The Qur'an
Translation to English by Muhammad Zafrullah Khan

Chapter 1
Al-Fatihah
revealed before Hijra
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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Ever Merciful.
All types of perfect praise belong to Allah alone,
the Lord of all the worlds,
Most Gracious, Ever Merciful,
Master of the Day of Judgment. (2-4)

Thee alone do we worship and Thee
alone do we implore for help.

Guide us along the straight path --
the path of those on whom Thou hast
bestowed Thy favours,
those who have not incurred Thy displeasure, and
those who have not gone astray. (5-7)

Chapter 2
Al-Baqarah
Revealed after Hijra
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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Ever Merciful.
I Am Allah, The All-Knowing.
This is the Perfect Book, free from all doubt; it is a guidance for the righteous, who believe in the unseen, observe Prayer, and spend out of whatsoever We have bestowed upon them; and who believe in that which has been revealed to thee, and in that which was revealed before thee, and have firm faith in that which has been foretold and is yet to come. It is these who are firmly grounded in the guidance that has come from their Lord, and it is these who shall prosper. Those who have disbelieved so that it is the same whether thou warn them or warn them not, will not believe. Allah has set a seal on their hearts and their ears, and over their eyes there is a covering. For them there is a great punishment. (2-8)
Of the people there are some who say: We believe in Allah and the Last Day; yet they do not believe at all. They seek to deceive Allah and those who believe, but in truth they deceive none save themselves; only they perceive it not. In their minds is a disease; Allah through the continuous manifestation of His Signs causes their disease to grow worse. For them there is a painful punishment because of their lying. (9-11)
When it is said to them: Create not disorder in the land; they retort: We are only seeking to promote peace. Take note: Most certainly, it is they who create disorder, but they realise it not. When it is said to them: Believe ye as other people have believed; they exclaim: Shall we also believe as the foolish ones have believed? Take note: Most certainly it is they who are foolish but they know it not. When they meet those who believe, they assert: We believe; but when they are in the company of their ringleaders they assure them: We are certainly with you, we were only mocking these believers. Allah will punish them for their mockery and will leave them to flounder on in their transgression. These are they who have rejected guidance and chosen error, but their traffic has brought them no gain, nor are they rightly guided.(12-17)
Their case is like that of a person who kindles a fire, and when it lights up all around him, Allah takes away their light and leaves them in manifold darknesses out of which they can see no way of deliverance. They are deaf, dumb and blind and cannot find their way back. Or, their case is like that of heavy rain pouring down from thick clouds, wherein there are manifold darknesses and thunder and lightning; they thrust their fingers into their ears to keep out the sound of the thunder-claps, being fearful of death, while Allah is sure to compass the ruin of the disbelievers. The lightning flash might well-nigh strike them blind; whenever it flashes they walk in its light, and when it is dark they stand still. If Allah so willed, He could destroy their hearing and their sight; surely Allah has the power to carry out all that He wills. (18-21)
O mankind, worship your Lord Who has created you and created those who were before you, that you may be shielded against all ill; Who has spread out the earth like a bed for you and has made the heaven like a canopy, and has caused water to come down from the clouds and has therewith brought forth provision for you in the shape of fruits. Do not, therefore, deliberately set up equals with Allah. If you are in doubt concerning that which We have sent down to Our servant, then produce a chapter like it and call upon your helpers beside Allah to help you out, if you are truthful. But if you do it not, and never shall you be able to do it, then guard against the Fire, whose fuel are men and stones, which is prepared for the disbelievers. (22-25)
Give glad tidings to those who believe and work righteousness, that for them there are Gardens beneath which rivers flow. Whenever they are provided with fruit therefrom, they will exclaim: This is what was given us before; and similar gifts will be bestowed upon them. They will have therein mates most pure, and therein will they abide. (26)
Allah disdains not the recital of anything, even as small as a gnat or smaller. Those who believe recognise it as truth from their Lord; while those who disbelieve mutter: What does Allah mean by such a recital? The truth is that many does Allah adjudge to be in error and many does He guide by means of the Quran, and none does He adjudge thereby to be erring save the disobedient ones, who break the covenant of Allah after having affirmed it, and cut asunder that which Allah has bidden to be joined, and create disorder in the land; it is these that are the losers. (27-28)
How can you disbelieve in Allah? You were without life and He gave you life, then He will cause you to die, then He will restore you to life and then to Him will you be made to return. He it is Who has created for your benefit all that is in the earth; then He turned towards the heavens and perfected them seven heavens. He has full knowledge of all things. (29-3O)
Call to mind, when thy Lord announced to the angels: I am about to place a vicegerent in the earth. They said: Wilt Thou then place there also such as will create disorder therein and shed blood, while we glorify Thee with Thy praise and extol Thy holiness? Whereupon He admonished them: I know that which you know not. He taught Adam the names of all His attributes, then He presented the manifestations of those attributes to the angels and asked them: Tell Me the names of these, if you are right. They answered: Holy art Thou! No knowledge have we save that which Thou hast taught us. Thou alone art the All-Knowing, the Possessor of Wisdom. He turned to Adam and commanded him: Adam, do thou inform them of the names of these. When Adam had told them the names, Allah said to the angels:
Did I not say to you: I know the secrets of the heavens and of the earth, and I know all that you disclose and all that you conceal? (31-34)
Call to mind, when We commanded the angels: Submit to Adam; they all submitted, but Iblis did not; he refused and was arrogant, being already one of the disbelievers. We commanded Adam: Dwell thou and thy wife in the garden, and eat plentifully therefrom wherever you will, but approach not this one tree, lest you be of the wrongdoers.
But Satan caused them both to slip from their stand of obedience by means of that tree, and thus drove them out of the state in which they were. Whereupon We decreed: Go forth, some of you are enemies of others, and for you there is in the earth a place of abode and provision for a time. Thereafter Adam learnt certain words of prayer from his Lord, and began to pray as he was taught. So He turned towards him with mercy; surely He is Oft-returning with compassion towards His creatures and is Ever Merciful. We decreed: Go forth hence, all of you, but remember that if there comes to you guidance from Me, then whoso follows My guidance, on them shall come no fear, nor shall they grieve; but such as shall disbelieve and reject Our Signs as false, these shall be the inmates of the Fire; therein shall they abide. (35-40)
Children of Israel, call to mind My favour which I bestowed upon you, and fulfil the covenant that you made with Me, I shall fulfil the covenant I made with you, and fear Me alone, I repeat, fear Me alone. Believe in the revelation that I have now sent down which fulfils the revelation that was sent down to you, and be not the first to disbelieve therein, and barter not My Signs for a paltry price, and seek protection with Me alone, I repeat, seek protection with Me alone. Confound not truth with falsehood nor hide the truth deliberately; and observe Prayer and pay the Zakat, and worship Allah whole heartedly, along with those who worship Him whole-heartedly. Do you, then, admonish others to do good and forget your own selves, while you read the Book -- the Torah. Will you not then understand? Seek Allah's help with steadfastness and Prayer; and this indeed is hard, except for the humble in spirit, who know for certain that they will meet their Lord. and that to Him will they return. (41-47)
Children of Israel, call to mind My favour which I bestowed upon you and that I exalted you above the peoples of the time; and be mindful of the day when no one shall serve as a substitute for another at all, nor shall any intercession be accepted on his behalf, nor shall ransom be taken from him, nor shall they be helped. Call to mind when We delivered you from Pharaoh's people, who subjected you to grievous torment, slaying your male children and sparing your female children; and in that there was a great trial for you from your Lord. Call to mind also when We held back the sea for you and delivered you and drowned Pharaoh's people, while you looked on. Call to mind also when We made Moses a promise extending over forty nights; then you took the calf for worship, wrongfully, in his absence. Even then We forgave you there after, that you might be grateful. Call to mind also when We gave Moses the Book, the Torah, and the Signs discriminating between truth and falsehood, that you might be rightly guided. (48-54)
Call to mind when Moses said to his people: O my people you have indeed wronged your souls by taking the calf for worship; so turn to your Maker and let each one of you slay the evil propensities of his mind; that course is best for you in the sight of your Maker. Then He turned towards you with compassion. Surely, He is Oft-returning with compassion and is Merciful. Call to mind also, when you said: Moses, we shall by no means put faith in what thou sayest until we see Allah face to face; then a grievous chastisement overtook you and you were witnesses thereof. Then after your downfall We raised you up again by strengthening your faith and multiplying your numbers, that you might be grateful. (55-57)
Then We caused the clouds to provide shade for you and sent down for you Manna and Salwa and announced: Eat of the good things We have provided for you. They wronged Us not by their disobedience; it was themselves that they wronged. Call to mind also, when We said: Enter ye this township and eat therefrom, wherever you will, freely; and enter its gate in submission, saying: We pray for the lightening of our burdens. We shall forgive you your sins and We shall bestow increase upon those who do good. Then out of a spirit of mischief the transgressors substituted something else in place of that which was told them; whereupon, We sent down upon the transgressors a punishment from heaven, because of their disobedience. (58-60)
Call to mind also when Moses prayed for water for his people, and We directed him: Strike that rock with your rod; and there gushed forth from it twelve springs, so that every tribe knew its drinking place. They were told: Eat and drink of what Allah has provided, and do not go about in the land creating disorder. Call to mind also when you said to Moses:
We cannot restrict ourselves to one kind of food; pray, then, to thy Lord for us that He bring forth for us of what the earth grows, of its herbs, cucumbers, wheat, lentils and onions. Allah rebuked them:
Would you change that which is better for that which is worse? If that is what you desire, go down into any town and there you will find what you demand. Thus were they smitten with abasement and penury, and they incurred the wrath of Allah because they rejected the Signs of Allah and would slay the Prophets unjustly, and this had resulted from their persisting in rebellion and transgression. (61-62)
Surely, of the Believers, the Jews, the Christians and the Sabians, those who truly believe in Allah and the Last Day and act righteously, shall have their reward with their Lord, and no fear shall come upon them nor shall they grieve. (63)
Call to mind, children of Israel, when We took a covenant from you and raised the Mount high above you, and said: Hold fast that which We have given you and bear its contents in mind that you may attain to righteousness. Yet you turned back thereafter; and had it not been for Allah's grace upon you and His mercy, you would surely have been of the losers. 'You have surely known thd end of those from amongst you who transgressed in the matter of the Sabbath, in consequence of which We condemned them: Be ye like apes, despised. Thus We made this event a lesson for their contemporaries and for those who came after and an admonition for the God-fearing. (64-67)
Call to mind also, when Moses said to his people: Allah commands you to slaughter a cow; and they exclaimed: Dost thou make a mockery of us? to which Moses retorted: I seek the protection of Allah that I should behave foolishly. Where upon, they temporised: Pray for us to thy Lord that He may make plain to us what sort of a cow it is. Moses told them: He says, it is a cow neither old nor young, full grown, of middle age. Now do what you are told. They came back with: Pray again for us to thy Lord that He explain to us what colour she is. Moses said: He says: It is a cow of dun colour, pure and rich in tone, which delights the beholders. But they persisted: Pray once more for us to thy Lord to make plain to us what she is, for all such cows appear to us alike; and if Allah please we shall indeed be guided. Moses answered: He says: It is a cow not broken in to plough the earth or water the tilth; one without blemish; of uniform colour. They said: Now have you given us correct particulars. Then they slaughtered her, though they would rather not have done it. (68-72)
Call to mind also when you claimed to have brought about the death of a Personage and then differed among yourselves concerning it, and Allah would bring to light that which you concealed. So We said: Test the crucial question by putting together other incidents relating to the affair and you will arrive at the truth. Thus does Allah plan to preserve alive those considered dead and shows you His Signs that you may understand. Thereafter your hearts became hardened and became like stones or even harder, for of stones there are some out of which gush forth streams, and there are some that cleave asunder and water flows out from them. Of the hearts also there are some that humble themselves before Allah for fear of Him. Allah is not at all unmindful of that which you do. (73-75)
Do you expect that the children of Israel will put faith in you, when a party of them are such that they hear the word of Allah, then pervert it after they have understood it, well knowing the consequences of their enormity? When they meet those who believe they say: We believe; and when they meet one another in private, they upbraid one another: You communicate to the believers that which Allah has unfolded to you. Do you not realise that they may thereby contend against you before your Lord? Are they not aware that Allah knows all that they conceal and that they disclose? Some of them are illiterate; they know not the Book, treating their own false notions as such, and follow only conjecture. Painful is the chastisement awaiting those who write the Book with their own hands, and then say: This is from Allah; to gain therewith a paltry sum; so for them is a painful chastisement for that which they write and a painful chastisement for that which they earn. (76-80)
They boast: The Fire shall not touch us except for a limited number of days. Ask them: Have you then taken a promise from Allah, in which case Allah will not go back on His promise, or, do you allege concerning Allah that of which you have no knowledge? Verily, those who do evil and are encompassed by their misdeeds, are the inmates of the Fire, therein shall they abide; but those who believe and act righteously are the dwellers of the Garden, therein shall they abide. (81-83)
Call to mind when We took a covenant from the children of Israel: You shall worship none save Allah, and shall behave kindly towards parents, and kindred and the orphans and the needy, and speak graciously to people and observe Prayer and pay the Zakat. Then you turned away in aversion except a small number of you. Call to mind also when We took a covenant from you: You shall not shed each other's blood, nor turn your people out of their homes; thus did you affirm and you have throughout borne witness to it. Yet you are a people who slay one another and turn out a section of your people from their homes, backing up their enemies against them, committing sin and transgression. Thereafter if they come to you as captives seeking your help you deem it meritorious to ransom them, while their turning out in the first place was unlawful for you. Do you, then, believe in a part of the Book and disbelieve in a part of it? For those of you, therefore, who do this, the penalty in this life is humiliation, and on the Day of Judgment they shall be driven to a most severe chastisement.
Surely, Allah is not unmindful of that which you do. These are they who have chosen the hither life in preference to the Hereafter. Their punishment shall not therefore be lightened, nor shall they be helped in any other way. (84-87)
Indeed We gave Moses the Book and caused a number of Messengers to follow after him; and to Jesus son of Mary, We gave manifest Signs and strengthened him with the Spirit of holiness. But as for you, was it not that whenever there came to you a Messenger with that which you desired not you behaved arrogantly and some you called liars and some you were after slaying? They have also said: Our hearts are wrapped up in covers. That is not so, but Allah has condemned them for their rebellion; thus little it is that they believe. So that when there came to them a Book from Allah fulfilling the prophecies contained in the Book which is with them and they used before that to pray to Allah for victory over the disbelievers yet when there came to them that which they recognised, they rejected it. Such disbelievers are under Allah's curse. Evil is that for which they have sold their souls, namely, that they should reject that which Allah has revealed, out of grudge that Allah should send down His grace on whomsoever of His servants He pleases. Thus they incurred wrath upon wrath, and for such disbelievers there is humiliating chastisement. When it is said to them: Believe ye in that which Allah has sent down; they retort: We do believe in that which has been sent down to us; and saying this they reject that which has been sent down after that; yet it has been proved to be the truth by fulfilling that which is with them. Ask them: If you did truly believe, why were you after slaying the Prophets of Allah before this? Moses came to you with manifest Signs, yet you took the calf for worship in his absence, because you were transgressors. (88-93)
Call to mind when We took a covenant from you and raised the Mount high above you and admonished you: Hold fast that which We have given you and obey; but those admonished said: We have heard but we shall not obey; and because of their disbelief their hearts were filled with love of the calf. Say to them: If you are believers, evil is indeed that which your faith enjoins on you. Say to them: If the abode of the Hereafter has been adjudged by Allah to be solely for you to the exclusion of all other people, then call for death upon whichever party of us adheres, to falsehood, if you are truthful in your assertion. But never will they pray for death in such terms, because of that which their own hands have wrought; and Allah knows the wrongdoers well. Thou shalt surely find them and some of those who set up partners with Allah, the most covetous of life, of all people. Every one of them desires that he may be granted a span extending over a thousand years, but his being granted a long life will not rescue him from his doom; Allah sees all that they do. (94-97)
Announce, O Prophet: Whoso bears enmity towards Gabriel -- because of his having caused to descend upon thy heart, by the command of Allah, this Book which fulfils that which precedes it and contains guidance and glad tidings for the believers -- whoso bears enmity towards Allah, His angels, His Messengers, Gabriel and Michael, then surely, Allah too is the enemy of such disbelievers. Indeed We have sent down to thee manifest Signs, and no one disbelieves, in them but the disobedient. (98-100)
Has it not been that every time they make a covenant, a party of them throws it aside? In truth most of them have no faith. Now when there has come to them a Messenger from Allah, fulfilling the Book which is with them, a party of people to whom the Book was given have thrown this Bbok of Allah behind their backs, as if they knew it not. They pursue the course which the rebellious ones followed in the reign of Solomon. It was not Solomon who disbelieved; it was the rebellious ones who disbelieved, teaching people falsehood and deception. They claim also to pursue that which was revealed to the two saintly ones in Babylon, Harut and Marut. But these two taught no one till they had warned: We are surely a trial from Allah, therefore, do not reject that which we set forth. So people learnt from them that by which they brought about discrimination between a man and his wife, but they harmed no one thereby except by the command of Allah. But these are seeking to learn that which shall do them harm and shall do them no good, and they have certainly known that he who trafficks therein, for him there is no share of good in the Hereafter. Surely, evil is that for which they have sold their souls; if they but knew. If they had believed and acted righteously, they would have found that Allah's recompense is best, had they but known. (101-104)
O ye who believe, say not to the Prophet ra'ina but say unzurna, and listen to him with attention. For the disbelievers there is a painful punishment. (105)
Those ones from among the People of the Book and from among those who associate partners with Allah, who have disbelieyed, desire not that any good may be sent down to you from your Lord. They forget that Allah chooses as the recipients of His mercy whomsoever He pleases. Allah is Lord of exceeding bounty. Whatever previous commandment We abrogate or cause to be forgotten, We reveal in this Quran one better or the like thereof:
Knowest thou not that Allah has full power to do all that He wills? Knowest thou not that to Allah belongs the Kingdom of the heavens and the earth, and that for you beside Allah there is no helper or protector? (106-108)
Would you question the Messenger sent to you as Moses was questioned before, forgetting that whoever takes disbelief in exchange for belief has undoubtedly gone astray from the right path? (109)
Many of the People of the Book, after the truth has become manifest to them, would desire out of sheer envy generated by their minds that, after you have believed, they could turn you into disbelievers. But do you forgive them and forbear, till Allah sends down His decrees. Surely, Allah has full power to do all that He wills. Observe Prayer, and pay the Zakat, therefore, for whatever good you send on before you for yourselves, you shall find it with Allah. Surely Allah sees all that you do. (110-111)
They claim that no one shall enter Paradise unless he is a Jew or a Christian. These are their vain desires. Ask them:
Produce your proof, if you are truthful. The truth is that whoever submits himself completely to the will of Allah and acts righteously, shall have his reward with his lord. No fear shall come upon such, nor shall they grieve. The Jews say the Christians base themselves on no firm truth, and the Christians say the Jews base themselves on no firm truth, yet both read the same Book. In like manner did those who had no knowledge say that which these say. Allah shall judge between them on the Day of Judgment concerning that wherein they disagree. (112-114)
Who can be guilty of a greater wrong than one who forbids Allah's name being glorified in His mosques and seeks to bring about their ruin? It behoves not such to enter therein except in fear of Allah. For them is disgrace in this world and a great chastisement in the next. To Allah belong the East and the West; so whithersoever you turn, there is the countenance of Allah. Surely Allah is vastly Bountiful, All-Knowing. (115-116)
They allege Allah has taken unto Himself a son. Holy is He! On the contrary, to Him belongs all that is in the heavens and the earth; to Him are all obedient. Originator of the heavens and the earth, when He determines the coming into being of a thing, He says concerning it: Be! and it is. (117-118)
Those who have no knowledge of Allah's purpose ask: Why does Allah not speak to us direct, or a Sign not come to us? Likewise said those before them, similar to their saying; their hearts are alike. Indeed have We made all varieties of Signs plain to the people who believe. (119)
Most surely have We sent thee with the Truth, a bearer of glad tidings and a warner; nor art thou answerable for the inmates of the Fire. The Jews will by no means be pleased with thee, nor the Christians, unless thou conform to their creed. Proclaim, therefore: Surely Allah's guidance is the only true guidance. If thou follow their evil desires after the knowledge that has come to thee, thou shalt have neither friend nor helper from Allah. Those whom We have given this Book follow it as it should be followed; it is these who have firm faith therein. Whoso believes not therein, these are they who are the losers. (120-122)
Children of Israel, call to mind My favour which I bestowed upon you and that I exalted you above the peoples of the time; and fear the day when no one shall serve as a substitute for another at all, nor shall any ransom be accepted from him, nor any intercession avail him, nor shall they be helped. (121-l24)
Call to mind also, when his Lord tried Abraham with certain commands which be fulfilled, and his Lord said: I shall make thee a leader of men. Abraham asked:
And from among my offspring also? to which his Lord replied: Indeed, but My covenant will not embrace the transgressors. Call to mind also, when We made the House a resort for mankind and a place of security, and commanded: Take ye the station of Abraham as a place for Prayer. We laid a strict command upon Abraham and Ishmael: Purify My House for those who perform the circuits and those who go into retreat and those who bow down and fall prostrate in Prayer. Call to mind also, when Abraham prayed: My Lord, make this city inviolate, and provide such of its dwellers as believe in Allah and the Last Day with all varieties of fruit. His Lord responded: So shall it be, and on him too who believes not I shall bestow benefits for a short while; then will I drive him to the punishment of the Fire, and an evil destination it is. Call to mind also when Abraham raised the foundations of the House and also Ishmael, and they prayed:
Our Lord, accept this offering from us, it is Thou Who art All-Hearing, All-Knowing. Our Lord, make us submissive to Thy will and pleasure and make of our offspring a people submissive to Thee. Teach us our appropriate ways of worship, and turn to us in mercy; for Thou art Oft-returning with compassion and Ever Merciful. Our Lord, raise up from among them a Messenger who may recite to them Thy Signs and teach them the Book and Wisdom and may purify them. Surely, Thou art the Mighty, the Wise. (125-130)
Thus who will turn away from the religion of Abraham but he who has ruined his soul? Of a surety, We exalted him in this world, and in the next also he will be among the righteous. When his Lord commanded him: Do thou submit thyself to Me, he responded: I submit myself to the Lord of the worlds. The same did Abraham enjoin upon his sons and also Jacob: Sons of mine, truly Allah has chosen this religion for you, so live every moment in submission to Allah, so that death whenever it comes should find you in a state of submission to Him. Were you present when Jacob faced the hour of death and he asked his sons: Who will you worship after I am gone? They answered: We will worship thy God and the God of thy fathers Abraham and Ishmael and Isaac, the One God, and to Him have we submitted ourselves. Those were a people that have passed away; for them was what they earned and for you is what you earn. You wlll not be answerable for what they did. (131-135)
The Jews and the Christians invite you:
Be ye Jews, or be ye Christians, that you may be rightly guided. Tell them: Nay, not so, let us agree to follow the religion of Abraham, who was ever inclined towards Allah and was not one of those who set up partners with Him. Affirm, We believe in Allah and in that which has been sent down to us and that which was sent down to Abraham and Ishmael and Isaac and Jaoob and his children and that which was given to Moses and Jesus, and that which was given to all other Prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between any of them -- and to Him do we wholly submit ourselves: Then, if they believe as you have believed, they are rightly guided, but if they turn back, then know that they are determined to create a schism. In that event Allah will surely guard thee against their mischief. He is the All-Hearing, the All-Knowlng. (136-138)
Proclaim: We adopt the Faith revealed by Allah, and who is better than Allah in teaching the Faith? Him alone do we worship. Ask them: Do you dispute with us concerning Allah, when He is our lord and also your Lord? We are responsible for that which we do and you are responsible for that which you do. To Him alone are we devoted. (139-140)
People of the Book, do you say that Abraham and Ishmael and Isaac and Jacob and his children were Jews, or, that they were Christians? Do you know better or Allah? Who can be more unjust than one who conceals such testimony as he has from Allah? Allah is not unaware of that which you do. Those were a people that have passed away; for them was what they earned and for you is what you earn. You will not be answerable for what they did. (141-142)
Foolish people will say: What has caused the Muslims to turn away from the Qibla towards which they faced when in Prayer? Tell them: To Allah belong the East and the West. He guides whom He pleases to the right path. By guiding you along the right path have We made you an exalted people, that you may be guardians over mankind and the Messenger may be a guardian over you. We did not appoint the Qibla which thou didst follow, except that We might distinguish him who follows the Messenger from him who turns away upon his heels, though this is indeed hard, save for those whom Allah has guided. Allah is not the One to let your faith go in vain; surely, Allah is Compassionate and Merciful towards the people. Surely, We see thy mind turning frequently to heaven; We shall, therefore, certainly make thee turn to the Qibla thou likest.
So, turn thy face now towards the Sacred Mosque; and wheresoever you be, turn your faces towards it. They to whom the Book has been given know that this is the truth from their Lord. Surely, Allah is not unmindful of that which they do. Even if thou shouldst produce every kind of Sign before those who have been given the Book, they would never follow thy Qibla, nor canst thou follow their Qibla; nor would some of them follow the Qibla of the others. If thou shouldst follow their desires after the knowledge that has been vouchsafed to thee, then thou shalt surely be of the transgressors. Those to whom We have given the Book recognise the truth of this even as they recognise their sons, but surely some of them conceal the truth deliberately. This truth is from thy Lord; be not, therefore, of those who doubt. (143-148)
Everyone has a goal which dominates him; do you, then, vie with one another in good works. Wherever you be, Allah will bring you all together. Surely, Allah has the power to do all that He wills. (149)
From wheresoever thou comest forth turn thy attention towards the Sacred Mosque; for that, indeed, is the truth from thy Lord. Allah is not unmindful of what you do. From wheresoever thou comest forth, turn thy attention towards the Sacred Mosque; and wheresoever you be, turn your full attention towards it, so that excepting such of your enemies who are bent upon transgression against you, the rest of the people be left with no valid cause of contention against you in this respect. So fear not the transgressors, but fear only Me. I have ordained this that I may perfect My favour unto you; and that you may be rightly guided.
