21-   The Prophets (Al-Anbya)

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In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

[21:1]   Fast approaching is the reckoning for the people, but they are oblivious, averse.

[21:2]   When a proof comes to them from their Lord, that is new, they listen to it heedlessly.

[21:3]   Their minds are heedless. And the transgressors confer secretly: "Is he not just a human being like you? Would you accept the magic that is presented to you?"

[21:4]   He said, "My Lord knows every thought in the heaven and the earth. He is the Hearer, the Omniscient."

[21:5]   They even said, "Hallucinations," "He made it up," and, "He is a poet. Let him show us a miracle like those of the previous messengers."

[21:6]   We never annihilated a believing community in the past.  Are these people believers?

[21:7]   We did not send before you except men whom we inspired.  Ask those who know the scripture, if you do not know.

[21:8]   We did not give them bodies that did not eat, nor were they immortal.

[21:9]   We fulfilled our promise to them; we saved them together with whomever we willed, and annihilated the transgressors.

[21:10]   We have sent down to you a scripture containing your message. Do you not understand?

[21:11]   Many a community we terminated because of their transgression, and we substituted other people in their place.

[21:12]   When our requital came to pass, they started to run.

[21:13]   Do not run, and come back to your luxuries and your mansions, for you must be held accountable.

[21:14]   They said, "Woe to us. We were really wicked."

[21:15]   This continued to be their proclamation, until we completely wiped them out.

[21:16]   We did not create the heavens and the earth, and everything between them just for amusement.

[21:17]   If we needed amusement, we could have initiated it without any of this, if that is what we wanted to do.

[21:18]   Instead, it is our plan to support the truth against falsehood, in order to defeat it. Woe to you for the utterances you utter.

[21:19]   To Him belongs everyone in the heavens and the earth, and those at Him are never too arrogant to worship Him, nor do they ever waver.

[21:20]   They glorify night and day, without ever tiring.

[21:21]   Have they found gods on earth who can create?

[21:22]   If there were in them (the heavens and the earth) other gods beside GOD, there would have been chaos. Glory be to GOD; the Lord with absolute authority. He is high above their claims.

[21:23]   He is never to be asked about anything He does, while all others are questioned.

[21:24]   Have they found other gods beside Him? Say, "Show me your proof. This is the message to my generation, consummating all previous messages." Indeed, most of them do not recognize the truth; this is why they are so hostile.

[21:25]   We did not send any messenger before you except with the inspiration: "There is no god except Me; you shall worship Me alone."

[21:26]   Yet, they said, "The Most Gracious has begotten a son!" Glory be to Him. All (messengers) are (His) honored servants.

[21:27]   They never speak on their own, and they strictly follow His commands.

[21:28]   He knows their future and their past. They do not intercede, except for those already accepted by Him, and they are worried about their own necks.

[21:29]   If any of them claims to be a god beside Him, we requite him with Hell; we thus requite the wicked.

[21:30]   Do the unbelievers not realize that the heaven and the earth used to be one solid mass that we exploded into existence? And from water we made all living things.  Would they believe?

[21:31]   And we placed on earth stabilizers, lest it tumbles with them, and we placed straight roads therein, that they may be guided.

[21:32]   And we rendered the sky a guarded ceiling. Yet, they are totally oblivious to all the portents therein.

[21:33]   And He is the One who created the night and the day, and the sun and the moon; each floating in its own orbit.

[21:34]   We never decreed immortality for anyone before you; should you die, are they immortal?

[21:35]   Every person will taste death, after we put you to the test through adversity and prosperity, then to us you ultimately return.

[21:36]   When those who disbelieve see you, they ridicule you: "Is this the one who challenges your gods?" Meanwhile, they remain totally heedless of the message from the Most Gracious.

[21:37]   The human being is impatient by nature. I will inevitably show you My signs; do not be in such a hurry.

[21:38]   They challenge: "Where is that (retribution), if you are truthful?"

[21:39]   If only those who disbelieve could envision themselves when they try to ward off the fire - off their faces and their backs! No one will help them then.

[21:40]   Indeed, it will come to them suddenly, and they will be utterly stunned. They can neither avoid it, nor can they receive any respite.

[21:41]   Messengers before you have been ridiculed, and, consequently, those who ridiculed them incurred the retribution for their ridiculing.

[21:42]   Say, "Who can protect you from the Most Gracious during the night or during the day?" Indeed, they are totally oblivious to the message of their Lord.

[21:43]   Do they have gods who can protect them from us? They cannot even help themselves. Nor can they accompany one another when they are summoned to face us.

[21:44]   We have provided for these people and their ancestors, up until an old age. Do they not see that every day on earth brings them closer to the end? Can they reverse this process?

[21:45]   Say, "I am warning you in accordance with divine inspiration." However, the deaf cannot hear the call, when they are warned.

[21:46]   When a sample of your Lord's retribution afflicts them, they readily say, "We were indeed wicked."

[21:47]   We will establish the scales of justice on the Day of Resurrection. No soul will suffer the least injustice.  Even the equivalent of a mustard seed will be accounted for. We are the most efficient reckoners.

[21:48]   We gave Moses and Aaron the Statute Book, a beacon, and a reminder for the righteous.

[21:49]   The ones who reverence their Lord, even when alone in their privacy, and they worry about the Hour.

[21:50]   This too is a blessed reminder that we sent down. Are you denying it?

[21:51]   Before that, we granted Abraham his guidance and understanding, for we were fully aware of him.

[21:52]   He said to his father and his people, "What are these statues to which you are devoting yourselves?"

[21:53]   They said, "We found our parents worshipping them."

[21:54]   He said, "Indeed, you and your parents have gone totally astray."

[21:55]   They said, "Are you telling us the truth, or are you playing?"

[21:56]   He said, "Your only Lord is the Lord of the heavens and the earth, who created them. This is the testimony to which I bear witness.

[21:57]   "I swear by GOD, I have a plan to deal with your statues, as soon as you leave."

[21:58]   He broke them into pieces, except for a big one, that they may refer to it.

[21:59]   They said, "Whoever did this to our gods is really a transgressor."

[21:60]   They said, "We heard a youth threaten them; he is called Abraham."

[21:61]   They said, "Bring him before the eyes of all the people, that they may bear witness."

[21:62]   They said, "Did you do this to our gods, O Abraham?"

[21:63]   He said, "It is that big one who did it. Go ask them, if they can speak."

[21:64]   They were taken aback, and said to themselves, "Indeed, you are the ones who have been transgressing."

[21:65]   Yet, they reverted to their old ideas: "You know full well that these cannot speak."

[21:66]   He said, "Do you then worship beside GOD what possesses no power to benefit you or harm you?

[21:67]   "You have incurred shame by worshipping idols beside GOD.  Do you not understand?"

[21:68]   They said, "Burn him and support your gods, if this is what you decide to do."

[21:69]   We said, "O fire, be cool and safe for Abraham."

