeed a sorcerer well-versed:”

026.035“His plan is to get you out of your land by his sorcery; then what is it ye counsel?”

026.036They said: “Keep him and his brother in suspense (for a while), and dispatch to the Cities heralds to collect-“

026.037“And bring up to thee all (our) sorcerers well-versed.”

026.038So the sorcerers were got together for the appointment of a day well-known,

026.039And the people were told: “Are ye (now) assembled?”-

026.040“That we may follow the sorcerers (in religion) if they win?”

026.041So when the sorcerers arrived, they said to Pharaoh: “Of course - shall we have a (suitable) reward if we win?”

026.042He said: “Yea, (and more),- for ye shall in that case be (raised to posts) nearest (to my person).”

026.043Moses said to them: “Throw ye - that which ye are about to throw!”

026.044So they threw their ropes and their rods, and said: “By the might of Pharaoh, it is we who will certainly win!”

026.045Then Moses threw his rod, when, behold, it straightway swallows up all the falsehoods which they fake!

026.046Then did the sorcerers fall down, prostrate in adoration,

026.047Saying: “We believe in the Lord of the Worlds,”

026.048“The Lord of Moses and Aaron.”

026.049Said (Pharaoh): “Believe ye in Him before I give you permission? surely he is your leader, who has taught you sorcery! but soon shall ye know!” - “Be sure I will cut off your hands and your feet on opposite sides, and I will cause you all to die on the cross!”

026.050They said: “No matter! for us, we shall but return to our Lord!”

026.051“Only, our desire is that our Lord will forgive us our faults, that we may become foremost among the believers!”

026.052By inspiration we told Moses: “Travel by night with my servants; for surely ye shall be pursued.”

026.053Then Pharaoh sent heralds to (all) the Cities,

026.054(Saying): “These (Israelites) are but a small band,”

026.055“And they are raging furiously against us;”

026.056“But we are a multitude amply fore-warned.”

026.057So We expelled them from gardens, springs,

026.058Treasures, and every kind of honourable position;

026.059Thus it was, but We made the Children of Israel inheritors of such things.

026.060So they pursued them at sunrise.

026.061And when the two bodies saw each other, the people of Moses said: “We are sure to be overtaken.”

026.062(Moses) said: “By no means! my Lord is with me! Soon will He guide me!”

026.063Then We told Moses by inspiration: “Strike the sea with thy rod.” So it divided, and each separate part became like the huge, firm mass of a mountain.

026.064And We made the other party approach thither.

026.065We delivered Moses and all who were with him;

026.066But We drowned the others.

026.067Verily in this is a Sign: but most of them do not believe.

026.068And verily thy Lord is He, the Exalted in Might, Most Merciful.

026.069And rehearse to them (something of) Abraham’s story.

026.070Behold, he said to his father and his people: “What worship ye?”

026.071They said: “We worship idols, and we remain constantly in attendance on them.”

026.072He said: “Do they listen to you when ye call (on them),”

026.073“Or do you good or harm?”

026.074They said: “Nay, but we found our fathers doing thus (what we do).”

026.075He said: “Do ye then see whom ye have been worshipping,”-

026.076“Ye and your fathers before you?”-

026.077“For they are enemies to me; not so the Lord and Cherisher of the Worlds;”

026.078“Who created me, and it is He Who guides me;”

026.079“Who gives me food and drink,”

026.080“And when I am ill, it is He Who cures me;”

026.081“Who will cause me to die, and then to life (again);”

026.082“And Who, I hope, will forgive me my faults on the Day of Judgment….”

026.083“O my Lord! bestow wisdom on me, and join me with the righteous;”

026.084“Grant me honourable mention on the tongue of truth among the latest (generations);”

026.085“Make me one of the inheritors of the Garden of Bliss;”

026.086“Forgive my father, for that he is among those astray;”

026.087“And let me not be in disgrace on the Day when (men) will be raised up;”-

026.088“The Day whereon neither wealth nor sons will avail,”

026.089“But only he (will prosper) that brings to Allah a sound heart;”

026.090“To the righteous, the Garden will be brought near,”

026.091“And to those straying in Evil, the Fire will be placed in full view;”

026.092“And it shall be said to them: ‘Where are the (gods) ye worshipped-‘“

026.093“‘Besides Allah? Can they help you or help themselves?’”

026.094“Then they will be thrown headlong into the (Fire),- they and those straying in Evil,”

026.095“And the whole hosts of Iblis together.”

026.096“They will say there in their mutual bickerings:”

026.097“‘By Allah, we were truly in an error manifest,”

026.098“‘When we held you as equals with the Lord of the Worlds;”

026.099“‘And our seducers were only those who were steeped in guilt.”

026.100“‘Now, then, we have none to intercede (for us),’”

026.101“‘Nor a single friend to feel (for us).’”

026.102“‘Now if we only had a chance of return we shall truly be of those who believe!’”

026.103Verily in this is a Sign but most of them do not believe.

026.104And verily thy Lord is He, the Exalted in Might, Most Merciful.

026.105The people of Noah rejected the messengers.

026.106Behold, their brother Noah said to them: “Will ye not fear (Allah)?”

026.107“I am to you a messenger worthy of all trust:”

026.108“So fear Allah, and obey me.”

026.109“No reward do I ask of you for it: my reward is only from the Lord of the Worlds:”

026.110“So fear Allah, and obey me.”

026.111They said: “Shall we believe in thee when it is the meanest that follow thee?”

026.112He said: “And what do I know as to what they do?”

026.113“Their account is only with my Lord, if ye could (but) understand.”

026.114“I am not one to drive away those who believe.”

026.115“I am sent only to warn plainly in public.”

026.116They said: “If thou desist not, O Noah! thou shalt be stoned (to death).”

026.117He said: “O my Lord! truly my people have rejected me.”

026.118“Judge Thou, then, between me and them openly, and deliver me and those of the Believers who are with me.”

026.119So We delivered him and those with him, in the Ark filled (with all creatures).

026.120Thereafter We drowned those who remained behind.

026.121Verily in this is a Sign: but most of them do not believe.

026.122And verily thy Lord is He, the Exalted in Might, Most Merciful.

026.123The ‘Ad (people) rejected the messengers.

026.124Behold, their brother Hud said to them: “Will ye not fear (Allah)?”

026.125“I am to you a messenger worthy of all trust:”

026.126“So fear Allah and obey me.”

026.127“No reward do I ask of you for it: my reward is only from the Lord of the Worlds.”

026.128“Do ye build a landmark on every high place to amuse yourselves?”

026.129“And do ye get for yourselves fine buildings in the hope of living therein (for ever)?”

026.130“And when ye exert your strong hand, do ye do it like men of absolute power?”

026.131“Now fear Allah, and obey me.”

026.132“Yea, fear Him Who has bestowed on you freely all that ye know.”

026.133“Freely has He bestowed on you cattle and sons,”-

026.134“And Gardens and Springs.”

026.135“Truly I fear for you the Penalty of a Great Day.”

026.136They said: “It is the same to us whether thou admonish us or be not among (our) admonishers!”

026.137“This is no other than a customary device of the ancients,”

026.138“And we are not the ones to receive Pains and Penalties!”

026.139So they rejected him, and We destroyed them. Verily in this is a Sign: but most of them do not believe.

026.140And verily thy Lord is He, the Exalted in Might, Most Merciful.

026.141The Thamud (people) rejected the messengers.

026.142Behold, their brother Salih said to them: “Will you not fear (Allah)?”

026.143“I am to you a messenger worthy of all trust.”

026.144“So fear Allah, and obey me.”

026.145“No reward do I ask of you for it: my reward is only from the Lord of the Worlds.”

026.146“Will ye be left secure, in (the enjoyment of) all that ye have here?”-

026.147“Gardens and Springs,”

026.148“And corn-fields and date-palms with spathes near breaking (with the weight of fruit)?”

026.149“And ye carve houses out of (rocky) mountains with great skill.”

026.150“But fear Allah and obey me;”

026.151“And follow not the bidding of those who are extravagant,”-

026.152“Who make mischief in the land, and mend not (their ways).”

026.153They said: “Thou art only one of those bewitched!”

026.154“Thou art no more than a mortal like us: then bring us a Sign, if thou tellest the truth!”

026.155He said: “Here is a she-camel: she has a right of watering, and ye have a right of watering, (severally) on a day appointed.”

026.156“Touch her not with harm, lest the Penalty of a Great Day seize you.”

026.157But they ham-strung her: then did they become full of regrets.

026.158But the Penalty seized them. Verily in this is a Sign: but most of them do not believe.

026.159And verily thy Lord is He, the Exalted in Might, Most Merciful.

026.160The people of Lut rejected the messengers.

026.161Behold, their brother Lut said to them: “Will ye not fear (Allah)?”

026.162“I am to you a messenger worthy of all trust.”

026.163“So fear Allah and obey me.”

026.164“No reward do I ask of you for it: my reward is only from the Lord of the Worlds.”

026.165“Of all the creatures in the world, will ye approach males,”

026.166“And leave those whom Allah has created for you to be your mates? Nay, ye are a people transgressing (all limits)!”

026.167They said: “If thou desist not, O Lut! thou wilt assuredly be cast out!”

026.168He said: “I do detest your doings.”

026.169“O my Lord! deliver me and my family from such things as they do!”

026.170So We delivered him and his family,- all,

026.171Except an old woman who lingered behind.

026.172But the rest We destroyed utterly.

026.173We rained down on them a shower (of brimstone): and evil was the shower on those who were admonished (but heeded not)!

026.174Verily in this is a Sign: but most of them do not believe.

026.175And verily thy Lord is He, the Exalted in Might Most Merciful.

026.176The Companions of the Wood rejected the messengers.

026.177Behold, Shu’aib said to them: “Will ye not fear (Allah)?”

026.178“I am to you a messenger worthy of all trust.”

026.179“So fear Allah and obey me.”

026.180“No reward do I ask of you for it: my reward is only from the Lord of the Worlds.”

026.181“Give just measure, and cause no loss (to others by fraud).”

026.182“And weigh with scales true and upright.”

026.183“And withhold not things justly due to men, nor do evil in the land, working mischief.”

026.184“And fear Him Who created you and (who created) the generations before (you).”

026.185They said: “Thou art only one of those bewitched!”

026.186“Thou art no more than a mortal like us, and indeed we think thou art a liar!”

026.187“Now cause a piece of the sky to fall on us, if thou art truthful!”

026.188He said: “My Lord knows best what ye do.”

026.189But they rejected him. Then the punishment of a day of overshadowing gloom seized them, and that was the Penalty of a Great Day.

026.190Verily in that is a Sign: but most of them do not believe.

026.191And verily thy Lord is He, the Exalted in Might, Most Merciful.

026.192Verily this is a Revelation from the Lord of the Worlds:

026.193With it came down the spirit of Faith and Truth-

026.194To thy heart and mind, that thou mayest admonish.

026.195In the perspicuous Arabic tongue.

026.196Without doubt it is (announced) in the mystic Books of former peoples.

026.197Is it not a Sign to them that the Learned of the Children of Israel knew it (as true)?

026.198Had We revealed it to any of the non-Arabs,

026.199And had he recited it to them, they would not have believed in it.

026.200Thus have We caused it to enter the hearts of the sinners.

026.201They will not believe in it until they see the grievous Penalty;

026.202But the (Penalty) will come to them of a sudden, while they perceive it not;

026.203Then they will say: “Shall we be respited?”

026.204Do they then ask for Our Penalty to be hastened on?

026.205Seest thou? If We do let them enjoy (this life) for a few years,

026.206Yet there comes to them at length the (Punishment) which they were promised!

026.207It will profit them not that they enjoyed (this life)!

026.208Never did We destroy a population, but had its warners -

026.209By way of reminder; and We never are unjust.

026.210No evil ones have brought down this (Revelation):

026.211It would neither suit them nor would they be able (to produce it).

026.212Indeed they have been removed far from even (a chance of) hearing it.

026.213So call not on any other god with Allah, or thou wilt be among those under the Penalty.

026.214And admonish thy nearest kinsmen,

026.215And lower thy wing to the Believers who follow thee.

026.216Then if they disobey thee, say: “I am free (of responsibility) for what ye do!”

026.217And put thy trust on the Exalted in Might, the Merciful,-

026.218Who seeth thee standing forth (in prayer),

026.219And thy movements among those who prostrate themselves,

026.220For it is He Who heareth and knoweth all things.

026.221Shall I inform you, (O people!), on whom it is that the evil ones descend?

026.222They descend on every lying, wicked person,

026.223(Into whose ears) they pour hearsay vanities, and most of them are liars.

026.224And the Poets,- It is those straying in Evil, who follow them:

026.225Seest thou not that they wander distracted in every valley?-

026.226And that they say what they practise not?-

026.227Except those who believe, work righteousness, engage much in the remembrance of Allah, and defend themselves only after they are unjustly attacked. And soon will the unjust assailants know what vicissitudes their affairs will take!