Even as We have sent to you a Messenger from among yourselves who recites Our Signs to you, and purifies you, and teaches you the Book and Wisdom, and teaches you that which you did not know. Keep Me, therefore, constantly in mind, I shall keep you in mind, and be grateful to Me and be not unmindful of the bounties that I have bestowed upon you. O ye who believe, seek the help of Allah through steadfastness and Prayer; surely Allah is with the steadfast. Say not of those who are killed in the cause of Allah that they are dead; they are not dead but alive; only you perceive it not. We will surely try you with somewhat of fear and hunger, and loss of wealth and lives and fruits; then give glad tidings to the steadfast, who, when a misfortune overtakes them do not lose heart, but say: Surely, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return. It is these on whom are blessings from their Lord and mercy, and it is these who are rightly guided. (150-158)
Surely, Safa and Marwa are among the Signs of Allah; it is no sin for him who is on Pilgrimage to the House or performs 'Umra to ambulate between the two. Whoso does good voluntarily, beyond that which is prescribed, should know that Allah is Appreciating, All-Knowing. (159)
Those who conceal that which We have sent down comprising Signs and guidance after We have made it clear for the people in the Book, it is these who are cursed by Allah and by those who curse; but those who repent and amend and openly declare that which Allah has revealed, to them I turn with forgiveness, for I am Oft-Returning with compassion and Ever Merciful. (160-161)
As for those who have disbelieved and die while they are disbelievers, on them shall be the curse of Allah and of angels and of men all together; they shall continue under it. Their punishment shall not be lightened nor shall they be granted respite. Your God is One God; there is no god but He, Ever Gracious, Most Merciful. (162-164)
In the creation of the heavens and the earth and in the alternation of the night and the day, and in the vessels that sail in the sea carrying that which profits people, and in the water that Allah sends down from the clouds and quickens there -- with the earth after its death and scatters therein all kinds of beasts, and in the courses of the winds, and the clouds pressed into service between the heaven and the earth, are indeed Signs for a people who understand. (165)
Some people adopt objects of worship other than Allah and love them as they should love Allah, but those who believe love Allah most. Those who are guilty of such transgression, if they could perceive now the hour when they shall find themselves face to face with the punishment, they would realise that all power belongs to Allah and that Allah is severe in punishment; in the hour in which they shall witness that, those who were followed shall disown their followers in the face of the punishment and all their avenues of escape shall be cut off. At that hour, those who followed will say: If we could only return to the world, we would disown them as they have disowned us. Thus will Allah apprise them that the end of all their striving is only a bundle of regrets and that they will not find a way of deliverance from the Fire. (166-168)
O mankind, eat of that which is lawful and wholesome in the earth; and do not follow in the footsteps of Satan; surely, he is your declared enemy. (169)
He enjoins upon you only that which is vicious and foul and that you should say concerning Allah falsely that which you know not. When it is said to them: Follow that which Allah has sent down; their response is: Indeed not. We shall follow in the way of our fathers. But what if their fathers had no sense and followed not the right path? The case of those who disbelieve is like that of one who calls out to an animal which pays heed only to the sound of the voice, without comprehending its import. They are deaf, dumb and blind and are not able to understand. (170-172)
O ye who believe, eat of the lawful and wholesome things We have provided for you, and render thanks to Allah, if truly it is He Whom you worship. He has made unlawful for you only that which has died, and blood and the flesh of swine, and that on which the name of any other than Allah has been invoked. But he who is driven by extreme need to partake of any of them, not being defiant of the law nor exceeding the limit of his need, it shall be no sin for him. Surely, Allah is most Forgiving, Merciful. Those who conceal that which Allah has sent down of the Book and take in exchange for it a paltry price, only fill their bellics with fire. Allah will not speak to them on the Day of Judgment, nor will He purify them; and for them is a grievous punishment. These are they who have chosen error rather than guidance and punishment rather than forgiveness. How great is their endurance of the Fire! They will find themselves in this predicament because Allah has sent down the Book comprising the Truth; and those who disagree concerning the Book are, surely, far gone in enmity. (173-177)
Righteousness is not that you turn your faces to the East or the West; but truly righteous are those who believe in Allah and the Last Day and the angels and the Book and the Prophets, and spend their wealth, for love of Him, on the kindred and the orphans and the needy and the wayfarer and those who ask, and for procuring the freedom of captives; and who observe Prayer and pay the Zakat; and whenever they make a promise carry it out, and are steadfast in adversity and under affliction and in battle. It is these who have proved faithful and it is these who are righteous. (178)
O ye who believe, equitable retribution in the matter of the slain is prescribed for you: exact it from the freeman if he is the offender, from the slave if he is the offender, from the woman if she is the offender. If the offender is granted some remission by the heir of the slain person, the agreed penalty should be equitably exacted and should be handsomely discharged. This is an alleviation from your Lord and a mercy. Whoso transgresses thereafter, for him there is a grievous chastisement. There is safeguarding of life for you in the law of retribution, O men of understanding, that you may have security. (179-180)
When death approaches any of you who is a person of substance it is incumbent on him, as an obligation laid on those who fear Allah, that he should leave directions for his parents and near relations to act with fairness. Those who vary these directions after having heard them, the sin thereof shall surely lie on such. Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. But whoso apprehends partiality or wrong in consequence of such directions of the deceased it shall be no sin on him to bring about reconciliation between the parties affected thereby. Surely, Allah is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. (181-183)
O ye who believe, fasting is prescribed for you during a fixed number of days, as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may safeguard yourselves against moral and spiritual ills. But whoso from among you should be ailing, not being permanently incapacitated, or should be on a journey, shall complete the reckoning by fasting on a corresponding number of other days; and for those who find fasting a strain hard to bear is an expiation, the feeding of a poor person, if they can afford it. Whoso carries through a good work with eager obedience, it is the better for him. If you had knowledge you would realise that it is better for you that you should fast. The month of Ramadhan is the month in which the Quran began to be revealed, the Book which comprises guidance for mankind and clear proofs of guidance and divine Signs which discriminate between truth and falsehood. Therefore, he who witnesses this month, being stationary and in health, should fast through it. But whoso is ailing, not being permanently incapacitated, or is on a journey, should complete the reckoning by fasting on a corresponding number of other days. Allah desires ease for you and desires not hardship for you; He has granted you this facility so that you should encounter no hardship in completing the reckoning, and that you may exalt Allah for His having guided you and that you may be grateful to Him. (184-186)
When My servants enquire from thee concerning Me, O Prophet, tell them I am close. I respond to the call of the supplicant when he calls on Me. So should they respond to Me and have firm faith in Me, that they may be rightly guided. (187)
It is made lawful for you to consort with your wives during the nights of the fast. They are as a garment for you and you are as a garment for them. Allah knows that you were being unjust to yourselves, wherefore He has turned to you with mercy and has corrected your error. So consort with them now without compunction and seek that which Allah has ordained for you, and eat and drink till the break of dawn begins to manifest itself. From then on, complete the fast till nightfall. But do not consort with your wives during the period when you are in retreat in the mosques. These are the limits prescribed by Allah, so approach them not. Thus does Allah expound His commandments to the people, so that they may safeguard themselves against evil. (188)
Do not devour each other's wealth among yourselves through deceit and falsehood, nor offer your wealth as a bribe to the authorities that you may deliberately devour a part of other people's wealth through injustice. (189)
They ask thee, O Prophet, concerning the phases of the moon. Tell them: These alternations are a means of determining time for regulation of people's affairs and for the Pilgrimage. Once you set forth for the Pilgrimage and then have occasion to revisit your homes, it is no part of righteousness that you should enter them from the backs thereof; indeed truly righteous is he who guards himself against evil out of fear of Allah. Enter your houses by the doors thereof, and be mindful of your duty to Allah that you may prosper. (190)
Fight in the cause of Allah against those who fight against you, but transgress not. Surely, Allah loves not the transgressors. Once they start the fighting, kill them wherever you meet them, and drive them out from where they have driven you out; for aggression is more heinous than killing. But fight them not in the proximity of the Sacred Mosque unless they fight you there-in; should they fight you even there, then fight them: such is the requital of these disbelievers. Then if they desist, surely Allah is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. Fight them until all aggression ceases and religion is professed or the pleasure of Allah alone. If they desist, then be mindful that no retaliation is permissible except against the aggressors. (191-194)
The violation of a sacred month may be retaliated in a sacred month, for the law of retaliation applies in respect of all sacred things. Thus whoso transgresses against you, you may exact retribution from him in proportion to his transgression and be mindful of your obligations to Allah, and remember that Allah is with those who are mindful of their obligations to Him. (195)
Spend yourselves and your belongings in the cause of Allah and do not push yourselves into ruin with your own hands, and be benevolent, surely Allah loves the benevolent. (196)
Perform the Hajj and the Umra for winning the pleasure of Allah: but if you are hindered from doing so, then make whatever offering is easily available and do not shave your heads until the offering reaches its appointed place. If any of you should have to shave his head before that time because of illness or of some ailment of the head, he should make an expiation by way of fasting or almsgiving or a sacrifloe. When there is no longer any hindrance, then he who would avail himself of the Umra together with the Hajj should make whatever offering is easily available. Such of you whose families do not reside near the Sacred Mosque, and who cannot find an offering should fast three days during the Pilgrimage, and seven days when they return home; thus completing ten. Fear Allah and be mindful that Allah's chastisement is severe. The months of Hajj are well known. For him who determines to perform the Pilgrimage therein, there is to be no loose talk, nor any trangression nor any contention during the Pilgrimage. Whatever of good you do, Allah will recognise its value. Furnish yourselves with necessary provisions; surely, the best provision is righteousness. Be ever mindful of your obligations to Me, O ye who possess understanding. It is no sin for you to seek any of the bounties of your Lord during the days of the Pilgrimage. When you return from Arafat, remember Allah at Mash'aral-Haram, and remember Him as He has guided you. Before this you were surely misguided. Thereafter, proceed as people have been proceeding, and seek forgiveness from Allah; surely Allah is Most-Forgiving, Ever Merciful. On completing the acts of worship prescribed for you, celebrate the praises of Allah as eagerly as you used to celebrate the praises of your forefathers, or even with greater eagerness. There are some who keep supplicating: Lord, grant us of the bounties of this world; these have no portion in the Hereafter. (197-201)
There are others who pray: Lord, grant us the best in this world as well as the best in the world to come and safeguard us against the torment of the Fire. It is these for whom there will be a goodly recompense because of that which they have earned. Allah is Swift at reckoning. Remember Allah during the appointed number of days; but if any should be pressed and leave in two days' time it shall be no sin for him, and if any should linger it shall be no sin for him, so long as each is inspired by the spirit of righteousness. So be mindful of your obligations to Allah, and know that you shall all be brought together before Him. (202-204)
Of the people there are some whose talk on the affairs of this life would please thee, and who would call Allah to witness as to the sincerity of that which is in their minds, yet they are the most cantankerous contenders. When they attain to authority, they run about in the land to create disorder and destroy the tilth and the young; and Allah loves not disorder. When it is said to them: Be mindful of your duty to Allah; self esteem incites them to further misconduct. For such as these hell is a sufficiency, and an evil resting place it is. Also of the people there are those who dedicate themselves to seeking the pleasure of Allah; and Allah is Most Compassionate towards such devoted servants. O ye who believe, enter wholly into submission and follow not in the footsteps of Satan; surely, he is your declared enemy. But, if, despite the clear Signs that have come to you, you were to slip, then know that Allah is Mighty, Wise. Those others, what do they wait for? That Allah should come to them in the coverings of the clouds and the angels also, and that the affair be settled out of hand? To Allah are all affairs returned. (205-211)
Enquire from the children of Israel how many a clear Sign did We give them? Then whoso exchanges the bounty of Allah, after having received it and recognised its value, for something inferior, must realise that the chastisement of Allah is severe. The hither life is made to appear attractive to those who are disdainful of the bounties of Allah: they scoff at those who believe. But those who are mindful of their duty to Allah shall be superior in rank to them on the Day of Judgment. Allah bestows His bounties on whomsoever He pleases without measure. (212-213)
Mankind were of one persuasion, then they developed differences, so Allah raised Prophets as bearers of good tidings and as warners, and sent down with them the Book comprising the Truth, that He might judge between the people on that wherein they differed. Then those very people to whom it was given differed about the Book, after clear Signs had come to them, out of insolence and envy of one another. Whereupon, Allah guided by His command those who believed to the Truth in regard to which the others had differed. Allah guides whomsoever He pleases to the right path. (214)
Do you reckon that you will enter Paradise while you have not yet been subjected to the like of that to which those were subjected who have passed away before you? They were afflicted with indigence and adversity and were sorely tried, so that the Messenger sent to them and those who believed along with him should beseech: When will succour arrive from Allah? Yea, surely, at such times the succour of Allah is nigh. (215)
They ask thee what shall they spend? Tell them: Of pure and abundant wealth that which you spend is, in the first instance, for parents, near relations, orphans, the needy and the wayfarer. Whatever good you do, surely Allah knows it well. (216)
Fighting is ordained for you, while it is repugnant to you. It may be that you dislike a thing which is good for you, and it may also be that you prefer a thing and it may be the worse for you. Allah knows all and you know not. They enquire from thee about fighting in the Sacred Month. Say to them: Fighting in it is a great evil; but to hinder people from the way of Allah and to deny Him and to profane the sanctity of the Sacred Mosque, and to turn out its people therefrom is a much greater evil in the sight of Allah; and disorder is a worse evil than killing. They will not stop fighting you until they turn you back from your Faith, if they can. The works of those from among you who turn back from their Faith and die in a state of disbelief shall be vain in this world and the next. These are the inmates of the Fire, therein shall they abide. Those who have believed and have emigrated, and have striven hard in the cause of Allah, are those who hope for Allah's mercy. Allah is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. (217-219)
They ask thee concerning liquor and gambling. Tell them: There is great harm in both and also some benefit for people, but their harm is greater than their benefit. They also ask thee what shall they spend. Tell them: Whatever is spare. Thus does Allah make His commandments clear to you that you may reflect upon this world and the next. (220)
They ask thee concerning orphans. Tell them: The promotion of their welfare is very meritorious. There is no harm in your living together with them, for they are your brethren, and Allah well knows him who seeks to promote their welfare and also him who seeks to do them harm. If Allah had so willed, He would have put you to hardship. Surely, Allah is Mighty, Wise. (221)
Marry not idolatrous women till after they have believed; surely a believing bondwoman would make a better wife than an idolatress, however pleasing she may appear to you. Nor give believing women in marriage to idolaters till after they have believed; surely a believing bondman would make a better husband than an idolater, however pleasing he may appear to you. These invite to the Fire and Allah invites to Paradise and forgiveness by His command. He makes His Signs clear to the people that they may take heed. (222)
They enquire from thee as to consorting with their wives during their monthly courses. Tell them: It is harmful, so keep away from women during their monthly courses and do not consort with them until they are clean. But when they have washed themselves clean, consort with them as Allah has commanded you. Indeed Allah loves those who turn to Him often, and Allah loves those who are clean and pure. Your wives are as a tilth for you, so approach your tilth as you like and lay up a store of good for yourselves. Be mindful of your duty to Allah, and be sure you shall meet Him. Give glad tidings concerning that day to the believers. (223-224)
Use not Allah's name for your vain oaths, making them an excuse or refraining from doing good and working righteousness and promoting public welfare. Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. Allah will not call you to account for such of your oaths as are vain, but will call you to account for the evil you have deliberately assented to. Allah is Most Forgiving, Forbearing. For those who vow abstinence from their wives, the maximum period for making up their minds is four months; then, if they revert towards conciliation, surely, Allah is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful; and if they decide upon divorce, Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. (225-228)
Divorced women shall wait, concerning themselves, for the space of three courses. It is not lawful for them to conceal what Allah may have created in their wombs, if they believe in Allah and the Last Day. If their husbands should desire reconciliation during this period, they would have the stronger right to the continuation of the marriage than that it should be irrevocably dissolved. In such case the wives have rights corresponding to those which the husbands have, in equitable reciprocity, though, in certain situations men would have the final word and would thus enjoy a preference. Allah is Mighty, Wise. (229)
Revocable divorce can only be pronounced twice; whereafter there should be reconciliation in approved form or final separation with beneficence. It is not lawful for you to take away anything of that which you have given your wives, unless the husband and wife should be afraid that they would not be able to observe the limits prescribed by Allah. In such case there will be no sin on either of them in respect of that which the wife may surrender by way of compromise. These are the limits prescribed by Allah, so transgress them not; whoso transgresses the limits prescribed by Allah, it is they that are the wrongdoers. Should the husband divorce the wife a third time, then she would not be lawful for him thereafter, except in case she should marry another husband and he too should divorce her. Should this happen, it would be no sin for them to return to each other, provided they are sure they would be able to observe the limits prescribed by Allah. These are the limits prescribed by Allah which He makes clear to the people who possess knowledge. In the case of a revocable divorce, when the end of the appointed period of waiting approaches, there should be reconciliation in approved form or final separation in approved form but do not hold back such women to impose hardship upon them. Whoso does that, surely wrongs his own self. Do not bring the commandments of Allah into contempt and keep in mind the favour that Allah has bestowed upon you and that which He has sent down to you of the Book and Wisdom, whereby He exhorts you. Be mindful of your duty to Allah and be sure that Allah knows all things well. When you divorce your wives and they reach the end of their waiting period and the divorce becomes irrevocable, do not hinder them from marrying their chosen husbands, if they agree between themselves in an approved manner. This is an admonition for everyone of you who believes in Allah and the Last Day: it is most blessed for you and purest Allah knows and you know not. (230-233)
In cases of divorce, mothers shall give suck to their children for two whole years, where it is desired to complete the suckling, and the father of the child shall be responsible for the maintenance of the mother during that period, according to usage. No one shall be burdened beyond his capacity. No mother shall be made to suffer on account of her child, and no father shall be made to suffer on account of his child, and the same is the obligation of the heir. If both should agree by mutual consultation and consent upon weaning the child, there shall be no blame on them. Should you desire to engage a wet-nurse for your children, there shall be no blame on you, provided you hand over what you have agreed to pay, in a fair manner. Be mindful of your duty to Allah and be sure that Allah sees what you do. (234)
Women who survive their husbands shall wait concerning themselves for four months and ten days, and when they arrive at the end of that period there shall be no sin for you in anything that they do with regard to themselves according to what is fair. Allah is aware of what you do. There shall be no blame on you in hinting at a proposal of marriage to divorced or widowed women or in contemplating the possibility in your minds. Allah knows that you will think of them in that connection; but do not enter into any secret engagement with them, beyond conveying some indication to them of your inclination. Do not, however, resolve on the marriage tie until after the expiry of the period of waiting. Be sure Allah knows what is in your minds, so beware of it. Know also that Allah is Most Forgiving, Forbearing. (235-236)
It will be no sin for you, if need arises, to divorce women whom you have not even touched, or for whom no definite dower has been fixed. In such case, make provision for them -- the rich man according to his means and the poor man according to his means -- a provision in a becoming manner. This is an obligation binding upon the virtuous. If you divorce them before you have touched them, but you have fixed a dower for them, then take over to them half of that which you have fixed, unless they should remit it or the guardian for the marriage should remit it, or unless the husband should voluntarily decide to pay a sum in excess of the half. That you should remit or should pay a larger sum, as the case may be, would be closer to righteousness. Do not neglect any chance of behaving benevolently towards each other. Surely, Allah sees what you do. (237-238)
Be watchful over Prayers, particularly over the Prayer the hour of which approaches when you are pre-occupied, and stand before Allah in submissive devotion. Should you be in a state of fear, then observe Prayer on foot or riding, as the case may be; then when you feel secure, remember Allah as He has taught you that which you knew not. (239-240)
Those of you who die leaving them surviving widows shall bequeath to their widows provision for a year, without being turned out. Should they depart on their own, after the expiry of the period of waiting, there shall be no blame upon you in regard to any proper thing which they do concerning themselves. Allah is Mighty, Wise. For divorced women also there shall be provision according to what is fair. This is an obligation binding on the righteous. Thus does Allah make His commandments clear to you that you may understand. (24l-243)
Knowest thou not of those who went forth from their homes in their thousands, fearing death? Allah said to them: Be you as the dead. Thereafter He bestowed life upon them. Surely, Allah is Bountiful towards people, but most people are not grateful. (244)
Fight in the cause of Allah and know that Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. Is there any who would set aside a goodly portion of his wealth for Allah that He may multiply it for him manifold? Allah does, indeed, receive of the wealth of His servants and multiply it and to Him shall you be made to return. (245-246)
Knowest thou not of the chiefs of the children of Israel, who came after Moses, when they said to a Prophet of theirs:
Appoint for us a king that we may fight in the cause of Allah, under his command. He said to them: Perchance you may not fight, if fighting is prescribed for you. They said: Wherefore would we hold back from fighting in the cause of Allah, when we have been driven forth from our homes and our children. But when fighting was prescribed for them, they turned back, except a small number of them. Allah knows the wrongdoers well. Their Prophet said to them: Allah has appointed for you Talut as a king. They demurred, saying: How can he have sovereignty over us while we are better entitled to sovereignty than he, and he has not even been granted abundance of wealth? He answered: Surely Allah has granted him superiority over you and has given him a large portion of knowledge and strength. Allah bestows sovereignty upon whom He pleases; Allah is Lord of vast bounty, All-Knowing. Their Prophet added: Another proof of his sovereignty is that there shall come to you the casket borne by angels wherein there will be tranquillity from your Lord and a legacy of that which was left by the family of Moses and the family of Aaron. Surely, in this there is a Sign for you if you are believers. (247-249)
When Talut set out with his forces, he announced: Surely, Allah will put you to the test in respect of a river; he who drinks his fill therefrom will not remain with me; and he who tastes it not will of a surety continue with me. There will, however, be no blame upon him who sips only a handful from it. But, except a few of them, they all drank of it. When he and those who believed along with him had crossed it, they said: We have no strength today to oppose Jalut and his forces. Those who were certain that they would one day meet Allah said: Many a small party has triumphed over a large party by Allah's command; Allah is indeed with the steadfast. When they issued forth to encounter Jalut and his forces, they prayed: Lord grant us steadfastness and make our steps firm in the battlefield and help us against the disbelieving people. The issue was joined and they routed the enemy by the command of Allah. (250-251)
When his time came David slew the Jalut of his time, and Allah bestowed upon him sovereignty and wisdom and taught him of what He pleased. If Allah were not to repel a section of mankind by another, the earth would be filled with disorder; but Allah is full of bounty towards all peoples. (252)
These are Signs of Allah; We recite them unto thee with truth. Surely, thou art one of the Messengers. Of these Messengers some have We exalted above others; among them there are those to whom Allah spoke and revealed to them a Law; and some of them He only exalted in rank. We gave Jesus son of Mary clear proofs and strengthened him with the Spirit of holiness. Had Allah so willed, those who came after them would not have fought with one another after clear Signs had come to them, but they disagreed nevertheless. Some of them believed and some of them disbelieved. Had Allah so willed, they would not have fought with one another; but Allah does what He wills. (253-254)
O ye who believe, spend out of whatever We have bestowed on you before the day comes wherein there will be no buying and selling, nor friendship, nor intercession. Those who reject this admonition are the ones who wrong themselves. (255)
Allah is He save Whom none is worthy of worship, the Ever-Living, the Self-Subsisting and All-Sustaining. Slumber seizes Him not, nor sleep. To Him belongs whatsoever is in the heavens and whatsoever is in the earth. Who is he that dare intercede with Him, except by His permission? He knows all that is before them and all that is behind them, and they cannot compass aught of His knowledge, except that which He pleases. His knowledge extends over the heavens and the earth, and the care of them wearies Him not. He is the Most High, the Most Great. (256)
There shall be no compulsion in religion, for guidance and error have been clearly distinguished; then whoso rejects those who hinder people from following the right path and believes in Allah, has surely taken hold of a strong and dependable support which will never break. Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. (257)
Allah is the Friend of those who believe: He brings them out of every kind of darkness into light. Those who disbelieve, their friends are those who hinder people from following the right path; they bring them out of light into every kind of darkness. These are the inmates of the Fire; therein shall they abide. (258)
Knowest thou not of him who, because Allah had bestowed sovereignty upon him, began to dispute with Abraham concerning his Lord. When Abraham said to him: My Lord is He who bestows life and causes death; he countered with: I too grant life and inflict death. Said Abraham: Well, then, Allah causes the sun to rise in the East, do thou cause it to rise in the West. Thus the infidel was confounded. Indeed Allah guides not the unjust to success. (259)
Or knowest thou one like him who passed by a town which was in ruin, its roofs all fallen down? Whereupon he exclaimed: When will Allah restore it after its ruin? Thereupon Allah caused him to sleep and to dream that he had died and risen after a hundred years. When he woke up, Allah asked him: How long hast thou passed in that state? He answered:
I remained thus for a day or part of a day. Allah said: That is so, but thou hast witnessed developments over a hundred years. Now look at thy provision for food and for drink, they have not deteriorated, and look at thy donkey likewise. We have made thee a Sign unto people. Observe how We adjust and set the bones and then clothe them with flesh. When all became clear to him, he said: I know that Allah has the power to do all that He wills. (260)
Call to mind when Abraham supplicated: Lord, show me how dost Thou bring the dead to life. Allah said: Hast thou not believed? Said Abraham; Indeed, I have believed; but I have asked this question that my mind may be comforted. Said Allah: Well, then, take four birds and train them to be attached to thee. Thereafter put each one of them on a hillock. Then call them; they will hasten towards thee. Know then that Allah is Mighty, Wise. (261)
The case of those who spend their wealth in the cause of Allah is like that of a grain of corn, which grows seven ears, and in each ear there are a hundred grains. Allah multiplies it even more for whomsoever He pleases. Allah is Lord of vast bounty, All-Knowing. Those who spend their wealth In the cause of Allah, then follow not up that which they have spent with reproaches or injury, have their reward with their Lord. They shall have no fear, nor shall they grieve. A kind word and forgiveness are better than charity followed by injury. Allah is Self-Sufficient, Forbearing. (262-264)
O ye who believe, render not vain your alms by reproaches or injury, like one who spends his wealth to be seen of people and believes not in Allah and the Last Day. His case is like that of a smooth rock covered with earth, on which heavy rain falls and washes it clean, leaving it bare and hard. Such people shall not secure for themselves aught of that which they earn. Allah guides not the disbelieving people. The case of those who spend their wealth to seek the pleasure of Allah and to gain inner strength is like that of a garden on elevated ground, on which heavy rain falls, so that it brings forth its fruit twofold. Even if heavy rain does not fall on it, a light shower suffices. Allah sees well that which you do. Would any of you desire that having a garden of date-palms and vines with streams flowing beneath it, which brings forth for him all kinds of fruits, he should be stricken with old age while his children are small, and a fiery whirlwind should sweep through his garden consuming it all? Thus does Allah make His Signs clear to you that you may reflect. (265-267)
O ye who believe, spend of the good things that you have earned, and of that which We produce for you from the earth; and do not select out of it for charity that which is useless, when you would not yourselves accept the like of it, save with reluctance. Know that Allah is Self-Sufficient, Worthy of Highest Praise. Satan threatens you with poverty and enjoins upon you that which is indecent, whereas Allah promises you forgiveness from Himself and bounty. Allah is the Lord of vast bounty, All-Knowing. He grants wisdom to whom He pleases, and whoever is granted wisdom has indeed been granted abundant good and none takes heed except those endowed with understanding. (268-270)
Whatsoever you spend in the cause of Allah or vow as an offering, surely Allah knows it well, but the wrongdoers shall have no helpers. If you give alms openly that is indeed good, but if you give them secretly to the poor, it is even better for your own selves; thereby will He remove from you many of your ills. Allah is aware of what you do. (271-272)
Thou art not charged with guiding them to the right path; it is Allah Who guides whomsoever He pleases. Whatever of your pure wealth you spend in the cause of Allah, and undoubtedly you spend it to seek the favour of Allah, its benefit accrues to yourselves. Whatever of your pure wealth you spend, it shall be paid back to you in full and you shall not be wronged. These alms are for the deserving poor who are detained in the cause of Allah and are unable to move about in the land. Those who lack knowledge of their circumstances consider them to be free from want because of their abstaining from soliciting alms. They can be known from their appearance. They do not importune people. Whatever of your pure wealth you spend, Allah has full knowledge thereof. Those who spend their wealth in the cause of Allah by night and day, secretly and openly, have their reward with their Lord; on them shall come no fear, nor shall they grieve. (273-275)
Those who devour interest stand like one whom Satan has smitten with insanity. That is so because they keep saying: The business of buying and selling is also like lending money on interest; whereas Allah has made buying and selling lawful and has made the taking of interest unlawful. Remember, therefore, that he who desists because of the admonition that has come to him from his Lord, may retain what he has received in the past; and his affair is committed to Allah. But those who revert to the practice, they are the inmates of the Fire; therein shall they abide. (276)
Allah will wipe out interest and will foster charity. Allah loves not confirmed disbelievers and arch-sinners. Those who believe and act righteously and observe Prayer and pay the Zakat, shall have their reward with their Lord. No fear shall come on them, nor shall they grieve. O Ye who believe, be mindful of your duty to Allah and relinquish your claim to what remains of interest, if you are truly believers. But if you do it not, then beware of war from the side of Allah and His Messenger. If, however, you desist you will still have your capital sums; thus you will commit no wrong, nor suffer any wrong yourselves. Should a debtor be in straitened circumstances, then grant him respite, in respect of the repayment of the capital sum, till a time of ease. But if, in such a case, you remit the capital sum also as charity, it will be the better for you, if you only knew. Be ever mindful of the day when you shall be made to return to Allah; -- when every one shall be paid in full that which he has earned and they shall not be wronged. (277-282)
O ye who believe, when you take a loan, one from another, for a term, reduce the transaction to writing; and let a scribe record it in your presence faithfully. No scribe should refuse to set it down in writing, because Allah has taught him, so he should write. Let him who undertakes the liability dictate the terms of the contract, and in so doing let him be mindful of his duty to Allah, his Lord, and not keep back anything therefrom. If he who undertakes the liability should be of defective intelligence, or a minor, or unable to dictate, then let his guardian dictate faithfully. Procure two witnesses from among your men; and if two men be not available, then one man and two women, of such as you like as witnesses, so that if either of the two women should be in danger of forgetting, the other may refresh her memory.
The witnesses should not refuse to testify when they are called upon to do so. Whether the transaction be large or small do not be disinclined to write it down, together with the appointed time of payment. This is more equitable in the sight of Allah, makes testimony surer and is more likely to exclude doubts. In case of ready transactions when goods and money pass from hand to hand, it shall be no sin for you not to reduce them to writing. Have witnesses when you buy or sell. Let no harm befall a scribe or a witness, and if you do such a thing it shall certainly be disobedience on your part. Be ever mindful of your duty to Allah. Allah grants you knowledge and Allah knows all things well. Should you be on a journey and not find a scribe, the alternative is a pledge with possession. When one of you entrusts something to another, then let him who is entrusted render back his trust when he is called upon to do so, and let him be mindful of his duty to Allah, his Lord. Conceal not testimony; whoever conceals it is one whose heart is certainly sinful. Remember Allah knows well all that you do. (283-284)
To Allah belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth. Whether you disclose that which is in your minds or keep it hidden, Allah will call you to account for it; then will He forgive whomsoever He wills and punish whomsoever He wills. Allah has the power to do all that He wills. The Messenger has full faith in that which has been sent down to him from his Lord and so have the believers: all of them believe in Allah, and in His angels, and in His Books and in His Messengers, affirming: We make no distinction between any of His Messengers; we have heard Allah's command and we have submitted ourselves wholly to Him. They supplicate: We implore Thy forgiveness, Lord, and to Thee is our return. Allah requires not of any one that which is beyond his capacity; each shall have the benefit of the good he does and shall suffer the consequences of the ill he works. Supplicate, therefore: Lord, take us not to task if we forget or fall into error; Lord, place us not under responsibility in the manner of those whom Thou didst place under responsibility before us; Lord, burden us not with that which we have not the strength to bear; overlook our defaults and grant us forgiveness and have mercy on us; Thou art our Master, so grant us succour against those who reject Thee. (285-287)

Chapter 3
Al-Imran
Revealed after Hijra
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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Ever Merciful.
I Am Allah, The All-Knowing. (2)
Allah is He beside Whom there is none worthy of worship, the Living, the Self-Subsisting, All-Sustaining. (3)
He has sent down to thee the Book, comprising the truth, which fulfils the revelation that preceded it; and He sent down the Torah and the Gospel before this as a guidance for the people; and He has sent down the Criterion. Those who have rejected the Signs of Allah shall certainly receive a severe punishment. Allah is Mighty, Possessor of the power to requite. Nothing is hidden from Allah, in the earth or in the heaven. He it is Who fashions you in the wombs as He wills; there is none worthy of worship beside Him, the Mighty, the Wise. (4-7)
He it is Who has sent down to thee the Book; in it there are verses that are fundamental -- they are the basis of the Book -- and there are others which are allegoric. Wherefore, those in whose hearts is perversity pursue such thereof as are allegoric seeking to create confusion and to pervert their meaning, and none knows the meaning thereof except Allah and those who are firmly grounded in knowledge; these last affirm: We believe in it, all of it is from our Lord (and, indeed, none takes heed except those gifted with understanding); Lord, let not our hearts become perverse after Thou hast guided us; and bestow upon us mercy from Thyself, surely Thou art the Great Bestower.
Our Lord, Thou wilt certainly assemble mankind together on the Day concernmg which there is no doubt. Surely, Allah does not contravene His promise. (8-10)
The possessions and the children of those who disbelieve shall not avail them at all against Allah; it is they that are the fuel of the Fire. Their case is like that of the people of Pharaoh and those before them; they rejected Our Signs; so Allah seized them because of their sins. Allah's chastisement is severe. Warn those who disbelieve: You shall surely be vanquished and gathered unto hell; and an evil place of rest it is. (11-13)
Certainly there was for you a Sign in the two parties that encountered each other, one party fighting in the cause of Allah and the other disbelieving, whom they saw with their eyes to be twice as many as themselves. Allah strengthens with His aid whomsoever He pleases. In that surely is a lesson for those who have eyes. (14)
The love of desired objects, like women and children and stored-up reserves of gold and silver, and pastured horses and cattle and crops, appears attractive to people. All this is the provision of the hither life; and it is Allah with Whom is an excellent abode. Ask them: Shall I apprise you of something which is better than all this? For those who are constantly mindful of their duty to Allah, there are Gardens with their Lord beneath which rivers flow, wherein they shall abide, and pure spouses. They shall also enjoy the pleasure of Allah.
Allah is Mindful of His servants who supplicate: Lord, surely we have believed; forgive us, therefore, our sins and shield us from the torment of the Fire. They are the steadfast, the faithful, the humble, those who spend in the cause of Allah and those who seek forgiveness in the small hours of the morning. (l5-l8)
Allah bears witness that there is none worthy of worship beside Him, and so do the angels and those who possess knowledge; Maintainer of justice; there is none worthy of worship beside Him, the Mighty, the Wise. (19)
Surely the true religion in the estimation of Allah is Islam, that is, complete submission to Him, and those who were given the Book disagreed only, out of mutual envy, after knowledge had come to them. Whoso rejects the Signs of Allah should remember that Allah is Swift at reckoning. (20)
Now if they should dispute with thee, say to them: I have submitted myself wholly to Allah, and also those who follow me. Say to those who have been given the Book and to those to whom no revelation has been vouchsafed: Do you submit yourselves to Allah also? If they submit they will surely be guided; but if they turn away, thy duty is only to convey the message. Allah is Watchful of His servants. (21)
To those who reject the Signs of Allah and seek to kill the Prophets and those from among the people who enjoin equity, without just cause, announce thou a painful chastisement. These are they whose works shall come to naught in this world and the next, and they shall have no helpers. (22-23)
Knowest thou not that of those who have been given their portion of the Book, when they are called to the Book of Allah that it may judge between them, a party turn away in aversion? (24)
That is because they claim: The Fire shall not touch us except for a limited number of days; and that which they concoct has become a snare for them in the matter of their religion. How will it be with them when We shall gather them together on the Day concerning which there is no doubt, when every one shall be paid in full that which he has earned, and they shall not be wronged? (25-26)
Supplicate: O Allah, Lord of sovereignty, Thou bestowest sovereignty upon whomsoever Thou pleasest, and Thou takest away sovereignty from whomsoever Thou pleasest, Thou exaltest whomsoever Thou pleasest, and Thou abasest whomsoever Thou pleasest; in Thy hand is all good. Thou surely hast power to do all that Thou dost will. Thou makest the night pass into day and makest the day pass into night; Thou bringest forth the living from the dead and bringest forth the dead from the living. Thou bestowest upon whomsoever Thou pleasest without measure. (27-28)
Let not the believers take the disbelievers for intimate friends in preference to believers; whoever does that has no connection with Allah. Your only course is to keep away from them altogether, Allah warns you against His chastisement; and to Allah is your return. Warn them:
Whether you keep hidden that which is in your minds, or disclose it, Allah knows it; and He knows whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth. Allah has full power over all things. Beware of the day when everyone shall find confronting him all the good he has done and all the evil he has done. He will wish there were a great distance between him and the evil. Allah warns you against His chastisement; Allah is Most Compassionate towards His servants. (29-31)
Announce: If you love Allah, then follow me, Allah will then love you and forgive you your faults. Allah is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. Call on them: Obey Allah and the Messenger. Then if they turn away, let them remember that Allah loves not the disbelievers. (32-33)
Allah did exalt Adam and Noah and the family of Abraham and the family of Imran above all the people of their times -- a group spiritually akin one to another. Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. (34-35)
Call to mind when the woman of Imran offered: Lord, I have dedicated to Thy service that which is in my womb free from all other obligations; so do accept it of me. Thou alone art the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing. (36)
When she was delivered of it she supplicated: Lord, I am delivered of a female child, and I have named her Mary, and I commit her and her offspring to Thy protection against the mischief of Satan, the rejected. Allah knew best what she had brought forth and the male child of her fancy was not like the female child she brought forth. So her Lord accepted her with a gracious acceptance and caused her to grow up an excellent growing up. Zachariah became her guardian. Whenever Zachariak entered her chamber, he found some provision with her. One day he said to her: Mary, whence hast thou this? She answered: It is from Allah; surely, Allah bestows upon whomsoever He pleases without measure. (37-38)
Thereupon Zachariah prayed to his Lord: Lord, grant me from Thyself pure offspring, surely Thou art the Hearer of prayer. The angels called to him as he stood praying in the chamber: Allah gives thee glad tidings of Yahya, who shall fulfil a word of Allah; he will be noble, chaste and a Prophet from among the righteous.