[21:70]   Thus, they schemed against him, but we made them the losers.

[21:71]   We saved him, and we saved Lot, to the land that we blessed for all the people.

[21:72]   And we granted him Isaac and Jacob as a gift, and we made them both righteous.

[21:73]   We made them imams who guided in accordance with our commandments, and we taught them how to work righteousness, and how to observe the Contact Prayers (Salat) and the obligatory charity (Zakat). To us, they were devoted worshipers.

[21:74]   As for Lot, we granted him wisdom and knowledge, and we saved him from the community that practiced abominations; they were wicked and evil people.

[21:75]   We admitted him into our mercy, for he was righteous.

[21:76]   And, before that, Noah called and we responded to him. We saved him and his family from the great disaster.

[21:77]   We supported him against the people who rejected our revelations. They were evil people, so we drowned them all.

[21:78]   And David and Solomon, when they once ruled with regard to someone's crop that was destroyed by another's sheep, we witnessed their judgment.

[21:79]   We granted Solomon the correct understanding, though we endowed both of them with wisdom and knowledge. We committed the mountains to serve David in glorifying (God), as well as the birds. This is what we did.

[21:80]   And we taught him the skill of making shields to protect you in war. Are you then thankful?

[21:81]   For Solomon, we committed the wind gusting and blowing at his disposal. He could direct it as he wished, to whatever land he chose, and we blessed such land for him.  We are fully aware of all things.

[21:82]   And of the devils there were those who would dive for him (to harvest the sea), or do whatever else he commanded them to do. We committed them in his service.

[21:83]   And Job implored his Lord: "Adversity has befallen me, and, of all the merciful ones, You are the Most Merciful."

[21:84]   We responded to him, relieved his adversity, and restored his family for him, even twice as much. That was a mercy from us, and a reminder for the worshipers.

[21:85]   Also, Ismail, Idris, Zal-Kifl; all were steadfast, patient.

[21:86]   We admitted them into our mercy, for they were righteous.

[21:87]   And Zan-Noon (Jonah, "the one with an `N' in his name"), abandoned his mission in protest, thinking that we could not control him. He ended up imploring from the darkness (of the big fish's belly): "There is no god other than You. Be You glorified. I have committed a gross sin."

[21:88]   We responded to him, and saved him from the crisis; we thus save the believers.

[21:89]   And Zachariah implored his Lord: "My Lord, do not keep me without an heir, though You are the best inheritor."

[21:90]   We responded to him and granted him John; we fixed his wife for him. That is because they used to hasten to work righteousness, and implored us in situations of joy, as well as fear. To us, they were reverent.

[21:91]   As for the one who maintained her virginity, we blew into her from our spirit, and thus, we made her and her son a portent for the whole world.

[21:92]   Your congregation is but one congregation, and I alone am your Lord; you shall worship Me alone.

[21:93]   However, they divided themselves into disputing religions. All of them will come back to us (for judgment).

[21:94]   As for those who work righteousness, while believing, their work will not go to waste; we are recording it.

[21:95]   It is forbidden for any community we had annihilated to return.

[21:96]   Not until Gog and Magog reappear, will they then return - they will come from every direction.

[21:97]   That is when the inevitable prophecy will come to pass, and the disbelievers will stare in horror: "Woe to us; we have been oblivious. Indeed, we have been wicked."

[21:98]   You and the idols you worship besides GOD will be fuel for Hell; this is your inevitable destiny.

[21:99]   If those were gods, they would not have ended up in Hell.  All its inhabitants abide in it forever.

[21:100]   They will sigh and groan therein, and they will have no access to any news.

[21:101]   As for those who deserved our magnificent rewards, they will be protected from it.

[21:102]   They will not hear its hissing. They will enjoy an abode where they can get everything they desire, forever.

[21:103]   The great horror will not worry them, and the angels will receive them joyfully: "This is your day, that has been promised to you."

[21:104]   On that day, we will fold the heaven, like the folding of a book. Just as we initiated the first creation, we will repeat it. This is our promise; we will certainly carry it out.

[21:105]   We have decreed in the Psalms, as well as in other scriptures, that the earth shall be inherited by My righteous worshipers.

[21:106]   This is a proclamation for people who are worshipers.

[21:107]   We have sent you out of mercy from us towards the whole world.

[21:108]   Proclaim, "I have been given divine inspiration that your god is one god. Will you then submit?"

[21:109]   If they turn away, then say, "I have warned you sufficiently, and I have no idea how soon or late (the retribution) will come to you.

[21:110]   "He is fully aware of your public utterances, and He is fully aware of everything you conceal.

[21:111]   "For all that I know, this world is a test for you, and a temporary enjoyment."

[21:112]   Say, "My Lord, Your judgment is the absolute justice. Our Lord is the Most Gracious; only His help is sought in the face of your claims."

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22-   Pilgrimige (Al-Hajj)

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In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

[22:1]   O people, you shall reverence your Lord, for the quaking of the Hour is something horrendous.

[22:2]   The day you witness it, even a nursing mother will discard her infant, and a pregnant woman will abort her fetus. You will see the people staggering, as if they are intoxicated, even though they are not intoxicated. This is because GOD's retribution is so awesome.

[22:3]   Among the people, there are those who argue about GOD without knowledge, and follow every rebellious devil.

[22:4]   It is decreed that anyone who allies himself with him, he will mislead him and guide him to the agony of Hell.

[22:5]   O people, if you have any doubt about resurrection, (remember that) we created you from dust, and subsequently from a tiny drop, which turns into a hanging (embryo), then it becomes a fetus that is given life or deemed lifeless. We thus clarify things for you. We settle in the wombs whatever we will for a predetermined period. We then bring you out as infants, then you reach maturity. While some of you die young, others live to the worst age, only to find out that no more knowledge can be attained beyond a certain limit. Also, you look at a land that is dead, then as soon as we shower it with water, it vibrates with life and grows all kinds of beautiful plants.

[22:6]   This proves that GOD is the Truth, and that He revives the dead, and that He is Omnipotent.

[22:7]   And that the Hour is coming, no doubt about it, and that GOD resurrects those who are in the graves.

[22:8]   Among the people there is the one who argues about GOD without knowledge, and without guidance, and without an enlightening scripture.

[22:9]   Arrogantly he strives to divert the people from the path of GOD. He thus incurs humiliation in this life, and we commit him on the Day of Resurrection to the agony of burning.

[22:10]   This is what your hands have sent ahead for you. GOD is never unjust towards the people.

[22:11]   Among the people there is the one who worships GOD conditionally. If things go his way, he is content. But if some adversity befalls him, he makes an about-face.  Thus, he loses both this life and the Hereafter. Such is the real loss.

[22:12]   He idolizes beside GOD what possesses no power to harm him or benefit him; such is the real straying.

[22:13]   He idolizes what is more apt to harm him than benefit him. What a miserable lord! What a miserable companion!