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

027.001These are verses of the Qur’an,-a book that makes (things) clear;

027.002A guide: and glad tidings for the believers,-

027.003Those who establish regular prayers and give in regular charity, and also have (full) assurance of the hereafter.

027.004As to those who believe not in the Hereafter, We have made their deeds pleasing in their eyes; and so they wander about in distraction.

027.005Such are they for whom a grievous Penalty is (waiting); and in the Hereafter theirs will be the greatest loss.

027.006As to thee, the Qur’an is bestowed upon thee from the presence of one Who is Wise and All-Knowing.

027.007Behold! Moses said to his family: “I perceive a fire; soon will I bring you from there some information, or I will bring you a burning brand to light our fuel, that ye may warm yourselves.”

027.008But when he came to the (fire), a voice was heard: “Blessed are those in the fire and those around: and Glory to Allah, the Lord of the Worlds!”

027.009“O Moses! verily, I am Allah, the Exalted in Might, the Wise!…”

027.010“Now do thou throw thy rod!” But when he saw it moving (of its own accord) as if it had been a snake, he turned back in retreat, and retraced not his steps: “O Moses!” (it was said), “Fear not: truly, in My presence, those called as messengers have no fear,”-

027.011“But if any have done wrong and have thereafter substituted good to take the place of evil, truly, I am Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.”

027.012“Now put thy hand into thy bosom, and it will come forth white without stain (or harm): (these are) among the nine Signs (thou wilt take) to Pharaoh and his people: for they are a people rebellious in transgression.”

027.013But when Our Signs came to them, that should have opened their eyes, they said: “This is sorcery manifest!”

027.014And they rejected those Signs in iniquity and arrogance, though their souls were convinced thereof: so see what was the end of those who acted corruptly!

027.015We gave (in the past) knowledge to David and Solomon: And they both said: “Praise be to Allah, Who has favoured us above many of his servants who believe!”

027.016And Solomon was David’s heir. He said: “O ye people! We have been taught the speech of birds, and on us has been bestowed (a little) of all things: this is indeed Grace manifest (from Allah.)”

027.017And before Solomon were marshalled his hosts,- of jinns and men and birds, and they were all kept in order and ranks.

027.018At length, when they came to a (lowly) valley of ants, one of the ants said: “O ye ants, get into your habitations, lest Solomon and his hosts crush you (under foot) without knowing it.”

027.019So he smiled, amused at her speech; and he said: “O my Lord! so order me that I may be grateful for Thy favours, which thou hast bestowed on me and on my parents, and that I may work the righteousness that will please Thee: And admit me, by Thy Grace, to the ranks of Thy righteous Servants.”

027.020And he took a muster of the Birds; and he said: “Why is it I see not the Hoopoe? Or is he among the absentees?”

027.021“I will certainly punish him with a severe penalty, or execute him, unless he bring me a clear reason (for absence).”

027.022But the Hoopoe tarried not far: he (came up and) said: “I have compassed (territory) which thou hast not compassed, and I have come to thee from Saba with tidings true.”

027.023“I found (there) a woman ruling over them and provided with every requisite; and she has a magnificent throne.”

027.024“I found her and her people worshipping the sun besides Allah: Satan has made their deeds seem pleasing in their eyes, and has kept them away from the Path,- so they receive no guidance,”-

027.025“(Kept them away from the Path), that they should not worship Allah, Who brings to light what is hidden in the heavens and the earth, and knows what ye hide and what ye reveal.”

027.026“Allah!- there is no god but He!- Lord of the Throne Supreme!”

027.027(Solomon) said: “Soon shall we see whether thou hast told the truth or lied!”

027.028“Go thou, with this letter of mine, and deliver it to them: then draw back from them, and (wait to) see what answer they return”…

027.029(The queen) said: “Ye chiefs! here is delivered to me - a letter worthy of respect.”

027.030“It is from Solomon, and is (as follows): ‘In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful:’”

027.031“‘Be ye not arrogant against me, but come to me in submission (to the true Religion).’”

027.032She said: “Ye chiefs! advise me in (this) my affair: no affair have I decided except in your presence.”

027.033They said: “We are endued with strength, and given to vehement war: but the command is with thee; so consider what thou wilt command.”

027.034She said: “Kings, when they enter a country, despoil it, and make the noblest of its people its meanest thus do they behave.”

027.035“But I am going to send him a present, and (wait) to see with what (answer) return (my) ambassadors.”

027.036Now when (the embassy) came to Solomon, he said: “Will ye give me abundance in wealth? But that which Allah has given me is better than that which He has given you! Nay it is ye who rejoice in your gift!”

027.037“Go back to them, and be sure we shall come to them with such hosts as they will never be able to meet: We shall expel them from there in disgrace, and they will feel humbled (indeed).”

027.038He said (to his own men): “Ye chiefs! which of you can bring me her throne before they come to me in submission?”

027.039Said an ‘Ifrit, of the jinns: “I will bring it to thee before thou rise from thy council: indeed I have full strength for the purpose, and may be trusted.”

027.040Said one who had knowledge of the Book: “I will bring it to thee within the twinkling of an eye!” Then when (Solomon) saw it placed firmly before him, he said: “This is by the Grace of my Lord!- to test me whether I am grateful or ungrateful! and if any is grateful, truly his gratitude is (a gain) for his own soul; but if any is ungrateful, truly my Lord is Free of all Needs, Supreme in Honour !”

027.041He said: “Transform her throne out of all recognition by her: let us see whether she is guided (to the truth) or is one of those who receive no guidance.”

027.042So when she arrived, she was asked, “Is this thy throne?” She said, “It was just like this; and knowledge was bestowed on us in advance of this, and we have submitted to Allah (in Islam).”

027.043And he diverted her from the worship of others besides Allah: for she was (sprung) of a people that had no faith.

027.044She was asked to enter the lofty Palace: but when she saw it, she thought it was a lake of water, and she (tucked up her skirts), uncovering her legs. He said: “This is but a palace paved smooth with slabs of glass.” She said: “O my Lord! I have indeed wronged my soul: I do (now) submit (in Islam), with Solomon, to the Lord of the Worlds.”

027.045We sent (aforetime), to the Thamud, their brother Salih, saying, “Serve Allah”: But behold, they became two factions quarrelling with each other.

027.046He said: “O my people! why ask ye to hasten on the evil in preference to the good? If only ye ask Allah for forgiveness, ye may hope to receive mercy.”

027.047They said: “Ill omen do we augur from thee and those that are with thee”. He said: “Your ill omen is with Allah; yea, ye are a people under trial.”

027.048There were in the city nine men of a family, who made mischief in the land, and would not reform.

027.049They said: “Swear a mutual oath by Allah that we shall make a secret night attack on him and his people, and that we shall then say to his heir (when he seeks vengeance): ‘We were not present at the slaughter of his people, and we are positively telling the truth.’”

027.050They plotted and planned, but We too planned, even while they perceived it not.

027.051Then see what was the end of their plot!- this, that We destroyed them and their people, all (of them).

027.052Now such were their houses, - in utter ruin, - because they practised wrong-doing. Verily in this is a Sign for people of knowledge.

027.053And We saved those who believed and practised righteousness.

027.054(We also sent) Lut (as a messenger): behold, He said to his people, “Do ye do what is shameful though ye see (its iniquity)?”

027.055Would ye really approach men in your lusts rather than women? Nay, ye are a people (grossly) ignorant!

027.056But his people gave no other answer but this: they said, “Drive out the followers of Lut from your city: these are indeed men who want to be clean and pure!”

027.057But We saved him and his family, except his wife; her We destined to be of those who lagged behind.

027.058And We rained down on them a shower (of brimstone): and evil was the shower on those who were admonished (but heeded not)!

027.059Say: Praise be to Allah, and Peace on his servants whom He has chosen (for his Message). (Who) is better?- Allah or the false gods they associate (with Him)?

027.060Or, Who has created the heavens and the earth, and Who sends you down rain from the sky? Yea, with it We cause to grow well-planted orchards full of beauty of delight: it is not in your power to cause the growth of the trees in them. (Can there be another) god besides Allah? Nay, they are a people who swerve from justice.

027.061Or, Who has made the earth firm to live in; made rivers in its midst; set thereon mountains immovable; and made a separating bar between the two bodies of flowing water? (can there be another) god besides Allah? Nay, most of them know not.

027.062Or, Who listens to the (soul) distressed when it calls on Him, and Who relieves its suffering, and makes you (mankind) inheritors of the earth? (Can there be another) god besides Allah? Little it is that ye heed!

027.063Or, Who guides you through the depths of darkness on land and sea, and Who sends the winds as heralds of glad tidings, going before His Mercy? (Can there be another) god besides Allah?- High is Allah above what they associate with Him!

027.064Or, Who originates creation, then repeats it, and who gives you sustenance from heaven and earth? (Can there be another) god besides Allah? Say, “Bring forth your argument, if ye are telling the truth!”

027.065Say: None in the heavens or on earth, except Allah, knows what is hidden: nor can they perceive when they shall be raised up (for Judgment).

027.066Still less can their knowledge comprehend the Hereafter: Nay, they are in doubt and uncertainty thereanent; nay, they are blind thereunto!

027.067The Unbelievers say: “What! when we become dust,- we and our fathers,- shall we really be raised (from the dead)?”

027.068“It is true we were promised this,- we and our fathers before (us): these are nothing but tales of the ancients.”

027.069Say: “Go ye through the earth and see what has been the end of those guilty (of sin).”

027.070But grieve not over them, nor distress thyself because of their plots.

027.071They also say: “When will this promise (come to pass)? (Say) if ye are truthful.”

027.072Say: “It may be that some of the events which ye wish to hasten on may be (close) in your pursuit!”

027.073But verily thy Lord is full of grace to mankind: Yet most of them are ungrateful.

027.074And verily thy Lord knoweth all that their hearts do hide. As well as all that they reveal.

027.075Nor is there aught of the unseen, in heaven or earth, but is (recorded) in a clear record.

027.076Verily this Qur’an doth explain to the Children of Israel most of the matters in which they disagree.

027.077And it certainly is a Guide and a Mercy to those who believe.

027.078Verily thy Lord will decide between them by His Decree: and He is Exalted in Might, All-Knowing.

027.079So put thy trust in Allah: for thou art on (the path of) manifest Truth.

027.080Truly thou canst not cause the dead to listen, nor canst thou cause the deaf to hear the call, (especially) when they turn back in retreat.

027.081Nor canst thou be a guide to the blind, (to prevent them) from straying: only those wilt thou get to listen who believe in Our Signs, and they will bow in Islam.

027.082And when the Word is fulfilled against them (the unjust), we shall produce from the earth a beast to (face) them: He will speak to them, for that mankind did not believe with assurance in Our Signs.

027.083One day We shall gather together from every people a troop of those who reject our Signs, and they shall be kept in ranks,-

027.084Until, when they come (before the Judgment-seat), (Allah) will say: “Did ye reject My Signs, though ye comprehended them not in knowledge, or what was it ye did?”

027.085And the Word will be fulfilled against them, because of their wrong-doing, and they will be unable to speak (in plea).

027.086See they not that We have made the Night for them to rest in and the Day to give them light? Verily in this are Signs for any people that believe!

027.087And the Day that the Trumpet will be sounded - then will be smitten with terror those who are in the heavens, and those who are on earth, except such as Allah will please (to exempt): and all shall come to His (Presence) as beings conscious of their lowliness.

027.088Thou seest the mountains and thinkest them firmly fixed: but they shall pass away as the clouds pass away: (such is) the artistry of Allah, who disposes of all things in perfect order: for he is well acquainted with all that ye do.

027.089If any do good, good will (accrue) to them therefrom; and they will be secure from terror that Day.

027.090And if any do evil, their faces will be thrown headlong into the Fire: “Do ye receive a reward other than that which ye have earned by your deeds?”

027.091For me, I have been commanded to serve the Lord of this city, Him Who has sanctified it and to Whom (belong) all things: and I am commanded to be of those who bow in Islam to Allah’s Will,-

027.092And to rehearse the Qur’an: and if any accept guidance, they do it for the good of their own souls, and if any stray, say: “I am only a Warner”.

027.093And say: “Praise be to Allah, Who will soon show you His Signs, so that ye shall know them”; and thy Lord is not unmindful of all that ye do.

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

028.001Ta. Sin. Mim.

028.002These are Verses of the Book that makes (things) clear.

028.003We rehearse to thee some of the story of Moses and Pharaoh in Truth, for people who believe.

028.004Truly Pharaoh elated himself in the land and broke up its people into sections, depressing a small group among them: their sons he slew, but he kept alive their females: for he was indeed a maker of mischief.