Zachariah submitted: Lord, how shall I have a youth as my son when I am already of advanced age and moreover my wife is barren. He responded: Such is the power of Allah, He does what He pleases. Zachariah beseeched: My Lord, lay upon me a special commandment. He replied:
The commandment for thee is that thou shalt not communicate with people for three days except by signs, and shalt remember thy Lord much and shalt glorify Him night and morn. (39-42)
Call to mind when the angels said to Mary: Allah has exalted thee and purified thee and chosen thee from among all the women of thy time. Mary, be obedient to thy Lord and prostrate thyself before Him and worship Him alone with single-minded devotion along with those who worship. (43-44)
This is of the tidings of the unseen that We reveal to thee: Thou wast not with them when they cast their arrows to determine which of them should take care of Mary, nor wast thou with them when they disputed with one another. (45)
Call to mind when the angels said to Mary: Allah, through His word, gives thee glad tidings of a son named the Messiah, Jesus son of Mary, honoured in this world and the next, and of those who are granted nearness to Allah. He shall admonish people in his early years and also in his ripe years, and he shall be of the righteous. Mary said: Lord, how shall I have a son, when no man has touched me? He answered: Such is the power of Allah, He creates what He pleases. When He decrees a thing, He says to it: Be; and it is. He will teach him the Book and the Wisdom and the Torah and the Gospel and will make him a Messenger to the children of Israel, bearing the message: I have come to you with a Sign from your Lord, that for your benefit, in the manner of a bird, I shall fashion, from among persons who are capable of receiving an impress, shapes and shall breathe into them a new spirit, then they will begin to soar like birds by the command of Allah; and I shall declare clean the blind and the leprous and shall bestow life on the spiritually dead, by the command of Allah; and shall announce to you what you will eat and what you will store up in your houses. In all this there is a Sign for you, if you will believe. I fulfil that which has been sent down before me, namely the Torah, and shall make lawful for you some of that which was forbidden you. I come to you with a Sign from your Lord; so be mindful of your duty to Allah and obey me. Verily, Allah is my Lord and your Lord; so worship Him. That is the straight path. (46-52)
When Jesus perceived their disbelief, he asked: Who will be my helpers in the cause of Allah! The disciples answered:
We are helpers in the cause of Allah. We have believed in Allah, and bear thou witness we are obedient to Allah. They affirmed: Our Lord we have believed in that whch Thou hast sent down and we have become the followers of this Messenger, so write us down among the witnesses. (53-54)
The enemies of Jesus devised their plans and Allah devised His plan; Allah is the best of planners. Allah reassured Jesus:
I shall cause thee to die a natural death, and shall exalt thee to Myself, and shall clear thee from the calumnies of those who disbelieve, and shall place those who follow thee above those who disbelieve, until the Day of Judgment; then to Me shall be your return and I will judge between you concerning that wherein you differ. As for those who disbelieve, I will punish them with a severe punishment in this world and in the next, and they shall have no helpers; and as for those who believe and work righteousness, Allah will pay them their full deserts. Allah loves not the wrongdoers. That is what We recite unto thee of the Signs and the Wise Instructions. (55-59)
The case of Jesus in the sight of Allah is like unto the case of Adam. He created him out of dust. He said concerning him:
Be; and he began to be. This is the truth from thy Lord, so be thou not of those who doubt. Then whoso should dispute with thee concerning it, after that which has come to thee of divinely revealed knowledge, say to them: Come, let us call our sons and you call your sons, and let us call our women and you call your women, and let us call our people and you call your people, then let us pray fervently for the triumph of the truth and invoke the curse of Allah on those who lie. Most certainly this is the true account. There is none worthy of worship save Allah; and surely, it is Allah Who is the Mighty, the Wise. Then if they turn away, let them remember that Allah knows well those who create mischief. (60-64)
Say to the People of the Book: Let us agree upon one matter which is the same for you and for us, namely, that we worship none but Allah, and that we associate no partner with Him, and that some of us take not others for lords beside Allah. Then, if they turn away, say to them: Bear ye witness that we have submitted to Allah. (65)
People of the Book, why do you dispute concerning Abraham, whereas the Torah and Gospel were surely not sent down till after him? Will you not then understand? Hearken, you are those who have disputed about that whereof you had some knowledge; why do you now dispute about that whereof you have no knowledge at all? Allah knows and you know not. Abraham was neither a Jew nor a Christian; he was ever inclined to Allah and obedient to Him, and he was not of those who associate partners with Allah. Surely, the people closest to Abraham are those who followed him, and this Prophet and those who believe in him. Allah is the Friend of believers. (66-69)
A section of the People of the Book would fain lead you astray, but they only lead themselves astray, only they perceive it not. People of the Book, why do you reject the Signs of Allah, having been witnesses thereof? People of the Book, why do you confound truth with falsehood and hide the truth deliberately? (70-72)
A section of the People of the Book urge some from among themselves: Why not affirm, in the early part of the day, belief in that which has been revealed unto the believers and repudiate it in the latter part thereof, perchance they may return? But put no faith in any save him who follows your religion. Say to them: Surely, the true guidance is the guidance of Allah -- that one may be given the like of that which has been given to you -- or else that they should contend against you before your Lord. Say to them also: All bounty is in the hand of Allah, He bestows it upon whomsoever He pleases. Allah is Lord of vast bounty, All-Knowing. He singles out for His mercy whomsoever He pleases. Allah is the Lord of exceeding bounty. (73-75)
Among the People of the Book there are those who, if thou trust them with a treasure, will return it to thee faithfully; and among them are those who, if thou trust them with a single diner, will not return it to thee, unless thou keep dunning them. That is because they say: We owe no obligation in respect of the unenlightened. They utter a lie against Allah and they know it. The truth is that whoso fulfils his pledge and is mindful of his duty to Allah is righteous, and Allah loves the righteous. (76-77)
Those who take a paltry price in exchange for their covenant with Allah and their oaths, shall have no portion in the life to come. Allah will not speak to them nor cast a look upon them on the Day of Judgment, nor will He purify them. For them shall be a grievous punishment. There surely is a section of them who twist their tongues as if they were reciting the Book, that you may take that which they are reciting to be part of the Book, while it is not part of the Book. They say: It is from Allah; while it is not from Allah. They utter a lie against Allah and they know it. (78-79)
It would not behove a righteous person that Allah should give him the Book and dominion and Prophethood, and yet he should say to people: Worship me instead of Allah. Such a one could only say: Be solely devoted to the Lord because you teach the Book and because you study it attentively. Nor would he bid you take the angels and the Prophets for lords. Would he teach you to disbelieve after you had submitted to Allah? (80-81)
Call to mind when Allah took from their people, through the Prophets, a firm covenant: Whatever I give you of the Book and Wisdom and then there comes to you a Messenger, fulfilling that which is with you, you shall most surely believe in him and help him. Do you then promise and accept the obligation I lay upon you in this respect? They affirmed: We promise. Allah said: Then bear witness and I am also a witness along with you. Now whoso turns away after this, those surely are transgressors. (82-83)
Then do they seek a religion other than Allah's while to Him submits whosoever is in the heavens and the earth, willingly or unwillingly, and to Him shall they be returned? Proclaim: We believe in Allah and in that which has been revealed to us, and that which was revealed to Abraham and Ishmael and Isaac and Jacob and the Tribes, and that which was given to Moses and Jesus and other Prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between any of them and to Him we submit. Whoso seeks a religion other than Islam, it shall not be accepted from him, and in the life to come he shall be among the losers. (84-86)
How shall Allah guide a people who have disbelieved after having believed and who had borne witness that the Messenger is true and to whom clear proofs had come? Allah guides not the wrongdoers. Of such the punishment is that on them shall be the curse of Allah and of angels and of men, all together; thereunder shall they abide. Their punishment shall not be lightened nor shall they be granted respite; except in the case of those who repent thereafter and amend. Surely, Allah is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. Those who disbelieve after having believed, and then continue to advance in disbelief, their repentance shall not be accepted. Those are they who have gone utterly astray. (87-91)
From any one of those who have disbelieved, and die while they are disbelievers, there shall not be accepted even an earthful of gold, though he offer it in ransom. For those there shall be a grievous punishment, and they shall have no helpers. (92)
Never will you attain to the highest degree of virtue unless you spend in the cause of Allah out of that which you love; and whatever you spend, Allah surely knows it well. (93)
All food was lawful for the children of Israel, except that which Israel had forbidden himself before the Torah was sent down. Say to them: Bring then the Torah and read it, if you are truthful. Whoso, therefore, fabricates a lie against Allah after this, it is these who are the wrong doers. Affirm: Allah has spoken the truth; follow, therefore, the religion of Abraham, who was ever inclined to Allah and was not of those who associate partners with Him. (94-96)
Surely, the first House established for the benefit of all mankind is the one at Mecca, abounding in blessings and a means of guidance for all peoples. In it are manifest Signs: in it is the station of Abraham; and whoso enters it is secure. Pilgrimage to the House is a duty laid upon people which they owe to Allah, those of them who can afford the journey thither. Those who repudiate it should remember that Allah is Independent of all creatures. (97-98)
Say to them: People of the Book, why do you reject the Signs of Allah, while Allah is Watchful of that which you do? Ask them: People of the Book, why do you hinder those who believe, from the path of Allah, seeking to make it appear crooked while you are witnesses thereof? Allah is not unmindful of that which you do. (99-100)
O ye who believe, if you obey any party of those who have been given the Book, they will turn you again into disbelievers after you have believed. How would you disbelieve, while you are the people to whom the Signs of Allah are rehearsed and among whom the Messenger of Allah is present? He who holds fast to Allah is indeed guided to the right path. (101-102)
O ye who believe, be mindful of your duty to Allah in all respects, every moment of your lives, so that death, whenever it overtakes you, should find you in a state of complete submission to Him. Take fast hold, all together, of the rope of Allah, and be not divided. Call to mind the favour of Allah which He bestowed upon you when you were at enmity with each other and He united your hearts in love so that by His grace you became as brethren. You were on the brink of a pit of fire and He rescued you from it. Thus does Allah explain to you His commandments that you may be guided. Let there be from among you a party whose business it should be to invite to goodness, to enjoin equity and to forbid evil. It is they who shall prosper. (103-105)
Be not like those who became divided and created dissensions after clear proofs had come to them. It is they for whom there will be a great punishment, on the Day when some faces will be bright and some faces will be gloomy. Those whose faces will be gloomy will be questioned: Did you, then, disbelieve after having believed? Then suffer the torment because you disbelieved. Those whose faces will be bright will rejoice in the mercy of Allah; therein will they abide. (106-108)
These are the Signs of Allah, comprising the truth, that we recite to thee. Allah wills not any wrong to His creatures. To Allah belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth; and to Allah shall all affairs be returned. (109-110)
You are the best people for you have been raised for the benefit of mankind; you enjoin good, forbid evil and believe in Allah. If the People of the Book had believed, it would surely have been the better for them. Some of them have believed, but most of them are disobedient. They cannot harm you beyond causing you some slight injury; and if they fight you, they will turn their backs upon you. They will receive no help from any quarter. They will be humiliated wherever they are found, unless they are protected under a covenant with Allah, or a covenant with another people. They have incurred Allah's wrath and they have been afflicted with misery. That is because they continuously rejected the Signs of Allah and were after slaying the Prophets without just cause, and this resulted from their disobedience and their habit of transgression. (111-113)
They are not all alike. Of the People of the Book there is a party who stand by their covenant; they recite the Word of Allah in the hours of night and prostrate themselves before Him. They believe in Allah and the Last Day, enjoin good, forbid evil, and hasten to outdo each other in benevolence. These are among the righteous. Whatever good they do will not be ignored. Allah knows well those who are mindful of their duty to Him. (114-116)
Those who disbelieve will find that their possessions and their children shall not avail them aught against Allah. They are the inmates of the Fire therein shall they abide. That which they spend in pursuit of the life of this world is like a biting frosty blast which smites the harvest of a people who have wronged themselves, and utterly destroys it. Allah does not wrong them; they wrong themselves. (117-118)
O ye who believe, do not take outsiders as your intimate friends, they will not fail to cause you injury. They love to see you in trouble. Their hatred has been expressed in words, and that which they design is even more virulent. We have made Our commandments clear to you, if you will understand. Hearken, you are the ones who love them, but they love you not. You believe in all the Book, but they only pretend to do so. When they are with you they say: We believe; but, when they part from you, they bite their fingertips with rage against you. Say to them: Perish in your rage. Surely Allah knows well your designs. Your success grieves them and your being involved in trouble gladdens their hearts. But if you are steadfast and mindful of your duty to Allah, their designs will not harm you at all. Surely Allah will demolish all that they do. (119-121)
Call to mind, when thou didst go forth early from thy household, on the day of Uhud, to assign to the believers their positions for battle; and Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. (122)
Call to mind also, when two of your groups meditated cowardice, while Allah was their friend; and upon Allah should the believers rely. Allah had already helped you in the battle of Badr, when you were inconsiderable. So be mindful of your duty to Allah that you may be grateful. (123-124)
Call to mind also, when thou didst say to the believers: Will it not suffice you that your Lord should help you with three thousand angels sent down from on high? Indeed, if you are steadfast and mindful of your duty to Allah and the enemy should come upon you without respite, your Lord will help you with five thousand angels attacking vehemently. Allah has designed this as glad tidings for you and that your hearts may be comforted thereby, and that He may cut off a portion of the disbelievers or abase them so that they might go back frustrated. All help comes from Allah alone, the Mighty, the Wise. Thou art not concerned in the matter; their end is in Allah's hands; He may turn to them in mercy, or punish them; for, surely, they are wrongdoers. To Allah belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth. He forgives whomsoever He pleases and punishes whomsoever He pleases. Allah is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. (125-130)
O ye who believe, devour not interest, for it goes on multiplying itself; and be mindful of your obligation to Allah that you may prosper; and safeguard yourselves against the Fire which is prepared for the disbelievers. Obey Allah and the Messenger that you may be shown mercy; and advance towards forgiveness from your Lord and a Paradise whose price is the heavens and the earth, prepared for the righteous -- those who spend in prosperity and adversity, who control their tempers when they are roused and who overlook people's faults (and Allah loves the benevolent) and those who, when they commit an indecency or wrong themselves, call Allah to mind and implore forgiveness for their sins (and who can forgive sins except Allah?) and do not persist knowingly in that of which they have been guilty. It is these whose reward is forgiveness from their Lord and Gardens beneath which rivers flow, wherein they shall abide. Excellent is the reward of those who work righteousness. Surely, there have been many dispensations before you, then go about in the earth and observe how evil was the end of those who rejected them. This Quran is an exposition for the people and a guidance and admonition for the God-fearing. (131-139)
Do not slacken, therefore, nor grieve; you will have the upper hand, if you continue firm in the faith. If you should receive an injury, they will have received a like injury; and We cause these days, with their ups and downs, to alternate between the people that they may be admonished, and that Allah may cause to be known those who believe and may make some of you martyrs, and that Allah may purify those who believe and may utterly destroy the disbelievers. Allah loves not the unjust. Do you reckon that you will enter Paradise while Allah has not yet caused to be known those of you that strive hard in the cause of Allah and has not yet caused to be known the steadfast?
You used to wish for this type of death before you met it; now that you have encountered it in all its aspects, there is no cause for any of you to hold back. (140-144)
Muhammad is but a Messenger; of a surety, all Messengers before him have passed away. If then, he die or be slain, will you turn back on your heels? He who turns back on his heels shall not harm Allah a whit. Allah will certainly reward the grateful. No one can die except by Allah's leave, that is a decree with a fixed term. Whoever desires the reward of this world, We will give him thereof; and whoever desires the reward of the Hereafter We will give him thereof, and We will surely reward the grateful richly. (145-146)
Many Prophets have there been along with whom large numbers of their followers went into battle. They slackened not for aught that befell them in the way of Allah, nor did they weaken or humiliate themselves before the enemy. Allah loves the steadfast. They uttered no word except the prayer: Lord, forgive us our sins and our excesses in our affairs, and make firm our steps and help us against the disbelieving people. So Allah bestowed upon them the reward of this world, as also the best reward of the Hereafter. Allah loves those who do their duty to the utmost. (147-149)
O ye who believe, if you obey those who have disbelieved, they will cause you to revert to disbelief and you will become losers. Indeed, Allah is your Protector and He is the Best of helpers. We shall strike terror into the hearts of those who have disbelieved because they associate partners with Allah, for which He has sent down no authority. Their abode is the Pire, and evil is the habitation of the wrongdoers. (150-152)
Allah surely made good to you His promise on the day of Uhud when you were slaying and destroying them by His leave. Then, when, after He had shown you what you desired and victory was within your grasp, you became lax and disagreed among yourselves concerning the Prophet's direction and disobeyed it. He withdrew His support from you. Some of you desired the goods of this world and some of you desired the Hereafter. Then He safeguarded you against the attack of the enemy that He might try you, having pardoned you, and Allah is Gracious to the believers. You were running away and looked not back at anyone, while the Messenger called to you from the rear. Then He inflicted upon you the sorrow of defeat as an expiation to lighten the burden of your sorrow over having disobeyed the Prophet's order, that you might not grieve over that which you had missed nor over what had befallen you. Allah is well aware of what you do. (153-154)
Then, after the sorrow, He sent down peace of mind upon you in the shape of a slumber that overcame a party of you. But there was another party who were anxious only concerning their own selves, they entertained false notions concerning Allah like the notions of the days of Ignorance. They muttered: Have we any say in matters of administration Tell them: All government belongs to Allah. They conceal that in their minds which they disclose not to thee. They say: Had we any say in matters of administration, we would not have been slaughtered here. Say to them: Had you remained in your homes, surely those on whom fighting had been enjoined would have issued forth to the stations where they were to die. Thus would Allah's decree have been carried out. Allah desired to test your secret thoughts and to purge that which was in your minds. Allah knows well that which passes through your minds. (155)
Those of you who turned their backs on the day when the two hosts met at Uhud, were sought to be made to slip by Satan, in consequence of some of their doings. Allah has, however, granted them pardon. Verily, Allah is Most Forgiving, Forbearing. (156)
O ye who believe, be not like those who have disbelieved and who say of their brethren, when they go about in the land or go forth to war, in the cause of Allah:
Had they bided with us they would not have died or been slain. Allah will make this a cause of regret in their hearts. It is Allah who gives life and causes death. Allah sees well what you do. If you are slain or you die in the cause of Allah, surely Allah's forgiveness and mercy are far better than that which they hoard. If you die or be slain surely it is Allah unto Whom you shall be gathered together. (157-150)
It is by the great mercy of Allah that thou art gentle with them, for if thou hadst been rough and hard-hearted they would surely have dispersed from around thee. So bear with them and pray for forgiveness for them and take counsel with them in matters of administration. Then when thou hast made up thy mind concerning a matter, put thy trust in Allah. Surely Allah loves those who put their trust in Him. If Allah help you, none shall prevail against you; but if He forsake you, then who is it that can help you beside Him? It is in Allah that the believers should put their trust. (160-161)
It behoves not a Prophet to act dishonestly, and whoever acts dishonestly shall disclose that concerning which he shall have been dishonest on the Day of Judgment. Then shall every one be paid in full that which he has earned; and they shall not be wronged. Can be who follows the pleasure of Allah, be like him who draws on himself the wrath of Allah, and whose abode is hell? An evil retreat it is!
Each of them has his standing in the sight of Allah, and Allah sees well what they do. (162-164)
Indeed, Allah has conferred a great favour on the believers by raising among them a Messenger from among themselves, who recites to them His Signs, and purifies them and teaches them the Book and Wisdom. Before that they were surely in manifest error. (165)
Is it not that whenever a misfortune befalls you, though you may have inflicted upon the enemy twice as much, you say: Whence is this? Say to them: It is from your own selves. Surely, Allah has power over all things. That which befell you, on the day when the two hosts met at Uhud, was by Allah's command, that He might distinguish between the believers and the hypocrites. It was said to the hypocrites: Come, fight in the cause of Allah and repel the enemy. They countered: If we knew how to fight, we would surely go forth with you. They were that day nearer to disbelief than to belief. They utter through their mouths that which is not in their hearts. Allah knows well that which they conceal. These are those who said of their brethren, while they themselves remained behind: Had they listened to us, they would not have been slain. Say to them: Then avert death from your own selves; if you are truthful. (166-169)
Do not account those who are slain in the cause of Allah, as dead. Indeed, they are living in the presence of their Lord and are provided for. They are jubilant over that which Allah has bestowed upon them of His bounty, and rejoice for those who have not yet joined them out of such as they left behind, because on them shall come no fear, nor shall they grieve. They rejoice at the favour of Allah and His bounty, and at the realisation that Allah suffers not the reward of the faithful to be lost. (170-172)
Those who responded to the call of Allah and the Messenger despite their having received an injury, for such of them as perform their duty in all respects and act righteously there is a great reward; those who were told: People have mustered against you, so fear them; but this only added to their faith and they affirmed:
Sufficient for us is Allah, and an excellent Guardian is He. So they returned with a mighty favour from Allah and a great bounty, having suffered no harm; they followed the pleasure of Allah, and Allah is the Lord of great bounty. It is Satan who seeks to frighten his friends; so fear them not and fear Me, if you are believers. (173-176)
Let not those who advance rapidly into disbelief cause thee concern; surely they cannot harm Allah in any way. Allah designs to assign them no portion in the Hereafter; and for them there is a severe chastisement. Those who have chosen disbelief in place of belief cannot harm Allah at all; for them is a grievous punishment. Let not the disbelievers imagine that Our granting them respite is good for them; Our granting them respite will only cause them to increase in disobedience, and for them is an humiliating punishment. (177-179)
Allah would not leave the believers in the state in which you are at present, until He separates the wicked from the good. Nor would Allah reveal to you the unseen. But Allah chooses of His Messengers whom He pleases and vouchsafes to them the knowledge of the unseen. Believe, therefore, in Allah and His Messengers. If you believe and are righteous, you shall have a great reward. (180)
Let not those who are niggardly of that which Allah has bestowed upon them of His bounty imagine that it is good for them. Indeed, it is evil for them. That of which they are niggardly shall be twisted as a collar round their necks on the Day of Judgment. To Allah belongs the heritage of the heavens and the earth. Allah is well aware of that which you do. Surely, Allah has heard the utterance of those who have said: Allah is needy and we are rich. We shall record what they have said and also their seeking to kill the Prophets without just cause, and We shall say to them: Suffer the torment of burning. This is the recompense of that which you have wrought. The truth is that Allah does not wrong His servants. (181-183)
To those who say: Allah has charged us not to believe in any Messenger unless he enjoins a burnt offering; do thou make answer: There have already come to you Messengers before me with clear Signs, and with that which you speak of, then why did you seek to kill them, if you are truthful? Then, if they call thee false, even so were called false Messengers before thee who came with clear Signs, Scriptures and shining commandments. (184-185)
Every one shall suffer death, and you shall be paid your full recompense on the Day of Judgment. He who is kept away from the Fire and is admitted to Paradise, has indeed attained felicity. The life of this world is but an illusory enjoyment. (186)
You will surely be tried in respect of your possessions and your persons and you shall surely hear many hurtful things from those who were given the Book before you and from those who set up partners with Allah, but if you show fortitude and restrain yourselves, that indeed is a matter of strong determination. (187)
Call to mind when Allah took a covenant from those who were given the Book: You shall make it known to the people and shall not conceal it; yet they threw it away behind their backs, and bartered it for a paltry price. Evil is that which they have taken in exchange for it. Imagine not that those who exult in their deeds, and love to be eulogised for that which they have not done, that they are secure from punishment. They shall suffer a chastisement. To Allah belongs kingdom of the heavens and the earth; and Allah has power over all things. (188-190)
In the creation of the heavens and the earth and in the alternation of the night and the day there are indeed Signs for people of understanding, who remember Allah standing, sitting and lying on their sides and ponder over the creation of the heavens and the earth, which impels them to supplicate: Lord, Thou hast not created all this without purpose. Holy art Thou; shield us then from the torment of the Fire. Lord, him whom Thou dost condemn to enter the Fire hast Thou surely humiliated, and for the transgressors there is no helper. Lord, we have heard a Caller calling unto faith: Believe ye in your Lord; and we have believed. Lord, forgive us, therefore, our errors and remove from us our ills, and in death number us with the righteous.
Lord, grant us that which Thou hast promised us through Thy Messengers and humiliate us not on the Day of Judgment, surely Thou doest not contrary to Thy promise. Their Lord would answer their supplication: I will not suffer the labour of any labourer from among you, male or female, to perish. You are spiritually akin one to another. Those, therefore, who have emigrated and have been driven forth from their homes and have been persecuted in My cause, and have fought and have been slain, from them will surely remove their ills and I will admit them to Gardens through which rivers flow -- a reward from Allah, and with Allah is the best reward. (191-196)
Let not the going about of the disbelievers in the land mislead thee. A brief respite, and then hell shall be their abode. What an evil resting place! (197-198)
But those who make their Lord their shield shall have Gardens through which rivers flow; therein shall they abide -- an entertainment from Allah. That which is with Allah is even better for the righteous. (199)
Among the People of the Book there are some who believe in Allah and in that which has been sent down to you and in that which was sent down to them, humbling themselves before Allah. They barter not the Signs of Allah for a paltry price. It is these who shall have their reward with Allah. Surely, Allah is Swift at reckoning. (200)
O ye who believe, be steadfast and strive to excel in steadfastness and be on your guard and be mindful of your duty to Allah that you may prosper. (201)

Chapter 4
Al-Nisa
Revealed after Hijra
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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Ever Merciful.
O mankind, be mindful of your duty to your Lord, Who created you from a single soul and from it created its mate and from the two created and spread many men and women; and be mindful of your duty to Allah in Whose name you appeal to one another, and of your obligations in respect of ties of kinship. Verily, Allah watches over you. (2)
Hand over their property to the orphans and do not exchange the bad for the good, and do not devour their property mixing it with your own. Surely, that is a great sin. (3)
Should you apprehend that you will not he able to deal fairly with orphans, then marry of other women as may be agreeable to you, two or three, or four; but if you feel you will not deal justly between them, then marry only one, or, out of those over whom you have authority. That is the best way for you to obviate injustice. Hand over to the women their dowers freely; but if they, of their own pleasure, should remit to you a part thereof, then enjoy it as a thing agreeable and wholesome. (4-5)
Hand not over to those of immature mind your property which Allah has made a means of support for you; but make provision for them out of it and give them good advice. Check up on the orphans till they attain the age of marriage; then if you find them sensible hand over their property to them, and consume it not in extravagance and haste against their growing up. Whoso is rich let him abstain altogether; and whoso is poor, let him make use of as much as is fair. When you hand over their property to them, call witnesses in their presence. Allah is Sufficient as a Reckoner. (6-7)
For men, as well as for women, there is a share in that which parents and near relations leave, whether it be little or much, a share which has been determined by Allah. At the time of the division of the inheritance, if there are present other relations and orphans and the needy, give them also something out of it and speak to them graciously. Those who would be anxious if they should leave behind them helpless offspring, should be mindful of their obligation to Allah in respect of orphans and should speak and act in a straightforward manner. Surely, those who eat up the property of orphans unjustly, only swallow fire into their bellies and shall enter a blazing fire. (8-11)
Allah commands you concerning your children as follows: the share of a male is as much as the share of two females: but if there are only females, two or more, they shall have two-thirds of what the deceased should leave and if there is only one she shall have one half. His parents shall have, each of them, a sixth of the inheritance, if he have a child; but if he have no child and his parents be his heirs, then his mother shall have a third; but if he have brothers and sisters then his mother shall have a sixth. All this is subject to the payment of any bequests made by him and his debts. You know not whether your parents or your children are nearer to you in conferring benefits upon you. These shares are fixed by Allah. Surely, Allah is All-Knowing, Wise. You shall have half of that which your wives leave, if they have no child; but if they have a child, then you shall have a fourth of that which they leave, after the payment of any bequests made by them and their debts. They shall have a fourth of that which you leave, if you have no child; but if you have a child, then they shall have an eighth of that which you leave, after the payment of any bequests made by you and your debts. If there be a man or a woman leaving property to be inherited, and there is no parent or child, but there is a uterine brother or uterine sister, then each of them shall have a sixth; but if they be more than that, then they shall be equal sharers in one third, after the payment of bequests and debts, without prejudice. This is an injunction from Allah, and Allah is All-Knowing, Forbearing. (12-13)
These are the limits set by Allah. Those who obey Allah and His Messenger, will He admit to Gardens through which rivers flow; therein shall they abide. That is the great triumph. Those who disobey Allah and His Messenger and transgress the limits set by Him, will He cause to enter a fire wherein they shall abide, and they shall have an humiliating punishment. (14-15)
Confront those of your women who are guilty of unbecoming conduct with four witnesses. If they bear witness, then confine the women to their houses till death overtakes them or Allah opens a way for them. Punish such of your men who are guilty of unbecoming conduct, but if they should repent and amend, then leave them alone. Surely, Allah is Oft-Returning with compassion and is Ever Merciful. Allah would accept the repentance of those who do evil in ignorance and then are quick to repent. These are they to whom Allah turns with mercy. Allah is All-Knowing, Wise.