[22:14]   GOD admits those who believe and lead a righteous life into gardens with flowing streams. Everything is in accordance with GOD's will.

[22:15]   If anyone thinks that GOD cannot support him in this life and in the Hereafter, let him turn completely to (his creator in) heaven, and sever (his dependence on anyone else). He will then see that this plan eliminates anything that bothers him.

[22:16]   We have thus revealed clear revelations herein, then GOD guides whoever wills (to be guided).

[22:17]   Those who believe, those who are Jewish, the converts, the Christians, the Zoroastrians, and the idol worshipers, GOD is the One who will judge among them on the Day of Resurrection. GOD witnesses all things.

[22:18]   Do you not realize that to GOD prostrates everyone in the heavens and the earth, and the sun, and the moon, and the stars, and the mountains, and the trees, and the animals, and many people? Many others among the people are committed to doom. Whomever GOD shames, none will honor him. Everything is in accordance with GOD's will.

[22:19]   Here are two parties feuding with regard to their Lord.  As for those who disbelieve, they will have clothes of fire tailored for them. Hellish liquid will be poured on top of their heads.

[22:20]   It will cause their insides to melt, as well as their skins.

[22:21]   They will be confined in iron pots.

[22:22]   Whenever they try to exit such misery, they will be forced back in: "Taste the agony of burning."

[22:23]   GOD will admit those who believe and lead a righteous life into gardens with flowing streams. They will be adorned therein with bracelets of gold, and pearls, and their garments therein will be silk.

[22:24]   They have been guided to the good words; they have been guided in the path of the Most Praised.

[22:25]   Surely, those who disbelieve and repulse others from the path of GOD, and from the Sacred Masjid that we designated for all the people - be they natives or visitors - and seek to pollute it and corrupt it, we will afflict them with painful retribution.

[22:26]   We appointed Abraham to establish the Shrine: "You shall not idolize any other god beside Me, and purify My shrine for those who visit it, those who live near it, and those who bow and prostrate.

[22:27]   "And proclaim that the people shall observe Hajj pilgrimage. They will come to you walking or riding on various exhausted (means of transportation). They will come from the farthest locations."

[22:28]   They may seek commercial benefits, and they shall commemorate GOD's name during the specified days for providing them with livestock. "Eat therefrom and feed the despondent and the poor."

[22:29]   They shall complete their obligations, fulfill their vows, and visit the ancient shrine.

[22:30]   Those who reverence the rites decreed by GOD have deserved a good reward at their Lord. All livestock is made lawful for your food, except for those specifically prohibited for you. You shall avoid the abomination of idol worship, and avoid bearing false witness.

[22:31]   You shall maintain your devotion absolutely to GOD alone.  Anyone who sets up any idol beside GOD is like one who fell from the sky, then gets snatched up by vultures, or blown away by the wind into a deep ravine.

[22:32]   Indeed, those who reverence the rites decreed by GOD demonstrate the righteousness of their hearts.

[22:33]   The (livestock) provide you with many benefits for a period, before being donated to the ancient shrine.

[22:34]   For each congregation we have decreed rites whereby they commemorate the name of GOD for providing them with the livestock. Your god is one and the same god; you shall all submit to Him. Give good news to the obedient.

[22:35]   They are the ones whose hearts tremble upon mentioning GOD, they steadfastly persevere during adversity, they observe the Contact Prayers (Salat), and from our provisions to them, they give to charity.

[22:36]   The animal offerings are among the rites decreed by GOD for your own good. You shall mention GOD's name on them while they are standing in line. Once they are offered for sacrifice, you shall eat therefrom and feed the poor and the needy. This is why we subdued them for you, that you may show your appreciation.

[22:37]   Neither their meat, nor their blood reaches GOD. What reaches Him is your righteousness. He has subdued them for you, that you may show your appreciation by glorifying GOD for guiding you. Give good news to the charitable.

[22:38]   GOD defends those who believe. GOD does not love any betrayer, unappreciative.

[22:39]   Permission is granted to those who are being persecuted, since injustice has befallen them, and GOD is certainly able to support them.

[22:40]   They were evicted from their homes unjustly, for no reason other than saying, "Our Lord is GOD." If it were not for GOD's supporting of some people against others, monasteries, churches, synagogues, and masjids - where the name of GOD is commemorated frequently - would have been destroyed. Absolutely, GOD supports those who support Him. GOD is Powerful, Almighty.

[22:41]   They are those who, if we appointed them as rulers on earth, they would establish the Contact Prayers (Salat) and the obligatory charity (Zakat), and would advocate righteousness and forbid evil. GOD is the ultimate ruler.

[22:42]   If they reject you, the people of Noah, `Aad, and Thamoud have also disbelieved before them.

[22:43]   Also the people of Abraham, and the people of Lot.

[22:44]   And the dwellers of Midyan. Moses was also rejected. I led all those people on, then I called them to account; how (devastating) was My requital!

[22:45]   Many a community we have annihilated because of their wickedness. They ended up in ruins, stilled wells, and great empty mansions.

[22:46]   Did they not roam the earth, then use their minds to understand, and use their ears to hear? Indeed, the real blindness is not the blindness of the eyes, but the blindness of the hearts inside the chests.

[22:47]   They challenge you to bring retribution, and GOD never fails to fulfill His prophecy. A day of your Lord is like a thousand of your years.

[22:48]   Many a community in the past committed evil, and I led them on for awhile, then I punished them. To Me is the ultimate destiny.

[22:49]   Say, "O people, I have been sent to you as a profound warner."

[22:50]   Those who believe and lead a righteous life have deserved forgiveness and a generous recompense.

[22:51]   As for those who strive to challenge our revelations, they incur Hell.

[22:52]   We did not send before you any messenger, nor a prophet, without having the devil interfere in his wishes. GOD then nullifies what the devil has done. GOD perfects His revelations. GOD is Omniscient, Most Wise.

[22:53]   He thus sets up the devil's scheme as a test for those who harbor doubts in their hearts, and those whose hearts are hardened. The wicked must remain with the opposition.

[22:54]   Those who are blessed with knowledge will recognize the truth from your Lord, then believe in it, and their hearts will readily accept it. Most assuredly, GOD guides the believers in the right path.

[22:55]   As for those who disbelieve, they will continue to harbor doubts until the Hour comes to them suddenly, or until the retribution of a terrible day comes to them.

[22:56]   All sovereignty on that day belongs to GOD, and He will judge among them. As for those who believe and lead a righteous life, they have deserved the gardens of bliss.

[22:57]   While those who disbelieved and rejected our revelations have incurred a shameful retribution.

[22:58]   Those who emigrate for the sake of GOD, then get killed, or die, GOD will surely shower them with good provisions.  GOD is certainly the best Provider.

[22:59]   Most assuredly, He will admit them an admittance that will please them. GOD is Omniscient, Clement.