028.005And We wished to be Gracious to those who were being depressed in the land, to make them leaders (in Faith) and make them heirs,

028.006To establish a firm place for them in the land, and to show Pharaoh, Haman, and their hosts, at their hands, the very things against which they were taking precautions.

028.007So We sent this inspiration to the mother of Moses: “Suckle (thy child), but when thou hast fears about him, cast him into the river, but fear not nor grieve: for We shall restore him to thee, and We shall make him one of Our messengers.”

028.008Then the people of Pharaoh picked him up (from the river): (It was intended) that (Moses) should be to them an adversary and a cause of sorrow: for Pharaoh and Haman and (all) their hosts were men of sin.

028.009The wife of Pharaoh said: “(Here is) joy of the eye, for me and for thee: slay him not. It may be that he will be use to us, or we may adopt him as a son.” And they perceived not (what they were doing)!

028.010But there came to be a void in the heart of the mother of Moses: She was going almost to disclose his (case), had We not strengthened her heart (with faith), so that she might remain a (firm) believer.

028.011And she said to the sister of (Moses), “Follow him” so she (the sister) watched him in the character of a stranger. And they knew not.

028.012And we ordained that he refused suck at first, until (His sister came up and) said: “Shall I point out to you the people of a house that will nourish and bring him up for you and be sincerely attached to him?”…

028.013Thus did We restore him to his mother, that her eye might be comforted, that she might not grieve, and that she might know that the promise of Allah is true: but most of them do not understand.

028.014When he reached full age, and was firmly established (in life), We bestowed on him wisdom and knowledge: for thus do We reward those who do good.

028.015And he entered the city at a time when its people were not watching: and he found there two men fighting,- one of his own religion, and the other, of his foes. Now the man of his own religion appealed to him against his foe, and Moses struck him with his fist and made an end of him. He said: “This is a work of Evil (Satan): for he is an enemy that manifestly misleads!”

028.016He prayed: “O my Lord! I have indeed wronged my soul! Do Thou then forgive me!” So (Allah) forgave him: for He is the Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

028.017He said: “O my Lord! For that Thou hast bestowed Thy Grace on me, never shall I be a help to those who sin!”

028.018So he saw the morning in the city, looking about, in a state of fear, when behold, the man who had, the day before, sought his help called aloud for his help (again). Moses said to him: “Thou art truly, it is clear, a quarrelsome fellow!”

028.019Then, when he decided to lay hold of the man who was an enemy to both of them, that man said: “O Moses! Is it thy intention to slay me as thou slewest a man yesterday? Thy intention is none other than to become a powerful violent man in the land, and not to be one who sets things right!”

028.020And there came a man, running, from the furthest end of the City. He said: “O Moses! the Chiefs are taking counsel together about thee, to slay thee: so get thee away, for I do give thee sincere advice.”

028.021He therefore got away therefrom, looking about, in a state of fear. He prayed “O my Lord! save me from people given to wrong-doing.”

028.022Then, when he turned his face towards (the land of) Madyan, he said: “I do hope that my Lord will show me the smooth and straight Path.”

028.023And when he arrived at the watering (place) in Madyan, he found there a group of men watering (their flocks), and besides them he found two women who were keeping back (their flocks). He said: “What is the matter with you?” They said: “We cannot water (our flocks) until the shepherds take back (their flocks): And our father is a very old man.”

028.024So he watered (their flocks) for them; then he turned back to the shade, and said: “O my Lord! truly am I in (desperate) need of any good that Thou dost send me!”…

028.025Afterwards one of the (damsels) came (back) to him, walking bashfully. She said: “My father invites thee that he may reward thee for having watered (our flocks) for us.” So when he came to him and narrated the story, he said: “Fear thou not: (well) hast thou escaped from unjust people.”

028.026Said one of the (damsels): “O my (dear) father! engage him on wages: truly the best of men for thee to employ is the (man) who is strong and trusty”….

028.027He said: “I intend to wed one of these my daughters to thee, on condition that thou serve me for eight years; but if thou complete ten years, it will be (grace) from thee. But I intend not to place thee under a difficulty: thou wilt find me, indeed, if Allah wills, one of the righteous.”

028.028He said: “Be that (the agreement) between me and thee: whichever of the two terms I fulfil, let there be no ill-will to me. Be Allah a witness to what we say.”

028.029Now when Moses had fulfilled the term, and was travelling with his family, he perceived a fire in the direction of Mount Tur. He said to his family: “Tarry ye; I perceive a fire; I hope to bring you from there some information, or a burning firebrand, that ye may warm yourselves.”

028.030But when he came to the (fire), a voice was heard from the right bank of the valley, from a tree in hallowed ground: “O Moses! Verily I am Allah, the Lord of the Worlds….”

028.031“Now do thou throw thy rod!” but when he saw it moving (of its own accord) as if it had been a snake, he turned back in retreat, and retraced not his steps: “O Moses!” (It was said), “Draw near, and fear not: for thou art of those who are secure.”

028.032“Move thy hand into thy bosom, and it will come forth white without stain (or harm), and draw thy hand close to thy side (to guard) against fear. Those are the two credentials from thy Lord to Pharaoh and his Chiefs: for truly they are a people rebellious and wicked.”

028.033He said: “O my Lord! I have slain a man among them, and I fear lest they slay me.”

028.034“And my brother Aaron - He is more eloquent in speech than I: so send him with me as a helper, to confirm (and strengthen) me: for I fear that they may accuse me of falsehood.”

028.035He said: “We will certainly strengthen thy arm through thy brother, and invest you both with authority, so they shall not be able to touch you: with Our Sign shall ye triumph,- you two as well as those who follow you.”

028.036When Moses came to them with Our clear signs, they said: “This is nothing but sorcery faked up: never did we head the like among our fathers of old!”

028.037Moses said: “My Lord knows best who it is that comes with guidance from Him and whose end will be best in the Hereafter: certain it is that the wrong-doers will not prosper.”

028.038Pharaoh said: “O Chiefs! no god do I know for you but myself: therefore, O Haman! light me a (kiln to bake bricks) out of clay, and build me a lofty palace, that I may mount up to the god of Moses: but as far as I am concerned, I think (Moses) is a liar!”

028.039And he was arrogant and insolent in the land, beyond reason,- He and his hosts: they thought that they would not have to return to Us!

028.040So We seized him and his hosts, and We flung them into the sea: Now behold what was the end of those who did wrong!

028.041And we made them (but) leaders inviting to the Fire; and on the Day of Judgment no help shall they find.

028.042in this world We made a curse to follow them and on the Day of Judgment they will be among the loathed (and despised).

028.043We did reveal to Moses the Book after We had destroyed the earlier generations, (to give) Insight to men, and guidance and Mercy, that they might receive admonition.

028.044Thou wast not on the Western side when We decreed the Commission to Moses, nor wast thou a witness (of those events).

028.045But We raised up (new) generations, and long were the ages that passed over them; but thou wast not a dweller among the people of Madyan, rehearsing Our Signs to them; but it is We Who send messengers (with inspiration).

028.046Nor wast thou at the side of (the Mountain of) Tur when we called (to Moses). Yet (art thou sent) as Mercy from thy Lord, to give warning to a people to whom no warner had come before thee: in order that they may receive admonition.

028.047If (We had) not (sent thee to the Quraish),- in case a calamity should seize them for (the deeds) that their hands have sent forth, they might say: “Our Lord! why didst Thou not sent us a messenger? We should then have followed Thy Signs and been amongst those who believe!”

028.048But (now), when the Truth has come to them from Ourselves, they say, “Why are not (Signs) sent to him, like those which were sent to Moses?” Do they not then reject (the Signs) which were formerly sent to Moses? They say: “Two kinds of sorcery, each assisting the other!” And they say: “For us, we reject all (such things)!”

028.049Say: “Then bring ye a Book from Allah, which is a better guide than either of them, that I may follow it! (do), if ye are truthful!”

028.050But if they hearken not to thee, know that they only follow their own lusts: and who is more astray than one who follow his own lusts, devoid of guidance from Allah? for Allah guides not people given to wrong-doing.

028.051Now have We caused the Word to reach them themselves, in order that they may receive admonition.

028.052Those to whom We sent the Book before this,- they do believe in this (revelation):

028.053And when it is recited to them, they say: “We believe therein, for it is the Truth from our Lord: indeed we have been Muslims (bowing to Allah’s Will) from before this.”

028.054Twice will they be given their reward, for that they have persevered, that they avert Evil with Good, and that they spend (in charity) out of what We have given them.

028.055And when they hear vain talk, they turn away therefrom and say: “To us our deeds, and to you yours; peace be to you: we seek not the ignorant.”

028.056It is true thou wilt not be able to guide every one, whom thou lovest; but Allah guides those whom He will and He knows best those who receive guidance.

028.057They say: “If we were to follow the guidance with thee, we should be snatched away from our land.” Have We not established for them a secure sanctuary, to which are brought as tribute fruits of all kinds,- a provision from Ourselves? but most of them understand not.

028.058And how many populations We destroyed, which exulted in their life (of ease and plenty)! now those habitations of theirs, after them, are deserted,- All but a (miserable) few! and We are their heirs!

028.059Nor was thy Lord the one to destroy a population until He had sent to its centre a messenger, rehearsing to them Our Signs; nor are We going to destroy a population except when its members practise iniquity.

028.060The (material) things which ye are given are but the conveniences of this life and the glitter thereof; but that which is with Allah is better and more enduring: will ye not then be wise?

028.061Are (these two) alike?- one to whom We have made a goodly promise, and who is going to reach its (fulfilment), and one to whom We have given the good things of this life, but who, on the Day of Judgment, is to be among those brought up (for punishment)?

028.062That Day (Allah) will call to them, and say “Where are my ‘partners’?- whom ye imagined (to be such)?”

028.063Those against whom the charge will be proved, will say: “Our Lord! These are the ones whom we led astray: we led them astray, as we were astray ourselves: we free ourselves (from them) in Thy presence: it was not us they worshipped.”

028.064It will be said (to them): “Call upon your ‘partners’ (for help)”: they will call upon them, but they will not listen to them; and they will see the Penalty (before them); (how they will wish) ‘if only they had been open to guidance!’

028.065That Day (Allah) will call to them, and say: “What was the answer ye gave to the messengers?”

028.066Then the (whole) story that Day will seem obscure to them (like light to the blind) and they will not be able (even) to question each other.

028.067But any that (in this life) had repented, believed, and worked righteousness, will have hopes to be among those who achieve salvation.

028.068Thy Lord does create and choose as He pleases: no choice have they (in the matter): Glory to Allah! and far is He above the partners they ascribe (to Him)!

028.069And thy Lord knows all that their hearts conceal and all that they reveal.

028.070And He is Allah: There is no god but He. To Him be praise, at the first and at the last: for Him is the Command, and to Him shall ye (all) be brought back.

028.071Say: See ye? If Allah were to make the night perpetual over you to the Day of Judgment, what god is there other than Allah, who can give you enlightenment? Will ye not then hearken?

028.072Say: See ye? If Allah were to make the day perpetual over you to the Day of Judgment, what god is there other than Allah, who can give you a night in which ye can rest? Will ye not then see?

028.073It is out of His Mercy that He has made for you Night and Day,- that ye may rest therein, and that ye may seek of his Grace;- and in order that ye may be grateful.

028.074The Day that He will call on them, He will say: “Where are my ‘partners’? whom ye imagined (to be such)?”

028.075And from each people shall We draw a witness, and We shall say: “Produce your Proof”: then shall they know that the Truth is in Allah (alone), and the (lies) which they invented will leave them in lurch.

028.076Qarun was doubtless, of the people of Moses; but he acted insolently towards them: such were the treasures We had bestowed on him that their very keys would have been a burden to a body of strong men, behold, his people said to him: “Exult not, for Allah loveth not those who exult (in riches).”

028.077“But seek, with the (wealth) which Allah has bestowed on thee, the Home of the Hereafter, nor forget thy portion in this world: but do thou good, as Allah has been good to thee, and seek not (occasions for) mischief in the land: for Allah loves not those who do mischief.”

028.078He said: “This has been given to me because of a certain knowledge which I have.” Did he not know that Allah had destroyed, before him, (whole) generations,- which were superior to him in strength and greater in the amount (of riches) they had collected? but the wicked are not called (immediately) to account for their sins.

028.079So he went forth among his people in the (pride of his wordly) glitter. Said those whose aim is the Life of this World: “Oh! that we had the like of what Qarun has got! for he is truly a lord of mighty good fortune!”

028.080But those who had been granted (true) knowledge said: “Alas for you! The reward of Allah (in the Hereafter) is best for those who believe and work righteousness: but this none shall attain, save those who steadfastly persevere (in good).”

028.081Then We caused the earth to swallow up him and his house; and he had not (the least little) party to help him against Allah, nor could he defend himself.