Repentance is not for those who continue in their evil courses until, when death faces one of them, he exclaims: I do now repent; nor for those who die disbelieving. It is these for whom We have prepared a painful chastisement. (16-19)
O ye who believe, it is not lawful for you to inherit from women against their will, nor should you hold them back wrongfully that you may take away from them part of that which you may have given them; their being confined to their houses for unbecoming conduct is a matter apart. Consort with them in kindness. If you dislike them, it may be that you dislike something in which Allah has placed much good. (20)
If you desire to take a wife in place of another and you have given one of them a treasure, take not back aught therefrom. Will you take it by calumny and manifest sin? How can you take it when you have consorted together and they have taken from you a strong covenant? (21-22)
Marry not women whom your fathers had married. What has passed has passed. It was a foul and hateful practice and an evil way. (23)
Forbidden to you are your mothers, and your daughters and your sisters, and your fathers' sisters and your mothers' sisters, and the daughters of your brothers and the daughters of your sisters, and your foster-mothers and your foster-sisters, and the mothers of your wives, and your step-daughters who are your wards by your wives with whom you have consorted, but if you have consorted not with them, it will be no sin upon you, and the wives of your sons from your loins. It is also forbidden to you to have two sisters together in marriage, but what has passed has passed. Surely, Allah is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. (24)
Forbidden to you also are married women, except those who have passed into your hands as prisoners. This is the commandment of Allah for you. Lawful for you are those outside these categories, that you seek them in marriage, by means of your properties, not committing fornication. For the benefit that you receive from them pay them their dowers as fixed, and there will be no sin upon you in respect of anything that you mutually agree upon after the fixing of the dower. Surely, Allah is All-Knowing, Wise. (25)
Whoso of you cannot afford to marry from among free, believing women, let him marry out of those believing women who have passed into your hands as prisoners. Allah knows your faith best; you are spiritually akin one to another. You may marry them with the leave of their masters and pay them their dowers according to what is fair, they being chaste, not committing fornication, nor taking secret paramours. If they are guilty of unbecoming conduct after marriage, their punishment will be half of that prescribed for free women. This facility is for him among you who fears lest he should fall into sin, but that you should restrain yourselves is better for you. Allah is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. (26)
Allah desires to make clear to you, and guide you to, the ways of those before you, and to turn to you in mercy. Allah is All-Knowing, Wise. Allah desires to turn to you in mercy, but those who pursue evil courses, desire that you should incline wholly towards evil. Allah desires to lighten your burden, for man has been created weak (27-29)
O ye who believe, consume not your property between yourselves unlawfully; it being lawful to acquire property through trade with mutual consent; and destroy not yourselves. Surely, Allah is Ever Merciful to you. Whoever seeks to acquire property by way of transgression and injustice, We shall cast him into the Fire; and that is easy for Allah. If you keep away from the more grievous of the things that are forbidden you, We will remove from you your faults and will admit you to a place of honour. (30-32)
Covet not that whereby Allah has made some of you excel others. Men shall have a share of that which they earn, and women shall have a share of that which they earn. Ask Allah alone of His bounty. Surely, Allah has perfect knowledge of all things. For everyone leaving an inheritance we have appointed heirs, parents and near relations, and also husbands and wives with whom you have made firm covenants. So give all of them their appointed shares. Surely, Allah watches over all things. (33-34)
Men are appointed guardians over women, because of that in respect of which Allah has made some of them excel others, and because the men spend of their wealth. So virtuous women are obedient and safeguard, with Allah's help, matters the knowledge of which is shared by them with their husbands. Admonish those of them on whose part you apprehend disobedience, and leave them alone in their beds and chastise them. Then if they obey you, seek no pretext against them. Surely, Allah is High, Great. (35)
If you apprehend a breach between husband and wife, then appoint an arbiter from among his people and an arbiter from among her people. If they desire reconciliation, Allah will bring about accord between husband and wife. Surely, Allah is All-Knowing, All-Aware. (36)
Worship Allah and associate naught with Him, and be benevolent towards parents, and kindred, and orphans, and the needy, and the neighbour who is a kinsman, and the neighbour who is not related to you, and your associates and the wayfarer, and those who are under your control. Surely, Allah loves not the proud and boastful, who are niggardly and enjoin people to be niggardly, and conceal that which Allah has given them of His bounty. We have prepared for the disbelievers an humiliating chastisement, and for those who spend their wealth to be seen of people and believe not in Allah nor in the Last Day. Whoso has Satan for his companion should remember that he is an evil companion. (37-39)
What harm would befall them, if they were to believe in Allah and the Last Day and to spend out of that which Allah has given them? Allah knows them well. Allah wrongs not any one even by the weight of the smallest particle; and if there be a good deed, He multiplies it and bestows from Himself a great reward, (40-41)
How will it be when We shall bring a witness from every people, and shall bring thee as a witness against these? On that day those who have disbelieved and disobeyed the Messenger will wish they were buried in the ground and the earth were made level above them, and they shall not be able to conceal anything from Allah. (42-43)
O ye who believe, approach not Prayer when you are not in full possession of your faculties, until you realise the true import of your supplications, nor when you have consorted with your wives, except during the course of a journey, until you have washed. Should you be ill or on a journey, or if one of you comes from the privy, or you have consorted with your wives and you find no water, then betake yourselves to clean dust and wipe therewith your faces and your hands. Surely, Allah is Most Indulgent, Most Forgiving. (44)
Knowest thou not of those who were given a portion of the Book, who deliberately choose error and desire that you too may lose the way? Allah knows your enemies better than you do; and sufficient is Allah as a Friend, and sufficient is Allah as a Helper. (45-46)
Of the Jews there are some who pervert Allah's words from their places. They say:
We have heard, yet we disobey; or, Hear thou, may thou never hear Allah's word; or, Show favour to us; lying with their tongues and seeking to ridicule the faith. Had they said: We hear and we obey; and: Listen to us and look at us with kindness; it would have been the better for them and more upright. But Allah has cast them aside for their disbelief; so little it is that they believe. O ye who have been given the Book, believe in that which We have now sent down, fulfilling that which is with you, before We destroy your leaders and turn them on their backs or cast them aside as We cast aside the people of the Sabbath. The decree of Allah is bound to be carried out. (47-48)
Surely, Allah will not forgive that any partner be associated with Him, but will forgive anything short of that to whomsoever He pleases. Whoso associates partners with Allah has indeed devised enormous evil. (49)
Knowest thou not of those who account themselves pure? Surely, it is Allah Who purifies whomsoever He pleases, and they will not be wronged a whit. Behold, how they fabricate a lie against Allah and sufficient is that as a manifest sin. (50-51)
Knowest thou not of those who were given a portion of the Book, who put their faith in vain things and in those who transgress, and they say of the disbelievers: These are better guided in religion than those who believe. These it is whom Allah has cast aside; and thou shalt not find anyone helping him whom Allah has cast aside. Have they a share in the kingdom? In that case they would not give the people even as little as the hollow in a date stone. Or, do they envy people that which Allah has given them out of His bounty? Surely, We gave the children of Abraham the Book and Wisdom, and We also gave them a great kingdom. Of them were some who believed in it, and of them were some who held back from it; their portion is hell and it is exceedingly hot. (52-56)
We shall soon cause those who disbelieve in Our Signs to enter the Fire. As often as their hides are burnt up, We shall give them in exchange other hides that they may feel the torment keenly. Surely, Allah is Mighty, Wise. (57)
We shall admit those who have believed and have worked righteousness into Gardens through which rivers flow, abiding therein for ever. Therein shall they have pure spouses, and We shall admit them into pleasant and plenteous shade. (58)
Allah commands you to make over the trusts to those best fitted to discharge them and that when you judge between the people, you do it with justice. Excellent indeed is that with which Allah admonishes you. Allah is All-Hearing, All-Seeing. O ye who believe, obey Allah and obey His Messenger and those who are in authority among you. Then if you differ in anything refer it to Allah and His Messenger if you are believers in Allah and the Last Day. That is the best and most commendable in the end. (59-60)
Knowest thou not of those who pretend that they believe in that which has been sent down to thee and that which has been sent down before thee, and yet they desire to seek judgment from the rebellious ones though they had been commanded not to obey them? Satan desires to lead them astray grievously. When it is said to them:
Come ye to that which Allah has sent down to the Messenger; thou seest the hypocrites turn completely away from thee. Then how is it that when an affliction befalls them because of their conduct, they come to thee swearing by Allah: We meant nothing but benevolence and conciliation? These are people whose designs Allah knows well. So forbear and admonish them and talk to them effectively concerning their own selves. (61-64)
We have sent no Messenger but that he should be obeyed by the command of Allah. If, when they had wronged their souls, they had come to thee and asked forgiveness of Allah and the Messenger also had asked forgiveness for them, they would have surely found Allah Oft-Returning with compassion, Ever Merciful. (65)
By thy lord, they will not truly believe until they make thee judge in all that is in dispute between them and then find not in their hearts any demur concerning that which thou decidest and submit with full submission. (66)
If We had commanded them: Kill yourselves in striving for the cause of Allah or go forth from your homes for the same purpose: they would not have done it except a few of them; yet if they had done what they are exhorted to do, it would surely have been the better for them and conducive to greater firmness and strength. We would then bestow upon them a great reward from Ourself, and We would surely guide them along the straight path. Whoso obeys Allah and the Messenger shall be among those upon whom Allah has bestowed His favours -- the Prophets, the Faithful ones, the Martyrs and the Righteous; and excellent companions these are. This is Allah's grace and Allah is All-Comprehending.. (67-71)
O ye who believe, take due precautions for your security and then go forth in separate parties or go forth all together. Of a surety there are those among you who will tarry behind. If a misfortune befalls you such a one says: Allah has surely been gracious to me, since I was not present with them. But if some good fortune should come to you from Allah, he says, as if there were no amity between him and you: Would that I had been with them, then should I have achieved a great success. Let those then fight in the cause of Allah who would exchange the present life with the Hereafter. Whoso fights in the cause of Allah, be he slain or be he victorious, We shall soon give him a great reward. (72-75)
What keeps you from fighting in the cause of Allah and of the weak from among men, women and children who supplicate: Lord, deliver us from this town whose people are oppressors, and appoint for us from Thyself some friend and appoint for us from Thyself some helper? Those who believe fight in the cause of Allah, and those who disbelieve fight in the cause of the Evil One. Fight ye then against the friends of Satan; surely Satan's strategy is weak. (76-77)
Knowest thou not of those who were told: Restrain your hands, observe Prayer and pay the Zakat; but they were eager to fight? Yet, now that fighting has been prescribed for them, suddenly a section of them have begun to fear people as they should fear Allah or even more, and they say: lord, why hast Thou prescribed fighting for us? Wouldst Thou not grant us respite yet awhile? Tell them: The enjoyment of this life is a trifle and the Hereafter is better for those who are mindful of their duty to Allah; and you shall not be wronged a whit. Wheresoever you may be, death will overtake you, even if you be in strongly built towers. If some good befalls them, they say: This is from Allah; and if ill befalls them, they say: This is from thee. Tell them: All is from Allah. What ails these people that they do not even approach the grasping of a reality? Whatever of good comes to thee is from Allah: and whatever of ill befalls thee is from thyself. We have sent thee as a Messenger to mankind. Sufficient is Allah as a Witness. (78-80)
Whoso obeys the Messenger has indeed obeyed Allah; and whoso turns away, then We have not sent thee as a keeper over them. They assert: Ours is but to obey; but when they depart from thee, a section of them spends the night scheming against that which thou sayest. Allah records their schemes. So turn away from them and put thy trust in Allah. Sufficient is Allah as a Guardian. (81-82)
Will they not, then, meditate upon the Quran? Had it been from any one other than Allah they would surely have found therein much contradiction. (83)
When there comes to them any tidings bearing upon security or causing fear they bruit it about; whereas if they were to refer it to the Messenger and to those in authority among them, surely those of them who are adept at discovering the truth, would assess it at its true value. Had it not been for the grace of Allah upon you and His mercy, you would have followed Satan, save a few. (84)
Fight, therefore, in the cause of Allah; thou art not responsible for any except thy own self, and urge on the believers. It may be that Allah will restrain the might of the disbelievers. Allah is Strong in might and is Strong in chastisement. (85)
Whoso makes a righteous intercession shall share in the good that ensues therefrom, and whoso makes an evil intercession shall share in the evil that ensues in consequence thereof. Allah has full power over all things. (86)
When you are greeted with a salutation greet with a better salutation, or return the same. Surely, Allah takes account of all things. (87)
Allah is He beside Whom there is none worthy of worship. He will certainly continue to gather you together till the Day of Judgment, about which there is no doubt. Who can be more truthful in his word than Allah? (88)
How is it that you are divided into two parties regarding the hypocrites? Allah has overthrown them because of what they did. Would you guide him whom Allah has caused to perish? For him whom Allah causes to perish thou shalt not find a way. They wish that you would disbelieve as they have disbelieved, so that you may become all alike. Make not, therefore, friends with any of them, until they emigrate in the way of Allah. If they turn away, then seize them and kill them wherever you find them; and take no friend or helper from among them except such of them as are connected with a people between whom and you there is a pact, or such as come to you, while their hearts shrink from fighting you or fighting their own people. If Allah had so pleased, He would have given them power over you, then they would surely have fought you. Now, if they leave you alone and do not fight and offer you peace, in that case Allah has left you no cause of grievance against them. You will find others of them, the hypocrites, who desire to be secure from you and to be secure from their own people also. Whenever they find an opportunity of hostility, they fall headlong into it. Therefore, if they do not leave you alone and offer you peace and restrain their hands, seize them and kill them wherever you find them. Against these We have given you clear authority. (89-92)
It behoves not a believer to kill a believer unless it be by mistake. He who kills a believer by mistake shall free, or procure the freedom of, a believing slave, and provide blood-money to be handed over to the heirs of the person slain, unless they remit it as charity. If the person slain be of people hostile to you, though himself a believer, the offender shall free, or procure the freedom of, a believing slave. If he be of a people between whom and you is a pact, then blood-money payable to his heirs and the freedom of a believing slave shall both be due. Whoso finds not a slave to set free shall fast for two consecutive months. This concession is a mercy from Allah. Allah is All-Knowing, Wise. (93)
Whoso kills a believer deliberately, his reward shall be hell, wherein he shall abide, and Allah will be wroth with him and will cast him away and will prepare for him a great punishment. (94)
O ye who believe, when you go forth in the cause of Allah make due investigation, and say not to him who offers you the greeting of peace: Thou art not a believer. You seek the goods of this life, and Allah has good things in plenty. You too were like this before, but Allah conferred His special favour on you; so do make due investigation. Allah is well aware of what you do. (95)
Those of the believers who remain at home, except those who are disabled, and those who strive in the cause of Allah with their belongings and their persons, are not equal. Allah has exalted in rank those who strive with their belongings and their persons above those who remain at home. To all Allah has promised good. Allah has exalted those who strive above those who remain at home with the promise of a great reward, in the shape of degrees of excellence to be bestowed by Him, and forgiveness and mercy. Allah is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. (96-97)
When the angels cause those who wrong their souls to die, they will question them: What were you after? They will answer: We were accounted weak in the land. The angels will retort: Was not Allah's earth vast enough for you to emigrate therein? It is these whose abode shall be hell, and an evil destination it is; except such weak ones from among men, women and children, as are incapable of devising any plan or of finding any way. In their case Allah would be inclined towards forgiveness; for Allah overlooks shortcomings and is Most Forgiving. (98-100)
Whoso emigrates in the cause of Allah will find many places of refuge in the earth and plentiful provision. Whoso goes forth from his home, emigrating in the cause of Allah and His Messenger, and death overtakes him, his reward is due from Allah. Allah is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. (101)
When you journey in the land, it will be no sin on you to shorten the Prayer, if you are afraid that those who disbelieve may put you to trouble. The disbelievers are your declared enemies. If in such case thou art among them and leadest them in Prayer, let a party of them stand with thee and let them take their arms. When they have performed their prostrations, let them go to your rear to stand guard, and let another party, who have not yet prayed come forward and pray with thee, and let them also take their precautions for defence and their arms. The disbelievers wish that you be neglectful of your arms and your baggage that they may fall upon you suddenly. It shall be no sin on you, if you are inconvenienced by rain or you are sick, that you lay aside your arms; but always take your precautions for defence. Surely, Allah has prepared an humiliating chastisement for the disbelievers. When you have finished the Prayer, remember Allah standing, and sitting, and lying on your sides. When you feel secure, observe Prayer in the prescribed form: Prayer is an obligation on the believers to be observed at its appointed time. (102-104)
Slacken not in seeking the enemy. If you suffer in the process, they too suffer even as you suffer; but you hope for from Allah what they do not. Allah is All-Knowing, Wise. (105)
We have sent down to thee this Book comprising the truth, that thou mayest judge between the people by that which Allah has shown thee. Be not thou a contender on behalf of the treacherous ones and ask forgiveness of Allah; surely, Allah is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. Plead not on behalf of those who are unfaithful to themselves. Surely Allah loves not those who are perfidious and persistent sinners. They seek to hide from people but cannot hide from Allah. He is with them when they plot at night that which He does not approve of. Allah will bring to naught that which they do. (106-109)
Hearken, you are those who have pleaded for them in this life; but who will plead for them with Allah on the Day of Judgment, or who will be their guardian? (110)
Whoso does evil or wrongs his soul, and then asks forgiveness of Allah, will find Allah Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. Whom does evil only burdens his own soul. Allah is All-Knowing, Wise. Whoso commits a fault or a sin, then charges an innocent person with it, takes on the burden of a calumny and a manifest sin. (111-113)
But for the grace of Allah upon thee and His mercy, a party of them, who had resolved to bring about thy ruin, would have succeeded in their design. They ruin none save themselves and they cannot harm thee. Allah has sent down to thee the Book and Wisdom and has taught thee that which thou knewest not, and great is Allah's grace on thee. (114)
Most of their conferrings; together are devoid of good, except such as enjoin charity, or the promotion of public welfare or of public peace; and on him who strives after these, seeking the pleasure of Allah, shall We soon bestow a great reward. We shall let him who persists in his opposition to the Messenger after guidance has become clear and follows a way other than that of the believers, pursue the bent of his inclination and shall cast him into hell; and an evil destination it is. (115-116)
Allah will not forgive anything being associated with Him as partner, but will forgive anything short of that to whomsoever He pleases. Whoso associates anything with Allah as His partner, has indeed strayed far away. They invoke beside Him none but lifeless objects; and they invoke none but Satan, the rebellious one, whom Allah has cast away. He said to Allah: I will assuredly beguile a fixed portion from Thy servants, and will lead them astray, and will excite in them vain desires, and will incite them to cut off the ears of cattle and to alter Allah's creation. Thus whoso takes Satan for a friend beside Allah has certainly suffered a manifest loss. He makes promises to them and excites vain desires in them. Satan promises them nothing but vain things. These are they whose abode shall be hell and they shall find no way of escape from it. (117-122)
We shall admit those who have believed and have worked righteousness, to gardens beneath which rivers flow, abiding therein for ever. This is Allah's promise which is bound to be fulfilled, for who can be more truthful than Allah in what He says? It is not your desires, nor the desires of the people of the Book that shall prevail. Whoso does evil shall be requited for it, and he shall not find for himself any friend or helper beside Allah. Whoso does good, whether male or female, and is a believer, shall enter Paradise and they shall not be wronged a whit. (123-125)
Who is better in faith than one who submits himself wholly to Allah acting righteously, and follows the religion of Abraham, the upright? Allah did take Abraham for a special friend. To Allah belongs all that is in the heavens and all that is in the earth; and Allah encompasses all things. (126-127)
They seek directions from thee in the matter of marrying more women than one. Say to them: Allah has given you directions concerning them. The commandment given to you elsewhere in the Book has reference to orphan girls whom you give not what is prescribed for them and yet whom you desire to marry, and to unprotected female children. You have also been commanded to deal equitably with orphans. Whatever good you do, Allah knows it well. (128)
Should a woman apprehend ill-treatment or indifference on the part of her husband, it shall be no sin on them that they be suitably reconciled to each other, for reconciliation is best. People are prone to covetousness. If you are benevolent towards each other and are mindful of your duty to Allah, surely Allah is Well Aware of what you do. (129)
You cannot keep perfect balance emotionally between your wives, however much you may desire it, but incline not wholly towards one, leaving the other in suspense. If you will maintain accord and are mindful of your duty to Allah, surely Allah is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. Should they, in such a case, decide to separate, Allah will make both independent out of His abundance; Allah is Bountiful, Wise. (130-131)
To Allah belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth. We assuredly laid a strict commandment on those who were given the Book before you and on you also; Be mindful of your duty to Allah. Now if you reject Our commandment, then remember, to Allah belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth, and Allah is Self-sufficient, Praiseworthy. To Allah belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth, and sufficient is Allah as a Guardian. If He please, He could destroy you, O people, and bring others in your place; Allah has full power to do that. Whoso desires the reward of this world should remember that with Allah is the reward of this world and the next; and Allah is All-Hearing, All-Seeing. (132-135)
O ye who believe, be strict in observing justice and bear witness only for the sake of Allah, even if it be against your own selves or against parents or kindred.
Whether the person be rich or poor, in either case, Allah is more regardful of him than you could be. Therefore, follow not vain desires so that you may act equitably. If you conceal the truth or evade it, then remember that Allah is well aware of that which you do. (136)
O you who believe, have firm faith in Allah and His Messenger, and in the Book which He has revealed to His Messenger, and the Book which He revealed before it. Whoso disbelieves in Allah, and His angels, and His Books, and His Messengers, and the Last Day, has surely strayed far away. Those who believe, then disbelieve, then again believe, then disbelieve and thereafter go on increasing in disbelief, Allah will never forgive them, nor guide them to any way of deliverance. (137-138)
Convey to the hypocrites, those who make friends with disbelievers rather than with believers, the tidings that for them is a grievous chastisement. Do they seek honour in their company? All honour belongs to Allah. (139-140)
He has laid upon you a commandment in the Book that when you hear the Signs of Allah being denied and mocked at, do not continue in that company, until they engage in some other discourse; otherwise you would be like them. Surely, Allah will assemble the hypocrites and the disbelievers in hell, all together. They are those who watch for news of you. If you are granted a victory from Allah, they say to you: Were we not with you? If the disbelievers have a portion of luck, they say to them: Did we not get the better of you on a previous occasion and protect you against the believers? Allah will judge between you on the Day of Judgment, and Allah will never grant the disbelievers a way to prevail against the believers. (141-142)
The hypocrites seek to deceive Allah and He will chastise them for their attempt at deception. When they stand in Prayer they are slack; they join the Prayer only for show, and they remember Allah but little. Wavering from side to side, they belong neither to one side nor to the other. For him whom Allah causes to perish, thou shalt not find a way of deliverance. (143-144)
O you who believe, make not intimate friends with disbelievers in preference to believers. Do you wish to give Allah a manifest proof against yourselves? The hypocrites shall surely be in the lowest depth of the Fire; and thou shalt not find that they have any helper, except such of them as repent and amend and hold fast to Allah for protection and are sincere in their worship of Allah. These are among the believers; and Allah will soon bestow a great reward upon the believers. Wherefore should Allah punish you, if you will be grateful and believe? Allah is Appreciating, All-Knowing. (145-148)
Allah likes not the public avowal of evil, except on the part of one who is wronged. Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. Whether you make public a good deed or perform it secretly, or pardon a wrong, Allah is surely very Forgiving, and determines the measure of everything. (149-150)
Those who disbelieve in Allah and His Messengers and seek to make a distinction between Allah and His Messengers and say: We believe in some Messengers and disbelieve in others; and desire to adopt a position in between, these indeed are disbelievers beyond doubt, and We have prepared for the disbelievers an humiliating chastisement. Those who believe in Allah and in all of His Messengers and make no distinction between any of them, these are they whom He will soon give their rewards. Allah is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. (151-153)
The People of the Book demand that thou cause a Book to descend on them from heaven. They had made an even more preposterous demand from Moses. They demanded: Show us Allah visibly. Because of their presumption they were afflicted with a destructive chastisement. Then, after clear Signs had come to them, they took to worshipping the calf, but We pardoned even that and We bestowed manifest authority upon Moses. We raised high above them the Mount whilst making a covenant with them, and We commanded them: Enter the gate submissively; and We also commanded them: Transgress not in the matter of the Sabbath. We took from them a firm covenant. (151-155)
Then, because of their breaking of their covenant; and their rejection of the Signs of Allah; and their seeking to slay the Prophets without cause; and their saying: Our hearts are wrapped up in covers; whereas Allah has sealed them up because of their disbelief, so that they believe but little; and their disbelief; and their uttering against Mary a grievous calumny; and their saying: We did kill the Messiah, Jesus son of Mary, the Messenger of Allah; whereas they slew him not, nor did they compass his death upon the cross, but he was made to appear to them like one crucified to death; and those who have differed in the matter of his having been taken down alive from the cross are certainly in a state of doubt concerning it, they have no definite knowledge about it, but only follow a conjecture; they certainly did not compass his death in the manner they allege; indeed, Allah exalted him to Himself; Allah is Mighty, Wise, and there is none among the People of the Book but will continue to believe till his death that Jesus died on the cross, and on the Day of Judgment Jesus shall bear witness against them; and their taking interest, though they had been forbidden it; and their devouring people's wealth wrongfully; because of all the transgressions of the Jews, and their hindering many from Allah's way. We barred them from the enjoyment of Our spiritual favours which had been allowed to them, and We have prepared for those of them who disbelieve a painful torment. (156-162)
But those among them who are firmly grounded in knowledge, and the believers, have firm faith in that which has been sent down to thee and that which was sent down before thee. To those who observe Prayer and pay the Zakat and believe sincerely in Allah and the Last Day, will We surely give a great reward. (163)
We have sent revelation to thee, as We sent revelation to Noah and the Prophets after him. We sent revelation to Abraham and Ishmael and Isaac and Jacob and his children and to Jesus and Job and Jonan and Aaron and Solomon, and We gave David a Book. (164)
We sent Messengers whose names We have mentioned to thee and Messengers whose names We have not mentioned to thee, and Allah spoke to Moses at length. We sent these Messengers as bearers of glad tidings and as warners, that people may have no plea against Allah after the coming of the Messengers. Allah is Mighty, Wise. Allah bears witness by means of the revelation that He has sent down to thee that He has sent it down charged with His knowledge; and the angels also bear witness; but Allah is Sufficient as a Witness. (165-167)
Those who disbelieve and hinder others from the way of Allah, have certainly strayed far away. Those who have disbelieved and have acted unjustly, Allah will by no means forgive them, nor will He show them any way, except the way of hell, wherein they shall abide for a prolonged period, and that is easy for Allah. (168-170)
O mankiind, the Messenger has indeed come to you with Truth from your Lord; believe, therefore, it will be the better for you. But if you disbelieve, then remember to Allah belongs whatsoever is in the heavens and in the earth. Allah is All-Knowing, Wise. (171)
People of the Book! Exceed not the limits in the matter of your religion, and say not of Allah anything but the truth. Indeed, the Messiah, Jesus son of Mary, was but a Messenger of Allah and the fulfilment of glad tidings which He conveyed to Mary and a mercy from Him. So believe in Allah and His messengers and say not: There are three gods. Desist, it will be the better for you. Indeed, Allah is the only One God. His Holiness brooks not that He should have a son. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth. Sufficient is Allah as a Guardian. (172)
Surely, the Messiah would never disdain to be accounted a servant of Allah, nor would even those angels who are close to Allah. Those who disdain to worship Him and consider themselves above it, will He gather all together before Himself. He will give those who believed and worked righteousness their rewards in full, and will bestow upon them more out of His bounty. He will punish those who disdained and were proud with a painful punishment, and they shall find, beside Allah, no friend or helper for themselves. (173-174)
O mankind, there has come to you a manifest proof from your Lord, and We have sent down to you a clear Light. Those who believe in Allah and hold fast to Him for protection, will He surely admit to His mercy and grace and guide to a straight path leading to Himself. (175-176)
They ask thee for directions concerning the inheritance of a Kalala. Say to them: Allah gives you His directions concerning the inheritance of such a one. If a man dies leaving no child and he has a consanguine sister, she shall have half of what he leaves; and he shall inherit her if she leaves no child. But if there be two or more sisters, consanguine, or con-sanguine and uterine, they shall have two thirds of what he leaves. If the heirs be brothers and sisters, the male shall have as much as the portion of two females. Allah explains matters to you lest you go astray, and Allah knows all things well. (177)

Chapter 5
Al-Ma'idah
Revealed after Hijra
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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Ever Merciful.
O ye who believe, fulfil your compacts. Made lawful for you are quadrupeds of the class of cattle, other than those which may be expressly forbidden, provided that game is not lawful for you while you are in the course of Pilgrimage. Allah decrees what He wills. (2)
O ye who believe, profane not the Signs of Allah, nor the Sacred Month, nor the animals brought to the Sanctuary as offering, nor the animals wearing collars indicating they are to be sacrified, nor those repairing to the Sacred House, seeking grace from their Lord and His pleasure. When on completion of the Pilgrimage you put off the pilgrim's garb, you may hunt. Let not the enmity of a people, in that they hindered you from the Sacred Mosque, incite you to transgress. Assist one another in piety and rectitude, and assist not one another in sin and transgression; and be mindful of your duty to Allah; surely, Allah's punishment is severe. (3)
Forbidden to you is the flesh of a dead animal, and blood, and the flesh of swine; and that on which the name of one other than Allah is invoked; and the flesh of an animal that has been strangled, or is beaten to death, or is killed by a fall, or is gored to death; and of which a wild animal has eaten, unless you have slaughtered it properly before its death; and that which has been slaughtered at an altar. But whoso is driven by necessity to eat any of these, without being wilfully inclined to sin, in such a case, surely, Allah is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. It is also forbidden that you should seek to draw lots by means of divining arrows. That is an act of disobedience. This day have those who disbelieve despaired of causing harm to your religion; so fear them not, but fear Me alone. This day have I peffected your religion for your benefit, and have completed My favour unto you, and have chosen for you Islam as your faith. (4)
They ask thee what is declared lawful for them. Tell them: all good things are declared lawful for you; and that which you teach hunting animals to catch for you, training them for the hunt and teaching them of that which Allah has taught you. So eat of that which they catch for you, and pronounce thereon the name of Allah. Be mindful of your duty to Allah; surely, Allah is Swift at reckoning. This day all good things are declared lawful for you; the food of the People of the Book is lawful for you and your food is lawful for them. Lawful for you are chaste believing women and chaste women from among those who were given the Book before you, when you give them their dowers, contracting valid marriages, not committing fornication nor taking secret paramours. Whoever disbelieves, having believed, his work has doubtless come to naught, and in the Hereafter he will be among the losers. (5-6)
O ye who believe, when you make ready for Prayer, wash your faces and your hands up to the elbows, and pass your wet hands over your heads, and wash your feet up to the ankles. Should you have consorted with your spouses, purify yourselves by bathing. Should you be ill or on a journey, or one of you comes from the privy, or you have consorted with your spouses and you find not water, then have recourse to pure dust and having placed your hands on it pass them over your faces and forearms. Allah desires not to put you in a difficulty, but desires to purify you and to complete His favour unto you that you may be grateful. Call to mind Allah's favour upon you and the covenant whereby He bound you, when you said: We have heard and we shall obey. Be mindful of your duty to Allah; surely, Allah knows all that is in your minds. (7-8)
O ye who believe, be steadfast in the cause of Allah, bearing witness in equity. Let not a people's enmity towards you incite you to act contrary to justice; be always just, that is closest to righteousness. Be mindful of your duty to Allah; surely, Allah is aware of all that you do. Allah has promised those who believe and act righteously that they shall have forgiveness and a great reward. Those who disbelieve and reject Our Signs, they are the people of hell. O ye who believe, call to mind Allah's favour upon you when a people designed to stretch forth its hands against you, but He restrained their hands and thus safeguarded you. Be mindful of your duty to Allah; and on Allah should the believers rely. (9-12)
Indeed did Allah take a firm covenant from the children of Israel; and We raised among them twelve leaders. Allah announced: Surely, I am with you. If you observe Prayer, and pay the Zakat, and believe in My Messengers and support them in every way, and place at Allah's disposal a goodly portion of your properties, I will remove from you your ills and will admit you to Gardens beneath which rivers flow. But whoso from among you disbelieves thereafter has indeed strayed away from the right path. So, because of their breaking of their covenant, We cast them away, and have hardened their hearts. They pervert the words of the Book from their proper places and have forgotten a portion of that with which they were exhorted. Thou wilt constantly discover treachery on their part, except on the part of a few of them. So, pardon them and overlook their defaults. Surely, Allah loves the benevolent. From those who say: We are Christians; We also took a covenant, but they too have forgotten a portion of that with which they were exhorted. So, We have put enmity and hatred between them till the day of Judgment; and soon will Allah let them know what they have been doing. (13-15)
People of the Book, there has come to you Our Messenger who unfolds to you much of that which you used to hide of the Book, and passes over much. There has come to you indeed from Allah a Light and a clear Book. Thereby does Allah guide those who seek His pleasure along the paths of peace, and leads them out of every kind of darkness into the light by His will, and guides them to the right path. (16-17)
They are indeed disbelievers who say: Allah is the Messiah son of Mary. Say to them: Who can have any power against Allah, if He should desire to bring to naught the Messiah, son of Mary, and his mother and all those that are in the earth? To Allah belongs the kingdom of the heavens and the earth and of all that which is between them. He creates what He pleases. Allah has full power over all things. The Jews and the Christians say:
We are the sons of Allah and His loved ones. Ask them: Why then does He punish you for your sins? Indeed, you are but human beings among those He has created. He forgives whom He pleases and punishes whom He pleases. To Allah belongs the kingdom of the heavens and the earth and of all that which is between them, and to Him shall be the return. (18-19)
People of the Book, there has come to you Our Messenger who makes things clear to you after a break in the succession of Prophets, lest you should say: There has come to us no bearer of glad tidings and no warner. Now there has come to you a bearer of glad tidings and a warner. Allah has full power over all things. (20)
Call to mind when Moses said to his people: O my people, recall the favour that Allah bestowed upon you when He appointed Prophets among you and made you Kings, and gave you that which He had not given to any other of the peoples. O my people, enter the Holy Land which Allah has ordained for you, and do not turn back, for in that case you will turn back losers. They said: Moses, there is in that land a powerful people, and we shall certainly not enter it until they go forth from it. When they go forth from it, we shall enter forthwith. Thereupon two men from among those who feared Allah, on whom Allah had bestowed His favour, said: Mount an assault upon the gate; once you have entered it, you will surely be victorious. Put your trust in Allah, if you are believers. They protested: Moses, we most certainly will not enter it so long as they remain in it. Therefore, go thou and thy Lord and fight them. Here we sit. Moses supplicated: Lord, I have power over none but myself and my brother; therefore, make Thou a distinction between us and this rebellious people. Allah said: The land shall be forbidden them for forty years; In distraction shall they wander through the countryside. Grieve not, therefore, over the rebellious people. (21-27)
Relate to them, O Prophet, the true story of the two sons of Adam, when each of them made an offering, and it was accepted from one of them and was not accepted from the other. The latter said to the former: I will surely kill thee. He replied: Allah accepts only from the righteous. If thou stretchest forth thy hand against me to kill me, I will not, in my defence, use such force as to kill thee.