[22:60]   It is decreed that if one avenges an injustice that was inflicted upon him, equitably, then he is persecuted because of this, GOD will surely support him. GOD is Pardoner, Forgiving.

[22:61]   It is a fact that GOD merges the night into the day, and merges the day into the night, and that GOD is Hearer, Seer.

[22:62]   It is a fact that GOD is the Truth, while the setting up of any idols beside Him constitutes a falsehood, and that GOD is the Most High, the Supreme.

[22:63]   Do you not see that GOD sends down from the sky water that turns the land green? GOD is Sublime, Cognizant.

[22:64]   To Him belongs everything in the heavens and everything on earth. Absolutely, GOD is the Most Rich, Most Praiseworthy.

[22:65]   Do you not see that GOD has committed in your service everything on earth? The ships run in the ocean by His command. He prevents the heavenly bodies from crashing onto the earth, except in accordance with His command.  GOD is Most Kind towards the people, Most Merciful.

[22:66]   He is the One who granted you life, then He puts you to death, then He brings you back to life. Surely, the human being is unappreciative.

[22:67]   For each congregation, we have decreed a set of rites that they must uphold. Therefore, they should not dispute with you. You shall continue to invite everyone to your Lord. Most assuredly, you are on the right path.

[22:68]   If they argue with you, then say, "GOD is fully aware of everything you do."

[22:69]   GOD will judge among you on the Day of Resurrection regarding all your disputes.

[22:70]   Do you not realize that GOD knows everything in the heavens and everything on earth? All this is recorded in a record. This is easy for GOD to do.

[22:71]   Yet, they idolize beside GOD idols wherein He placed no power, and they know nothing about them. The transgressors have no helper.

[22:72]   When our revelations are recited to them, clearly, you recognize wickedness on the faces of those who disbelieve. They almost attack those who recite our revelations to them. Say, "Shall I inform you of something much worse? Hell is promised by GOD for those who disbelieve; what a miserable destiny."

[22:73]   O people, here is a parable that you must ponder carefully: the idols you set up beside GOD can never create a fly, even if they banded together to do so.  Furthermore, if the fly steals anything from them, they cannot recover it; weak is the pursuer and the pursued.

[22:74]   They do not value GOD as He should be valued. GOD is the Most Powerful, the Almighty.

[22:75]   GOD chooses from among the angels messengers, as well as from among the people. GOD is Hearer, Seer.

[22:76]   He knows their past and their future. To GOD belongs the ultimate control of all matters.

[22:77]   O you who believe, you shall bow, prostrate, worship your Lord, and work righteousness, that you may succeed.

[22:78]   You shall strive for the cause of GOD as you should strive for His cause. He has chosen you and has placed no hardship on you in practicing your religion - the religion of your father Abraham. He is the one who named you "Submitters" originally. Thus, the messenger shall serve as a witness among you, and you shall serve as witnesses among the people. Therefore, you shall observe the Contact Prayers (Salat) and give the obligatory charity (Zakat), and hold fast to GOD; He is your Lord, the best Lord and the best Supporter.

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23-   The believers (Al-Mu'minun)

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In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

[23:1]   Successful indeed are the believers;

[23:2]   who are reverent during their Contact Prayers (Salat).

[23:3]   And they avoid vain talk.

[23:4]   And they give their obligatory charity (Zakat).

[23:5]   And they maintain their chastity.

[23:6]   Only with their spouses, or those who are rightfully theirs, do they have sexual relations; they are not to be blamed.

[23:7]   Those who transgress these limits are the transgressors.

[23:8]   When it comes to deposits entrusted to them, as well as any agreements they make, they are trustworthy.

[23:9]   And they observe their Contact Prayers (Salat) regularly.

[23:10]   Such are the inheritors.

[23:11]   They will inherit Paradise, wherein they abide forever.

[23:12]   We created the human being from a certain kind of mud.

[23:13]   Subsequently, we reproduced him from a tiny drop, that is placed into a well protected repository.

[23:14]   Then we developed the drop into a hanging (embryo), then developed the hanging (embryo) into a bite-size (fetus), then created the bite-size (fetus) into bones, then covered the bones with flesh. We thus produce a new creature. Most blessed is GOD, the best Creator.

[23:15]   Then, later on, you die.

[23:16]   Then, on the Day of Resurrection, you will be resurrected.

[23:17]   We created above you seven universes in layers, and we are never unaware of a single creature in them.

[23:18]   We send down from the sky water, in exact measure, then we store it in the ground. Certainly, we can let it escape.

[23:19]   With it, we produce for you orchards of date palms, grapes, all kinds of fruits, and various foods.

[23:20]   Also, a tree native to Sinai produces oil, as well as relish for the eaters.

[23:21]   And the livestock should provide you with a lesson. We let you drink (milk) from their bellies, you derive other benefits from them, and some of them you use for food.

[23:22]   On them, and on the ships, you ride.

[23:23]   We sent Noah to his people, saying, "O my people, worship GOD. You have no other god beside Him. Would you not be righteous?"

[23:24]   The leaders who disbelieved among his people said, "This is no more than a human like you, who wants to gain prominence among you. Had GOD willed, He could have sent down angels. We never heard of anything like this from our ancestors.

[23:25]   "He is simply a man gone crazy. Just ignore him for awhile."

[23:26]   He said, "My Lord, grant me victory, for they have disbelieved me."

[23:27]   We then inspired him: "Make the watercraft under our watchful eyes, and in accordance with our inspiration.  When our command comes, and the atmosphere boils up, put on it a pair of every kind (of your domesticated animals), and your family, except those condemned to be doomed. Do not speak to Me on behalf of those who transgressed; they will be drowned.

[23:28]   "Once you are settled, together with those who are with you, on the watercraft, you shall say, `Praise GOD for saving us from the evil people.'

[23:29]   "And say, `My Lord, let me disembark onto a blessed location; You are the best deliverer.' "

[23:30]   These should provide sufficient proofs for you. We will certainly put you to the test.

[23:31]   Subsequently, we established another generation after  them.

[23:32]   We sent to them a messenger from among them, saying, "You shall worship GOD. You have no other god beside Him.  Would you not be righteous?"

[23:33]   The leaders among his people who disbelieved and rejected the idea of the Hereafter - although we provided for them generously in this life - said, "This is no more than a human being like you. He eats from what you eat, and drinks as you drink.

[23:34]   "If you obey a human being like you, then you are really losers.

[23:35]   "Does he promise you that, after you die and turn into dust and bones, you will come out again?

[23:36]   "Impossible, impossible indeed is what is promised to you.

[23:37]   "We only live this life - we live and die - and we will never be resurrected.

[23:38]   "He is just a man who fabricated lies and attributed them to GOD. We will never believe him."

[23:39]   He said, "My Lord, grant me victory, for they have disbelieved me."

[23:40]   He said, "Soon they will be sorry."

[23:41]   The retribution struck them, equitably, and thus, we turned them into ruins. The wicked people perished.