028.082And those who had envied his position the day before began to say on the morrow: “Ah! it is indeed Allah Who enlarges the provision or restricts it, to any of His servants He pleases! had it not been that Allah was gracious to us, He could have caused the earth to swallow us up! Ah! those who reject Allah will assuredly never prosper.”

028.083That Home of the Hereafter We shall give to those who intend not high-handedness or mischief on earth: and the end is (best) for the righteous.

028.084If any does good, the reward to him is better than his deed; but if any does evil, the doers of evil are only punished (to the extent) of their deeds.

028.085Verily He Who ordained the Qur’an for thee, will bring thee back to the Place of Return. Say: “My Lord knows best who it is that brings true guidance, and who is in manifest error.”

028.086And thou hadst not expected that the Book would be sent to thee except as a Mercy from thy Lord: Therefore lend not thou support in any way to those who reject (Allah’s Message).

028.087And let nothing keep thee back from the Signs of Allah after they have been revealed to thee: and invite (men) to thy Lord, and be not of the company of those who join gods with Allah.

028.088And call not, besides Allah, on another god. There is no god but He. Everything (that exists) will perish except His own Face. To Him belongs the Command, and to Him will ye (all) be brought back.

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

029.001A.L.M.

029.002Do men think that they will be left alone on saying, “We believe”, and that they will not be tested?

029.003We did test those before them, and Allah will certainly know those who are true from those who are false.

029.004Do those who practise evil think that they will get the better of Us? Evil is their judgment!

029.005For those whose hopes are in the meeting with Allah (in the Hereafter, let them strive); for the term (appointed) by Allah is surely coming and He hears and knows (all things).

029.006And if any strive (with might and main), they do so for their own souls: for Allah is free of all needs from all creation.

029.007Those who believe and work righteous deeds,- from them shall We blot out all evil (that may be) in them, and We shall reward them according to the best of their deeds.

029.008We have enjoined on man kindness to parents: but if they (either of them) strive (to force) thee to join with Me (in worship) anything of which thou hast no knowledge, obey them not. Ye have (all) to return to me, and I will tell you (the truth) of all that ye did.

029.009And those who believe and work righteous deeds,- them shall We admit to the company of the Righteous.

029.010Then there are among men such as say, “We believe in Allah”; but when they suffer affliction in (the cause of) Allah, they treat men’s oppression as if it were the Wrath of Allah! And if help comes (to thee) from thy Lord, they are sure to say, “We have (always) been with you!” Does not Allah know best all that is in the hearts of all creation?

029.011And Allah most certainly knows those who believe, and as certainly those who are Hypocrites.

029.012And the Unbelievers say to those who believe: “Follow our path, and we will bear (the consequences) of your faults.” Never in the least will they bear their faults: in fact they are liars!

029.013They will bear their own burdens, and (other) burdens along with their own, and on the Day of Judgments they will be called to account for their falsehoods.

029.014We (once) sent Noah to his people, and he tarried among them a thousand years less fifty: but the Deluge overwhelmed them while they (persisted in) sin.

029.015But We saved him and the companions of the Ark, and We made the (Ark) a Sign for all peoples!

029.016And (We also saved) Abraham: behold, he said to his people, “Serve Allah and fear Him: that will be best for you- if ye understand!”

029.017“For ye do worship idols besides Allah, and ye invent falsehood. The things that ye worship besides Allah have no power to give you sustenance: then seek ye sustenance from Allah, serve Him, and be grateful to Him: to Him will be your return.”

029.018“And if ye reject (the Message), so did generations before you: and the duty of the messenger is only to preach publicly (and clearly).”

029.019See they not how Allah originates creation, then repeats it: truly that is easy for Allah.

029.020Say: “Travel through the earth and see how Allah did originate creation; so will Allah produce a later creation: for Allah has power over all things.”

029.021“He punishes whom He pleases, and He grants Mercy to whom He pleases, and towards Him are ye turned.”

029.022“Not on earth nor in heaven will ye be able (fleeing) to frustrate (his Plan), nor have ye, besides Allah, any protector or helper.”

029.023Those who reject the Signs of Allah and the Meeting with Him (in the Hereafter),- it is they who shall despair of My Mercy: it is they who will (suffer) a most grievous Penalty.

029.024So naught was the answer of (Abraham’s) people except that they said: “Slay him or burn him.” But Allah did save him from the Fire. Verily in this are Signs for people who believe.

029.025And he said: “For you, ye have taken (for worship) idols besides Allah, out of mutual love and regard between yourselves in this life; but on the Day of Judgment ye shall disown each other and curse each other: and your abode will be the Fire, and ye shall have none to help.”

029.026But Lut had faith in Him: He said: “I will leave home for the sake of my Lord: for He is Exalted in Might, and Wise.”

029.027And We gave (Abraham) Isaac and Jacob, and ordained among his progeny Prophethood and Revelation, and We granted him his reward in this life; and he was in the Hereafter (of the company) of the Righteous.

029.028And (remember) Lut: behold, he said to his people: “Ye do commit lewdness, such as no people in Creation (ever) committed before you.”

029.029“Do ye indeed approach men, and cut off the highway?- and practise wickedness (even) in your councils?” But his people gave no answer but this: they said: “Bring us the Wrath of Allah if thou tellest the truth.”

029.030He said: “O my Lord! help Thou me against people who do mischief!”

029.031When Our Messengers came to Abraham with the good news, they said: “We are indeed going to destroy the people of this township: for truly they are (addicted to) crime.”

029.032He said: “But there is Lut there.” They said: “Well do we know who is there: we will certainly save him and his following,- except his wife: she is of those who lag behind!”

029.033And when Our Messengers came to Lut, he was grieved on their account, and felt himself powerless (to protect) them: but they said: “Fear thou not, nor grieve: we are (here) to save thee and thy following, except thy wife: she is of those who lag behind.”

029.034“For we are going to bring down on the people of this township a Punishment from heaven, because they have been wickedly rebellious.”

029.035And We have left thereof an evident Sign, for any people who (care to) understand.

029.036To the Madyan (people) (We sent) their brother Shu’aib. Then he said: “O my people! serve Allah, and fear the Last Day: nor commit evil on the earth, with intent to do mischief.”

029.037But they rejected him: Then the mighty Blast seized them, and they lay prostrate in their homes by the morning.

029.038(Remember also) the ‘Ad and the Thamud (people): clearly will appear to you from (the traces) of their buildings (their fate): the Evil One made their deeds alluring to them, and kept them back from the Path, though they were gifted with intelligence and skill.

029.039(Remember also) Qarun, Pharaoh, and Haman: there came to them Moses with Clear Signs, but they behaved with insolence on the earth; yet they could not overreach (Us).

029.040Each one of them We seized for his crime: of them, against some We sent a violent tornado (with showers of stones); some were caught by a (mighty) Blast; some We caused the earth to swallow up; and some We drowned (in the waters): It was not Allah Who injured (or oppressed) them: They injured (and oppressed) their own souls.

029.041The parable of those who take protectors other than Allah is that of the spider, who builds (to itself) a house; but truly the flimsiest of houses is the spider’s house;- if they but knew.

029.042Verily Allah doth know of (every thing) whatever that they call upon besides Him: and He is Exalted (in power), Wise.

029.043And such are the Parables We set forth for mankind, but only those understand them who have knowledge.

029.044Allah created the heavens and the earth in true (proportions): verily in that is a Sign for those who believe.

029.045Recite what is sent of the Book by inspiration to thee, and establish regular Prayer: for Prayer restrains from shameful and unjust deeds; and remembrance of Allah is the greatest (thing in life) without doubt. And Allah knows the (deeds) that ye do.

029.046And dispute ye not with the People of the Book, except with means better (than mere disputation), unless it be with those of them who inflict wrong (and injury): but say, “We believe in the revelation which has come down to us and in that which came down to you; Our Allah and your Allah is one; and it is to Him we bow (in Islam).”

029.047And thus (it is) that We have sent down the Book to thee. So the People of the Book believe therein, as also do some of these (pagan Arabs): and none but Unbelievers reject our signs.

029.048And thou wast not (able) to recite a Book before this (Book came), nor art thou (able) to transcribe it with thy right hand: In that case, indeed, would the talkers of vanities have doubted.

029.049Nay, here are Signs self-evident in the hearts of those endowed with knowledge: and none but the unjust reject Our Signs.

029.050Ye they say: “Why are not Signs sent down to him from his Lord?” Say: “The signs are indeed with Allah: and I am indeed a clear Warner.”

029.051And is it not enough for them that we have sent down to thee the Book which is rehearsed to them? Verily, in it is Mercy and a Reminder to those who believe.

029.052Say: “Enough is Allah for a witness between me and you: He knows what is in the heavens and on earth.” And it is those who believe in vanities and reject Allah, that will perish (in the end).

029.053They ask thee to hasten on the Punishment (for them): had it not been for a term (of respite) appointed, the Punishment would certainly have come to them: and it will certainly reach them,- of a sudden, while they perceive not!

029.054They ask thee to hasten on the Punishment: but, of a surety, Hell will encompass the Rejecters of Faith!-

029.055On the Day that the Punishment shall cover them from above them and from below them, and (a Voice) shall say: “Taste ye (the fruits) of your deeds!”

029.056O My servants who believe! truly, spacious is My Earth: therefore serve ye Me - (and Me alone)!

029.057Every soul shall have a taste of death: In the end to Us shall ye be brought back.

029.058But those who believe and work deeds of righteousness - to them shall We give a Home in Heaven,- lofty mansions beneath which flow rivers,- to dwell therein for aye;- an excellent reward for those who do (good)!-

029.059Those who persevere in patience, and put their trust, in their Lord and Cherisher.

029.060How many are the creatures that carry not their own sustenance? It is Allah who feeds (both) them and you: for He hears and knows (all things).

029.061If indeed thou ask them who has created the heavens and the earth and subjected the sun and the moon (to his Law), they will certainly reply,

“Allah”. How are they then deluded away (from the truth)?

029.062Allah enlarges the sustenance (which He gives) to whichever of His servants He pleases; and He (similarly) grants by (strict) measure, (as He pleases): for Allah has full knowledge of all things.

029.063And if indeed thou ask them who it is that sends down rain from the sky, and gives life therewith to the earth after its death, they will certainly reply, “Allah!” Say, “Praise be to Allah!” But most of them understand not.

029.064What is the life of this world but amusement and play? but verily the Home in the Hereafter,- that is life indeed, if they but knew.

029.065Now, if they embark on a boat, they call on Allah, making their devotion sincerely (and exclusively) to Him; but when He has delivered them safely to (dry) land, behold, they give a share (of their worship to others)!-

029.066Disdaining ungratefully Our gifts, and giving themselves up to (worldly) enjoyment! But soon will they know.

029.067Do they not then see that We have made a sanctuary secure, and that men are being snatched away from all around them? Then, do they believe in that which is vain, and reject the Grace of Allah?

029.068And who does more wrong than he who invents a lie against Allah or rejects the Truth when it reaches him? Is there not a home in Hell for those who reject Faith?

029.069And those who strive in Our (cause),- We will certainly guide them to our Paths: For verily Allah is with those who do right.

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

030.001A. L. M.

030.002The Roman Empire has been defeated-

030.003In a land close by; but they, (even) after (this) defeat of theirs, will soon be victorious-

030.004Within a few years. With Allah is the Decision, in the past and in the Future: on that Day shall the Believers rejoice-

030.005With the help of Allah. He helps whom He will, and He is Exalted in Might, most Merciful.

030.006(It is) the promise of Allah. Never does Allah depart from His promise: but most men understand not.

030.007They know but the outer (things) in the life of this world: but of the End of things they are heedless.

030.008Do they not reflect in their own minds? Not but for just ends and for a term appointed, did Allah create the heavens and the earth, and all between them: yet are there truly many among men who deny the meeting with their Lord (at the Resurrection)!

030.009Do they not travel through the earth, and see what was the end of those before them? They were superior to them in strength: they tilled the soil and populated it in greater numbers than these have done: there came to them their messengers with Clear (Signs). (Which they rejected, to their own destruction): It was not Allah Who wronged them, but they wronged their own souls.

030.010In the long run evil in the extreme will be the End of those who do evil; for that they rejected the Signs of Allah, and held them up to ridicule.

030.011It is Allah Who begins (the process of) creation; then repeats it; then shall ye be brought back to Him.

030.012On the Day that the Hour will be established, the guilty will be struck dumb with despair.

030.013No intercessor will they have among their “Partners” and they will (themselves) reject their “Partners”.

030.014On the Day that the Hour will be established,- that Day shall (all men) be sorted out.

030.015Then those who have believed and worked righteous deeds, shall be made happy in a Mead of Delight.