I do fear Allah, the Lord of the universe. I shall restrain myself as I desire that the responsibility for my sin and thy own sin should rest on thee, with the result that thou wilt be among the inmates of the Fire, and that is the reward of the wrong-doers. The mind of the brother who was chagrined became reconciled to the killing of his brother, and so he killed him and thus became one of the losers. Then Allah sent a raven which scratched the earth that He might show him how to hide the corpse of his brother. Seeing this he exclaimed: Woe is me. Have I fallen so far that I am not able to be even like this raven so that I may hide the corpse of my brother? On this he became penitent. (28-32)
On account of this we prescribed for the children of Israel that whoso kills a person, except for killing another or for creating disorder in the land, it shall be as if he had killed all mankind; and whoso helps one to live, it shall be as if he had given life to all mankind. Our Messengers came to them with clear Signs, yet many of them continue to commit excesses in the land. (33)
The appropriate penalty for those who wage war against Allah and His Messenger and run about in the land creating disorder is that they be slain or crucified or their hands and their feet be cut off on alternate sides, or they be expelled from the land. That would be a disgrace for them in this world, and in the Hereafter they shall have a great punishment; except in the case of those who repent before you obtain power over them. Take note that Allah is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. (34-35)
O ye who believe, be mindful of your duty to Allah and seek out ways of approach unto Him and strive in His way that you may prosper. (36)
If those who disbelieve had all that is in the earth and as much over again, to ransom themselves therewith from the punishment of the Day of Judgment, it would not be accepted from them. They shall have a painful punishment. They will wish to come out of the Fire, but they will not be able to come out of it by any effort of their own. They shall have a lasting punishment. (37-38)
Cut off the hands of the man who steals and of the woman who steals in retribution of their offence as an exemplary punishment from Allah. Allah is Mighty, Wise. But Allah will surely turn in mercy to him who repents after his transgression and amends. Surely, Allah is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. Knowest thou not that Allah is He to whom belongs the Kingdom of the heavens and the earth. He punishes whom He pleases and forgives whom He pleases. Allah has full power to do all that He wills. (39-41)
O Messenger, grieve not on account of those who rush into disbelief from among those who say with their tongues: We believe; but their hearts believe not. From among the Jews also there are those who listen eagerly to any lie. They listen to them for conveying them to another people who have not come to thee. They pervert the words of the Quran after their being put in their right places. They say: If you are commanded thus and thus, then accept it, but if you are not commanded thus and thus, then beware. Him whom Allah desires to try, thou shalt not avail aught against Allah. These are they whose hearts Allah has not desired to purify. For them is humiliation in this world, and in the Hereafter they shall have a severe punishment. They listen eagerly to falsehood, and devour forbidden things voraciously. Should they come to thee seeking judgment in a dispute, then judge between them or keep away from them. If thou keepest away from them, they cannot harm thee at all. But shouldst thou decide to judge, then judge between them with justice. Surely, Allah loves the just. How will they make thee their judge, when they have the Torah which contains Allah's commandments? Yet, in spite of that they turn their backs; and they certainly do not believe. (42-44)
Surely, We sent down the Torah full of guidance and light. By it did the Prophets, who were obedient to Us, judge for the Jews and so did the divines and the jurists, for they were required to safeguard the Book of Allah, and because they were guardians over it. Therefore, fear not people but fear only Me; and barter not My Signs for a paltry price. Whoso judges not by that which Allah has sent down, these it is who are the disbelievers. In the Torah We had prescribed for them: A life for a life and an eye for an eye, and a nose for a nose, and an ear for an ear, and a tooth for a tooth, and equitable retaliation for other injuries. Whoso waives his right thereto, it shall be an expiation for his sins, and whoso judges not by that which Allah has sent down, these it is who are the wrongdoers. (45-46)
We caused Jesus son of Mary to follow in their footsteps, fulfilling that which was revealed before him in the Torah. We gave him the Gospel which contained guidance and light, fulfilling that which was revealed before it in the Torah, and a guidance and an admonition for the righteous. Let the People of the Gospel judge according to that which Allah has revealed therein, and whoso judges not by that which Allah has revealed, these it is who are the rebellious. (47-48)
Now We have revealed unto thee this Book comprising the truth, fulfilling that which was revealed before it of the book, and as a guardian over it. Judge, therefore, between them by that which Allah has revealed, and follow not their vain desires in preference to the truth which has come to thee. For each of you We have prepared, according to the capacity of each, a path or a highway, to enable you to approach the fountain of revealed guidance. Had Allah so willed, He would have made you all one people, but He wishes to try you by that which He has given you. Then try to outstrip each other in the pursuit of good. To Allah shall you all return; then will He enlighten you in respect of all that wherein you differed. Judge between them by that which Allah has sent down, and follow not their vain desires, and be on thy guard against them lest they should involve thee in trouble and lead thee away from part of that which Allah has revealed to thee. If they should turn away, then know that Allah intends to punish them for some of their sins. Indeed a large number of the people are disobedient. Do they seek judgment in accordance with the standards of the days before revelation? Who is better than Allah as a Judge for a people who have firm faith? (49-51)
O ye who believe, take not the Jews and the Christians as your helpers, for they are helpers of one another. Whoso from among you takes them as helpers will indeed be one of them. Verily, Allah guides not the unjust people. Thou wilt see those whose minds are diseased hastening towards them, saying to themselves in justification: We fear lest a misfortune befall us. Maybe, Allah will soon bring about your victory or some other event from Himself favourable to you. Then will they become remorseful of that which they keep hidden in their minds. Those who believe will say concerning them: Are these they who swore the most solemn oaths by Allah that they are entirely with you? Their works are vain and they have become the losers. (52-54)
O ye who believe, whoso from among you turns back from his religion let him remember that in his stead Allah will soon bring a people whom He will love and who will love Him, who will be kind and considerate towards the believers and firm and unyielding towards the disbelievers. They will strive hard in the cause of Allah and will not at all take to heart the reproaches of fault finders. That is Allah's grace; He bestows it upon whosoever He pleases. Allah is the Lord of vast bounty, All-Knowing. (55)
Your helpers are only Allah and His Messenger and the believers who observe Prayer and pay the Zakat and who worship none save Allah alone. Those who take Allah and His Messenger and the believers as their helpers should have firm faith that it is the party of Allah that must triumph. (56-57)
O ye who believe, take not as helpers those who make a jest and sport of your religion from among those who were given the Book before you and the other disbelievers. Be mindful of your duty to Allah, if you are believers. When you call people to Prayer, they take it as jest and sport, because they are a people who lack understanding. (58-59)
Say to them: People of the Book, you persecute us for the only fault that we believe in Allah and in that which has been sent down to us and in that which was sent down before it, and you do that because most of you are disobedient to Allah. Say to them: Shall I apprise you of those whose recompense from Allah is worse than that of those whom you despise? They are those whom Allah has cast aside and on whom His wrath has fallen and of whom He has made some as apes and swine who worship the Evil One. These are in the worst plight and farthest astray from the right path. (60-61)
When they come to you they say: We believe; but they come in disbelieving and go out disbelieving and Allah knows best that which they seek to hide. Thou seest many of them hastening towards sin and transgression and running eagerly after that which is forbidden. Evil indeed is that which they practise. Why do not the divines and those learned in the Law restrain them from uttering falsehood and devouring that which is forbidden? Evil indeed is that which they do. (62-64)
The Jews say: Allah's hand is chained up. Their own hands will be chained up and they will be cast aside by Allah because of what they say. His hands are wide open; He spends as He pleases. That which has been sent down to thee from Thy Lord will most surely cause many of them to grow firmer in rebellion and disbelief. We have cast enmity and hatred between them till the Day of Judgment. Whenever they kindle a fire to start a war, Allah puts it out. They strive to create disorder in the land and Allah loves not those who create disorder. (65)
If the People of the Book had believed and been mindful of their duty to Allah, We would surely have removed from them their ills and We would surely have admitted them into Gardens of Bliss. Had they carried out the commandments of the Torah and the Gospel and of that which has now been sent down to them from their Lord, they would surely have partaken of spiritual as well as of material bounties. Of them there is a section which is moderate, but evil indeed is that which most of them do. (66-67)
O Messenger, proclaim widely that which has been sent down to thee from thy Lord; for if thou do it not, thou wilt not have conveyed His Message at all. Allah will safeguard thee against harm by people. Allah guides not the disbelieving people. (68)
Say to the People of the Book: You have nothing to stand on until you carry out the commandments of the Torah and the Gospel and of that which has now been sent down to you from your Lord. That which has been sent down to thee from thy Lord will most surely cause many of them to grow firmer in rebellion and disbelief; so grieve not over such disbelieving people. Surely of those who have believed, and the Jews and the Sabians and the Christians whoso truly believes in Allah and the last Day and acts righteously, shall have no fear, nor shall they grieve. (69-70)
We took a firm covenant from the children of Israel, and We sent many Messengers to them. Every time there came to them a Messenger with that which their hearts desired not, they treated him as a liar or they sought to slay him. They reckoned their conduct would entail no harm, so they became blind and deaf. But Allah turned to them in mercy; yet again many of them became blind and deaf. Allah watches what they do. (71-72)
Those certainly are disbelievers who say: Allah is none but the Messiah son of Mary; whereas the Messiah himself taught: Children of Israel, worship Allah Who is my Lord and your Lord. Surely, Allah has forbidden Heaven to him who associates partners with Allah, and the Fire will be his resort. The wrongdoers shall have no helpers. Those certainly are disbelievers who say: Allah is the third of three. There is no one worthy of worship but the One God. If they desist not from that which they say, a grievous chastisement shall surely afflict those of them that disbelieve. Will they not then turn to Allah and beg His forgiveness, seeing that Allah is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful? (73-75)
The Messiah, son of Mary, was only a Messenger; many Messengers have passed away before him. His mother was a paragon of truth and they both were in need of and ate food. Observe how We explain the Signs for their benefit, then observe how they are led away. Ask them: Do you worship beside Allah that which has no power to do you harm or good? It is Allah Who is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. Admonish them: People of the Book, exceed not the limits in the matter of your religion unjustly, nor follow the vain desires of a people who themselves went astray before and caused many others to go astray, and who strayed away from the right path. (76-78)
Those of the children of Israel who disbelieved were cursed by David, and by Jesus son of Mary. That was because they disobeyed and were given to transgression. They did not try to restrain one another from the iniquity which they committed. Evil indeed was that which they used to do. Thou shalt see many of them taking the disbelievers as their helpers. Evil indeed is that which they have chosen to send on ahead for themselves, which is that Allah is displeased with them and in this torment shall they abide. Had they believed in Allah and this Prophet, and in that which has been sent down to him, they would not have taken the disbelievers as their helpers, but most of them are disobedient. (79-82)
Thou shalt certainly find the bitterest of people in enmity against the believers to be the Jews and the pagans, and thou shalt assuredly find the closest of them in friendship towards the believers to be those who say: We are Christians. That is because some of them are savants and monks and because they are not arrogant. (83)
When they hear that which has been sent down to this Messenger, thou seest their eyes overflow with tears, because of that which they have recognised of the Truth. They affirm: Our Lord, we have believed, so write us down among the witnesses. Wherefore should we not believe in Allah and in the truth which has come to us, when we earnestly desire that our Lord should include us among the righteous people? So Allah will reward them, because of that which they affirmed, with Gardens beneath which rivers flow; therein shall they abide. That is the recompense of those who do good. Those who have disbelieved and rejected Our Signs, these are the inmates of hell. (84-87)
O ye who believe, declare not as unlawful the wholesome things Allah has made lawful for you and transgress not the prescribed limits. Allah loves not those who transgress. Eat freely of that which Allah has provided for you of lawful and wholesome things, and be mindful of your duty to Allah in Whom you believe. (88-89)
Allah will not call you to account for your meaningless oaths but will call you to account or breaking your oaths by which you bind yourselves; the expiation of such breach is the feeding of ten poor persons with such average food as you eat yourselves, or providing clothing for them, or procuring the freedom of one held in bondage. Whoso lacks the means shall fast for three days. That is the expiation of your breaking the oaths that you have sworn. Do observe your oaths. Thus does Allah expound to you His commandments that you may be grateful. (90)
O ye who believe, liquor, gambling, idols and divining arrows are but abominations and Satanic devices. So turn wholly away from each one of them that you may prosper. Satan desires only to create enmity and hatred between you by means of liquor and gambling and to keep you back from the remembrance of Allah and from Prayer. Will you, then, desist? Obey Allah and obey the Messenger and be ever on your guard; but if you turn away then remember that the duty of Our Messenger is only to convey Our Message clearly. (91-93)
There shall be no sin on those who believe and act righteously, in respect of that which they eat of things lawful and wholesome if they are mindful of their duty to Allah and hold firmly to the faith and act in conformity thereto, and keep marching forward in righeousness and in firmness of faith, and then go forward in righteousness and perform their duty to the uttermost. Allah loves those who perform their duty to the uttermost. (94)
O ye who believe, Allah will surely try you in respect of a small matter, namely, the game within the reach of your hands and your lances, so that Allah may make known those who fear Him in secret. Whoso, therefore, will transgress thereafter shall suffer a grievous punishment. O ye who believe, kill not game while you are in the course of Pilgrimage. Whoso of you kills it intentionally, the penalty is a quadruped like unto that which he has killed as determined by two of your just men, which must reach the Ka'ba as an offering. If the offender should not find this within his means, the expiation shall be the feeding of a certain number of poor persons, or fasting during a corresponding number of days, so that he should realise the gravity of his offence. Allah forgives that which is past; but whoso reverts to it, Allah will punish him for his offence. Allah is Mighty, Lord of retribution. The game of the sea and eating thereof are made lawful for you as a provision for you and for travellers; but forbidden to you is game of the land as long as you are in the course of Pilgrimage. Be mindful of your duty to Allah to Whom you will be gathered. (95-97)
Allah has made the Ka'ba, the inviolable House, a permanent means of support and uplift for mankind, as also the Sacred month, the offerings and the animals with collars designed for sacrifice. That is so that you may know that Allah has knowledge of whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth and that Allah knows all things well. Remember that Allah is Severe in punishment and that Allah is also Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. (98-99)
The Messenger's duty is only to convey the Message; and Allah knows your overt actions, as well as your secret designs. Tell them: That which is useless and that which is useful are not alike even though the abundance of that which is useless may appear pleasing to you. So be mindful of your duty to Allah, O ye who possess understanding, that you may prosper. (100-101)
O ye who believe, do not enquire about things which, if they were disclosed to you, would become burdensome for you; though if you enquire about them while the Quran is being sent down, they will be disclosed to you. Allah has left them out on purpose. Allah is Most Forgiving, Forbearing. A people before you enquired about such things, but when they were disclosed to them they refused to carry them out. (102-103)
Allah has ordained no sanctity about animals described as Bahira, or Saiba, or Wasila or Hami; but those who disbelieve fabricate lies against Allah and most of them have no understanding. When it is said to them: Come to that which Allah has sent down, and to the Messenger; they retort: Sufficient for us is that wherein we found our fathers. Would they persist in their attitude even if their fathers knew nothing and had no notion of guidance? O ye who believe, be heedful of your own selves. If you make sure of being rightly guided yourselves, the going astray of another will not harm you. To Allah will you all return; then will He disclose to you that which you used to do. (104-106)
O ye who believe, the best way of providing proof, at the time of making a will, when one of you is approaching his end, is that the witnesses should be two just men from among you, but if you should be on a journey when the calamity of death overtakes you and witnesses from among you should not be available, then two just men who are not from among you. You shall detain the two of them after Prayer, and should you doubt their testimony, they shall both swear by Allah and affirm: We shall have no personal interest to serve by our testimony, even if the person affected be a near relation, and we shall not conceal the testimony enjoined by Allah; surely, in that case we shall be guilty of sin. If it be discovered thereafter that the two are guilty of such sin, then two others shall take their place from among those against whom the two had sinfully deposed, and these two shall swear by Allah: Our testimony is truer than the testimony of the first two, and we have not been guilty of any misstatement; for then indeed we would be transgressors. It is more likely that in this way, the first witnesses will adhere to the facts in giving their evidence, being afraid that if they departed therefrom other sworn testimony may be offered to contradict their sworn testimony. Be mindful of your duty to Allah and carry out His commandments fully. Allah guides not the disobedient people. (107-109)
Keep in mind the day when Allah will assemble the Messengers and will ask them: What reply did the people make to you? and they will answer: We have no real knowledge of it, it is only Thou who possessest full knowledge of all that is hidden. Allah will also say to Jesus son of Mary: Call to mind My favour upon thee and thy mother, when I strengthened thee with the Spirit of holiness, so that thou didst talk to people of things divine in thy early and late years; and when I taught thee the Book and Wisdom and the Torah and the Gospel; and when thou didst create from among common men, by My Command, in the manner of a bird, a new creation, into which thou didst breathe a new spirit and it became a soaring being, by My command; and when thou didst declare clean the blind and the leprous by My command; and when thou didat raise the spiritually dead by My command; and when I held back from thee the children of Israel who had designed to put thee to death, when thou didst come to them with clear Signs and those who disbelieved from among them said:
This is nothing but clear deception; and when I inspired the disciples: Believe ye, in Me and in My Messenger; and they responded: We believe, and bear Thou witness that we have submitted wholly. (110-112)
Call to mind also when the disciples asked Jesus son of Mary: Has thy Lord power to send down to us from heaven a table spread with food? He rebuked them:
Be mindful of Allah's Majesty, if you are true believers. But they persisted: We desire to partake of it that our hearts may be satisfied that our Lord is All-Powerful, and we may realise that thou hast told us the truth, and that we may become witnesses thereof. Thereupon Jesus son of Mary prayed: Allah, our Lord, do Thou send down to us from heaven a table spread with food, that it may be a festival for the first of us and for the last of us, and a Sign from Thee; and do provide for us from Thyself for Thou art the Best Provider. Said Allah: I will certainly send it down to you but whosoever of you is ungrateful thereafter, such as him I will surely punish with torment wherewith I will not punish any other of the peoples. (113-116)
Keep in mind, when Allah will ask Jesus son of Mary; Didst thou say to the people: Take me and my mother for two besides Allah! and he will answer:
Holy art Thou. It behoves me not to have said that to which I have no right. Had I said it, Thou wouldst surely have known it. Thou knowest what is in my mind, and I know not what is in Thy mind. It is only Thou Who possessest full knowledge of all that is hidden. I said naught to them except that which Thou didst command me; that is: Worship Allah, my Lord and your Lord. I watched over them as long as I was present among them, but since Thou didst cause me to die, Thou hast been the One to watch over them. Indeed Thou dost watch over all things. If Thou decide to punish them, they are Thy servants; and if Thou forgive them, Thou surely art the Mighty, the Wise. Allah will say: This day the truthful shall profit by their truthfulness. For them are Gardens beneath which rivers flow; therein shall they abide for ever. Allah is well pleased with them, and they are well pleased with Him; that indeed is the supreme triumph. To Allah belongs the kingdom of the heavens and the earth and of whatever is in them; and He has full power over all things.

Chapter 6
Al-An'am
Revealed before Hijra
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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Ever Merciful.
All praise is due to Allah Who created the heavens and the earth and made darknesses and light; yet those who disbelieve set up equals with their Lord. He it is Who created you from clay, and decreed a term for all life, and there is another term fixed for the universe of which He alone has knowledge. Yet you entertain doubt. He alone is Allah, in the heavens and in the earth. He knows your secret thoughts and your overt acts and also knows whatever you acquire. (2-4)
There comes not to the disbelievers any Sign of the Signs of their Lord, but they turn away from it, and thus they have rejected the Truth, the Quran, when it came to them; soon, therefore, shall come to them the tidings of that at which they mocked. Know they not how many a generation have We destroyed before them, whom We had made more powerful in the land than We have made this generation? We had sent clouds over them pouring down abundant rain and had caused streams to flow whose waters they regulated. Then did We destroy them because of their sins and We raised up another generation after them. (5-7)
Even if We had sent down to thee a book inscribed upon parchment, which they could have touched with their hands, the disbelievers would surely have said: This is palpable deception. They say: Why has not an angel been sent down to him? Had We sent an angel, their doom would have been sealed, and they would not have been granted a respite. (8-9)
Besides, if We had appointed an angel as Messenger, We would have invested him with the form of a man, and thus We would again have made obscure to them that which they now consider obscure. Before thee also were Messengers mocked at, but then that which they had mocked at encompassed those of them who scoffed. (10-11)
Say to them: Travel through the earth and see what was the end of those who rejected Our Signs. Ask them: To whom does that which is in the heavens and the earth belong? Tell them it belongs to Allah. He has charged Himself with mercy. He will continue to assemble you till the Day of Judgment, in which there is no doubt. Those who have ruined their souls will not believe. To Him belongs all that exists in the night and the day. He is the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing. (12-14)
Ask them: Shall I take as protector someone other than Allah, Creator of the heavens and the earth, Who feeds all and needs not to be fed? Tell them: I have been commanded to render the most perfect obedience. I have also been commanded: Be thou not of those who associate partners with Allah. Tell them also: Assuredly, I fear, if I were to disobey my Lord, the torment of an awful day. He from whom the torment is averted on that day will have been shown mercy by Allah. That indeed is manifest triumph. (15-17)
If Allah were to afflict thee, there is none that can remove the affliction but He, and if He were to bestow upon thee some good, He has power to do all that He wills. He is Supreme over His servants; and He is the Wise, the All-Aware. (16-19)
Ask them: What is weightiest in evidence? and then tell them it is Allah. He is a Witness between you and me. This Quran is revealed to me so that through it I may warn you, and whomsoever it reaches, of that which is impending. Do you really affirm that there are other gods beside Allah?
Tell them: I affirm no such thing. Then do thou affirm: He is the One God and I am most averse to that which you associate with Him. Those to whom We have given the Book recognise Allah as they recognise their sons; but those who have ruined their souls will not believe. (20-21)
Who is guilty of greater injustice than one who fabricates a lie against Allah or rejects His Signs as falsehood? Surely, the wrongdoers shall not prosper. On the day when We shall gather them all together, We shall question those who associate partners with Us: Where are the partners, that you used to set up? Their only answer will be: By Allah, our true Lord, We were never guilty of associating partners with Allah. Observe, how they shall lie against their own selves, forgetting all that they used to fabricate. (22-25)
Some of them appear to listen to thee, but because of their misdeeds We have put coverings over their hearts and deafness in their ears which prevent them understanding what thou sayest. Even if they were to witness every kind of Sign, they would not believe therein, so much so, that when they come to thee, disputing with thee, those who disbelieve say: All this is nothing but tales of the ancients. They hinder people from it, and themselves keep away from it, not realising that thereby they only ruin their own selves. (26-27)
If thou couldst see them when they are made to stand before the Fire, when they will lament: Would that we might be sent back: We would not now reject the Signs of our Lord and we would be believers. Thus would that which they used to conceal before become manifest to them. But they would still be lying, for if they were to be sent back, they would surely revert to that which they were forbidden. (28-29)
They assert: There is nothing beyond our present life and we shall certainly not be raised up again. If thou couldst see them when they are made to stand before their Lord and He would ask them: Is this, your being raised up again, not a reality? They would answer: Indeed yes, by our Lord. He would say: Then suffer the torment because you disbelieved. (30-31)
Those who deny that they are bound to face Allah are indeed the losers, so much so, that when the Hour shall come on them unawares, they will exclaim: Oh, the bitterness of our remorse at neglecting this Hour! They will be carrying their burdens on their backs; and evil burdens will they be. The hither life is but sport and play; and surely the abode of the Hereafter is better for those who are mindful of their duty to Allah. Will you not, then, understand? (32-33)
We know well that what they say grieves thee sorely; for they charge not thee with falsehood, but it is the Signs of Allah that the evil-doers reject. Messengers before thee were also rejected and they continued steadfast, despite rejection and persecution, until Our help came to them. There is none that can change the words of Allah, and surely there have come to thee some of the tidings of past Messengers. Yet, if the turning away of the disbelievers bears hardly upon thee, then if thou art able to seek a passage into the earth or a ladder up to heaven and bring them a Sign, by all means do so. Had Allah enforced His will, He would surely have brought them together into the guidance. So be thou not one of the unenlightened. Only those respond to Allah's call who listen; and Allah will raise those who are dead and to Him shall they be brought back. (34-37)
They ask: Why has not a Sign been sent down to him from his Lord? Tell them: Surely, Allah has power to send down a Sign, but most of them know it not. There is not an animal that moves about in the earth, nor a bird that flies on its two wings, but are communities like you. We have not left out anything in the Book. Then to their Lord shall they be gathered together. Those who have rejected Our Signs are deaf and dumb, caught in manifold darknesses. Whom Allah wills He allows to perish, and whom He wills He puts on the right path. (38-40)
Ask them: Tell me truly, if the punishment of Allah came upon you or the Hour overtook you, would you call upon any other than Allah? Indeed no, in such an event, you will call on Him alone and will forget all that you associate with Him; then will He remove that which you call on Him to remove, if He please. (41-42)
Indeed We sent Messengers to different peoples before thee, then We afflicted the disbelievers with poverty and adversity that they might humble themselves. Why did they not, then, humble themselves when Our punishment came upon them? Instead, their hearts became even more hardened and Satan made all that they did appear attractive to them. Thereafter when they forgot that with which they had been admonished, We bestowed upon them abundance of everything, until when they were in a state of exultation over that which they had been given, We seized them suddenly and they were struck dumb with despair. Thus was cut off the last remnant of the people who did wrong. All praise belongs to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. (43-46)
Ask them: Tell me, if Allah were to take away your hearing and your sight, and to seal up your hearts, who is the god, other than Allah, who could bring them back to you? Observe, how We expound the Signs to them in diverse ways, yet they turn away. Ask them: Tell me, if the punishment of Allah came upon you without presage, or visibly, will any be destroyed except the wrongdoing people? (47-48)
We send the Messengers only as bearers of glad tidings and as warners, then those who believe and work righteousness are subject neither to fear nor to grief; and chastisement befalls those who reject Our Signs because of their disobedience. (49-50)
Tell them: I do not say to you: I possess the treasures of Allah; nor do I know the unseen; nor do I say to you: I am an angel. I but follow that which is revealed to me. Ask them, however: Can the blind and the seeing be alike? Will you not, then, reflect? (51)
Warn by means of the Quran those who fear that they shall be gathered to their lord when they shall have no friend nor intercessor beside Him, so that they may become righteous; and drive not away those who call upon their lord morning and evening seeking His countenance. Thou art not at all accountable for them nor are they at all accountable for thee. If thou drive them away thou wilt be of the unjust. (52-53)
Thus We have tried some of them by means of others in this manner that they may ask: Are these lowly ones those whom Allah has singled out for His favours from among us? Quite so; does not Allah know best those who are grateful? When those who believe in Our Signs come to thee, greet them with: Peace unto you. Your Lord has charged Himself with mercy, so that whoso among you does evil in ignorance and repents thereafter and amends, then He is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. Thus do We expound the Signs so that truth may be proclaimed and the way of the sinners may become manifest. (54-56)
Proclaim, O Prophet: I am forbidden to worship the false gods on whom you call beside Allah; and say to them: I will not follow your low desires; for if I did, I would be lost and would not be of those rightly guided. Say to them: I take my stand on clear proof from my lord, and you reject it. That which you desire to heastened is not within my power; all judgment rests with Allah, He expounds the truth and He is the Best of judges. Say to them: If that which you desire to be hastened were in my power, surely the matter in controversy between you and me would be quickly decided. Allah knows best the unjust. (57-59)
With Him are the keys of the unseen, none knows it but He. He knows whatsoever is in the land and in the sea; not a leaf falls but He knows it. Nor is there a grain in the darknesses of the earth, nor anything green or dry but is under His effective protection. He it is who takes your souls into custody by night and knows all that you do by day; then He raises you up during the day that a term that has been appointed may be completed. Then to Him is your return and He will inform you of that which you used to do. (60-61)
He is Supreme over His servants and He sends guardians to watch over you, until, when death comes to any one of you, our deputed angels take his soul and they fail not in the discharge of their duty in any respect. Then are they returned to Allah, their true Lord. Hearken, His is the Judgment and He is the Swiftest of reckoners. (62-63)
Ask them: Who is it Who delivers you from the calamities of the land and the sea; when you call upon Him in humility and in secret: If He deliver us from this we will surely be among the grateful? Tell them: It is Allah Who delivers you from them and from every other distress, yet you associate partners with Him. Warn them: He has power to afflict you with chastisement from above you or from beneath your feet, or to split you into hostile groups and involve you with each other in violence. Observe, how We expound the Signs in diverse ways that they may understand. (64-66)
Thy people have rejected the message We have sent through thee, though it is the Truth. Tell them: I am not a guardian over you. There is a fixed time for ever prophecy and soon will you come to know. (67-68)
When thou seest those who are engaged in vain discourse concerning Our Signs, keep away from them until they turn to some other topic. Should Satan cause thee to forget, do not continue to sit with the unjust people after recollection. Those who are righteous are not at all accountable for them, but it is their duty to admonish them, that they may desist. (69-70)
Leave alone those for whom religion is only a sport and pastime and whom worldy life has beguiled; and continue to admonish people by means of the Quran, lest a soul be ruined because of that which it has wrought, having no helper or intercessor beside Allah. If it were to offer every ransom it shall not be accepted from it. These are they who are ruined in consequence of that which they have wrought. Their drink will be boiling water and they will suffer painful torment because they disbelieved. (71)
Ask them: Shall we call, beside Allah, upon that which can neither benefit us nor harm us and be turned back on our heels after Allah has guided us, like one who is enticed away by the rebellious ones and is left bewildered in the land, some of whose companions call him: Come to us that you may be guided? Tell them:
Surely, the guidance of Allah is the only true guidance, and we have been commanded to submit to the lord of all the worlds; and we have been commanded: Observe Prayer and be mindful of your duty to Him. He it is to Whom you shall be gathered. He it is Who created the heavens and the earth in accordance with the requirements of wisdom; the day He says concerning that which He wills: Be; it will be. His word shall be fulfilled. His will be the kingdom on the day when the trumpet will be blown. He has full knowledge of the unseen and the seen; He is the Wise, the All-Aware. (72-74)
Call to mind when Abraham said to his father Aazar: Dost thou take idols for gods? I consider thee and thy people as being in manifest error. We showed Abraham Our kingdom over the heavens and the earth so that his knowledge being perfected, he might be of those who have certainty of faith. (75-76)
Thus, it happened, that when he was enveloped in the darkness of night, he saw a star, whereupon he exclaimed: Can that be my Lord? and when it set, he muttered: I like not those that set. Then when he saw the moon rising, he said:
Can this be my Lord? and when it set he said: Had my Lord not guided me, I would surely have been of those who go astray. Finally, when he saw the sun rising, he said: Can this be my Lord, no doubt this is the biggest? But when that also set, he said to his people: Most certainly, I have no truck with that which you associate with Allah; I have single-mindedly devoted the whole of my attention to Him Who created the heavens and the earth, and I am not of those who associate partners with Allah. (77-80)
His people sought to contend with him. He said: Do you contend with me concerning Allah, Who has guided me aright? I fear not that which you associate with Him; I fear only that which my lord may deteimine. My lord comprehends all within His knowledge; will you not then take heed? How should I be afraid of that which you associate with Allah, when you are not afraid to associate with Allah that concerning which He has sent down to you no authority? Which, then, of the two parties has a better right to security, if indeed you know? Those who believe and debase not their faith with injustice, for them is peace and they are rightly guided. (81-83)
That was Our argument that We furnished to Abraham against his people. We exalt in rank whomso We please. Thy Lord is indeed Wise, All-Knowing. We bestowed upon him Isaac and Jacob; each did We guide aright, and Noah did We guide aright aforetime, and of Abraham's progeny did We guide aright David and Solomon and Job and Joseph and Moses and Aaron. Thus do we reward those who do good. (84-85)
We also guided Zachariah and John and Jesus and Elias, each one of them was of the righteous; and Ishmael and Elisha and Jonas and Lot, each one did We exalt above the people, and of their fathers and their children and their brethren; We chose them and We guided them along the straight path. (86-88)
That is the guidance of Allah, whereby He guides those of His servants whom He pleases. Had they associated aught with Allah, all that they did would have been of no avail to them. It is these to whom We gave the Book, the faculty of judgment and Prophethood. Then if these people disbelieve in Prophethood, We have now committed it to a people who do not disbelieve in it. These are the ones whom Allah guided aright, so do thou follow their guidance. Say to these people: I ask not of you any recompense for it. It is but an admonition for all mankind. (89-91)
Those who say Allah has not revealed anything to any man, do not appreciate Allah's attributes justly. Ask them: Who revealed the Book which Moses brought, a light and guidance for the people? You have reduced it to scraps and bits, some of it you disclose and much of it you conceal; though you have been taught by means of it that which neither you nor your fathers knew. Say to them: It was revealed by Allah; then leave them to disport with their falsehood. (92)
This Quran is a noble Book that We have revealed, full of blessings, fulfilling that which preceded it, that thou mayest thereby warn the people of Mecca and those around it. Those who believe in that which is yet to come believe therein and they keep a watch over their Prayer. (93)
Who is more unjust than one who deliberately fabricates a lie against Allah: or says: I am the recipient of revelation, while nothing has been revealed to him; or says: I will surely send down the like of that which Allah has sent down? If thou couldst but see, when the wrong-doers are in the agonies of death, and the angels stretch forth their hands, demanding: Yield up your souls; this day shall you be awarded an humiliating punishment, because of that which you used to speak against Allah falsely and because you used to turn away from His Signs with disdain. Allah will say to them: You have now come to Us one by one even as We created you at first, and you have left behind you that which We bestowed upon you as a favour. We see not with you your intercessors, who, according to you, were partners with Allah in ruling over you. Now you have been cut off from one another and that which you asserted has failed you. (94-95)
Surely, it is Allah Who causes the grain and the datestones to sprout. He brings forth the living from the dead and it is He Who brings forth the dead from the living. That is your Allah; wherefore, then are you turned back? He causes the break of day, and has made the night for rest and the sun and the moon the means for reckoning time. That is the measure determined by the Mighty, the All-Knowing. He it is Who has made for you the stars, that you may follow the right direction in the darknesses of the land and sea. We have expounded the Signs in detail for a people who possess knowledge. He it is Who has created you from a single soul and has appointed for you a place of temporary resort and a more permanent abode. We have expounded the Signs in detail for a people who understand. (96-99)
It is He Who sends down water from the sky; and We bring forth therewith every kind of growth and therefrom, out of green foliage, We produce clustered grain; and from the date-palm, out of its sheath, We produce bunches hanging low. We also produce therewith gardens of grapes, and the olive and the pomegranate, some similar and some dissimilar. Observe the fruit of every kind of tree when it bears fruit and the process of its ripening. Surely, in this are Signs for the people who believe. (100)
They have appointed partners of Allah out of the Jinn, whereas He has created them; and they falsely attribute to Him sons and daughters without any knowledge. Holy is He and exalted far above that which they attribute to Him. Originator of the heavens and the earth! How can He have a son when He has no consort, and He has created everything and has full knowledge of all things? That is Allah, your Lord; there is no god but He, the Creator of all things; so worship Him alone. He is Guardian over everything. Eyes cannot reach Him, but He manifests Himself before the eyes. He is the Imperceptible, the All-Aware. (101-104)
Proofs have indeed come to you from your Lord; so he who comprehends, it is or his own benefit, and he who ignores, it is to his own loss. I am not a guardian over you. (105)
Thus do We expound the Signs in diverse ways that they should concede: Thou hast read out to us; and that We may explain them to a people who have knowledge. (106)
Follow that which has been revealed to thee from thy Lord; there is no god but He; and turn aside from those who set up partners with Allah. Had Allah so willed, they would not have set up partners with Him.