[23:42]   Subsequently, we established other generations after them.

[23:43]   No community can advance its predetermined fate, nor delay it.

[23:44]   Then we sent our messengers in succession. Every time a messenger went to his community, they disbelieved him.  Consequently, we annihilated them, one after the other, and made them history. The people who disbelieved have perished.

[23:45]   Then we sent Moses and his brother Aaron with our revelations and a profound proof.

[23:46]   To Pharaoh and his elders, but they turned arrogant. They were oppressive people.

[23:47]   They said, "Shall we believe for two men whose people are our slaves?"

[23:48]   They rejected the two, and consequently, they were annihilated.

[23:49]   We gave Moses the scripture, that they may be guided.

[23:50]   We made the son of Mary and his mother a sign, and we gave them refuge on a mesa with food and drink.

[23:51]   O you messengers, eat from the good provisions, and work righteousness. I am fully aware of everything you do.

[23:52]   Such is your congregation - one congregation - and I am your Lord; you shall reverence Me.

[23:53]   But they tore themselves into disputing factions; each party happy with what they have.

[23:54]   Therefore, just leave them in their confusion, for awhile.

[23:55]   Do they think that, since we provided them with money and children,

[23:56]   we must be showering them with blessings? Indeed, they have no idea.

[23:57]   Surely, those who are reverently conscious of their Lord,

[23:58]   And who believe in the revelations of their Lord,

[23:59]   And who never set up any idols beside their Lord,

[23:60]   As they give their charities, their hearts are fully reverent. For they recognize that they will be summoned before their Lord,

[23:61]   They are eager to do righteous works; they compete in doing them.

[23:62]   We never burden any soul beyond its means, and we keep a record that utters the truth. No one will suffer injustice.

[23:63]   Because their minds are oblivious to this, they commit works that do not conform with this; their works are evil.

[23:64]   Then, when we requite their leaders with retribution, they complain.

[23:65]   Do not complain now; you have given up all help from us.

[23:66]   My proofs have been presented to you, but you turned back on your heels.

[23:67]   You were too arrogant to accept them, and you defiantly disregarded them.

[23:68]   Why do they not reflect upon this scripture? Do they not realize that they have received something never attained by their ancestors?

[23:69]   Have they failed to recognize their messenger? Is this why they are disregarding him?

[23:70]   Have they decided that he is crazy? Indeed, he has brought the truth to them, but most of them hate the truth.

[23:71]   Indeed, if the truth conformed to their wishes, there would be chaos in the heavens and the earth; everything in them would be corrupted. We have given them their proof, but they are disregarding their proof.

[23:72]   Are you asking them for a wage? Your Lord's wage is far better. He is the best Provider.

[23:73]   Most assuredly, you are inviting them to a straight path.

[23:74]   Those who disbelieve in the Hereafter will surely deviate from the right path.

[23:75]   Even when we showered them with mercy, and relieved their problems, they plunged deeper into transgression, and continued to blunder.

[23:76]   Even when we afflicted them with retribution, they never turned to their Lord imploring.

[23:77]   Subsequently, when we requited them with the severe retribution they had incurred, they were shocked.

[23:78]   He is the One who granted you the hearing, the eyesight, and the brains. Rarely are you appreciative.

[23:79]   He is the One who established you on earth, and before Him you will be summoned.

[23:80]   He is the One who controls life and death, and He is the One who alternates the night and day. Do you not understand?

[23:81]   They said what their ancestors said.

[23:82]   They said, "After we die and become dust and bones, we get resurrected?

[23:83]   "Such promises were given to us and to our parents in the past. These are no more than tales from the past."

[23:84]   Say, "To whom belongs the earth and everyone on it, if you know?"

[23:85]   They will say, "To GOD." Say, "Why then do you not take heed?"

[23:86]   Say, "Who is the Lord of the seven universes; the Lord of the great dominion?"

[23:87]   They will say, "GOD." Say, "Why then do you not turn righteous?"

[23:88]   Say, "In whose hand is all sovereignty over all things, and He is the only one who can provide help, but needs no help, if you know?"

[23:89]   They will say, "GOD." Say, "Where did you go wrong?"

[23:90]   We have given them the truth, while they are liars.

[23:91]   GOD has never begotten a son. Nor was there ever any other god beside Him. Otherwise, each god would have declared independence with his creations, and they would have competed with each other for dominance. GOD be glorified; far above their claims.

[23:92]   The Knower of all secrets and declarations; be He exalted, far above having a partner.

[23:93]   Say, "My Lord, whether You show me (the retribution) they have incurred

[23:94]   "My Lord, let me not be one of the transgressing people."

[23:95]   To show you (the retribution) we have reserved for them is something we can easily do.

[23:96]   Therefore, counter their evil works with goodness; we are fully aware of their claims.

[23:97]   Say, "My Lord, I seek refuge in You from the whispers of the devils.

[23:98]   "And I seek refuge in You, my Lord, lest they come near me."

[23:99]   When death comes to one of them, he says, "My Lord, send me back.

[23:100]   "I will then work righteousness in everything I left." Not true. This is a false claim that he makes. A barrier will separate his soul from this world until resurrection.

[23:101]   When the horn is blown, no relations among them will exist on that day, nor will they care about one another.

[23:102]   As for those whose weights are heavy, they will be the winners.

[23:103]   Those whose weights are light are the ones who lost their souls; they abide in Hell forever.

[23:104]   Fire will overwhelm their faces, and they last miserably therein.

[23:105]   Were not My revelations recited to you, and you kept on rejecting them?

[23:106]   They will say, "Our Lord, our wickedness overwhelmed us, and we were people gone astray.

[23:107]   "Our Lord, take us out of this; if we return (to our old behavior), then we are really wicked."

[23:108]   He will say, "Abide therein, humiliated, and do not speak to Me.

[23:109]   "A group of My servants used to say, `Our Lord, we have believed, so forgive us and shower us with mercy. Of all the merciful ones, You are the Most Merciful.'

[23:110]   "But you mocked and ridiculed them, to the extent that you forgot Me. You used to laugh at them.

[23:111]   "I have rewarded them today, in return for their steadfastness, by making them the winners."

[23:112]   He said, "How long have you lasted on earth? How many years?"

[23:113]   They said, "We lasted a day or part of a day. Ask those who counted."

[23:114]   He said, "In fact, you stayed but a brief interim, if you only knew.

[23:115]   "Did you think that we created you in vain; that you were not to be returned to us?"

[23:116]   Most exalted is GOD, the true Sovereign. There is no other god beside Him; the Most Honorable Lord, possessor of all authority.

[23:117]   Anyone who idolizes beside GOD any other god, and without any kind of proof, his reckoning rests with his Lord. The disbelievers never succeed.

[23:118]   Say, "My Lord, shower us with forgiveness and mercy. Of all the merciful ones, You are the Most Merciful."