030.016And those who have rejected Faith and falsely denied our Signs and the meeting of the Hereafter,- such shall be brought forth to Punishment.

030.017So (give) glory to Allah, when ye reach eventide and when ye rise in the morning;

030.018Yea, to Him be praise, in the heavens and on earth; and in the late afternoon and when the day begins to decline.

030.019It is He Who brings out the living from the dead, and brings out the dead from the living, and Who gives life to the earth after it is dead: and thus shall ye be brought out (from the dead).

030.020Among His Signs in this, that He created you from dust; and then,- behold, ye are men scattered (far and wide)!

030.021And among His Signs is this, that He created for you mates from among yourselves, that ye may dwell in tranquillity with them, and He has put love and mercy between your (hearts): verily in that are Signs for those who reflect.

030.022And among His Signs is the creation of the heavens and the earth, and the variations in your languages and your colours: verily in that are Signs for those who know.

030.023And among His Signs is the sleep that ye take by night and by day, and the quest that ye (make for livelihood) out of His Bounty: verily in that are signs for those who hearken.

030.024And among His Signs, He shows you the lightning, by way both of fear and of hope, and He sends down rain from the sky and with it gives life to the earth after it is dead: verily in that are Signs for those who are wise.

030.025And among His Signs is this, that heaven and earth stand by His Command: then when He calls you, by a single call, from the earth, behold, ye (straightway) come forth.

030.026To Him belongs every being that is in the heavens and on earth: all are devoutly obedient to Him.

030.027It is He Who begins (the process of) creation; then repeats it; and for Him it is most easy. To Him belongs the loftiest similitude (we can think of) in the heavens and the earth: for He is Exalted in Might, full of Wisdom.

030.028He does propound to you a similitude from your own (experience): do ye have partners among those whom your right hands possess, to share as equals in the wealth We have bestowed on you? Do ye fear them as ye fear each other? Thus do we explain the Signs in detail to a people that understand.

030.029Nay, the wrong-doers (merely) follow their own lusts, being devoid of knowledge. But who will guide those whom Allah leaves astray? To them there will be no helpers.

030.030So set thou thy face steadily and truly to the Faith: (establish) Allah’s handiwork according to the pattern on which He has made mankind: no change (let there be) in the work (wrought) by Allah: that is the standard Religion: but most among mankind understand not.

030.031Turn ye back in repentance to Him, and fear Him: establish regular prayers, and be not ye among those who join gods with Allah,-

030.032Those who split up their Religion, and become (mere) Sects,- each party rejoicing in that which is with itself!

030.033When trouble touches men, they cry to their Lord, turning back to Him in repentance: but when He gives them a taste of Mercy as from Himself, behold, some of them pay part-worship to other god’s besides their Lord,-

030.034(As if) to show their ingratitude for the (favours) We have bestowed on them! Then enjoy (your brief day); but soon will ye know (your folly).

030.035Or have We sent down authority to them, which points out to them the things to which they pay part-worship?

030.036When We give men a taste of Mercy, they exult thereat: and when some evil afflicts them because of what their (own) hands have sent forth, behold, they are in despair!

030.037See they not that Allah enlarges the provision and restricts it, to whomsoever He pleases? Verily in that are Signs for those who believe.

030.038So give what is due to kindred, the needy, and the wayfarer. That is best for those who seek the Countenance, of Allah, and it is they who will prosper.

030.039That which ye lay out for increase through the property of (other) people, will have no increase with Allah: but that which ye lay out for charity, seeking the Countenance of Allah, (will increase): it is these who will get a recompense multiplied.

030.040It is Allah Who has created you: further, He has provided for your sustenance; then He will cause you to die; and again He will give you life. Are there any of your (false) “Partners” who can do any single one of these things? Glory to Him! and high is He above the partners they attribute (to him)!

030.041Mischief has appeared on land and sea because of (the meed) that the hands of men have earned, that (Allah) may give them a taste of some of their deeds: in order that they may turn back (from Evil).

030.042Say: “Travel through the earth and see what was the end of those before (you): Most of them worshipped others besides Allah.”

030.043But set thou thy face to the right Religion before there come from Allah the Day which there is no chance of averting: on that Day shall men be divided (in two).

030.044Those who reject Faith will suffer from that rejection: and those who work righteousness will spread their couch (of repose) for themselves (in heaven):

030.045That He may reward those who believe and work righteous deeds, out of his Bounty. For He loves not those who reject Faith.

030.046Among His Signs is this, that He sends the Winds, as heralds of Glad Tidings, giving you a taste of His (Grace and) Mercy,- that the ships may sail (majestically) by His Command and that ye may seek of His Bounty: in order that ye may be grateful.

030.047We did indeed send, before thee, messengers to their (respective) peoples, and they came to them with Clear Signs: then, to those who transgressed, We meted out Retribution: and it was due from Us to aid those who believed.

030.048It is Allah Who sends the Winds, and they raise the Clouds: then does He spread them in the sky as He wills, and break them into fragments, until thou seest rain-drops issue from the midst thereof: then when He has made them reach such of his servants as He wills behold, they do rejoice!-

030.049Even though, before they received (the rain) - just before this - they were dumb with despair!

030.050Then contemplate (O man!) the memorials of Allah’s Mercy!- how He gives life to the earth after its death: verily the same will give life to the men who are dead: for He has power over all things.

030.051And if We (but) send a Wind from which they see (their tilth) turn yellow,- behold, they become, thereafter, Ungrateful (Unbelievers)!

030.052So verily thou canst not make the dead to hear, nor canst thou make the deaf to hear the call, when they show their backs and turn away.

030.053Nor canst thou lead back the blind from their straying: only those wilt thou make to hear, who believe in Our signs and submit (their wills in Islam).

030.054It is Allah Who created you in a state of (helpless) weakness, then gave (you) strength after weakness, then, after strength, gave (you) weakness and a hoary head: He creates as He wills, and it is He Who has all knowledge and power.

030.055On the Day that the Hour (of Reckoning) will be established, the transgressors will swear that they tarried not but an hour: thus were they used to being deluded!

030.056But those endued with knowledge and faith will say: “Indeed ye did tarry, within Allah’s Decree, to the Day of Resurrection, and this is the Day of Resurrection: but ye - ye were not aware!”

030.057So on that Day no excuse of theirs will avail the transgressors, nor will they be invited (then) to seek grace (by repentance).

030.058verily We have propounded for men, in this Qur’an every kind of Parable: But if thou bring to them any Sign, the Unbelievers are sure to say, “Ye do nothing but talk vanities.”

030.059Thus does Allah seal up the hearts of those who understand not.

030.060So patiently persevere: for verily the promise of Allah is true: nor let those shake thy firmness, who have (themselves) no certainty of faith.

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

031.001A. L. M.

031.002These are Verses of the Wise Book,-

031.003A Guide and a Mercy to the Doers of Good,-

031.004Those who establish regular Prayer, and give regular Charity, and have (in their hearts) the assurance of the Hereafter.

031.005These are on (true) guidance from their Lord: and these are the ones who will prosper.

031.006But there are, among men, those who purchase idle tales, without knowledge (or meaning), to mislead (men) from the Path of Allah and throw ridicule (on the Path): for such there will be a Humiliating Penalty.

031.007When Our Signs are rehearsed to such a one, he turns away in arrogance, as if he heard them not, as if there were deafness in both his ears: announce to him a grievous Penalty.

031.008For those who believe and work righteous deeds, there will be Gardens of Bliss,-

031.009To dwell therein. The promise of Allah is true: and He is Exalted in Power, Wise.

031.010He created the heavens without any pillars that ye can see; He set on the earth mountains standing firm, lest it should shake with you; and He scattered through it beasts of all kinds. We send down rain from the sky, and produce on the earth every kind of noble creature, in pairs.

031.011Such is the Creation of Allah: now show Me what is there that others besides Him have created: nay, but the Transgressors are in manifest error.

031.012We bestowed (in the past) Wisdom on Luqman: “Show (thy) gratitude to Allah.” Any who is (so) grateful does so to the profit of his own soul: but if any is ungrateful, verily Allah is free of all wants, Worthy of all praise.

031.013Behold, Luqman said to his son by way of instruction: “O my son! join not in worship (others) with Allah: for false worship is indeed the highest wrong-doing.”

031.014And We have enjoined on man (to be good) to his parents: in travail upon travail did his mother bear him, and in years twain was his weaning: (hear the command), “Show gratitude to Me and to thy parents: to Me is (thy final) Goal.”

031.015“But if they strive to make thee join in worship with Me things of which thou hast no knowledge, obey them not; yet bear them company in this life with justice (and consideration), and follow the way of those who turn to me (in love): in the end the return of you all is to Me, and I will tell you the truth (and meaning) of all that ye did.”

031.016“O my son!” (said Luqman), “If there be (but) the weight of a mustard-seed and it were (hidden) in a rock, or (anywhere) in the heavens or on earth, Allah will bring it forth: for Allah understands the finest mysteries, (and) is well-acquainted (with them).”

031.017“O my son! establish regular prayer, enjoin what is just, and forbid what is wrong: and bear with patient constancy whatever betide thee; for this is firmness (of purpose) in (the conduct of) affairs.”

031.018“And swell not thy cheek (for pride) at men, nor walk in insolence through the earth; for Allah loveth not any arrogant boaster.”

031.019“And be moderate in thy pace, and lower thy voice; for the harshest of sounds without doubt is the braying of the ass.”

031.020Do ye not see that Allah has subjected to your (use) all things in the heavens and on earth, and has made his bounties flow to you in exceeding measure, (both) seen and unseen? Yet there are among men those who dispute about Allah, without knowledge and without guidance, and without a Book to enlighten them!

031.021When they are told to follow the (Revelation) that Allah has sent down, they say: “Nay, we shall follow the ways that we found our fathers (following).” What! even if it is Satan beckoning them to the Penalty of the (Blazing) Fire?

031.022Whoever submits his whole self to Allah, and is a doer of good, has grasped indeed the most trustworthy hand-hold: and with Allah rests the End and Decision of (all) affairs.

031.023But if any reject Faith, let not his rejection grieve thee: to Us is their return, and We shall tell them the truth of their deeds: for Allah knows well all that is in (men’s) hearts.

031.024We grant them their pleasure for a little while: in the end shall We drive them to a chastisement unrelenting.

031.025If thou ask them, who it is that created the heavens and the earth. They will certainly say, “Allah”. Say: “Praise be to Allah!” But most of them understand not.

031.026To Allah belong all things in heaven and earth: verily Allah is He (that is) free of all wants, worthy of all praise.

031.027And if all the trees on earth were pens and the ocean (were ink), with seven oceans behind it to add to its (supply), yet would not the words of Allah be exhausted (in the writing): for Allah is Exalted in Power, full of Wisdom.

031.028And your creation or your resurrection is in no wise but as an individual soul: for Allah is He Who hears and sees (all things).

031.029Seest thou not that Allah merges Night into Day and he merges Day into Night; that He has subjected the sun, and the moon (to his Law), each running its course for a term appointed; and that Allah is well-acquainted with all that ye do?

031.030That is because Allah is the (only) Reality, and because whatever else they invoke besides Him is Falsehood; and because Allah,- He is the Most High, Most Great.

031.031Seest thou not that the ships sail through the ocean by the Grace of Allah?- that He may show you of His Signs? Verily in this are Signs for all who constantly persevere and give thanks.

031.032When a wave covers them like the canopy (of clouds), they call to Allah, offering Him sincere devotion. But when He has delivered them safely to land, there are among them those that halt between (right and wrong). But none reject Our Signs except only a perfidious ungrateful (wretch)!

031.033O mankind! do your duty to your Lord, and fear (the coming of) a Day when no father can avail aught for his son, nor a son avail aught for his father. Verily, the promise of Allah is true: let not then this present life deceive you, nor let the chief Deceiver deceive you about Allah.

031.034Verily the knowledge of the Hour is with Allah (alone). It is He Who sends down rain, and He Who knows what is in the wombs. Nor does any one know what it is that he will earn on the morrow: Nor does any one know in what land he is to die. Verily with Allah is full knowledge and He is acquainted (with all things).

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

032.001A. L. M.

032.002(This is) the Revelation of the Book in which there is no doubt,- from the Lord of the Worlds.

032.003Or do they say, “He has forged it”? Nay, it is the Truth from thy Lord, that thou mayest admonish a people to whom no warner has come before thee: in order that they may receive guidance.

032.004It is Allah Who has created the heavens and the earth, and all between them, in six Days, and is firmly established on the Throne (of Authority): ye have none, besides Him, to protect or intercede (for you): will ye not then receive admonition?

032.005He rules (all) affairs from the heavens to the earth: in the end will (all affairs) go up to Him, on a Day, the space whereof will be (as) a thousand years of your reckoning.