We have not appointed thee a keeper over them nor art thou their guardian. Revile ye not those whom they call upon beside Allah, lest they, out of spite, should revile Allah in their ignorance. Thus have We caused their conduct to seem fair to every people. Then unto their Lord is their return; and He will inform them of that which they used to do. (107-109)
They swear the strongest oaths by Allah that if there came to them a Sign, they would surely believe therein. Say to them:
Surely, Signs are with Allah, and also that which would make you understand that even when the Signs come they will not believe. We shall confound their hearts and their eyes, as they believed not in it in the first instance, and shall leave them in their transgression to wander in distraction. (110-111)
Even if We had sent down angels to them, and the dead had spoken to them, and We had gathered before them all things face to face, -- they would not have believed, unless Allah had so willed. Most of them behave ignorantly. In like manner have We made for every Prophet enemies, rebellious ones from among men, high and low. They make evil suggestions one to another in flowery language in order to deceive. (If thy Lord had so willed they would not have done so, then leave them alone and that which they fabricate.) This We do, so that the hearts of those who do not believe in the Hereafter may be inclined towards those suggestions and that they may be pleased therewith and that they may experience the consequences of their conduct. (112-114)
Ask them: Shall I seek one other than Allah as Judge, when He it is Who has sent down to you the Book, clearly explained? Those to whom We gave the Book know that it has been sent down by thy Lord with truth; so be thou not of those who doubt. The word of thy Lord shall be fulfilled in truth and justice, none can change His words. He is the All-Hearing; the All-Knowing. (115-116)
If thou were to obey the majority of those on earth, they would lead thee astray from Allah's way. They follow only conjecture, and they do nothing but guess. Surely, thy Lord knows best those who stray away from His way, and He knows best those who are rightly guided. (117-118)
Eat ye of that over which the name of Allah as been pronounced, if you are believers in His Signs. Why should you not eat of that over which -- the name of Allah has been pronounced, when He has already explained to you that which He has forbidden unto you, save that to which you are driven by necessity? Surely, many mislead others by following their vain desires through lack of knowledge. Assuredly, thy Lord knows best the transgressors. Eschew both that which is manifestly sinful and that which is sinful in essence though not appearing to be so. Surely, those who commit sin will be requited for that which they do. Eat not that on which the name of Allah has not been pronounced, for that, surely, is disobedience. The rebellious ones keep inciting their friends that they may contend with you. If you obey them you will become of those who associate partners with Allah. (119-122)
Can he who was as dead and We gave him life and appointed for him a light whereby he walks among people, be like one who is, as it were, in utter darkness whence he can by no means come forth? In like manner have the doings of the disbelievers been made to seem fair to them. (123)
Thus have We oriented the leading sinners in every town, with the result that they devise plots therein against Allah's Messengers, but in truth they plot only against their own selves and they perceive it not. When a Sign comes to them they say:
We will not believe until to us is vouchsafed revelation like that which is vouchsafed to the Messengers of Allah. Allah knows best whom to appoint His Messenger. Humiliation before Allah and severe punishment shall surely overtake the sinners because of their plotting. Whomsoever Allah wills to guide, He opens his mind to the acceptance of Islam; and whomsoever He wills to let go astray, He causes His breast to be constricted and oppressed, as though he was mounting up into the sky. Thus does Allah inflict punishment on those who do not believe. (124-126)
This is the straight path leading to thy Lord. We have explained the signs in detail for a people who take heed, For them is the abode of peace with their Lord, and He is their Helper because of that which they did. (127-128)
On the day when He will gather them all together, He will say: O company of big ones, you exploited the people. Their supporters from among the common people will say: Our Lord, some of us have benefited from others, but now we have reached the end of our term which Thou didst appoint for us. He will announce: The Fire is your abode, wherein you shall abide, except that which Allah may will. Surely thy Lord is Wise, All-Knowing. In this manner We make the wrongdoers helpers some of the others, because of that which they do. (129-130)
O company of men, big and small, did not Messengers come to you from among yourselves who recited to you My Signs and warned you of your meeting with Me this day? They will say; We bear witness against ourselves to that effect. The life of this world beguiled them with vain hopes, and they will bear witness against themselves that they were disbelievers. Messengers are sent because thy Lord would not destroy the towns unjustly while their people have not been warned. Everyone will rank according to his conduct. Thy Lord is not unmindful of that which they do. (131-133)
Thy Lord is Self-Sufficient, full of mercy. He can do away with you if He please and cause to succeed you whoso He pleases even as He raised you from the off-spring of another people. That which you are promised shall surely come
to pass and you cannot frustrate Allah's design Say to them: O my people, do you pursue your purpose and I shall pursue mine, then soon will you know in whose favour is determined the ultimate issue of this life. Surely, the wrongdoers shall not prosper. (134-138)
They assign to Allah a portion of the crops and cattle which He produces and out of their fancy they say: So much is for Allah and so much is for our idols. Then they claim that the portion which is for their idols does not reach Allah but that the portion which is for Allah reaches their idols. Evil is that which they judge. In like manner have those they associate with Allah made the slaying of their children appear pleasing to many of the idolaters that they may ruin them and make their religion obscure to them. If Allah had so willed, the idolaters would not have done this; so do thou ignore them and that which they fabricate. Of their fancy they assert: Such and such cattle and crops are forbidden.
None shall eat thereof save those we designate. They forbid some cattle being ridden or used as beasts of burden. There are some cattle over which they do not pronounce the name of Allah. All this they fabricate as a lie against Allah. Soon will He requite them for that which they fabricate. They also assert: That which is in the wombs of such and such cattle is exclusively for our males and is forbidden to our women; but if it be born dead, they can all share in it. Soon will He requite them for their assertion. Surely, He is Wise, All-Knowing. Losers indeed are they who kill their children foolishiy out of ignorance, and make unlawful that which Allah has provided for them, fabricating a lie against Allah. They have gone astray and have not chosen to be rightly guided. (137-141)
He it is Who has produced trellised and untrellised gardens and date-palms and crops, all varying in taste, and the olive and the pomegranate, similar and dissimilar. Eat of the fruit of each when it bears fruit, and pay His due on the day of harvesting, but be not extravagant. Surely, He loves not the extravagant. (142)
Of the cattle there are some for burden and some for slaughter. Eat of that which Allah has provided for you, and follow not in the footsteps of Satan, surely he is your declared enemy. Allah has created in pairs eight animals; of the sheep two and of the goats two. Ask them: Is it the two males He has forbidden or the two females or that which the wombs of the two females contain? Answer me on the basis of knowledge, if you are truthful. Again, of the camels there are two, and of the oxen two. Ask them: Is it the two males He has forbidden, or the two females or that which the wombs of the two females contain? Were you present when Allah enjoined this on you? If not, then who is more unjust than one who fabricates a lie against Allah that he may lead people astray without knowledge? Surely, Allah guides not the unjust people. (143-145)
Tell them: In that which has been revealed to me I do not find aught forbidden to one who wishes to eat, except that which dies of itself, or blood poured forth, or the flesh of swine, all these being unclean; or that which is profane, on which the name of someone other than Allah is invoked. But whoso is driven by necessity, not intending disobedience or exceeding his need, should know that thy Lord is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. To the Jews We forbade the flesh of all animals having claws, and the fat of oxen and sheep and goats, save that borne by their backs or intestines or that which adheres to the bones. We prescribed this as a penalty for their rebellion; and most certainly We are Truthful. Should they accuse thee of falsehood, answer them: Your Lord is possessed of all-embracing mercy, but His wrath will not be averted from the guilty people. (146-148)
Those who associate partners with Allah will surely say: If Allah had so willed, neither we nor our fathers would have associated partners with Allah; nor would we have declared anything as unlawful. In like manner did those who were before them reject as false Our commandments, until they experienced Our wrath. Ask them: Have you any sure knowledge that you can put forth to refute us? In fact you follow only conjecture and do nothing but guess. Tell them: Allah's is the argument that carries conviction. Had He so willed, He could surely have guided you all. (149-150)
Say to them: Call your witnesses who would testify that Allah has forbidden such and such. Then if any should so testify, do not thou testify along with them, nor follow the vain desires of those who have rejected Our Signs as false, and those who do not believe in the Hereafter and who set up equals with their Lord. (151)
Say, O Prophet: Come, let me rehearse to you that which your Lord has enjoined: that you associate not anything as partner with Him; that you behave benevolently towards your parents; that you destroy not your offspring for fear of poverty, it is We Who provide for you and for them; that you approach not evil of any kind whether manifest or hidden; and that you destroy not the life that Allah has declared sacred, except for just cause. That is what He has enjoined upon you, that you may understand. He has also enjoined upon you that you approach not the property of the orphan during his minority, except for the most beneficent purpose and that you give full measure and weight with justice; We require not of any one that which is beyond his capacity; and that when you speak, hold the scales even, though the person concerned be a kinsman; and that you fulfil the covenant of Allah. That is what He has enjoined upon you that you may take heed. He has also enjoined: This is My straight path; so follow it. Follow not diverse ways lest they lead you away from His way. That is what He has enjoined upon you that you may safeguard yourselves. (152-154)
We gave Moses the Book, to complete Our favour unto him who would pursue good, and an explanation of all things needed and a guidance and a mercy, that they might believe in the meeting with their Lord. (155)
This Quran is a Book that We have sent down, full of blessings; so follow it and be mindful of your duty to Allah that you may be shown mercy. We have sent it down lest you should say: The Book was sent down to only two peoples before us and we were not aware of their reading; or lest you should say: Had the Book been sent down to us, we would surely have been better guided than they. There has now come to you clear proof from your Lord and guidance and mercy. Who, then, is more unjust than one who rejects the Signs of Allah as false and turns aside from them? We will requite those who turn aside from our Signs with a dire chastisement because of their turning aside. They are waiting only that angels should come to them, or that thy Lord should come or that some of the Signs of thy Lord should come. The day some of the Signs of thy Lord shall come, it shall not profit any one who had not believed before, nor earned any good by his faith, to believe in them. Say to them: Wait on, we too are waiting. (156-159)
Thou hast no concern at all with those who have split up their religion and have become divided into factions. Their case is with Allah. He will inform them of that which they used to do. Whoso does good shall have ten times as much, and whoso does ill shall be requited with the like thereof; and they shall not be wronged. (160-161)
Affirm: My Lord has guided me unto the straight path, the perfect religion, the religion of Abraham the upright, who was not of those who associate partners with Allah. Say: My Prayer, by which I hope to win through to everlasting life, and my sacrifices, which entail a type of death upon me, are all for Allah, the Lord of the worlds; He has no partner. Thus am I commanded and I am the foremost of those who submit wholly to Allah. (162-164)
Ask them: Shall I seek someone other than Allah as Lord, while He is the Lord of all things? Every one must bear the consequence of that which he does, and no bearer of a burden can bear the burden of another. Then to your Lord will be your return, and He will inform that wherein you used to differ. Who has made you take the place of others on the earth, and has exalted some of you over others in rank, that He may try you by that which He has bestowed upon you. Surely, thy Lord's punishment approaches swiftly; and surely He is Most Forgiving, Ever-Merciful. (165-160)

Chapter 7
Al-A'Raf
revealed before Hijra
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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Ever Merciful.
I Am Allah The All-Knowing, The Truthful. (2)
This Quran is a noble Book that is revealed unto thee, so let there be no constraint upon thee on account of it. Its purpose is that thou mayest warn thereby and that it should be a reminder to those who believe: Follow that which has been sent down to you from your Lord and follow not others as protectors beside Him. Little it is that you heed. How many a town have We destroyed! Our punishment came upon their dwellers by night or while they slept at noon. When Our punishment came upon them all they could utter was: We are indeed wrongdoes. We will certainly question those to whom We sent Messengers and We will certainly question the Messengers. Then will We expound to them the true position from Our knowledge, for We were never absent. (3-8)
The setting up of scales on that day will be a fact. Those will prosper whose scales will be heavy; while those whose scales are light will have ruined their souls because of their having been unjust to Our Signs. We did indeed establish you in the earth and provided for you therein the means of subsistence. But little thanks do you give. (9-11)
We did bring you into being, then We gave you shape, then We commanded the angels: Submit to Adam. The angels submitted, but not Iblis, he was not among those who submitted. (12)
Allah questioned him: What prevented thee from submitting when I commanded thee? He retorted: I am better than he. Thou hast created me of fire while him hast Thou created of clay. Allah said:
In that case, depart hence. It behoves thee not to be arrogant here. Get out, thou art surely of those abased. Iblis pleaded: Grant me respite till the day when they will be raised up. Allah said:
Thou art given respite. Iblis said: Since Thou hast brought about my ruin, I will assuredly lie in wait for them on Thy straight path and will approach them from fore and aft, and from right and left, and Thou wilt not find most of them grateful. Allah said: Get out hence, despised and banished. Whoso of them shall follow thee should know that I will surely fill hell with you all. (13-19)
Allah said to Adam: Dwell thou and thy wife in the garden and eat and drink therefrom wherever you wish, but approach not this one tree lest you become wrong-doers. But Satan tempted them so that he might make known to them that which was hidden from them of their nakedness, and said to them: Your Lord has forbidden you this tree only lest you should become angels or should live for ever. He assured them with oaths: Surely, I am your sincere counsellor. Thus he brought about their fall by deceit. When they tasted of the tree their nakedness became manifest to them and they started covering themselves with the embellishments of the garden. Their Lord called out to them: Did I not forbid you that tree and say to you: Satan is surely your declared enemy? They pleaded: Our Lord we have wronged ourselves, and if Thou forgive us not and have not mercy on us, we shall surely be of the lost. Allah said: Go forth, some of you will be enemies of others. There is an abode for you and a provision for a time on this earth. He told them: Therein shall you live, and therein shall you die, and therefrom shall you be brought forth. (20-26)
Children of Adam, We have created for you raiment which covers your nakedness and is a source of elegance; but the raiment of righteousness is the best. That is one of the Signs of Allah that they may take heed. Children of Adam, let not Satan seduce you, even as he turned your parents out of the garden, stripping them of their raiment that he might show them their nakedness. He and his tribe espy you from where you see them not. Surely We have made the wicked ones friends of those who do not believe. When they commit an evil, they say: We found our fathers doing it, and Allah has enjoined it upon us. Say to them: Allah never enjoins evil. Do you say of Allah that which you kmow not? Tell them: My Lord has enjoined justice and that you fix your attention aright at every time and place of worship and that you call upon Him holding Him alone worthy of worship. As He brought you into being, so shall you return. A portion has He guided, and a portion have earned error as their desert. They have taken evil ones for their friends, leaving aside Allah, and they imagine they are rightly guided. (27-31)
Children of Adam, put your minds and bodies in a state of tidiness at every time and place of worship and eat and drink but be not immoderate; surely He loves not the immoderate. Ask them: Who has forbidden the use of adornment which Allah has produced for His servants and wholesome articles of food? Tell them:
These are for the benefit of those who believe, in this life also, and exclusively for them on the Day of Judgment. Thus do We expound the Signs for those who have knowledge. Tell them: My Lord has only forbidden indecencies, overt and hidden, and all manner of sin and wrongful transgression and that you associate with Allah that for which He has sent down no authority, and that you say of Allah that of which you have not knowledge. For every people there is a term, and when their time arrives, they cannot tarry behind a single hour, nor can they get ahead of it. (32-35)
Children of Adam, if Messengers come to you from among yourselves, rehearsing My commandments unto you, then whoso is mindful of his duty to Allah and acts righteously, on such shall come no fear nor shall they grieve. But those who reject Our Signs and turn away from them in disdain, these shall be the inmates of the Fire; therein shall they abide. Who is, then, more unjust than one who fabricates a lie against Allah or rejects His Signs as false. These shall continue to receive their share of the ordained punishment, until when Our messengers shall visit them to take charge of their souls, they shall ask them: Where are those you used to call upon beside Allah? They will answer: They have disappeared; and they will bear witness against themselves that they were disbelievers. Allah will say to them: Enter into the Fire along with groups of men, high and low, who passed away before you. Every time a people enters, it shall curse its sister people, until when they have all arrived in it, the last of them will say of the preceding one:
Our Lord, these led us astray, so intensify their punishment in the Fire. He will say: The punishment of each is intensified, but you know it not. Thereupon the preceding one will say to the succeeding one: You have thus no preference over us; suffer, therefore, the punishment for all that you did. (36-40)
For those who reject Our Signs and turn away from them in disdain, the gates of heaven will not be opened, and they will not enter Paradise until their pride and arrogance are so humbled and reduced that they can pass through the eye of a needle. Thus do We requite the guilty ones. Hell will be their bed, and over them will be coverings of the same. Thus do We requite the wrongdoers. Those who believe and work righteousness (We do not require from any soul that which is beyond its capacity) are the inmates of heaven, therein shall they abide. We shall remove all rancour from their hearts. Beneath them shall flow rivers. They will say: All praise belongs to Allah Who has guided us hither; if Allah had not guided us we could not have found the way. The Messengers of our Lord did indeed bring us the truth. It shall be proclaimed unto them: This is the Paradise which has been bestowed upon you because of that which you did. (41-44)
The inmates of heaven will call out to the inmates of hell: We have indeed found that which our Lord had promised us to be true. Have you too found that which your Lord had promised to be true? Their answer will be: Indeed. Thereupon a crier will call out: The curse of Allah is on those wrongdoers who turned people away from the path of Allah and sought to make it appear crooked and who disbelieved in the life that was to come. Between the two parties there shall be a screen, and on the elevated places there shall be men who will know everyone by their distinguishing marks and they will call out to the people of heaven, who will not yet have entered it but will be hoping to do so: Peace be on you. When the eyes of these are turned towards the people of the Fire, they will supplicate: Our Lord, include us not among the wrongdoing people. (45-48)
The occupants of the elevated places will call out to men whom they will know by their distinguishing marks: Your numbers availed you not, nor your haughty claims. Pointing to the inmates of heaven they will ask: Are these the people about whom you swore that Allah will not extend mercy to them? Allah will say to the people of heaven: Enter Paradise; no fear shall come upon you nor shall you grieve. The inmates of the Fire shall call out to the inmates of heaven: Pour out some water on us, or give us something out of that which Allah has bestowed upon you. They will answer: Allah has forbidden all that to disbelievers, who treated religion as a pastime and a sport and whom the life of the world had beguiled. That day We shall forget them, as they forgot their meeting of that day with Us, and as they persisted in denying Our Signs. (49-52)
Surely, We have brought them a great Book which We have expounded with knowledge and which is a guidance and a mercy for a people who believe. Do they wait for the fulfilment of that of which it warns? On the day when that fulfilment comes, those who had neglected it before will say: The Messengers of our Lord did indeed bring the truth. Have we then any intercessors who would intercede for us? Or, could we be sent back that we might act differently from that which we used to do? They have indeed ruined their souls and that which they used to fabricate has failed them. (53-54)
Surely, your Lord is Allah, Who created the heavens and the earth in six periods; then He settled Himself on the Throne. He makes the night cover the day, pursuing it swiftly. He has created the sun and the moon and the stars, all made subservient by His command. Hearken, His is the creation and its regulation. Blessed is Allah, the Lord of the worlds. Call upon your Lord in humble entreaty in secret. He loves not those who exceed the limits. Create not disorder in the earth after it has been set in order, and call upon Him in fear and hope. Surely the mercy of Allah is close to those who carry out their duty to the utmost. (55-57)
He it is Who sends the winds as glad tidings in advance of His mercy, till when they bear a heavy cloud, We drive it to a dead land, then We send down water therefrom, and We bring forth therewith fruits of every kind. In this manner We bring forth the dead that you may take heed. Good land brings forth its vegetation plentifully by the command of its Lord, and that which is poor brings forth poor crops scantily. Thus do We expound the Signs in diverse ways for a people who are grateful. (58-59)
We did send Noah to his people and he exhorted them: O my people worship Allah; you have no other god but He. I fear for you the chastisement of a heavy day. The leading men of his people said:
Surely, we see that thou art involved in manifest error. Noah remonstrated: O my people I am involved in no error. Indeed am a Messenger from the Lord of the worlds. I convey to you the messages of my Lord, and give you good advice, and I know from Allah that which you know not. Do you wonder that an exhortation has come to you from your Lord through a man from among yourselves, that he may warn you and that you may become righteous, so that Allah may show you mercy? But they charged him with falsehood. So We delivered him and those who were with him in the Ark, and caused to be drowned those who had rejected Our Signs. They were indeed a blind people. (60-65)
To 'Ad We sent their brother Hud. He exhorted them: O my people worship Allah, you have no other god but He. Will you not, then, be righteous? The leading men of his people who disbelieved said: We surely see that thou art involved in foolishness and we believe that thou art a liar. Hud remonstrated: O my people, I am not involved in any foolishness. Indeed I am a Messenger from the Lord of the worlds. I convey to you the messages of my Lord and I am your sincere and faithful counsellor. Do you wonder that an exhortation has come to you from your Lord through a man from among yourselves that he may warn you?
Call to mind, when He made you successors of the people of Noah and multiplied your numbers. Remember, then, the favours of Allah that you may prosper. They retorted: Hast thou come to us that we should worship Allah as the One God and should forsake that which our fathers used to worship? In that case, bring us that which thou dost threaten us with, if thou art truthful. Hud warned them: Punishment and wrath have befallen you from your Lord. Do you contend with me about mere names that you and your fathers have devised, for which Allah has sent down no authority? Wait, then, for Allah's judgment; I am with you among those who wait. Then We delivered him and those who were with him, by Our mercy, and We cut off the last remnant of those who rejected Our Signs. They were not believers. (66-73)
To Thamud We sent their brother Saleh. He exhorted them: O my people, worship Allah: You have no other god but He. Truly there has come to you a clear proof from Him. This is a she-camel dedicated to the service of Allah which is a Sign for you. Leave her that she may feed in Allah's earth and do her no harm, lest a painful chastisement afflict you. Call to mind when He made you successors of 'Ad and settled you in the land. You build strongholds in the plains and hew out dwellings in the mountains. Remember, therefore, the favours of Allah and do not go about creating disorder in the land. (74-75)
The leading men of his people who were haughty asked those who were reckoned weak and had believed: Are you sure Saleh is a Messenger from his Lord? They answered: We surely believe in the teaching with which he has been sent. (76)
The haughty ones said: We definitely disbelieve in that in which you believe. Then they hamstrung the she-camel, and disobeyed the command of their Lord and said to Saleh: Now bring us that with which thou dost threaten us, if thou art truly one of the Messengers. So the earthquake seized them and they lay prone upon the ground in their homes. Saleh then departed communing with himself: O my people, I did convey to you the message of my Lord and gave you good advice, but you love not being advised. (77-80)
Lot, whom We sent, rebuked his people: Do you realise you practise an abomination of which no people in the world before you has been guilty? You approach men lustfully in place of women. You are a people who exceed all bounds. The only answer of his people was: Turn them out of the town. They like to be accounted pure. We delivered Lot and his family, except his wife, who stayed behind. On them We loosed an avalanche of clay. Observe then, what was the end of the guilty ones. (81-85)
To Midian We sent their brother Shu'aib. He exhorted them: O my people, worship Allah, you have no other god but He. A clear Sign has come to you from your Lord. So give full measure and full weight and do not deliver short, and create not disorder in the earth after it has been set in order. This is the better for you, if you will believe. Do not set pickets along every path seeking to overawe those who would believe in Allah and to turn them away from Allah's path and to make it appear crooked.