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24-   Light (Al-Noor)

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In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

[24:1]   A sura that we have sent down, and we have decreed as law. We have revealed in it clear revelations, that you may take heed.

[24:2]   The adulteress and the adulterer you shall whip each of them a hundred lashes. Do not be swayed by pity from carrying out GOD's law, if you truly believe in GOD and the Last Day. And let a group of believers witness their penalty.

[24:3]   The adulterer will end up marrying an adulteress or an idol worshiper, and the adulteress will end up marrying an adulterer or an idol worshiper. This is prohibited for the believers.

[24:4]   Those who accuse married women of adultery, then fail to produce four witnesses, you shall whip them eighty lashes, and do not accept any testimony from them; they are wicked.

[24:5]   If they repent afterwards and reform, then GOD is Forgiver, Merciful.

[24:6]   As for those who accuse their own spouses, without any other witnesses, then the testimony may be accepted if he swears by GOD four times that he is telling the truth.

[24:7]   The fifth oath shall be to incur GOD's condemnation upon him, if he was lying.

[24:8]   She shall be considered innocent if she swears by GOD four times that he is a liar.

[24:9]   The fifth oath shall incur GOD's wrath upon her if he was telling the truth.

[24:10]   This is GOD's grace and mercy towards you. GOD is Redeemer, Most Wise.

[24:11]   A gang among you produced a big lie. Do not think that it was bad for you; instead, it was good for you. Meanwhile, each one of them has earned his share of the guilt. As for the one who initiated the whole incident, he has incurred a terrible retribution.

[24:12]   When you heard it, the believing men and the believing women should have had better thoughts about themselves, and should have said, "This is obviously a big lie."

[24:13]   Only if they produced four witnesses (you may believe them). If they fail to produce the witnesses, then they are, according to GOD, liars.

[24:14]   If it were not for GOD's grace towards you, and His mercy in this world and in the Hereafter, you would have suffered a great retribution because of this incident.

[24:15]   You fabricated it with your own tongues, and the rest of you repeated it with your mouths without proof. You thought it was simple, when it was, according to GOD, gross.

[24:16]   When you heard it, you should have said, "We will not repeat this. Glory be to You. This is a gross falsehood."

[24:17]   GOD admonishes you that you shall never do it again, if you are believers.

[24:18]   GOD thus explains the revelations for you. GOD is Omniscient, Wise.

[24:19]   Those who love to see immorality spread among the believers have incurred a painful retribution in this life and in the Hereafter. GOD knows, while you do not know.

[24:20]   GOD showers you with His grace and mercy. GOD is Most Kind towards the believers, Most Merciful.

[24:21]   O you who believe, do not follow the steps of Satan.  Anyone who follows the steps of Satan should know that he advocates evil and vice. If it were not for GOD's grace towards you, and His mercy, none of you would have been purified. But GOD purifies whomever He wills. GOD is Hearer, Knower.

[24:22]   Those among you who are blessed with resources and wealth shall be charitable towards their relatives, the poor, and those who have immigrated for the sake of GOD. They shall treat them with kindness and tolerance; do you not love to attain GOD's forgiveness? GOD is Forgiver, Most Merciful.

[24:23]   Surely, those who falsely accuse married women who are pious believers have incurred condemnation in this life and in the Hereafter; they have incurred a horrendous retribution.

[24:24]   The day will come when their own tongues, hands, and feet will bear witness to everything they had done.

[24:25]   On that day, GOD will requite them fully for their works, and they will find out that GOD is the Truth.

[24:26]   The bad women for the bad men, and the bad men for the bad women, and the good women for the good men, and the good men for the good women. The latter are innocent of such accusations. They have attained forgiveness and a generous reward.

[24:27]   O you who believe, do not enter homes other than yours without permission from their inhabitants, and without greeting them. This is better for you, that you may take heed.

[24:28]   If you find no one in them, do not enter them until you obtain permission. If you are told, "Go back," you must go back. This is purer for you. GOD is fully aware of everything you do.

[24:29]   You commit no error by entering uninhabited homes wherein there is something that belongs to you. GOD knows everything you reveal, and everything you conceal.

[24:30]   Tell the believing men that they shall subdue their eyes (and not stare at the women), and to maintain their chastity. This is purer for them. GOD is fully Cognizant of everything they do.

[24:31]   And tell the believing women to subdue their eyes, and maintain their chastity. They shall not reveal any parts of their bodies, except that which is necessary. They shall cover their chests, and shall not relax this code in the presence of other than their husbands, their fathers, the fathers of their husbands, their sons, the sons of their husbands, their brothers, the sons of their brothers, the sons of their sisters, other women, the male servants or employees whose sexual drive has been nullified, or the children who have not reached puberty.  They shall not strike their feet when they walk in order to shake and reveal certain details of their bodies. All of you shall repent to GOD, O you believers, that you may succeed.

[24:32]   You shall encourage those of you who are single to get married. They may marry the righteous among your male and female servants, if they are poor. GOD will enrich them from His grace. GOD is Bounteous, Knower.

[24:33]   Those who cannot afford to get married shall maintain morality until GOD provides for them from His grace.  Those among your servants who wish to be freed in order to marry, you shall grant them their wish, once you realize that they are honest. And give them from GOD's money that He has bestowed upon you. You shall not force your girls to commit prostitution, seeking the materials of this world, if they wish to be chaste. If anyone forces them, then GOD, seeing that they are forced, is Forgiver, Merciful.

[24:34]   We have revealed to you clarifying revelations, and examples from the past generations, and an enlightenment for the righteous.

[24:35]   GOD is the light of the heavens and the earth. The allegory of His light is that of a concave mirror behind a lamp that is placed inside a glass container. The glass container is like a bright, pearl-like star. The fuel thereof is supplied from a blessed oil-producing tree, that is neither eastern, nor western. Its oil is almost self-radiating; needs no fire to ignite it. Light upon light. GOD guides to His light whoever wills (to be guided). GOD thus cites the parables for the people. GOD is fully aware of all things.

[24:36]   (God's guidance is found) in houses exalted by GOD, for His name is commemorated therein. Glorifying Him therein, day and night -

[24:37]   People who are not distracted by business or trade from commemorating GOD; they observe the Contact Prayers (Salat), and give the obligatory charity (Zakat), and they are conscious of the day when the minds and the eyes will be horrified.

[24:38]   GOD will certainly reward them for their good works, and will shower them with His grace. GOD provides for whomever He wills without limits.

[24:39]   As for those who disbelieve, their works are like a mirage in the desert. A thirsty person thinks that it is water. But when he reaches it, he finds that it is nothing, and he finds GOD there instead, to requite him fully for his works. GOD is the most efficient reckoner.

[24:40]   Another allegory is that of being in total darkness in the midst of a violent ocean, with waves upon waves, in addition to thick fog. Darkness upon darkness - if he looked at his own hand, he could barely see it. Whomever GOD deprives of light, will have no light.