032.006Such is He, the Knower of all things, hidden and open, the Exalted (in power), the Merciful;-

032.007He Who has made everything which He has created most good: He began the creation of man with (nothing more than) clay,

032.008And made his progeny from a quintessence of the nature of a fluid despised:

032.009But He fashioned him in due proportion, and breathed into him something of His spirit. And He gave you (the faculties of) hearing and sight and feeling (and understanding): little thanks do ye give!

032.010And they say: “What! when we lie, hidden and lost, in the earth, shall we indeed be in a Creation renewed? Nay, they deny the Meeting with their Lord.”

032.011Say: “The Angel of Death, put in charge of you, will (duly) take your souls: then shall ye be brought back to your Lord.”

032.012If only thou couldst see when the guilty ones will bend low their heads before their Lord, (saying:) “Our Lord! We have seen and we have heard: Now then send us back (to the world): we will work righteousness: for we do indeed (now) believe.”

032.013If We had so willed, We could certainly have brought every soul its true guidance: but the Word from Me will come true, “I will fill Hell with jinns and men all together.”

032.014“Taste ye then - for ye forgot the Meeting of this Day of yours, and We too will forget you - taste ye the Penalty of Eternity for your (evil) deeds!”

032.015Only those believe in Our Signs, who, when they are recited to them, fall down in prostration, and celebrate the praises of their Lord, nor are they (ever) puffed up with pride.

032.016Their limbs do forsake their beds of sleep, the while they call on their Lord, in Fear and Hope: and they spend (in charity) out of the sustenance which We have bestowed on them.

032.017Now no person knows what delights of the eye are kept hidden (in reserve) for them - as a reward for their (good) deeds.

032.018Is then the man who believes no better than the man who is rebellious and wicked? Not equal are they.

032.019For those who believe and do righteous deeds are Gardens as hospitable homes, for their (good) deeds.

032.020As to those who are rebellious and wicked, their abode will be the Fire: every time they wish to get away therefrom, they will be forced thereinto, and it will be said to them: “Taste ye the Penalty of the Fire, the which ye were wont to reject as false.”

032.021And indeed We will make them taste of the Penalty of this (life) prior to the supreme Penalty, in order that they may (repent and) return.

032.022And who does more wrong than one to whom are recited the Signs of his Lord, and who then turns away therefrom? Verily from those who transgress We shall exact (due) Retribution.

032.023We did indeed aforetime give the Book to Moses: be not then in doubt of its reaching (thee): and We made it a guide to the Children of Israel.

032.024And We appointed, from among them, leaders, giving guidance under Our command, so long as they persevered with patience and continued to have faith in Our Signs.

032.025Verily thy Lord will judge between them on the Day of Judgment, in the matters wherein they differ (among themselves)

032.026Does it not teach them a lesson, how many generations We destroyed before them, in whose dwellings they (now) go to and fro? Verily in that are Signs: Do they not then listen?

032.027And do they not see that We do drive rain to parched soil (bare of herbage), and produce therewith crops, providing food for their cattle and themselves? Have they not the vision?

032.028They say: “When will this decision be, if ye are telling the truth?”

032.029Say: “On the Day of Decision, no profit will it be to Unbelievers if they (then) believe! nor will they be granted a respite.”

032.030So turn away from them, and wait: they too are waiting.

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

033.001O Prophet! Fear Allah, and hearken not to the Unbelievers and the Hypocrites: verily Allah is full of Knowledge and Wisdom.

033.002But follow that which comes to thee by inspiration from thy Lord: for Allah is well acquainted with (all) that ye do.

033.003And put thy trust in Allah, and enough is Allah as a disposer of affairs.

033.004Allah has not made for any man two hearts in his (one) body: nor has He made your wives whom ye divorce by Zihar your mothers: nor has He made your adopted sons your sons. Such is (only) your (manner of) speech by your mouths. But Allah tells (you) the Truth, and He shows the (right) Way.

033.005Call them by (the names of) their fathers: that is juster in the sight of Allah. But if ye know not their father’s (names, call them) your Brothers in faith, or your maulas. But there is no blame on you if ye make a mistake therein: (what counts is) the intention of your hearts: and Allah is Oft-Returning, Most Merciful.

033.006The Prophet is closer to the Believers than their own selves, and his wives are their mothers. Blood-relations among each other have closer personal ties, in the Decree of Allah. Than (the Brotherhood of) Believers and Muhajirs: nevertheless do ye what is just to your closest friends: such is the writing in the Decree (of Allah).

033.007And remember We took from the prophets their covenant: As (We did) from thee: from Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus the son of Mary: We took from them a solemn covenant:

033.008That (Allah) may question the (custodians) of Truth concerning the Truth they (were charged with): And He has prepared for the Unbelievers a grievous Penalty.

033.009O ye who believe! Remember the Grace of Allah, (bestowed) on you, when there came down on you hosts (to overwhelm you): But We sent against them a hurricane and forces that ye saw not: but Allah sees (clearly) all that ye do.

033.010Behold! they came on you from above you and from below you, and behold, the eyes became dim and the hearts gaped up to the throats, and ye imagined various (vain) thoughts about Allah!

033.011In that situation were the Believers tried: they were shaken as by a tremendous shaking.

033.012And behold! The Hypocrites and those in whose hearts is a disease (even) say: “Allah and His Messenger promised us nothing but delusion!”

033.013Behold! A party among them said: “Ye men of Yathrib! ye cannot stand (the attack)! therefore go back!” And a band of them ask for leave of the Prophet, saying, “Truly our houses are bare and exposed,” though they were not exposed they intended nothing but to run away.

033.014And if an entry had been effected to them from the sides of the (city), and they had been incited to sedition, they would certainly have brought it to pass, with none but a brief delay!

033.015And yet they had already covenanted with Allah not to turn their backs, and a covenant with Allah must (surely) be answered for.

033.016Say: “Running away will not profit you if ye are running away from death or slaughter; and even if (ye do escape), no more than a brief (respite) will ye be allowed to enjoy!”

033.017Say: “Who is it that can screen you from Allah if it be His wish to give you punishment or to give you Mercy?” Nor will they find for themselves, besides Allah, any protector or helper.

033.018Verily Allah knows those among you who keep back (men) and those who say to their brethren, “Come along to us”, but come not to the fight except for just a little while.

033.019Covetous over you. Then when fear comes, thou wilt see them looking to thee, their eyes revolving, like (those of) one over whom hovers death: but when the fear is past, they will smite you with sharp tongues, covetous of goods. Such men have no faith, and so Allah has made their deeds of none effect: and that is easy for Allah.

033.020They think that the Confederates have not withdrawn; and if the Confederates should come (again), they would wish they were in the deserts (wandering) among the Bedouins, and seeking news about you (from a safe distance); and if they were in your midst, they would fight but little.

033.021Ye have indeed in the Messenger of Allah a beautiful pattern (of conduct) for any one whose hope is in Allah and the Final Day, and who engages much in the Praise of Allah.

033.022When the Believers saw the Confederate forces, they said: “This is what Allah and his Messenger had promised us, and Allah and His Messenger told us what was true.” And it only added to their faith and their zeal in obedience.

033.023Among the Believers are men who have been true to their covenant with Allah: of them some have completed their vow (to the extreme), and some (still) wait: but they have never changed (their determination) in the least:

033.024That Allah may reward the men of Truth for their Truth, and punish the Hypocrites if that be His Will, or turn to them in Mercy: for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

033.025And Allah turned back the Unbelievers for (all) their fury: no advantage did they gain; and enough is Allah for the believers in their fight. And Allah is full of Strength, able to enforce His Will.

033.026And those of the People of the Book who aided them - Allah did take them down from their strongholds and cast terror into their hearts. (So that) some ye slew, and some ye made prisoners.

033.027And He made you heirs of their lands, their houses, and their goods, and of a land which ye had not frequented (before). And Allah has power over all things.

033.028O Prophet! Say to thy Consorts: “If it be that ye desire the life of this World, and its glitter,- then come! I will provide for your enjoyment and set you free in a handsome manner.”

033.029But if ye seek Allah and His Messenger, and the Home of the Hereafter, verily Allah has prepared for the well-doers amongst you a great reward.

033.030O Consorts of the Prophet! If any of you were guilty of evident unseemly conduct, the Punishment would be doubled to her, and that is easy for Allah.

033.031But any of you that is devout in the service of Allah and His Messenger, and works righteousness,- to her shall We grant her reward twice: and We have prepared for her a generous Sustenance.

033.032O Consorts of the Prophet! Ye are not like any of the (other) women: if ye do fear (Allah), be not too complacent of speech, lest one in whose heart is a disease should be moved with desire: but speak ye a speech (that is) just.

033.033And stay quietly in your houses, and make not a dazzling display, like that of the former Times of Ignorance; and establish regular Prayer, and give regular Charity; and obey Allah and His Messenger. And Allah only wishes to remove all abomination from you, ye Members of the Family, and to make you pure and spotless.

033.034And recite what is rehearsed to you in your homes, of the Signs of Allah and His Wisdom: for Allah understands the finest mysteries and is well-acquainted (with them).

033.035For Muslim men and women,- for believing men and women, for devout men and women, for true men and women, for men and women who are patient and constant, for men and women who humble themselves, for men and women who give in Charity, for men and women who fast (and deny themselves), for men and women who guard their chastity, and for men and women who engage much in Allah’s praise,- for them has Allah prepared forgiveness and great reward.

033.036It is not fitting for a Believer, man or woman, when a matter has been decided by Allah and His Messenger to have any option about their decision: if any one disobeys Allah and His Messenger, he is indeed on a clearly wrong Path.

033.037Behold! Thou didst say to one who had received the grace of Allah and thy favour: “Retain thou (in wedlock) thy wife, and fear Allah.” But thou didst hide in thy heart that which Allah was about to make manifest: thou didst fear the people, but it is more fitting that thou shouldst fear Allah. Then when Zaid had dissolved (his marriage) with her, with the necessary (formality), We joined her in marriage to thee: in order that (in future) there may be no difficulty to the Believers in (the matter of) marriage with the wives of their adopted sons, when the latter have dissolved with the necessary (formality) (their marriage) with them. And Allah’s command must be fulfilled.

033.038There can be no difficulty to the Prophet in what Allah has indicated to him as a duty. It was the practice (approved) of Allah amongst those of old that have passed away. And the command of Allah is a decree determined.

033.039(It is the practice of those) who preach the Messages of Allah, and fear Him, and fear none but Allah. And enough is Allah to call (men) to account.

033.040Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but (he is) the Messenger of Allah, and the Seal of the Prophets: and Allah has full knowledge of all things.

033.041O ye who believe! Celebrate the praises of Allah, and do this often;

033.042And glorify Him morning and evening.

033.043He it is Who sends blessings on you, as do His angels, that He may bring you out from the depths of Darkness into Light: and He is Full of Mercy to the Believers.

033.044Their salutation on the Day they meet Him will be “Peace!”; and He has prepared for them a generous Reward.

033.045O Prophet! Truly We have sent thee as a Witness, a Bearer of Glad Tidings, and Warner,-

033.046And as one who invites to Allah’s (grace) by His leave, and as a lamp spreading light.

033.047Then give the Glad Tidings to the Believers, that they shall have from Allah a very great Bounty.

033.048And obey not (the behests) of the Unbelievers and the Hypocrites, and heed not their annoyances, but put thy Trust in Allah. For enough is Allah as a Disposer of affairs.

033.049O ye who believe! When ye marry believing women, and then divorce them before ye have touched them, no period of ‘Iddat have ye to count in respect of them: so give them a present. And set them free in a handsome manner.

033.050O Prophet! We have made lawful to thee thy wives to whom thou hast paid their dowers; and those whom thy right hand possesses out of the prisoners of war whom Allah has assigned to thee; and daughters of thy paternal uncles and aunts, and daughters of thy maternal uncles and aunts, who migrated (from Makka) with thee; and any believing woman who dedicates her soul to the Prophet if the Prophet wishes to wed her;- this only for thee, and not for the Believers (at large); We know what We have appointed for them as to their wives and the captives whom their right hands possess;- in order that there should be no difficulty for thee. And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

033.051Thou mayest defer (the turn of) any of them that thou pleasest, and thou mayest receive any thou pleasest: and there is no blame on thee if thou invite one whose (turn) thou hadst set aside. This were nigher to the cooling of their eyes, the prevention of their grief, and their satisfaction - that of all of them - with that which thou hast to give them: and Allah knows (all) that is in your hearts: and Allah is All-Knowing, Most Forbearing.

033.052It is not lawful for thee (to marry more) women after this, nor to change them for (other) wives, even though their beauty attract thee, except any thy right hand should possess (as handmaidens): and Allah doth watch over all things.