Remember, you were few and He multiplied you, and keep in mind what was the end of those who created disorder. If it is the case that a party among you believes in that with which I have been sent, and a party does not believe, then have patience until Allah judges between us; He is the Best of judges. (86-88)
The leading men of his people, who were haughty, said: Assuredly; we will drive thee out, Shu'aib, and those with thee who have believed, from our town, or else you shall return to our creed. Shu'aib said: What! Even though we should be unwilling? If we were to return to your creed, after Allah has delivered us therefrom, we would be guilty of fabricating a lie against Allah. It behoves us not to return thereto except that Allah, our Lord, should so will. Our Lord has full knowledge of everything. In Allah have we put our trust. Our Lord, judge between us and our people with justice, for Thou art the Best of those who judge. The leading men of his people who disbelieved said: If you follow Shu'aib, you will certainly be the losers. So the earthquake seized them and they lay prone upon the ground in their homes; those who had charged Shu'aib with lying, as if they had never dwelt therein. Those who had charged Shu'aib with lying, it was they who were the losers. Shu'aib then departed, communing with himself: O my people, indeed I conveyed to you the messages of my Lord and gave you good advice. Now, how shall I sorrow after a disbelieving people? (89-94)
Never did We send a Prophet to any town but We afflicted its people with adversity and suffering, that they might become humble. (95)
Then We changed their hardship into ease until when they began to experience affluence and said: Our fathers also had experience of adversity and prosperity; We afflicted them suddenly with chastisement, while they perceived not the cause thereof. If the people of those towns had believed and been righteous, We would surely have bestowed blessings upon them from heaven and earth, but they rejected the Prophets, so We seized them because of that which they did. Do the people of these towns now feel secure against the coming of Our punishment upon them by night while they are asleep? Or, do they feel secure against the coming of Our punishment upon them in the forenoon while they are at play? Do they feel secure against the design of Allah? None feels secure against the design of Allah, except those that are losers. (96-100)
Does it not instruct those who have inherited the earth in succession to its former people that We could punish them for their sins, if We please, and seal up their hearts, so that they would not lend ear to words of guidance? Such were the towns some of whose annals We have recited to thee. Their Messengers did come to them with clear proofs, but they would not believe that which they had rejected initially. In this manner does Allah seal up the hearts of the disbelievers. We did not find most of them true to their covenants, indeed We found most of them to be unfaithful. (101-103)
After them We sent Moses with Our Signs to Pharaoh and his nobles, but they rejected them unjustly. Observe, then, what was the end of those who stirred up mischief. (104)
Moses said to Pharaoh: Truly I am a Messenger from the Lord of the worlds. It is not befitting that I should say aught concerning Allah except the truth. I have come to you with a clear Sign from your Lord, therefore, let the children of Israel go with me. Pharaoh replied:
If thou hast indeed come with a Sign, then come out with it, if thou art truthful. Thereupon Moses put down his rod, and suddenly it appeared as a visible serpent; and he drew forth his hand, and it appeared white to the onlookers. Some of the chiefs of Pharaoh's people said: This is most surely a skilful magician who desires to turn you out from your land. Then what do you advise? Others said to Pharaoh: Put off Moses and his brother awhile, and send announcers into the cities, who should bring into thy presence every skilful magician. The magicians came to Pharaoh and asked: Shall we have a reward, if we should prevail? Pharaoh said: Certainly, and you will also become my courtiers. (105-115)
The magicians said to Moses: Will you make your cast or shall we? He answered: You make your cast. When they made their cast, they bewitched the eyes of the people and struck them with awe and perpetrated a mighty illusion. We directed Moses: Cast down thy rod; and lo, it appeared to swallow up all that they had fabricated. So was the truth established, and what they did was proved vain. Thus were they vanquished there and then and retreated in humiliation. (116-120)
They felt impelled to fall down prostrate in token of submission, and said: We believe in the Lord of the worlds, the Lord of Moses and Aaron. Pharaoh exploded: What! You have believed in him even before I gave you leave! Surely, this is a plot that you have hatched together in the city, that you may turn out therefrom its people, but you shall soon know the consequences. Most surely will I cut off your hands and your feet on alternate sides, then will I crucify you all together. They answered: What then? In any case, to our Lord shall we return. Thou art incensed with us only because we have believed in the Signs of our Lord when they came to us. We pray to our Lord: Send down on us steadfastness and cause us to die in a state of submission to Thee. (121-127)
Some of the chiefs of Pharaoh's people said to him: Wilt thou leave Moses and his people to create disorder in the land and forsake thee and thy gods? He answered: We shall centainly slay their male children and spare their female ones. Surely, We dominate them, Moses said to his people: Seek help from Allah and be steadfast. Surely, the earth belongs to Allah; He bestows it as heritage on whomsoever He pleases of His servants, and the pleasing end is that of the righteous. They replied: We were persecuted before thou camest to us and even after thou camest to us. Moses said: Your Lord might soon destroy your enemy and make you His vicegerents in the land, that He may then see how you conduct yourselves. (128-130)
We afflicted the people of Pharaoh with hard times and poor harvests, that they might be admonished. When prosperity came to them, they said: This is our due; but when they were afflicted with hardship they ascribed it as an ill omen to Moses and those with him. Surely, the cause of their evil fortune was with Allah, though most of them knew not. They said to Moses: Whatever Sign thou mayest bring us to delude us with, we shall not believe in thee. Then We afflicted them with storms, and locusts, and lice, and frogs, and blood, so many distinct Signs, but they remained haughty and became a sinful people. Each time the punishment fell upon them they cried out: Pray for us, Moses, to thy Lord reminding Him of the promises He has made thee; if thou remove from us this torment, we will surely believe in thee and we will surely send with thee the children of Israel. But when We removed from them the torment for a determined term, they at once broke their promise. So We exacted retribution from them and drowned them in the sea, because they rejected Our Signs as false and were heedless of them. (131-137)
We made the people who were esteemed weak and were ill-treated, inheritors of the eastern parts and western parts of the land which We had blessed. The gracious promise of thy Lord was thus fulfilled in favour of the children of Israel, because they had been steadfast; and We destroyed all that Pharaoh and his people had built and all that they had raised high. We brought the children of Israel across the sea, and they came upon a people who were assiduous in the worship of their idols. So they said to Moses: Make for us a god like their gods. He rebuked them: You are indeed an ignorant people. Doomed to destruction is that in which they are engaged and vain is all that they do. He added: Shall I seek for you a god other than Allah, while it is He who has exalted you above all peoples? (138-141)
Children of Israel, call to mind when We delivered you from Pharaoh's people who afflicted you with grievous torment, slaying your male children and sparing our female ones; and that was a great trial for you from your Lord. (142)
We made Moses a promise of thirty nights and supplemented it with ten. Thus the period appointed by his Lord was completed, extending over forty nights. Moses said to his brother Aaron:
Take my place among my poeple in my absence and keep their welfare in mind, and follow not the way of the mischief-makers. When Moses arrived at the tryst at Our appointed time and his Lord spoke to him, he supplicated: Lord, show Thyself to me that I may behold Thee. He replied: Thou canst by no means behold Me, but look towards the mountain, if it remains firm in its place, then shalt thou see Me. When his Lord manifested Himself on the mountain, He broke it into bits and Moses fell into a faint. When he recovered, he exclaimed: Holy art Thou, I turn wholly towards Thee, and I am the foremost among those who believe. Allah reassured him: Moses, I have exalted thee above the people of thy time by My messages and My words. So take fast hold of that which I have given thee and be among the grateful. We wrote for him upon some tablets Our commandments comprising admonition of all descriptions and explanation of all things needed, and said to him: Take fast hold of these and bid thy people to hold fast to the best thereof. Soon shall I show you the destination of the tranegressors. I shall turn away from My Signs those who behave haughtily in the land in an unjust manner; even if they see every kind of Sign, they will not believe therein. Even if they recognise the right way, they will not follow it; but if they see the way of error they will follow it eagerly. That is because they rejected Our Signs as false and were heedless of them. Those who disbelieve in Our Signs and the meeting of the Hereafter, vain is all they do. They will be requited only according to that which they did. (143-148)
In his absence, the people of Moses took to the worship of a calf, fashioned out of their ornaments, which was a mere lifeless body from which issued a meaningless sound. Did they not consider that it did not speak coherently to them nor indicate to them any way of guidance? They took to worshipping it and became transgrsssors. When they were afflicted with remorse, and realised that they had indeed gone astray, they said:
If our Lord does not have mercy on us, and forgive us, we shall surely be among the losers. When Moses returned to his people, full of indignation and grief, he shouted at them: Evil is that which you did in my place in my absence. Was this an attempt to hasten the command of your Lord? He put down the tablets and catching hold of his brother by the hair of his head started pulling him towards himself. Aaron pleaded: Son of my mother, the people considered me weak, and were about to kill me. Therefore, do not furnish the enemies with cause to rejoice over my discomfiture, and count me not with the unjust people. Thereupon Moses prayed: Lord forgive me and my brother, and admit us to Thy mercy: Thou art the most Merciful of those who show mercy. Allah decreed: Those who took the calf for worship will be afflicted with wrath from their Lord and humiliation in the present life. Thus do We requite the impostors. As for those who worked evil and repented thereafter and believed; surely thy Lord is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful after repentance. (149-154)
When the anger of Moses was somewhat appeased, he took up the tablets again, the text of which comprised guidance and mercy for those who fear their Lord. Moses chose seventy men of his people for Our meeting. When the earthquake overtook them, he supplicated: Lord, if Thou hadst pleased Thou couldst have destroyed them before this and me also. Wilt Thou destroy us for that which the foolish among us have done? This is but a trial from Thee. Thereby dost Thou adjudge as having gone astray those whom Thou willest, and Thou guidest whom Thou willest. Thou art our Protector, forgive us, therefore, and have mercy on us, for Thou art the Best of those who forgive. Ordain for us good in this world and in the next; we have been impelled towards thee. Allah reassured him: I will inflict My chastisement on those concerning whom I so determine; but My mercy encompasses all things; so I will ordain it for those who act righteously and pay the Zakat, and those who believe in Our Signs; and for those who follow the Messenger, the Prophet, the Immaculate One, whom they find mentioned in the Torah and the Gospel which are with them. He enjoins on them good and forbids them evil, declares lawful for them things wholesome and forbids them things harmful, and removes from them their burdens and the shackles that bound them. So those who shall believe in him and honour and support him, and help him and follow the light that is sent down with him, they shall prosper. (155-158)
Proclaim, O Prophet: O mankind, verily I am Allah's Messenger to you all. To Him belongs the kingdom of the heavens and the earth. There is no god but He. He bestows life and He causes death. So believe in Allah and His Messenger, the Prophet, the Immaculate one, who believes in Allah and His words, and follow him that you may be rightly guided. (159)
Of the people of Moses there is a party who are guided by the truth and establish justice by means of it. We divided them into twelve tribes, now separate peoples. When his people asked for water We directed Moses: Strike that rock with thy rod; and there gushed forth from it twelve springs. Every tribe did know its drinking place. We caused the clouds to provide shade for them and We sent down for them Manna and Salwa, and exhorted them: Eat of the good things We have provided for you. They wronged us not, but it was themselves that they wronged. It was said to them: Dwell in this town and eat therefrom wherever you will, and say: Allah lighten our burden; and enter the gate in humility, We shall forgive you your sins and shall bestow further favours upon those who render perfect obedience. But the transgressors among them substituted another word in place of the one told them. So We sent upon them chastisement from heaven, because of their wrongdoing. (160-163)
Ask the people of Moses concerning the town situated along the sea, the people of which profaned the Sabbath. Their fish came to them in shoals on the Sabbath day, but did not come at all on non-Sabbath days. Thus did We try them because of their disobedience. When one party of them said to the other: Wherefore do you remonstrate with a people whom Allah is going to destroy or to afflict with a severe punishment? they answered: To acquit ourselves of our duty to your Lord, and that they may become righteous. When they forgot that with which they had been admonished, We delivered those who had admonished them, and We afflicted the transgressors with chastisement because they were rebellious. When, instead of amending, they became more persistent in the pursuit of that which they were forbidden, We condemned them: Be ye as apes, despised. (164-167)
Call to mind, when thy Lord proclaimed that He would surely set in authority over them, till the Day of Judgment, those who would afflict them with grievous torment. Thy Lord is Swift in exacting retribution, and He is also Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. We broke them up into separate peoples in the earth. Among them are those that are righteous, and among them are those that are otherwise. We keep trying them with prosperity and adversity that they might turn back. They have been succeeded by others who have inherited the Book, but who occupy themselves in acquiring the goods of this world and keep saying: It will be forgiven us. If there came to them the opportunity of acquiring more of such goods, they would seize it. Was not the covenant taken from them in the Book that they would not say of Allah anything but the truth? They read that which is in the Book, and they know that the abode of the Hereafter is better for the righteous. Will you not, then, understand? (168-170)
Those who hold fast by the Book, and observe Prayer, should know that surely We suffer not the reward of such righteous people to perish. When We shook the mountain above them, as if it were a canopy, they imagined it was about to fall on them, and We said to them: Hold fast to that which We have given you and keep in mind that which is in it that you may become righteous. (171-172)
When thy Lord brought forth offspring from the loins of the sons of Adam, He made them witnesses against their own selves by asking them: Am I not your Lord? and they said: Indeed, we do bear witness to that. This He did lest you should say on the Day of Judgment: We were unaware of this; or you should say:
It was our fathers who associated partners with Allah before us, and we were but their offspring following them. Wilt Thou then destroy us because of that which was done by the vain people? Thus do We expound the Signs that they may turn back. (173-175)
Recite to them the case of him to whom We gave Our Signs, but he passed them by. Then Satan went after him and he became one of those who had gone astray. Had We so willed We would have exalted him by means of Our Signs, but he leaned towards the earth and followed his vain desires. His case is like that of a thirsty dog, if a stick is raised at it, it lolls out its tongue, and if it is left alone it does the same. Such is the case of the people who reject Our Signs as false. Recite all this to them that they may reflect. Evil is the case of the people who reject Our Signs; they only wrong themselves. Those whom Allah guides are alone on the right path; those whom He adjudges astray are the losers. (176-179)
Of the people, high and low, created to be recipients of Our mercy, many are headed for hell. They have hearts but they do not use them for understanding, they have eyes but they do not use them for seeing, and they have ears but they do not use them for listening. They are like cattle; only more astray. They are utterly heedless. To Allah alone belong all perfect attributes; so call on Him by those. Leave alone those who pervert His attributes; they shall be requited for that which they do. Of those We have created there is a party who guide men through truth and who do justice through it. Those who reject Our Signs shall be drawn by Us step by step towards ruin by ways of which they have no concept. I grant them respite; My design is mighty. (180-184)
Do they not consider that their companion is not afflicted with insanity? He is only a plain Warner. Do they not observe the kingdom of the heavens and the earth and whatever Allah has created? Do they not reflect that the time appointed for their destruction may be drawing nigh? Then in what will they believe thereafter? For him whom Allah adjudges astray, there can be no guide. He leaves them in their transgression, wandering in distraction. (185-187)
They ask thee concerning the Hour: When will it come to pass? Say to them: My Lord alone has knowledge of it. None can manifest it at its time but He. It will lie heavy on the heavens and the earth. It will not come upon you but of a sudden. They ask thee as if thou wert well acquainted with it; Tell them: Allah alone has knowledge of it, but most people do not know this. (188)
Tell them: I have no power to benefit or harm myself, save as Allah pleases. If I had knowledge of the unseen, I would have secured abundance of good, and no harm would have befallen me. I am but a Warner and a bearer of glad tidings for a people who believe. (189)
He it is Who has created you from a single soul and made therefrom its mate, that he might incline towards her and find comfort in her. When he consorts with her, she bears a light burden and goes about with it. When she grows heavy, they both pray to Allah, their Lord: If Thou bistow on us a healthy child, we will surely be grateful. When He bestows on them a healthy child, they attribute to Him partners in respect of that which He has bestowed upon them. Exalted is Allah above that which they associate with Him. Do they associate with Him those who create nothing and are themselves created? They can give them no help nor can they help themselves. If you call them to guidance they will not follow you. It will make no difference to you whether you call them or remain silent. Those whom you call on beside Allah are but creatures like you. Then go on calling on them and let them respond to you if you are justified in your claim. Have they any feet with which they can walk, or have they any hands with which they can grasp, or have they any eyes with which they can see, or have they any ears with which they can hear? Say to them: Call upon those you associate with Allah as partners, then contrive all of you against me and give me no respite. My Protector is Allah Who has revealed this Perfect Book and He stands by the righteous. Those whom you call beside Him have no power to help you nor can they help themselves. If thou call them to guidance, they hear not. Thou seest them looking towards thee, but they see not. (190-199)
Make forbearance thy rule, O Prophet, and enjoin equity and turn away from the ignorant. Should thou be distressed by a contrivance of Satan, seek refuge with Allah, He is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. When a suggestion from Satan assails those who are righteous, they are instantly alerted and become watchful. The companions of the disbelievers draw them deeper into error and relax not their efforts. When thou dost not bring them a Sign in quick succession, they say:
Wherefore dost thou not contrive one? Tell them: I but follow that which is revealed to me by my Lord. This revelation is replete with clear proofs from your Lord and guidance and mercy for a people who believe. (200-204)
When the Quran is recited, listen carefully to it in silence, that you may become the recipients of mercy. Remember thy Lord in thy mind with humility and fear, silently, morning and evening, and be not neglectful. Those who are near to thy Lord, do not turn away from His worship in haughtiness, but glorify Him and prostrate themselves before Him constantly. (205-207)

Chapter 8
Al-Anfal
revealed before Hijra
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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Ever Merciful.
They seek directions from thee concerning the spoils of war. Tell them: The spoils belong to Allah and the Messenger. So be mindful of your duty to Allah and try to promote accord between yourselves, and obey Allah and His Messenger, if you are believers. Believers are only those whose hearts are smitten with awe when Allah's name is mentioned and whose faith is strengthened when His Signs are recited to them, and who put their trust in their Lord and observe Prayer and spend out of that which We have provided for them. These it is who are true believers. They have high ranks with their Lord and forgiveness and honourable provision, as was the case when thy Lord brought thee forth from thy house to take u p arms in a righteous cause at a time when a party of the believers were much averse to it. (2-6)
The hypocrites disputed with thee concerning the right course after it had become manifest, as if they were being driven to death which they could see confronting them. (7)
Call to mind the time when Allah promised that one of the two parties of disbelievers, the lightly armed trade caravan proceeding south to Mecca or the well armed host coming up north from Mecca, should fall into your hands; and you desired that you may be confronted with the one without weapons, but Allah desired to establish the truth by His commandments and to cut off the source of strength of the disbelievers, so that the truth may be firmly established and falsehood be brought to naught though the guilty ones be averse to it. (8-9)
Call to mind also when you implored your Lord for help and He responded to you with the assurance: I will help you with a thousand angels, advancing host after host. Allah meant this only as glad tidings and that your hearts might thereby be set at rest. Help comes from Allah alone; surely, Allah is Mighty, Wise. He brought drowsiness upon you as a presage of security and sent down upon you water from the clouds, that He might purify you thereby, and remove from you the fear of Satan, and that He might strengthen your hearts and make your steps firm by settling and making firm therewith the sand underfoot. At the same time thy Lord commanded the angels: I am with you; so make firm the steps of those who believe.
I will cast terror into the hearts of those who disbelieve. O ye who believe, strike at their necks and strike at every pore and tip, because they have pitted themselves against Allah and His Messenger. Whoever sets himself up in opposition to Allah and His Messenger must know that Allah is surely Severe in exacting retribution. That is so; then taste ye His chastisement; for such disbelievers there is the torment of the Fire. (10-15)
O ye who believe, when you encounter an hostile force of the disbelievers, turn not your backs on them. Whoso turns his back on them on such an occasion, unless manoeuvring for battle or turning to join another company, shall draw upon himself the wrath of Allah, and hell shall be his abode. An evil resort it is. (16-17)
Thus on the day of Badr it was not you who slew them, but it was Allah Who killed them; and it was not thou who didst throw the handful of gravel at their faces, but it was Allah Who threw it, that He might confer a great favour upon the believers. Surely, Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. That is so; and Allah will surely undermine the design of the disbelievers. (18-19)
O ye who disbelieve, if you sought a judgment, then judgment has indeed come to you. If you will now desist, it will be the better for you; but if you revert to mischief, We will again chastise you; and your party shall be of no avail to you at all, however numerous it be, and be sure Allah is with the believers. (20)
O ye who believe, obey Allah and His Messenger, and do not turn away from him while you hear his directions; and be not like those who say: We hear; but they hear not. Even worse than the beasts, in the sight of Allah, are the spiritually deaf and dumb, who possess no understanding. If Allah had known any good in them He would certainly have made them hear the Quran; but being as they are, even if He makes them hear it, they will turn away in aversion. (21-24)
O ye who believe, respond to Allah and His Messenger when he calls you that he may bring you to life, and know that Allah surely supervenes between a man and his mind and that He it is unto Whom you shall be gathered. Seek to guard yourselves against an affliction that will not smite exlusively the wrongdoers among you. Know that Allah is Severe in exacting retribution. Call to mind the time when you were few in numbers and were accounted weak in the land and were afraid of being despoiled by people, but He provided you with shelter, and supported you with His help and provided you with good things that you may be grateful. (25-27)
O ye who believe, prove not unfaithful to Allah and the Messenger, nor prove unfaithful to your trusts designatedly; and know that your belongings and your children are but a trial and that it is Allah with Whom is a great reward. (28-29)
No ye who believe, if you are mindful of your duty to Allah, He will bestow upon you a mark of distinction, and will remove from you your ills, and will forgive you. Allah is Lord of great bounty. (30)
Call to mind the time, when the disbelievers plotted against thee that they might confine thee, or kill thee, or expel thee. They planned and Allah also planned, and Allah is the Best of planners. When Our verses are recited to them they say: Enough! We have heard. If we wished we could certainly compose and recite the like of it. This is nothing but old wives' tales. Call to mind also when they said O Allah, if this be indeed the truth from Thee, then rain down upon us stones from heaven or bring down upon us a grievous chastisement. Allah would not chastise them while thou wast among them, nor would Allah chastise them if they supplicated for forgiveness. But what would shield them from punishment now, when they hinder people from the Sacred Mosque, and they are not even its true guardians. Its true guardians are only those who are righteous, but most of them know not this. Their prayer at the Sacred House is nothing but whistling and clapping of hands. Suffer, then, the chastisement because you disbelieved. (31-36)
Those who disbelieve spend their wealth to turn people away from Allah's way. They will continue to spend it in this way till in the end this spending will become a source of regret for them, and then they will be vanquished. The disbelievers shall all be gathered unto hell, that Allah may separate the bad from the good, and heap up the different parts of the bad, one upon another, and then cast them all into hell. These indeed are the losers. (37-38)
Say, O Prophet, to those who disbelieve, that if they desist their past misdeeds will be forgiven them, but if they revert to their misdeeds they should learn a lesson from the fate of the people who behaved like this before them. Then fight them, until persecution ceases altogether and religion is held wholly for the sake of Allah. If they desist, then surely Allah is watchful of what they do; and if they turn away, then know that Allah is your Protector; an excellent Protector and an excellent Helper. (39-4l)
Take note that whatever you gain as spoils of war, a fifth thereof is for Allah and the Messenger and those close to him and orphans and the needy and the wayfarer, if you believe in Allah and in that which We sent down on Our servant on the Day of Discrimination between falsehood and truth, the day when the two hosts met at Badr. Allah has the power to do all that He wills. On that day you were on the nearer bank of the valley and they were on the farther bank, and the caravan was below you in the direction of the sea. Had you wished to arrange a rendezvous by mutual agreement you would certainly have disagreed on the timing, but the encounter was brought about that Allah might accomplish that which had been decreed; so that he who had already been vanquished through a clear Sign might perish and he who had already come to life through a clear Sign might live. Surely, Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. (42-43)
Call to mind when Allah showed them to thee in thy dream as small in number; and if He had shown them to thee as a large force, you would have faltered and would have disagreed with one another in the matter of giving battle; but Allah saved you from dissension and gave you victory. Surely, Allah knows all hidden thoughts. At the time of your encounter He made them appear weak in your eyes, and made you appear weak in their eyes, that Allah might bring about that which had been decreed. The determination of all affairs is in Allah's hands. (44-45)
O ye who believe, when you encounter an enemy force, remain firm and remember Allah much that you may triumph; and obey Allah and His Messenger, and avoid dissension, lest you falter and your strength depart from you. Be steadfast; surely, Allah is with the steadfast. Be not like those who issued forth from their homes insolently and to be seen of people, and who turn people away from the path of Allah. Allah will bring to naught all that they do. (46-48)
Call to mind when Satan made the conduct of the disbelievers appear fair to them and told them: None of the people shall prevail against you this day and I am your strong supporter. But when the two hosts came in sight of each other, he turned on his heels and announced: I am absolved of all obligation to you; I see that which you see not. Surely, I fear Allah; Allah is Severe in punishing. The hypocrites and those whose hearts are perverted say: Their religion has deluded the believers. The truth is that whoso puts his trust in Allah surely finds that Allah is Mighty, Wise. (49-50)
If thou couldst see the angels taking away the souls of the disbelievers, striking them front and back, saying: Suffer the torment of burning, because of your past conduct, and know that Allah is not in the least unjust towards His creatures. Their case is like that of the people of Pharaoh and those before them; they rejected the Signs of Allah, so Allah requited them for their sins.
Surely, Allah is Powerful, Severe in chastisement. Allah would never withdraw a favour that He has conferred upon a people, until they change their own attitude towards Him. Surely, Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. Their case will be like that of the people of Pharaoh and those before them. They rejected the Signs of their Lord, so We destroyed them for their sins. We drowned the people of Pharaoh. All of them were wrongdoers. (51-55)
Worse than the beasts, in the sight of Allah, are those who have rejected the Signs of Allah and do not believe; those with whom thou makest a covenant, then they break their covenant every time and are not mindful of their obligation to Allah. When thou gainest mastery over them in war, then deal with them in such manner that those making hostile preparations beyond them should abandon their designs and be admonished. Shouldst thou apprehend treachery from a people who have made a pact with thee, terminate the pact in a manner that should occasion no prejudice to either side. Surely, Allah loves not the treacherous. Let not the disbelievers imagine that they will gain any advantage over the believers through their machinations. Surely, they can never reduce the believers to helplessness. (56-60)
Make ready for them whatever you can of armed strength and of mounted pickets at the frontier, whereby you may daunt the enemy of Allah and your enemy and others beyond them whom you know not, but whom Allah knows. Whatever you spend in the way of Allah, it shall be repaid to you in full and you shall not be wronged. Then if they should be inclined to make peace, do thou incline towards it also, and put thy trust in Allah. Surely, it is He Who is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. Should they design to deceive thee, then surely Allah is sufficient for thee as Protector. He it is Who has strengthened thee with His help and with the support of the believers, and bound their hearts together in love. If thou hadst spent all that is in the earth, thou couldst not have bound their hearts together, but Allah has bound them together. Surely, He is Mighty, Wise. (61-64)
O Prophet, sufficient for thee are Allah and those believers who follow thee. O Prophet, exhort the believers to fight. If there be of you twenty steadfast ones, they shall overcome two hundred, and if there be a hundred of you, they shall overcome a thousand of those who disbelieve, because they are a people who lack understanding. (65-66)
Allah knows that at present you are weak, so He has lightened your burden. If there be of you a hundred steadfast ones, they shall overcome two hundred; and if there be a thousand of you they shall overcome two thousand, by the command of Allah. Allah is with those who are steadfast. (67)
It behoves not a Prophet to take captives, except in the course of regular fighting. To take captives in the course of skirmishes and small-scale action would mean that you are merely seeking temporal gain, whereas Allah desires for you the Hereafter. Allah is Mighty, Wise. Had there not been an antecedent commandment from Allah, you would have been afflicted with severe chastisement, in respect of the ransom that you took. Enjoy the lawful and good spoils that you win, and be mindful of your duty to Allah. Surely, Allah is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. (68-70)
O Prophet, say to the captives who are in your hands: If Allah knows of any good in your hearts, He will bestow on you better than that which has been taken from you, and will forgive you. Allah is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. If they design treachery against thee, they have already been guilty of treachery towards Allah, yet He gave thee power over them. Allah is All-Knowing, Wise. (71-72)
Those who have believed and migrated and striven with their belongings and their persons in the cause of Allah, those who have given them shelter and help, are friends one of another. But you are under no obligation towards those who have believed and have not migrated, until they migrate. Nevertheless, if they seek your help in the matter of religion it is incumbent on you to help them except against a people between whom and yourselves there is a pact. Allah sees what you do. Those who disbelieve are friends one of another. If you do not as you are commanded, there will be great mischief and disorder in the land. Those who have believed and migrated and striven in the cause of Allah, and those who have given them shelter and help, are the true believers. For them is forgiveness and an honourable provision. Those who believe hereafter, and migrate and strive in the cause of Allah along with you, will be counted among you. Of blood relations some are nearer than others in the Book of Allah. Surely, Allah knows all things well. (73-76)

Chapter 9
Al-Tauba
revealed before Hijra
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This is a declaration on the part of Allah and His Messenger addressed to the idolaters whom you had promised that Allah and His Messenger would surely triumph, that the promise has been fulfilled and that Allah and His Messenger are absolved of all obligation in that respect. So go about freely in the land for four months and satisfy yourselves that you cannot frustrate the design of Allah and that Allah will humiliate the disbelievers. (1-2)
This is a public proclamation on the part of Allah and His Messenger on the day of the Great Pilgrimage, that Allah is free of all obligation to the idolaters, and so is His Messenger. So now, having witnessed this Sign, if you will repent and make peace, it will be the better for you; but if you turn away, then know that you cannot frustrate Allah's design. Warn the disbelievers of a painful chastisement, excepting those of them with whom you have a pact and who have not defaulted in any respect, nor supported anyone against you. Carry out the obligations you have assumed towards them till the end of their terms. Surely, Allah loves those who are mindful of their obligations. When the period of four months during which hostilities are suspended expires, without the idolaters having settled the terms of peace with you, resume fighting with them and kill them wherever you find them and make them prisoners and beleaguer them, and lie in wait for them at every place of ambush. Then if they repent and observe Prayer and pay the Zakat, leave them alone. Surely, Allah is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. If any one of the idolaters seeks asylum with thee, asylum so that he may hear the Word of Allah; then convey him to, a place of security for him, for they are a people who lack knowledge (3-6)
How could there be a guarantee for the idolaters on the part of Allah and His Messenger, except in favour of those with whom you entered into an express treaty at the Sacred Mosque? So long as they carry out their obligations there -- under, you must
carry out your obligations. Surely, Allah loves those who are mindful of their obligations. How can there be a guarantee for the others, who, if they were to prevail against you, would have no regard for any tie of kinship or pact in respect of you. They seek to please you with words, while their hearts repudiate them; most of them are perfidious. They have bartered the Signs of Allah for small gains and hindered people from His way. Evil indeed is that which they have done. They show no regard for any tie of kinship or any pact in respect of a believer. It is they who are the transgressors. If they repent and observe Prayer and pay the Zakat, then they are your brethren in faith. We expound Our commandments for a people who know. (7-11)
But if they break faith after pledging it and ridicule your religion, then fight these leaders of disbelief that they may desist, for they have no regard for their pledged word. Will you not fight a people who have violated their oaths, who plotted to turn out the Messenger from his home, and who were the first to start hostilities against you? Do you fear them? It is Allah Who is most worthy that you should fear Him, if you are believers. Fight them: Allah will punish them at your hands, and will humiliate them, and will help you to overcome them, and will relieve the minds of the believers of fear and distress aud will remove their feeling of resentment. Allah turns with mercy to whomsoever He pleases. Allah is All-Knowing, Wise. Do you imagine that you would be left alone, while Allah has not yet made known those of you who strive in the cause of Allah and have no secret association with anyone beside Allah and His Messenger and the believers? Allah is Well Aware of that which you do. (12-16)
It is not up to the idolaters, while they assert their disbelief, to service the mosques of Allah. It is they whose works are vain, and in the Fire shall they abide. He alone can service the mosques of Allah who believes in Allah and the Last Day, and observes Prayer, and pays the Zakat, and fears no one but Allah. It is these who are likely to be guided aright. Do you equate the provision of water for the pilgrims and the maintenance of the Sacred Mosque with belief in Allah and the Last Day and striving in the cause of Allah? The two are not at all equal in the sight of Allah. Allah guides not the unjust people. Those who have believed and have migrated and have striven in the cause of Allah with their belongings and their persons have the highest rank in the sight of Allah. It is they who shall triumph. Their Lord gives them glad tidings of mercy from Him, and of His pleasure, and of Gardens wherein there shall be lasting bliss for them, therein will they abide. With Allah there is a great reward. (17-22)
O ye who believe, do not cultivate intimacy with your fathers and your brothers if they love disbelief more than faith. Whoso from among you cultivates intimacy with them, it is they that are the wrongdoers. Say to the believers: If your fathers, and your sons, and your brethren, and your wives, and your kinsfolk, and the wealth you have acquired and the trade the dullness of which you apprehend, and the dwellings that you fancy, are dearer to you than Allah and His Messenger and striving in His cause, then wait until Allah declares His judgment. Allah guides not the disobedient people. (23-24)
Allah has helped you on many a battlefield, especially on the day of Hunain, when your numbers had made you vain, but they availed you naught, and you were sore pressed, and you turned your backs in retreat. Then Allah sent down tranquillity from Himself upon His Messenger and upon the believers and He sent down hosts which you saw not, and He chastised the disbelievers; such is the requital of the disbelievers. Thereafter Allah will turn with compassion to whomsoever He pleases. Allah is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. (25-27)
O ye who believe, surely, those who worship idols are unclean. So they shall not approach the Sacred Mosque after this year. If, in consequence of this commandment, you should apprehend poverty, Allah will enrich you out of His bounty, if He please. Surely, Allah is All-Knowing, Wise. (28)
Fight those from among the People of the Book who believe not in Allah, nor in the Last Day, nor hold as unlawful that which Allah and His Messenger have declared to be unlawful nor follow the true religion, and who have not yet made peace with you, until they pay the tax willingly and make their submission. (29)
The Jews say: Uzair is Allah's son; and the Christians say: The Messiah is Allah's son; these are but their verbal assertions, whereby they imitate the sayings of those who disbelieved before them. Allah ruin them, how are they turned away from the truth! They have taken their divines and their monks for lords beside Allah, and also the Messiah son of Mary. They had only been commanded to worship the One God. There is no god but He. Holy is He above that which they associate with Him. They desire to extinguish the light of Allah by blowing through their mouths, but Allah utterly rejects everything except that He will perfect His light, even though the disbelievers may dislike it. He it is Who sent His Messenger with guidance and the Religion of Truth, that He may make it prevail over every other religion, even though those who associate partners with Allah may dislike it. O ye who believe, surely, many of the divines and monks devour people's wealth by false means, and hinder people from the way of Allah. Warn those who hoard up gold and silver and spend it not in the cause of Allah of a painful chastisement on the day when it will be heated up in the fire of hell, and their foreheads and their sides and their backs shall be branded therewith, and they will be told: This is what you treasured up for yourselves, so now suffer the torment in respect of that which you used to treasure up. (30-35)
The number of months with Allah has been twelve months by Allah's ordinance since the day He created the heavens and the earth. Of these, four are known as sacred. That is the correct system. So wrong not yourselves therein by contravening the ordinances relating to them. Fight the idolaters all together, as they fight you all together, and know that Allah is with the righteous. The device of postponement and changing about of sacred months is an innovation of the period of disbelief, whereby those who disbelieve are led astray. They permit it one year and forbid it another year, that they may keep in step with the number of months which Allah has made sacred, and yet may make lawful that which Allah has forbidden. The evil of their conduct is made to seem fair to them. Allah guides not the disbelieving people. (36-37)
O ye who believe, what ails you that, when it is said to you: Go forth, all together, to fight in the cause of Allah; you are held down by your worldly interests? Is it that you prefer the hither life to the Hereafter? If so, you must remember that all this life has to offer is of little value in comparison with the Hereafter. If you go not forth, He will chastise you with a painful chastisement and will replace you with another people, and you shall do Him no harm at all. Allah has full power to do all that He wills. If you help not the Messenger, you should know that he is not dependent upon your help. Allah helped him when the disbelievers drove him forth from his home, one of two, when they were both in the cave and he reassured his companion, saying: Be not concerned; surely, Allah is with us. Then Allah sent down tranquillity on him and strengthened him with hosts which you did not see, and brought low the boast of those who disbelieve. It is the word of Allah which is supreme; Allah is Mighty, Wise. Go forth, without equipment or with equipment, and strive in the cause of Allah with your belongings and your persons. That is the better for you, if only you knew. They would certainly have followed thee if they had seen an immediate advantage and the journey had been short, but the hard journey appeared too long to them. On your return they will swear by Allah:
Had we been able we would surely have gone forth with you. They ruin their souls; Allah knows they are liars. (38-42)
Allah has safeguarded thee against the consequences of thy over-leniency towards them and has exalted thee, but why didst thou permit them to stay back, before those who spoke the truth had become known to thee and before thou hadst known the liars? Those who believe in Allah and the Last Day, do not ask to be exempted from striving in the cause of Allah with their belongings and their persons. Allah knows well those who are mindful of their duty to Him. Only those ask thee to be exempted who do not believe in Allah and the Last Day, and whose minds are involved in doubt. Their doubt keeps their minds in agitation. If they had intended to go forth they would surely have made some preparation for it; but Allah disliked their going forth, so He kept them back, and their cronies said to them: Remain at home with those who are staying back. Had they gone forth with you, they would only have proved a source of trouble for you, and would have run back and forth among you, seeking to create discord among you. There are those among you who act as listeners for them. Allah knows well the wrongdoers. They sought to create trouble before also, and devised stratagems against thee till the truth came and Allah's decree became manifest, though they liked it not. (43-48)
There are some among them who say to thee: Permit us to stay back and do not put us to trial. Hearken, they have already fallen into trial, and surely, hell shall encompass such disbelievers. Thy good fortune grieves them, and if a misfortune befalls thee, they say: We had taken our measures in advance; and they turn away rejoicing.