[24:41]   Do you not realize that everyone in the heavens and the earth glorifies GOD, even the birds as they fly in a column? Each knows its prayer and its glorification. GOD is fully aware of everything they do.

[24:42]   To GOD belongs the sovereignty of the heavens and the earth, and to GOD is the final destiny.

[24:43]   Do you not realize that GOD drives the clouds, then gathers them together, then piles them on each other, then you see the rain coming out of them? He sends down from the sky loads of snow to cover whomever He wills, while diverting it from whomever He wills. The brightness of the snow almost blinds the eyes.

[24:44]   GOD controls the night and day. This should be a lesson for those who possess eyes.

[24:45]   And GOD created every living creature from water. Some of them walk on their bellies, some walk on two legs, and some walk on four. GOD creates whatever He wills. GOD is Omnipotent.

[24:46]   We have sent down to you clarifying revelations, then GOD guides whoever wills (to be guided) in a straight path.

[24:47]   They say, "We believe in GOD and in the messenger, and we obey," but then some of them slide back afterwards. These are not believers.

[24:48]   When they are invited to GOD and His messenger to judge among them, some of them get upset.

[24:49]   However, if the judgment is in their favor, they readily accept it!

[24:50]   Is there a disease in their hearts? Are they doubtful? Are they afraid that GOD and His messenger may treat them unfairly? In fact, it is they who are unjust.

[24:51]   The only utterance of the believers, whenever invited to GOD and His messenger to judge in their affairs, is to say, "We hear and we obey." These are the winners.

[24:52]   Those who obey GOD and His messenger, and reverence GOD and observe Him, these are the triumphant ones.

[24:53]   They swear by GOD, solemnly, that if you commanded them to mobilize, they would mobilize. Say, "Do not swear.  Obedience is an obligation. GOD is fully Cognizant of everything you do."

[24:54]   Say, "Obey GOD, and obey the messenger." If they refuse, then he is responsible for his obligations, and you are responsible for your obligations. If you obey him, you will be guided. The sole duty of the messenger is to deliver (the message).

[24:55]   GOD promises those among you who believe and lead a righteous life, that He will make them sovereigns on earth, as He did for those before them, and will establish for them the religion He has chosen for them, and will substitute peace and security for them in place of fear. All this because they worship Me alone; they never set up any idols beside Me. Those who disbelieve after this are the truly wicked.

[24:56]   You shall observe the Contact Prayers (Salat) and give the obligatory charity (Zakat), and obey the messenger, that you may attain mercy.

[24:57]   Do not think that those who disbelieve will ever get away with it. Their final abode is Hell; what a miserable destiny.

[24:58]   O you who believe, permission must be requested by your servants and the children who have not attained puberty (before entering your rooms). This is to be done in three instances - before the Dawn Prayer, at noon when you change your clothes to rest, and after the Night Prayer.  These are three private times for you. At other times, it is not wrong for you or them to mingle with one another.  GOD thus clarifies the revelations for you. GOD is Omniscient, Most Wise.

[24:59]   Once the children reach puberty, they must ask permission (before entering) like those who became adults before them have asked permission (before entering). GOD thus clarifies His revelations for you. GOD is Omniscient, Most Wise.

[24:60]   The elderly women who do not expect to get married commit nothing wrong by relaxing their dress code, provided they do not reveal too much of their bodies. To maintain modesty is better for them. GOD is Hearer, Knower.

[24:61]   The blind is not to be blamed, the crippled is not to be blamed, nor is the handicapped to be blamed, just as you are not to be blamed for eating at your homes, or the homes of your fathers, or the homes of your mothers, or the homes of your brothers, or the homes of your sisters, or the homes of your fathers' brothers, or the homes of your fathers' sisters, or the homes of your mothers' brothers, or the homes of your mothers' sisters, or the homes that belong to you and you possess their keys, or the homes of your friends. You commit nothing wrong by eating together or as individuals. When you enter any home, you shall greet each other a greeting from GOD that is blessed and good. GOD thus explains the revelations for you, that you may understand.

[24:62]   The true believers are those who believe in GOD and His messenger, and when they are with him in a community meeting, they do not leave him without permission. Those who ask permission are the ones who do believe in GOD and His messenger. If they ask your permission, in order to tend to some of their affairs, you may grant permission to whomever you wish, and ask GOD to forgive them. GOD is Forgiver, Most Merciful.

[24:63]   Do not treat the messenger's requests as you treat each others' requests. GOD is fully aware of those among you who sneak away using flimsy excuses. Let them beware - those who disobey his orders - for a disaster may strike them, or a severe retribution.

[24:64]   Absolutely, to GOD belongs everything in the heavens and the earth. He fully knows every condition you may be in.  The day you are returned to Him, He will inform them of everything they had done. GOD is fully aware of all things.

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25-   The Statute Book (Al-Furqan)

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In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

[25:1]   Most blessed is the One who revealed the Statute Book to His servant, so he can serve as a warner to the whole world.

[25:2]   The One to whom belongs all sovereignty of the heavens and the earth. He never had a son, nor does He have any partners in sovereignty. He created everything in exact measure; He precisely designed everything.

[25:3]   Yet, they set up beside Him gods who do not create anything - they themselves are created - and who possess no power to even harm or benefit themselves, nor do they possess any power to control life, or death, or resurrection.

[25:4]   Those who disbelieved said, "This is a fabrication that he produced, with the help of some other people." They have uttered a blasphemy and a falsehood.

[25:5]   They also said, "Tales from the past that he wrote down; they were dictated to him day and night."

[25:6]   Say, "This was revealed by the One who knows the Secret in the heavens and the earth. He is Forgiving, Most Merciful."

[25:7]   And they said, "How come this messenger eats the food and walks in the markets? If only an angel could come down with him, to serve with him as a preacher!"

[25:8]   Or, "If only a treasure could be given to him!" Or, "If only he could possess an orchard from which he eats!" The transgressors also said, "You are following a bewitched man."

[25:9]   Note how they called you all kinds of names, and how this led them astray, never to find their way back.

[25:10]   Most blessed is the One who can, if He wills, give you much better than their demands - gardens with flowing streams, and many mansions.

[25:11]   In fact, they have disbelieved in the Hour (Day of Resurrection), and we have prepared for those who disbelieve in the Hour a flaming Hell.

[25:12]   When it sees them from afar, they will hear its rage and fuming.

[25:13]   And when they are thrown into it, through a narrow place, all shackled, they will declare their remorse.

[25:14]   You will not declare just a single remorse, on that day; you will suffer through a great number of remorses.

[25:15]   Say, "Is this better or the eternal Paradise that is promised for the righteous? It is their well deserved reward; a well deserved destiny."

[25:16]   They get anything they wish therein, forever. This is your Lord's irrevocable promise.

[25:17]   On the day when He summons them, together with the idols they had set up beside GOD, He will say, "Have you misled these servants of Mine, or did they go astray on their own?"