033.053O ye who believe! Enter not the Prophet’s houses,- until leave is given you,- for a meal, (and then) not (so early as) to wait for its preparation: but when ye are invited, enter; and when ye have taken your meal, disperse, without seeking familiar talk. Such (behaviour) annoys the Prophet: he is ashamed to dismiss you, but Allah is not ashamed (to tell you) the truth. And when ye ask (his ladies) for anything ye want, ask them from before a screen: that makes for greater purity for your hearts and for theirs. Nor is it right for you that ye should annoy Allah’s Messenger, or that ye should marry his widows after him at any time. Truly such a thing is in Allah’s sight an enormity.

033.054Whether ye reveal anything or conceal it, verily Allah has full knowledge of all things.

033.055There is no blame (on these ladies if they appear) before their fathers or their sons, their brothers, or their brother’s sons, or their sisters’ sons, or their women, or the (slaves) whom their right hands possess. And, (ladies), fear Allah; for Allah is Witness to all things.

033.056Allah and His angels send blessings on the Prophet: O ye that believe! Send ye blessings on him, and salute him with all respect.

033.057Those who annoy Allah and His Messenger - Allah has cursed them in this World and in the Hereafter, and has prepared for them a humiliating Punishment.

033.058And those who annoy believing men and women undeservedly, bear (on themselves) a calumny and a glaring sin.

033.059O Prophet! Tell thy wives and daughters, and the believing women, that they should cast their outer garments over their persons (when abroad): that is most convenient, that they should be known (as such) and not molested. And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

033.060Truly, if the Hypocrites, and those in whose hearts is a disease, and those who stir up sedition in the City, desist not, We shall certainly stir thee up against them: Then will they not be able to stay in it as thy neighbours for any length of time:

033.061They shall have a curse on them: whenever they are found, they shall be seized and slain (without mercy).

033.062(Such was) the practice (approved) of Allah among those who lived aforetime: No change wilt thou find in the practice (approved) of Allah.

033.063Men ask thee concerning the Hour: Say, “The knowledge thereof is with Allah (alone)”: and what will make thee understand?- perchance the Hour is nigh!

033.064Verily Allah has cursed the Unbelievers and prepared for them a Blazing Fire,-

033.065To dwell therein for ever: no protector will they find, nor helper.

033.066The Day that their faces will be turned upside down in the Fire, they will say: “Woe to us! Would that we had obeyed Allah and obeyed the Messenger!”

033.067And they would say: “Our Lord! We obeyed our chiefs and our great ones, and they misled us as to the (right) Path.”

033.068“Our Lord! Give them double Penalty and curse them with a very great Curse!”

033.069O ye who believe! Be ye not like those who vexed and insulted Moses, but Allah cleared him of the (calumnies) they had uttered: and he was honourable in Allah’s sight.

033.070O ye who believe! Fear Allah, and (always) say a word directed to the Right:

033.071That He may make your conduct whole and sound and forgive you your sins: He that obeys Allah and His Messenger, has already attained the highest achievement.

033.072We did indeed offer the Trust to the Heavens and the Earth and the Mountains; but they refused to undertake it, being afraid thereof: but man undertook it;- He was indeed unjust and foolish;-

033.073(With the result) that Allah has to punish the Hypocrites, men and women, and the Unbelievers, men and women, and Allah turns in Mercy to the Believers, men and women: for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

034.001Praise be to Allah, to Whom belong all things in the heavens and on earth: to Him be Praise in the Hereafter: and He is Full of Wisdom, acquainted with all things.

034.002He knows all that goes into the earth, and all that comes out thereof; all that comes down from the sky and all that ascends thereto and He is the Most Merciful, the Oft-Forgiving.

034.003The Unbelievers say, “Never to us will come the Hour”: Say, “Nay! but most surely, by my Lord, it will come upon you;- by Him Who knows the unseen,- from Whom is not hidden the least little atom in the heavens or on earth: Nor is there anything less than that, or greater, but is in the Record Perspicuous:”

034.004“That He may reward those who believe and work deeds of righteousness: for such is Forgiveness and a Sustenance Most Generous.”

034.005But those who strive against Our Signs, to frustrate them,- for such will be a Penalty,- a Punishment most humiliating.

034.006And those to whom knowledge has come see that the (Revelation) sent down to thee from thy Lord - that is the Truth, and that it guides to the Path of the Exalted (in might), Worthy of all praise.

034.007The Unbelievers say (in ridicule): “Shall we point out to you a man that will tell you, when ye are all scattered to pieces in disintegration, that ye shall (then be raised) in a New Creation?”

034.008“Has he invented a falsehood against Allah, or has a spirit (seized) him?”- Nay, it is those who believe not in the Hereafter, that are in (real) Penalty, and in farthest error.

034.009See they not what is before them and behind them, of the sky and the earth? If We wished, We could cause the earth to swallow them up, or cause a piece of the sky to fall upon them. Verily in this is a Sign for every devotee that turns to Allah (in repentance).

034.010We bestowed Grace aforetime on David from ourselves: “O ye Mountains! Sing ye back the Praises of Allah with him! and ye birds (also)! And We made the iron soft for him;”-

034.011(Commanding), “Make thou coast of mail, balancing well the rings of chain armour, and work ye righteousness; for be sure I see (clearly) all that ye do.”

034.012And to Solomon (We made) the Wind (obedient): Its early morning (stride) was a month’s (journey), and its evening (stride) was a month’s (journey); and We made a Font of molten brass to flow for him; and there were jinns that worked in front of him, by the leave of his Lord, and if any of them turned aside from Our command, We made him taste of the Penalty of the Blazing Fire.

034.013They worked for him as he desired, (making) Arches, Images, Basons as large as Reservoirs, and (cooking) Cauldrons fixed (in their places): “Work ye, sons of David, with thanks! but few of My servants are grateful!”

034.014Then, when We decreed (Solomon’s) death, nothing showed them his death except a little worm of the earth, which kept (slowly) gnawing away at his staff: so when he fell down, the jinns saw plainly that if they had known the unseen, they would not have tarried in the humiliating Penalty (of their Task).

034.015There was, for Saba, aforetime, a Sign in their home-land - two Gardens to the right and to the left. “Eat of the Sustenance (provided) by your Lord, and be grateful to Him: a territory fair and happy, and a Lord Oft-Forgiving!”

034.016But they turned away (from Allah), and We sent against them the Flood (released) from the dams, and We converted their two garden (rows) into “gardens” producing bitter fruit, and tamarisks, and some few (stunted) Lote-trees.

034.017That was the Requital We gave them because they ungratefully rejected Faith: and never do We give (such) requital except to such as are ungrateful rejecters.

034.018Between them and the Cities on which We had poured our blessings, We had placed Cities in prominent positions, and between them We had appointed stages of journey in due proportion: “Travel therein, secure, by night and by day.”

034.019But they said: “Our Lord! Place longer distances between our journey-stages”: but they wronged themselves (therein). At length We made them as a tale (that is told), and We dispersed them all in scattered fragments. Verily in this are Signs for every (soul that is) patiently constant and grateful.

034.020And on them did Satan prove true his idea, and they followed him, all but a party that believed.

034.021But he had no authority over them,- except that We might test the man who believes in the Hereafter from him who is in doubt concerning it: and thy Lord doth watch over all things.

034.022Say: “Call upon other (gods) whom ye fancy, besides Allah: They have no power,- not the weight of an atom,- in the heavens or on earth: No (sort of) share have they therein, nor is any of them a helper to Allah.”

034.023“No intercession can avail in His Presence, except for those for whom He has granted permission. So far (is this the case) that, when terror is removed from their hearts (at the Day of Judgment, then) will they say, ‘What is it that your Lord commanded?’ they will say, ‘That which is true and just’; and He is the Most High, Most Great.”

034.024Say: “Who gives you sustenance, from the heavens and the earth?” Say: “It is Allah; and certain it is that either we or ye are on right guidance or in manifest error!”

034.025Say: “Ye shall not be questioned as to our sins, nor shall we be questioned as to what ye do.”

034.026Say: “Our Lord will gather us together and will in the end decide the matter between us (and you) in truth and justice: and He is the one to decide, the One Who knows all.”

034.027Say: “Show me those whom ye have joined with Him as partners: by no means (can ye). Nay, He is Allah, the Exalted in Power, the Wise.”

034.028We have not sent thee but as a universal (Messenger) to men, giving them glad tidings, and warning them (against sin), but most men understand not.

034.029They say: “When will this promise (come to pass) if ye are telling the truth?”

034.030Say: “The appointment to you is for a Day, which ye cannot put back for an hour nor put forward.”

034.031The Unbelievers say: “We shall neither believe in this scripture nor in (any) that (came) before it.” Couldst thou but see when the wrong-doers will be made to stand before their Lord, throwing back the word (of blame) on one another! Those who had been despised will say to the arrogant ones: “Had it not been for you, we should certainly have been believers!”

034.032The arrogant ones will say to those who had been despised: “Was it we who kept you back from Guidance after it reached you? Nay, rather, it was ye who transgressed.”

034.033Those who had been despised will say to the arrogant ones: “Nay! it was a plot (of yours) by day and by night: Behold! Ye (constantly) ordered us to be ungrateful to Allah and to attribute equals to Him!” They will declare (their) repentance when they see the Penalty: We shall put yokes on the necks of the Unbelievers: It would only be a requital for their (ill) Deeds.

034.034Never did We send a warner to a population, but the wealthy ones among them said: “We believe not in the (Message) with which ye have been sent.”

034.035They said: “We have more in wealth and in sons, and we cannot be punished.”

034.036Say: “Verily my Lord enlarges and restricts the Provision to whom He pleases, but most men understand not.”

034.037It is not your wealth nor your sons, that will bring you nearer to Us in degree: but only those who believe and work righteousness - these are the ones for whom there is a multiplied Reward for their deeds, while secure they (reside) in the dwellings on high!

034.038Those who strive against Our Signs, to frustrate them, will be given over into Punishment.

034.039Say: “Verily my Lord enlarges and restricts the Sustenance to such of his servants as He pleases: and nothing do ye spend in the least (in His cause) but He replaces it: for He is the Best of those who grant Sustenance.”

034.040One Day He will gather them all together, and say to the angels,

“Was it you that these men used to worship?”

034.041They will say, “Glory to Thee! our (tie) is with Thee - as Protector - not with them. Nay, but they worshipped the jinns: most of them believed in them.”

034.042So on that Day no power shall they have over each other, for profit or harm: and We shall say to the wrong-doers, “Taste ye the Penalty of the Fire,- the which ye were wont to deny!”

034.043When Our Clear Signs are rehearsed to them, they say, “This is only a man who wishes to hinder you from the (worship) which your fathers practised.” And they say, “This is only a falsehood invented!” and the Unbelievers say of the Truth when it comes to them, “This is nothing but evident magic!”

034.044But We had not given them Books which they could study, nor sent messengers to them before thee as Warners.

034.045And their predecessors rejected (the Truth); these have not received a tenth of what We had granted to those: yet when they rejected My messengers, how (terrible) was My rejection (of them)!

034.046Say: “I do admonish you on one point: that ye do stand up before Allah,- (It may be) in pairs, or (it may be) singly,- and reflect (within yourselves): your Companion is not possessed: he is no less than a warner to you, in face of a terrible Penalty.”

034.047Say: “No reward do I ask of you: it is (all) in your interest: my reward is only due from Allah: And He is witness to all things.”

034.048Say: “Verily my Lord doth cast the (mantle of) Truth (over His servants),- He that has full knowledge of (all) that is hidden.”

034.049Say: “The Truth has arrived, and Falsehood neither creates anything new, nor restores anything.”

034.050Say: “If I am astray, I only stray to the loss of my own soul: but if I receive guidance, it is because of the inspiration of my Lord to me: it is He Who hears all things, and is (ever) near.”

034.051If thou couldst but see when they will quake with terror; but then there will be no escape (for them), and they will be seized from a position (quite) near.

034.052And they will say, “We do believe (now) in the (Truth)”; but how could they receive (Faith) from a position (so) far off,-

034.053Seeing that they did reject Faith (entirely) before, and that they (continually) cast (slanders) on the unseen from a position far off?

034.054And between them and their desires, is placed a barrier, as was done in the past with their partisans: for they were indeed in suspicious (disquieting) doubt.

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

035.001Praise be to Allah, Who created (out of nothing) the heavens and the earth, Who made the angels, messengers with wings,- two, or three, or four (pairs): He adds to Creation as He pleases: for Allah has power over all things.

035.002What Allah out of his Mercy doth bestow on mankind there is none can withhold: what He doth withhold, there is none can grant, apart from Him: and He is the Exalted in Power, full of Wisdom.

035.003O men! Call to mind the grace of Allah unto you! is there a creator, other than Allah, to give you sustenance from heaven or earth? There is no god but He: how then are ye deluded away from the Truth?

035.004And if they reject thee, so were messengers rejected before thee: to Allah go back for decision all affairs.

035.005O men! Certainly the promise of Allah is true. Let not then this present life deceive you, nor let the Chief Deceiver deceive you about Allah.

035.006Verily Satan is an enemy to you: so treat him as an enemy. He only invites his adherents, that they may become Companions of the Blazing Fire.

035.007For those who reject Allah, is a terrible Penalty: but for those who believe and work righteous deeds, is Forgiveness, and a magnificent Reward.

035.008Is he, then, to whom the evil of his conduct is made alluring, so that he looks upon it as good, (equal to one who is rightly guided)? For Allah leaves to stray whom He wills, and guides whom He wills. So let not thy soul go out in (vainly) sighing after them: for Allah knows well all that they do!

035.009It is Allah Who sends forth the Winds, so that they raise up the Clouds, and We drive them to a land that is dead, and revive the earth therewith after its death: even so (will be) the Resurrection!

035.010If any do seek for glory and power,- to Allah belong all glory and power. To Him mount up (all) Words of Purity: It is He Who exalts each Deed of Righteousness. Those that lay Plots of Evil,- for them is a Penalty terrible; and the plotting of such will be void (of result).

035.011And Allah did create you from dust; then from a sperm-drop; then He made you in pairs. And no female conceives, or lays down (her load), but with His knowledge. Nor is a man long-lived granted length of days, nor is a part cut off from his life, but is in a Decree (ordained). All this is easy to Allah.

035.012Nor are the two bodies of flowing water alike,- the one palatable, sweet, and pleasant to drink, and the other, salt and bitter. Yet from each (kind of water) do ye eat flesh fresh and tender, and ye extract ornaments to wear; and thou seest the ships therein that plough the waves, that ye may seek (thus) of the Bounty of Allah that ye may be grateful.

035.013He merges Night into Day, and he merges Day into Night, and he has subjected the sun and the moon (to his Law): each one runs its course for a term appointed. Such is Allah your Lord: to Him belongs all Dominion. And those whom ye invoke besides Him have not the least power.

035.014If ye invoke them, they will not listen to your call, and if they were to listen, they cannot answer your (prayer). On the Day of Judgment they will reject your “Partnership”. and none, (O man!) can tell thee (the Truth) like the One Who is acquainted with all things.

035.015O ye men! It is ye that have need of Allah: but Allah is the One Free of all wants, worthy of all praise.

035.016If He so pleased, He could blot you out and bring in a New Creation.

035.017Nor is that (at all) difficult for Allah.

035.018Nor can a bearer of burdens bear another’s burdens if one heavily laden should call another to (bear) his load. Not the least portion of it can be carried (by the other). Even though he be nearly related. Thou canst but admonish such as fear their Lord unseen and establish regular Prayer. And whoever purifies himself does so for the benefit of his own soul; and the destination (of all) is to Allah.

035.019The blind and the seeing are not alike;

035.020Nor are the depths of Darkness and the Light;

035.021Nor are the (chilly) shade and the (genial) heat of the sun:

035.022Nor are alike those that are living and those that are dead. Allah can make any that He wills to hear; but thou canst not make those to hear who are (buried) in graves.

035.023Thou art no other than a warner.

035.024Verily We have sent thee in truth, as a bearer of glad tidings, and as a warner: and there never was a people, without a warner having lived among them (in the past).

035.025And if they reject thee, so did their predecessors, to whom came their messengers with Clear Signs, Books of dark prophecies, and the Book of Enlightenment.

035.026In the end did I punish those who rejected Faith: and how (terrible) was My rejection (of them)!

035.027Seest thou not that Allah sends down rain from the sky? With it We then bring out produce of various colours. And in the mountains are tracts white and red, of various shades of colour, and black intense in hue.

035.028And so amongst men and crawling creatures and cattle, are they of various colours. Those truly fear Allah, among His Servants, who have knowledge: for Allah is Exalted in Might, Oft-Forgiving.

035.029Those who rehearse the Book of Allah, establish regular Prayer, and spend (in Charity) out of what We have provided for them, secretly and openly, hope for a commerce that will never fail:

035.030For He will pay them their meed, nay, He will give them (even) more out of His Bounty: for He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Ready to appreciate (service).

035.031That which We have revealed to thee of the Book is the Truth,- confirming what was (revealed) before it: for Allah is assuredly- with respect to His Servants - well acquainted and Fully Observant.

035.032Then We have given the Book for inheritance to such of Our Servants as We have chosen: but there are among them some who wrong their own souls; some who follow a middle course; and some who are, by Allah’s leave, foremost in good deeds that is the highest Grace.

035.033Gardens of Eternity will they enter: therein will they be adorned with bracelets of gold and pearls; and their garments there will be of silk.

035.034And they will say: “Praise be to Allah, Who has removed from us (all) sorrow: for our Lord is indeed Oft-Forgiving Ready to appreciate (service):”

035.035“Who has, out of His Bounty, settled us in a Home that will last: no toil nor sense of weariness shall touch us therein.”

035.036But those who reject (Allah) - for them will be the Fire of Hell: No term shall be determined for them, so they should die, nor shall its Penalty be lightened for them. Thus do We reward every ungrateful one!

035.037Therein will they cry aloud (for assistance): “Our Lord! Bring us out: we shall work righteousness, not the (deeds) we used to do!” - “Did We not give you long enough life so that he that would should receive admonition? and (moreover) the warner came to you. So taste ye (the fruits of your deeds): for the wrong-doers there is no helper.”

035.038Verily Allah knows (all) the hidden things of the heavens and the earth: verily He has full knowledge of all that is in (men’s) hearts.

035.039He it is that has made you inheritors in the earth: if, then, any do reject (Allah), their rejection (works) against themselves: their rejection but adds to the odium for the Unbelievers in the sight of their Lord: their rejection but adds to (their own) undoing.

035.040Say: “Have ye seen (these) ‘Partners’ of yours whom ye call upon besides Allah? Show Me what it is they have created in the (wide) earth. Or have they a share in the heavens? Or have We given them a Book from which they (can derive) clear (evidence)?- Nay, the wrong-doers promise each other nothing but delusions.”

035.041It is Allah Who sustains the heavens and the earth, lest they cease (to function): and if they should fail, there is none - not one - can sustain them thereafter: Verily He is Most Forbearing, Oft-Forgiving.

035.042They swore their strongest oaths by Allah that if a warner came to them, they would follow his guidance better than any (other) of the Peoples: But when a warner came to them, it has only increased their flight (from righteousness),-

035.043On account of their arrogance in the land and their plotting of Evil, but the plotting of Evil will hem in only the authors thereof. Now are they but looking for the way the ancients were dealt with? But no change wilt thou find in Allah’s way (of dealing): no turning off wilt thou find in Allah’s way (of dealing).

035.044Do they not travel through the earth, and see what was the End of those before them,- though they were superior to them in strength? Nor is Allah to be frustrated by anything whatever in the heavens or on earth: for He is All-Knowing. All-Powerful.

035.045If Allah were to punish men according to what they deserve. He would not leave on the back of the (earth) a single living creature: but He gives them respite for a stated Term: when their Term expires, verily Allah has in His sight all His Servants.

In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

036.001Ya Sin.

036.002By the Qur’an, full of Wisdom,-

036.003Thou art indeed one of the messengers,

036.004On a Straight Way.

036.005It is a Revelation sent down by (Him), the Exalted in Might, Most Merciful.

036.006In order that thou mayest admonish a people, whose fathers had received no admonition, and who therefore remain heedless (of the Signs of Allah).

036.007The Word is proved true against the greater part of them: for they do not believe.

036.008We have put yokes round their necks right up to their chins, so that their heads are forced up (and they cannot see).

036.009And We have put a bar in front of them and a bar behind them, and further, We have covered them up; so that they cannot see.

036.010The same is it to them whether thou admonish them or thou do not admonish them: they will not believe.

036.011Thou canst but admonish such a one as follows the Message and fears the (Lord) Most Gracious, unseen: give such a one, therefore, good tidings, of Forgiveness and a Reward most generous.

036.012Verily We shall give life to the dead, and We record that which they send before and that which they leave behind, and of all things have We taken account in a clear Book (of evidence).

036.013Set forth to them, by way of a parable, the (story of) the Companions of the City. Behold, there came messengers to it.

036.014When We (first) sent to them two messengers, they rejected them: But We strengthened them with a third: they said, “Truly, we have been sent on a mission to you.”

036.015The (people) said: “Ye are only men like ourselves; and (Allah) Most Gracious sends no sort of revelation: ye do nothing but lie.”

036.016They said: “Our Lord doth know that we have been sent on a mission to you:”

036.017“And our duty is only to proclaim the clear Message.”

036.018The (people) said: “for us, we augur an evil omen from you: if ye desist not, we will certainly stone you. And a grievous punishment indeed will be inflicted on you by us.”

036.019They said: “Your evil omens are with yourselves: (deem ye this an evil omen). If ye are admonished? Nay, but ye are a people transgressing all bounds!”

036.020Then there came running, from the farthest part of the City, a man, saying, “O my people! Obey the messengers:”

036.021“Obey those who ask no reward of you (for themselves), and who have themselves received Guidance.”

036.022“It would not be reasonable in me if I did not serve Him Who created me, and to Whom ye shall (all) be brought back.”

036.023“Shall I take (other) gods besides Him? If (Allah) Most Gracious should intend some adversity for me, of no use whatever will be their intercession for me, nor can they deliver me.”

036.024“I would indeed, if I were to do so, be in manifest Error.”

036.025“For me, I have faith in the Lord of you (all): listen, then, to me!”

036.026It was said: “Enter thou the Garden.” He said: “Ah me! Would that my People knew (what I know)!”-

036.027“For that my Lord has granted me Forgiveness and has enrolled me among those held in honour!”

036.028And We sent not down against his People, after him, any hosts from heaven, nor was it needful for Us so to do.

036.029It was no more than a single mighty Blast, and behold! they were (like ashes) quenched and silent.

036.030Ah! Alas for (My) Servants! There comes not a messenger to them but they mock him!

036.031See they not how many generations before them we destroyed? Not to them will they return:

036.032But each one of them all - will be brought before Us (for judgment).

036.033A Sign for them is the earth that is dead: We do give it life, and produce grain therefrom, of which ye do eat.

036.034And We produce therein orchard with date-palms and vines, and We cause springs to gush forth therein:

036.035That they may enjoy the fruits of this (artistry): It was not their hands that made this: will they not then give thanks?

036.036Glory to Allah, Who created in pairs all things that the earth produces, as well as their own (human) kind and (other) things of which they have no knowledge.

036.037And a Sign for them is the Night: We withdraw therefrom the Day, and behold they are plunged in darkness;

036.038And the sun runs his course for a period determined for him: that is the decree of (Him), the Exalted in Might, the All-Knowing.

036.039And the Moon,- We have measured for her mansions (to traverse) till she returns like the old (and withered) lower part of a date-stalk.

036.040It is not permitted to the Sun to catch up the Moon, nor can the Night outstrip the Day: Each (just) swims along in (its own) orbit (according to Law).

036.041And a Sign for them is that We bore their race (through the Flood) in the loaded Ark;

036.042And We have created for them similar (vessels) on which they ride.

036.043If it were Our Will, We could drown them: then would there be no helper (to hear their cry), nor could they be delivered,

036.044Except by way of Mercy from Us, and by way of (world) convenience (to serve them) for a time.

036.045When they are told, “Fear ye that which is before you and that which will be after you, in order that ye may receive Mercy,” (they turn back).

036.046Not a Sign comes to them from among the Signs of their Lord, but they turn away therefrom.

036.047And when they are told, “Spend ye of (the bounties) with which Allah has provided you,” the Unbelievers say to those who believe: “Shall we then feed those whom, if Allah had so willed, He would have fed, (Himself)?- Ye are in nothing but manifest error.”

036.048Further, they say, “When will this promise (come to pass), if what ye say is true?”

036.049They will not (have to) wait for aught but a single Blast: it will seize them while they are yet disputing among themselves!

036.050No (chance) will they then have, by will, to dispose (of their affairs), nor to return to their own people!

036.051The trumpet shall be sounded, when behold! from the sepulchres (men) will rush forth to their Lord!

036.052They will say: “Ah! Woe unto us! Who hath raised us up from our beds of repose?”… (A voice will say:) “This is what (Allah) Most Gracious had promised. And true was the word of the messengers!”

036.053It will be no more than a single Blast, when lo! they will all be brought up before Us!

036.054Then, on that Day, not a soul will be wronged in the least, and ye shall but be repaid the meeds of your past Deeds.

036.055Verily the Companions of the Garden shall that Day have joy in all that they do;

036.056They and their associates will be in groves of (cool) shade, reclining on Thrones (of dignity);

036.057(Every) fruit (enjoyment) will be there for them; they shall have whatever they call for;