[25:18]   They will say, "Be You glorified, it was not right for us to set up any lords beside You. But You allowed them to enjoy, together with their parents. Consequently, they disregarded the message and thus became wicked people."

[25:19]   They have disbelieved in the message you have given them, and, consequently, you can neither protect them from the retribution they have incurred, nor can you help them in any way. Anyone among you who commits evil, we will commit him to severe retribution.

[25:20]   We did not send any messengers before you who did not eat food and walk in the markets. We thus test you by each other; will you steadfastly persevere? Your Lord is Seer.

[25:21]   Those who do not expect to meet us said, "If only the angels could come down to us, or we could see our Lord (we would then believe)!" Indeed, they have committed a gross arrogance, and have produced a gross blasphemy.

[25:22]   The day they see the angels, it will not be good news for the guilty; they will say, "Now, we are irreversibly confined."

[25:23]   We will look at all the works they have done, and render them null and void.

[25:24]   The dwellers of Paradise are far better on that day; they will hear better news.

[25:25]   The heaven will break apart, into masses of clouds, and the angels will descend in multitudes.

[25:26]   All sovereignty on that day belongs to the Most Gracious.  For the disbelievers, it will be a difficult day.

[25:27]   The day will come when the transgressor will bite his hands (in anguish) and say, "Alas, I wish I had followed the path with the messenger.

[25:28]   "Alas, woe to me, I wish I did not take that person as a friend.

[25:29]   "He has led me away from the message after it came to me.  Indeed, the devil lets down his human victims."

[25:30]   The messenger said, "My Lord, my people have deserted this Quran."

[25:31]   We also set up against every prophet enemies from among the guilty. Your Lord suffices as a guide, a master.

[25:32]   Those who disbelieved said, "Why did not the Quran come through him all at once?" We have released it to you gradually, in order to fix it in your memory. We have recited it in a specific sequence.

[25:33]   Whatever argument they come up with, we provide you with the truth, and a better understanding.

[25:34]   Those who are forcibly summoned to Hell are in the worst position; they are the farthest from the right path.

[25:35]   We have given Moses the scripture, and appointed his brother Aaron to be his assistant.

[25:36]   We said, "Go, both of you, to the people who rejected our revelations," and subsequently, we utterly annihilated the rejectors.

[25:37]   Similarly, when the people of Noah disbelieved the messengers, we drowned them, and we set them up as a sign for the people. We have prepared for the transgressors a painful retribution.

[25:38]   Also `Aad, Thamoud, the inhabitants of Al-Russ, and many generations between them.

[25:39]   To each of these groups, we delivered sufficient examples, before we annihilated them.

[25:40]   They have passed by the community that was showered with a miserable shower (Sodom). Did they not see it? The fact is, they never believed in resurrection.

[25:41]   When they saw you, they always ridiculed you: "Is this the one chosen by GOD to be a messenger?

[25:42]   "He almost diverted us from our gods, if it were not that we steadfastly persevered with them." They will certainly find out, when they see the retribution, who are the real strayers from the path.

[25:43]   Have you seen the one whose god is his own ego? Will you be his advocate?

[25:44]   Do you think that most of them hear, or understand? They are just like animals; no, they are far worse.

[25:45]   Have you not seen how your Lord designed the shadow? If He willed, He could have made it fixed, then we would have designed the sun accordingly.

[25:46]   But we designed it to move slowly.

[25:47]   He is the One who designed the night to be a cover, and for you to sleep and rest. And He made the day a resurrection.

[25:48]   He is the One who sends the winds with good omens of His mercy, and we send down from the sky pure water.

[25:49]   With it, we revive dead lands and provide drink for our creations - multitudes of animals and humans.

[25:50]   We have distributed it among them in exact measure, that they may take heed. But most people insist upon disbelieving.

[25:51]   If we willed, we could have sent to every community a warner.

[25:52]   Therefore, do not obey the disbelievers, and strive against them with this, a great striving.

[25:53]   He is the One who merges the two seas; one is fresh and palatable, while the other is salty and undrinkable. And He separated them with a formidable, inviolable barrier (evaporation).

[25:54]   He is the One who created from water a human being, then made him reproduce through marriage and mating. Your Lord is Omnipotent.

[25:55]   Yet, they still set up beside GOD idols that cannot benefit them, nor harm them. Indeed, the disbeliever is an enemy of his Lord.

[25:56]   We have sent you (Rashad) as a deliverer of good news, as well as a warner.

[25:57]   Say, "I do not ask you for any money. All I seek is to help you find the right path to your Lord, if this is what you choose."

[25:58]   You shall put your trust in the One who is Alive - the One who never dies - and praise Him and glorify Him. He is fully Cognizant of His creatures' sins.

[25:59]   He is the One who created the heavens and the earth, and everything between them, in six days, then assumed all authority. The Most Gracious; ask about Him those who are well founded in knowledge.

[25:60]   When they are told, "Fall prostrate before the Most Gracious," they say, "What is the Most Gracious? Shall we prostrate before what you advocate?" Thus, it only augments their aversion.

[25:61]   Most blessed is the One who placed constellations in the sky, and placed in it a lamp, and a shining moon.

[25:62]   He is the One who designed the night and the day to alternate: a sufficient proof for those who wish to take heed, or to be appreciative.

[25:63]   The worshipers of the Most Gracious are those who tread the earth gently, and when the ignorant speak to them, they only utter peace.

[25:64]   In the privacy of the night, they meditate on their Lord, and fall prostrate.

[25:65]   And they say, "Our Lord, spare us the agony of Hell; its retribution is horrendous.

[25:66]   "It is the worst abode; the worst destiny."

[25:67]   When they give, they are neither extravagant nor stingy; they give in moderation.

[25:68]   They never implore beside GOD any other god, nor do they kill anyone - for GOD has made life sacred - except in the course of justice. Nor do they commit adultery. Those who commit these offenses will have to pay.

[25:69]   Retribution is doubled for them on the Day of Resurrection, and they abide therein humiliated.

[25:70]   Exempted are those who repent, believe, and lead a righteous life. GOD transforms their sins into credits.  GOD is Forgiver, Most Merciful.

[25:71]   Those who repent and lead a righteous life, GOD redeems them; a complete redemption.

[25:72]   They do not bear false witness. When they encounter vain talk, they ignore it.

[25:73]   When reminded of their Lord's revelations, they never react to them as if they were deaf and blind.

[25:74]   And they say, "Our Lord, let our spouses and children be a source of joy for us, and keep us in the forefront of the righteous."

[25:75]   These are the ones who attain Paradise in return for their steadfastness; they are received therein with joyous greetings and peace.

[25:76]   Eternally they abide therein; what a beautiful destiny; what a beautiful abode.

[25:77]   Say, "You attain value at my Lord only through your worship. But if you disbelieve, you incur the inevitable consequences."