Tell them: Nothing shall befall us save that which Allah has ordained for us. He is our Protector, and in Allah should the believers put their trust. Tell them: You await for us one of two pieces of good fortune, martyrdom in the cause of Allah or victory; while concerning you we await that Allah will afflict you with chastisement direct or at our hands. So wait on, we too shall wait with you. Tell them: Spend willingly or unwillingly, it shall not find acceptance with Allah. You are indeed a disobedient people. (49-53)
The only reason that has made their contributions unacceptable to Allah is that they have disbelieved in Allah and His Messenger, and they come not to Prayer but sluggishly and they make not their contributions but reluctantly. So let not their possessions or their children cause thee to wonder. Allah only intends to chastise them therewith in the present life and that their souls may depart while they are disbelievers. They swear by Allah that they are of you, while they are not of you; they are a cowardly people. Could they find a place of refuge, or a cave, or a retreat they would turn away and rush headlong into it. (54-57)
There are some among them who find fault with thee in the matter of the distribution of alms. If they are given thereof they are pleased, but if they are not given thereof, they are at once put out. Had they been content with that which Allah and His Messenger had given them and said: Sufficient for us is Allah; in case of need Allah will give us of His bounty and so will His Messenger; to Allah do we turn in supplication; it would have been the better for them. Alms are only for the poor and the needy, and for those employed in connection with their collection and distribution, and for those whose hearts are to be comforted, and for the freeing of slaves, and for those burdened with debt, and for those striving in the cause of Allah, and for wayfarers. This is an ordinance from Allah. Allah is All-Knowing, Wise. (58-60)
Of them there are some who distress the Prophet by saying: He listens to all and sundry. Tell them: He listens for your good. He believes in Allah and trusts the believers, and is a mercy for those of you who believe. For those who cause distress to the Messenger of Allah is a painful chastisement. They swear by Allah to please you, but Allah is more worthy that they should please Him and also His Messenger, if they are true believers. Have they not known that for him who opposes Allah and His Messenger is the fire of hell, wherein he shall abide? That is the great humiliation. The hypocrites pretend to fear lest a chapter of the Quran should be revealed concerning them, informing them and the believers of that which is in their minds. Say to them: Continue your mockery. Allah will surely bring to light that which you fear. If thou were to question them concerning that which they say, they will most surely answer: We were only talking idly and jesting. Say to them: Was it Allah and His Signs and His Messenger that you mocked at? Now, make no excuses. The truth is you have certainly disbelieved after having believed. If We forgive a party from among you, a party shall We punish, because they were guilty. (61-66)
The hypocrites, men and women, are all connected one with another. They enjoin evil and forbid good and are close-fisted. They forgot Allah, so He has cast them aside.
Surely, it is the hypocrites who are the disobedient ones. Allah has promised the hypocrites, men and women, and the disbelievers, the fire of hell, wherein they shall abide. It shall suffice them. Allah has cast them out, and they shall have a lasting punishment, like those before you. They were mightier than you in power and richer in possessions and offspring. They enjoyed their lot, and you have enjoyed your lot as those before you enjoyed their lot; and you have indulged in idle talk as they indulged in idle talk. Their works shall be vain in this world and the Hereafter, and it is they who are the losers. Has no account reached them of those who were before them -- the people of Noah, 'Ad, and Thamud, and the people of Abraham and the dwellers of Midian, and the cities which were overthrown? Their Messengers came to them with clear Signs. So Allah would not wrong them, but they wronged themselves. (67-70)
The believers, men and women, are friends one of another. They enjoin good and forbid evil and observe Prayer and pay the Zakat and obey Allah and His Messenger. It is these on whom Allah will have mercy. Surely, Allah is Mighty, Wise. Allah has promised the believers, men and women, Gardens beneath which rivers flow, wherein they will abide, and delightful dwelling places in Gardens of Eternity, and the pleasure of Allah, which is the greatest of all. That is the supreme triumph. (71-72)
O Prophet, strive against the disbelievers and the hypocrites and press hard on them. Their abode is hell and an evil destination it is. They swear by Allah they have not said anything derogatory. Most certainiy have they blasphemed, and disbelieved after they had professed Islam. They entertained evil designs which they could not carry into effect. They cherish hatred against the believers only because Allah and His Messenger had enriched them out of His bounty. Now if they repent it will be the better for them, but if they turn away, Allah will chastise them with a painful chastisement in this life, and the Hereafter, and they shall have neither friend not helper in the world. Among them are those who vowed: If Allah gives us of His bounty, we would assuredly give alms and be virtuous. But when He gave them of His bounty, they were niggardly of it, and they reverted to their old ways, turning away in aversion from that which was required of them. So He requited them with hypocrisy which shall continue to taint their hearts until the day when they shall meet Him, because they violated their promise to Allah and because they lied. Did they not know that Allah knows their secret counsels as well as their overt discussions, and that Allah has full knowledge of whatever is hidden? It is these hypocrites who find fault with such of the believers as give alms freely and deride those who have nothing to give save that which they earn through their toil. Allah shall requite them for their derision, and for them there is a painful chastisement. Ask thou forgiveness for them or ask thou not, it is the same to them. Even if thou were to ask forgiveness for them seventy times, Allah will never forgive them. That is because they disbelieved in Allah and His Messenger, and Allah guides not the perfidious people. (73-80)
Those who continued to be left behind rejoiced at their remaining at home, contrary to the directions of the Messenger of Allah. They were averse to striving in the cause of Allah with their belongings and their persons, and they said, one to another: Go not forth in such heat. Remind them:
The fire of hell is fiercer far in heat; did they but understand. So let them rejoice less at the supposed success of their stratagem and weep more at the contemplation of the punishment for their duplicity awaiting them. Should Allah take thee back to a party of them and should they ask of thee leave to go forth with thee, tell them: You shall never go forth with me and shall never fight an enemy along with me. You chose to remain at home the first time, so now continue with those who remain behind. Pray not for any of them who dies, nor stand by his grave asking forgiveness for him; they disbelieved in Allah and His Messenger and died while they were disobedient. Let not their possessions or their children cause thee to wonder. Allah only intends to chastise them therewith in the present life and that their souls may depart while they are disbelievers. (81-85)
When a chapter is revealed enjoining: Believe in Allah and strive in the cause of Allah along with His Messenger; those of them who are affluent start asking thee for exemption, and say: Leave us with those who will be at home. They are content to be with the womenfolk. Their hearts are sealed so they understand not. But the Messenger and those who have believed with him strive in the cause of Allah with their belongings and their persons. It is they who shall have all kinds of good, and it is they who shall prosper.
Allah has prepared for them Gardens beneath which rivers flow; therein shall they abide. That is the supreme triumph.
Those of the desert Arabs who sought excuses came to beg for exemption, and those who were false to Allah and His Messenger stayed behind anyhow. A painful chastisement shall befall those of them who disbelieve. But no blame attaches to the weak, or the sick, or those who have nothing which they can spend, if they are sincere to Allah and His Messenger. There is no cause of reproach against those who do their best; Allah is most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. Nor is there any cause of reproach against those who came to thee that thou mayest provide them with mounts and to whom thou didst say: I have nothing on which I can mount you. They went back with streaming eyes, out of grief that they had nothing which they could spend. The blameworthy are those who are affluent and yet ask for exemption. They are content to be with the womenfolk. Allah has set a seal upon their hearts so that they know not. They will put forth explanations to you when you return to them. Tell them: Make no explanations; we will not believe you. Allah has apprised us of your situation. Allah will observe your conduct, and also His Messenger; then will you be brought back to Him Who knows the unseen and the seen, and He will tell you all that you used to do. They will swear to you by Allah, when you return to them, that you may leave them alone.
So leave them alone. They are, indeed, an abomination, and their abode is hell, a recompense for that which they did. They will swear to you that you may be pleased with them, but even if you are pleased with them, Allah will not be pleased with the rebellious people. (90-96)
The Arabs of the desert are the farthest gone in disbelief and hypocrisy and most likely to be unaware of the limits prescribed in that which Allah has sent down to His Messenger. Allah is All-Knowing, Wise. There are those among them who regard that which they spend in the cause of Allah as an exaction and they await your being afflicted with misfortune. They themselves will be the subjects of evil fortune. Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. There are also those among them who believe in Allah and the Last Day and regard that which they spend in the cause of Allah as a means of drawing near to Allah and of deserving the prayers of the Messenger. Hearken, this shall certainly be for them a means of drawing near to Allah. Allah will surely admit them to His mercy; Allah is indeed Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. (97-99)
Allah is well pleased with those who were foremost among the Emigrants from Mecca and the Helpers in Medina, and those who followed them in the best possible manner, and they are well pleased with Him. He has prepared for them Gardens beneath which rivers flow; therein will they abide for ever. That is the supreme triumph. (100)
Of the desert Arabs around you some are hypocrites; and of the people of Medina also. They are obstinate in their hypocrisy. Thou knowest them not: but We know them. We will punish them twice; then shall they be passed on to face a great torment. There are others who have confessed their defaults. They mixed good deeds with bad.
It is likely that Allah will turn to them with compassion. Surely, Allah is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. Take a portion of their wealth as alms, that thou mayest purify them thereby and provide for their uplift and welfare; and pray for them, thy prayer is indeed a source of tranquillity for them. Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. Know they not that it is Allah Who accepts repentance from His servants and takes alms, and that it is Allah Who is Oft-Returning with compassion and is Ever Merciful. Tell them: Carry on. Allah will surely watch your conduct and also His Messenger and the believers; and you shall be brought back to Him Who knows the unseen and the seen; then He will tell you what you used to do. There are awaiting Allah's decree. He may punish them or He may turn to them with compassion. Allah is All-Knowing, Wise. (l01-106)
Then there are those who built a mosque designing injury to the cause of Allah and support for disbelief and division among the believers, and as an ambush for him who had fought against Allah and His Messenger. They will surely swear: We intended nothing but good; but Allah bears witness that they certainly are liars. Never stand therein to lead Prayer. A mosque that was founded upon piety from the very first day is surely more worthy that thou shouldst stand therein to lead Prayer. In it are men who love to be purified and Allah loves those who purify themselves. Is he who lays the foundation of his structure on fear of Allah and His pleasure better off, or he who lays the foundation of his structure on the brink of a tottering hollow bank which tumbles down with it into the fire of hell? Allah guides not the wrongdoing people. This structure of theirs, which they have built, will ever continue to be a source of disquiet in their hearts, unless their hearts are cut to pieces and they perish. Allah is All-Knowing, Wise. (107-110)
Allah has purchased of the believers their persons and their belongings in return for the promise that they shall have Paradise, for they fight in the cause of Allah and they slay the enemy or are themselves slain. This is a promise that He has made incumbent upon Himself as set out in the Torah, and the Gospel and the Quran; and who is more faithful to his promise than Allah? Rejoice, then, in the bargain that you have made with Him; that indeed is the supreme triumph. These believers are the ones who turn to Allah in repentance, who worship Him, who praise Him, who go about serving His cause, who bow down to Him, who prostrate themselves before Him, who enjoin good and forbid evil, and who observe the limits set by Allah. Give glad tidings to such believers. (111-112)
It is not for the Prophet and those who believe to ask forgiveness of Allah for the idolaters, even though they may be kinsmen, after it has become plain to them that they are condemned to hell. Abraham's as king forgiveness for his father was only because of a promise he had made to him, but when it became clear to him that he was Allah's enemy, he dissociated himself from him. Surely, Abraham was most tenderhearted, intelligent. (113-114)
It is not consonant with Allah's dignity that He should adjuge a people as having gone astray after He had guided them, until He makes clear to them that which they should guard against. Surely, Allah knows all things well. Surely, it is Allah to Whom belongs the kingdom of the heavens and the earth. He gives life and He causes death. You have no friend nor helper beside Allah. (115-116)
Allah has assuredly turned with mercy to the Prophet and to the Emigrants and the Helpers who stood by him in the hour of distress when the hearts of a party of them had wellnigh swerved, and He has turned with mercy to these last also. Surely, He is Compassionate and Merciful to all of them. He has also turned with mercy to the three whose case was deferred, who were sore distressed and whose lives became a burden to them and who became convinced that there was no refuge against the wrath of Allah save in Himself. He turned to them with mercy that they might turn to Him in repentance. Surely, it is Allah Who is Oft-Returning with Compassion and is Ever Merciful. (117-118)
O ye who believe, be mindful of your duty to Allah and keep company with the righteous. It was not proper for the people of Medina and those around them from among the Arabs of the desert to remain behind, leaving the Messenger of Allah to or to prefer their own security to his. It is so ordained because they endure no thirst, or fatigue or hunger in the cause of Allah, nor do they tread a track which chagrins the disbelievers, nor do they wrest an advantage from the enemy, but there is written down for them a good deed on account of it. Surely, Allah suffers not the reward of those who carry out their duty in the best manner to be lost. They spend not, in the cause of Allah, any sum, small or big, nor do they traverse a valley, but that it is written down for them, that Allah may bestow upon them the best reward for that which they do. (119-121)
It is not possible for the believers to go forth all together to obtain religious instruction. Why, then, does not a party from every section of them go forth that they may be fully instructed in religion, and that they may warn their people when they return to them, so that they may guard against ignorance? (122)
O ye who believe, continue your fight against the disbelievers who are adjacent to you, and let them find you unrelenting; and know that Allah is with those who are mindful of their duty to Him. (123)
Whenever a chapter is revealed, some of the hypocrites say: Is there any of you to whose faith it has added? It certainly adds to the faith of those who believe and they rejoice over it. But it adds only vileness to the vileness of those whose minds are diseased; they will die while they are disbelievers. Do they not see that they are tried once or twice in every year? Yet they repent not, nor would they be admonished. Whenever a chapter is revealed they look at one another to find out whether they are being watched. Then they turn away. Allah has turned away their hearts for they are a people who do not exercise their understanding. (124-127)
Surely, a Messenger has come to you from among yourselves; grievously heavy is it on him that you should fall into trouble, ardently desirous is he of your welfare; compassionate and merciful towards the believers. Yet, if they should turn away, say to them: Sufficient for me is Allah. There is no God but He. In Him do I put my trust. He is the Lord of the Mighty Throne. (128-129)

Chapter 11
Hud
revealed before Hijra
________________________________________
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Ever Merciful.
I Am Allah, The All-Seeing.
This is a Book whose verses have been firmly established and have been expounded in detail. It is revealed by One Wise, All-Aware, that you worship none save Allah, seek forgiveness of your Lord and turn to Him in repentance. He will make for you a goodly provision till an appointed term and will grant His grace to every one possessed of merit. But if you turn away, then surely, I would be fearful for you of the chastisement of a dreadful day, for I have been sent to you by Allah as a Warner and a bearer of glad tidings. To Allah is your return; and He has power over all things. (2-7)
Hearken, they fold up their breasts that they may hide their thoughts from Him. Surely, even when they cover themselves up with their garments, He knows what they conceal and what they disclose. Of a surety, He is well aware of that which is in their minds. There is no creature that moves in the earth but it is for Allah to provide it with sustenance and He knows its temporary lodging and its permanent home. All this is recorded in a clear Book. (6-7)
He it is Who created the heavens and the earth in six periods; He originated life from water and exercises His authority through revelation, that He might prove you, to show which of you is best in conduct. If thou were to tell them: You shall surely be raised up after death; those who disbelieve will certainly say: This is manifest deception. (8)
If We hold back their punishment for a determined period, they are sure to say: What holds it back? Take note, on the day that it shall come upon them, it shall not be averted from them and that which they used to mock at shall encompass them. (9)
When We bestow upon a person a measure of Our grace, and then take it away from him, verily he is despairing, ungrateful; but if We bestow upon him a bounty after he has experienced some distress, he is sure to say: Gone are all my ills; and he is suddenly exultant, boastful; except those who are steadfast and work righteousness. It is these for whom there is forgiveness and a great reward. (10-12)
Perchance the disbelievers imagine that thou might be prevailed upon to give up a portion of that which has been revealed to thee: or that thou art distressed because they say: Wherefore has not a treasure been sent down to him or an angel come with him? Thou art but a Warner, and Allah is Guardian over all things. Do they say: He has forged it himself? Tell them: In that case, if you are truthful, produce ten chapters like unto it, forged as you Allege, and call on whom you can beside to help you. If they should not respond to you, then know that it has been sent down full of Divine knowledge, and that there is no god but He. Will you then make complete submission? (13-15)
We will fully repay for their works in this life those who desire the provision and pomp of this life and they shall suffer no diminution in respect thereof. Those are they who shall have nothing in the Hereafter save the Fire; that which they do here will be of no avail to them and vain shall be their striving. (16-17)
Can there be any doubt concerning him who bases himself on clear proof from his Lord, and will be followed by a witness from Him, and is preceded by the Book of Moses which was a guide and a mercy for people before him? The true followers of Moses will believe in him; but whoever disbelieves in him out of the opposing parties, the Fire shall be his promised resort. So be not thou, O reader, in doubt about it. Surely, it is the truth from thy Lord; but most people do not believe. (18)
Who can be accounted more unjust than one who fabricates a lie against Allah? Such shall be presented before their Lord, and the witnesses shall testify: These are they who lied against their Lord. Take note, the curse of Allah is upon such wrong-doers, who turn people away from the path of Allah and seek to make it appear crooked. These it is who disbelieved in the Hereafter. They can never frustrate Allah's design in the land, nor have they any friends beside Allah. They will be subjected to double punishment, in this life and in the Hereafter. They are unable to hear, nor can they see. It is these who have ruined their souls, and that which they fabricated shall fail them. For sure, it is they who shall be the greatest losers in the Hereafter. (19-23)
Those who have believed and work righteousness, and humble themselves before their Lord are the inmates of heaven; therein shall they abide. The case of the two parties Is like that of the blind and the seeing, and of the deaf and the heariug. Can the two be equal? Will you not then understand? (24-25)
We sent Noah to his people, and he announced to them: I have been sent to you as a plain Warner that you worship none but Allah. Indeed I am fearful for you of the chastisement of a grievous day. The leaders of his people who disbelieved rejoined: Thou art but a man like the rest of us, and we do not find that any but the meanest of us in our estimation have followed thee. We do not consider that you are in any way better than we are; in fact we believe you to be liars. (26-28)
Noah reasoned with them. O my people, tell me: If I base myself upon clear proof from my Lord and He has favoured me with mercy from Himself, which you have been unable to recognise, shall we force it upon you, despite your being averse thereto? I do not demand from you any material recompense in return for it; I look for my recompense to Allah alone. I will by no means drive away those who believe; they shall be honoured by meeting their Lord. Your looking down upon them proves that you are an ignorant lot. If I were to drive them away, tell me, who has the power to shield me against the wrath of Allah? Will you not understand? I do not say to you: I possess the treasures of Allah, nor have I knowledge of the unseen; nor do I say: I am an angel. Nor say I concerning those upon whom you look with contempt: Allah will not bestow any good upon them. Allah knows best what is in their minds. If I were to think of them as you do, I would then certainly be of the unjust. (29-32)
They retorted: Noah, thou hast argued with us long and often; so now bring upon us that with which thou dost threaten us, if thou art truthful. To which he replied: Allah alone will bring it upon you, if He please, and you cannot frustrate His purpose. Were I minded to counsel you, my counsel would not profit you, if Allah willed to destroy you. He is your Lord and to Him you shall be made to return. (33-35)
Do they say: He has invented all this about our being punished? Tell them: If I have invented it, the punishment for it will fall on me; you will not be called to account for it, as I will not be called to account for that which you commit. (36)
It was revealed to Noah: No more of thy people will believe than those who have already believed; grieve not, therefore, over that which they have been doing. Build thou the Ark under Our eyes and according to Our directions, and do not supplicate Me concerning the wrongdoers; they are sure to perish by drowning. He occupied himself with building the Ark, and every time the leading men of his people passed by him, they mocked at him. Noah observed: You mock at us now and soon we shall mock at you, even as you mock at us; and you shall then know which party is afflicted with humiliating punishment and is afflicted with lasting torment. (37-40)
When Our decree went forth and the fountains gushed forth, We directed Noah: Embark therein two of every kind of animal, male and female, and thy family, except the one concerning whom Our decree has already gone forth, and those who believe. Only a few had believed in him. When the water swelled, he urged his company: Embark therein. Its course and its mooring will be regulated under the blessing of Allah's name. My Lord is assuredly Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful.
The Ark sailed along with them through waves towering like mountains. Noah spotted his son drifting away among the swirling waters and called out to him: My son, embark along with us and be not among the disbelievers. He shouted back: I shall soon gain a footing on some height, where I shall be safe from the water. Noah warned him: There is no safety today for anyone from the decree of Allah, except for those to whom He shows mercy. Thereupon a wave rushed in between the two, and he was drowned. Thereafter, the command went forth: Swallow up thy water, O earth, and O sky: Desist. The water subsided and the affair was closed. The Ark came to rest on Judi and the decree went forth: Ruined are the wrongdoers. (41-45)
Noah supplicated his Lord: My Lord, my son is a part of my family, and surely, Thy promise is true, and Thou art the Most Just of Judges. His Lord responded: He is surely not of thy family, Noah, for he is one of unrighteous conduct. So beseech Me not concerning that of which thou hast no knowledge. I advise thee never to act like the ignorant ones. Noah pleaded: My Lord, I pray Thee safeguard me against asking Thee that of which I have no knowledge; unless Thou forgive me and have mercy on me,I shall be among the losers. He was commanded: Continue with thy mission, O Noah, with peace and all manner of blessings upon thee and upon peoples with thee. There will also be people whom We shall grant provision for a time, then shall a grievous chastisement from Us afflict them. (46-49)
These are grave tidings of the unseen that We reveal to thee, O Prophet, which thou didst not know before, nor did thy people. Do thou continue steadfast, for success is the portion of the righteous. (50)
To 'Ad We sent their brother Hud. He admonished them: O my people, worship Allah alone; you have no god beside Him. In attributing partners to Him, you do nothing but fabricate lies. I demand from you nothing in return for that with which I admonish you. My recompence is with Him Who has created me. Will you not then understand? O my people, ask forgiveness of your Lord and turn wholly to Him; He will send over you clouds pouring down abundant rain, and will add strength to your strength. Turn not away from Him guiltily. They retorted: Thou hast brought us no clear proof of that which thou dost urge upon us Hud, and we shall not forsake our gods merely because of thy urging, nor shall we believe in thee. All we can say is that some god of ours has afflicted thee with evil. He rejoined: I call Allah to witness, and do you also bear witness, that I reject all that which you associate with Allah beside Him. If you consider I am in error, then devise your plans against me all together, and grant me no respite. I have put my whole trust in Allah, my Lord and your Lord. There is no creature that moves on the earth but He holds it completely in His power. Surely, my Lord stands along the straight path to guide and protect the believers. If now you should turn away, I have conveyed to you that with which I have been sent to you, and my Lord will make another people your successors and you can in no wise do Him any harm. Surely, my Lord is Guardian over all things. (51-58)
When Our decree went forth, We delivered Hud and those who believed with him by Our special mercy, and We saved them from a severe torment. These were 'Ad who denied the Signs of their Lord and disobeyed His Messengers and followed the bidding of every haughty enemy of truth. They were pursued by a curse in this world and shall be so pursued on the Day of Judgment. Hearken, surely 'Ad proved ungrateful to their Lord. Hearken, ruined are 'Ad, the people of Hud. (59-61)
To Thamud We sent their brother Saleh. He admonished them: O my people, worship Allah alone; you have no god but Him. He raised you up from the earth, and settled you therein. Therefore ask forgiveness of Him and turn wholly to Him. Verily my Lord is nigh, responsive to prayer. They answered him: Saleh, our hopes had hitherto centered on thee. Now dost thou forbid us to worship that which our fathers worshipped? Truly, we are in grave doubt concerning that to which thou callest us. He remonstrated with them: O my people, tell me, if I base myself on a clear proof from my Lord and He has bestowed His special mercy upon me, and yet should I disobey Him, then who will help me against Allah? You would, in such case, only augment my ruin. O my people, this she-camel is dedicated to the service of Allah, and it is appointed as a Sign for you. So leave it free to roam about and find its pasture in Allah's earth, and do it no harm lest you should be afflicted with a speedy torment. But they hamstrung her; whereupon Saleh announced: Enjoy yourselves in your homes for the space of three days; your doom will then overtake you and nothing can avert it. (62-66)
So, when Our decree went forth, We delivered Saleh and those who believed with him by Our special mercy, and saved them from the ignominy of that day. Surely, thy Lord is Powerful, Mighty. The wrongdoers were overtaken by a mighty blast and they lay prostrate in their homes, as if they had never dwelt therein. Hearken, Thamud behaved ungratefully to their Lord; hearken, ruined are Thamud. (67-69)
Our messengers came to Abraham with glad tidings and greeted him with: Peace. He responded with: Peace be on you; and hastened to bring a roasted calf. When He perceived that they did not put forth their hands towards it, he was puzzled and conceived a fear of them. They tried to reassure him: Be not afraid, for we have been sent to the people of Lot. His wife was standing by and she too was perturbed, whereupon We conveyed to her the glad tidings of the birth of Isaac, and beyond Isaac of Jacob. She lamented: Ah me! Shall I bear a child in this old age, while my husband here is also old? This is indeed a strange piece of news! The messengers said: Dost thou wonder at the decree of Allah? The mercy of Allah and His blessings are upon you, people of the house. Surely, He is Praiseworthy, Glorious. Thus when Abraham was reassured and was cheered up by the good news, he began to plead with Us on behalf of the people of Lot. Indeed, Abraham was forbearing, tender-hearted and oft-turning to Allah. On this We said to him: Abraham, persist not with thy pleading. The decree of thy Lord has gone forth and they shall be afflicted with a torment that cannot be averted. (70-77)
When Our messengers came to Lot, He was grieved and felt constrained on their account and said: This looks like being a distressing day. His people hurried to him wild with indignation, and before this also they were given to all manner of ill-behaviour. Lot remonstrated with them: O my people, my daughters who are married among you, are well disposed towards you and are a sufficient guarantee for you that no harm shall come to you through my guests. So fear Allah and do not humiliate me in the presence of my guests. Is there not among you one man of good sense? They rejoined: Thou knowest we have no claim against thy daughters, and thou well knowest what it is that we desire; meaning that Lot should send away his guests. Lot expostulated: Would that I had the power to oppose you! Failing that I can only turn to a Mighty Support. The messengers reassured him: Lot, we are the messengers of thy Lord. Thy enemies shall never be able to lay hands upon thee, for they are doomed. So depart quickly with thy family during the night, and let none of you look back; thus will you be safe, except thy wife. That which is going to befall them shall surely befall her also. Their appointed time is the morning, and the morning is now not far off. So when Our decree went forth, We turned the city upside down, and We rained upon it stones of clay, layer upon layer, marked for them in the decree of thy Lord. Such chastisement is not far from the wrongdoers of any age. (78-84)
To Midian We sent their brother Shu'aib. He admonished them: O my people, worship Allah alone, you have no god other than Him. Give not short measure or short weight. You are today in a state of prosperity, but I am fearful for you of the chastisement of a ruinous day. O my people, give full measure and full weight with justice, and do not defraud people by making short delivery; nor commit iniquity in the land thereby creating disorder. If you are believers you should realise that the gains that Allah permits you to retain lawfully are the best for you. I am but a counsellor for you and have not been appointed a keeper over you. (85-87)
They retorted: Shu'aib, does thy Prayer bid thee that we should forsake that which our fathers worshipped or that we should stop disposing of our belongings as we please? Thou must fancy thyself very intelligent and discerning! He reasoned with them: O my people tell me, if I base myself on clear proof from my Lord, and He has furnished me with a handsome provision from Himself, then what answer will you make to Him? I do not desire to act contrary to that with which I admonish you; all I desire is rectitude as far as it is within my power to bring it about. I can accomplish nothing save through Allah. In Him I put my trust, and to Him I turn. O my people, let not your hostility towards me lead you on to a position in which the like of that should befall you which befell the people of Noah, or the people of Hud, or the people of Saleh, and the people of Lot dwelt not far from you. Seek forgiveness of your Lord and turn wholly to Him; verily my Lord is Ever Merciful, Most Loving. (88-91)
They replied to him: Shu'aib, we do not understand much of that which thou sayest. We consider thee a weak individual among us, and were it not for thy family, we would surely stone thee. Thou dost not even occupy a position of respect among us. He admonished them: O my people, is my family then worthy of greater respect in your eyes than Allah, Whom you have cast behind your backs as of no account? Surely, my Lord encompasses all that you do. O my people, carry on, then, on your side as you consider best, and I shall carry on on my side. Soon shall you know who is afflicted with humiliating chastisement and who is a liar. Wait on; I shall wait on with you.
So, when Our decree went forth, We saved Shu'aib and those who had believed with him, by Our special mercy; and a fierce blast overtook those who did wrong, so that they lay prostrate in their homes, as though they had never dwelt therein. Hearken, ruined was Midian, as were ruined Thamud (92-96)
We did indeed send Moses with Our Signs and with manifest authority to Pharaoh and his nobles; but they obeyed the command of Pharaoh, and Pharaoh's command was not at all well directed. He will precede his people on the Day of Judgment and will lead them into the Fire. Evil is the place they shall arrive at. A curse pursued them in this life and it shall pursue them on the Day of Judgment. Evil is the gift bestowed upon them. (97-100)
That is of the tidings of the ruined cities that We relate to thee; the ruins of some are visible and others have been obliterated altogether. We did not wrong them, but they wronged themselves; and their gods on whom they called beside Allah, availed them naught when the decree of thy Lord went forth; they only augmented their ruin. Such is the chastisement of thy Lord which He inflicts upon corrupt cities. Surely, His chastisement is grievously painful. In that is a Sign for him who fears the chastisement of the Hereafter. That is a day for which mankind shall be gathered together, a day which shall be witnessed by all. We hold it back for a computed term. (101-105)
When it arrives, no one shall speak except by Allah's leave; then some of them will prove unfortunate and others fortunate. Those who prove unfortunate shall be in the Fire, given to sighing and sobbing, abiding therein so long as the heavens and the earth endure, excepting that which thy Lord may will. Thy Lord does whatever He pleases. Those who prove fortunate shall be in Paradise; abiding therein so long as the heavens and the earth endure, excepting that which thy Lord may will. This is a bounty which shall never be cut off. So doubt not the futility of that which these people worship. They worship only as their fathers worshipped before them, and We shall surely pay out to them their portion in full, undiminished. (106-110)
We gave Moses the Book to settle differences, but his people differed about the Book also; and had it not been for the antecedent promise of mercy of thy Lord, the issue would have been settled between them long before. Now these people are in grave doubt concerning the Book. Thy Lord will surely requite them in full for that which they do; He is Well-Aware of all their doings. (111-112)
So do thou continue to stand upright, as thou hast been commanded, along with those who have turned wholly to Allah with thee. Exceed ye not the bounds. O Muslims. surely Allah sees what you do, and incline not towards those who do wrong lest the Fire should afflict you, and then you will have no friend beside Allah, nor shall you be helped. (113-114)
Observe Prayer at the two ends of the day, and in the hours of the night in the proximity of the day. Surely good does away with evil. This is a reminder for those who would remember. Be steadfast; for surely, Allah suffers not the reward of the righteous to perish. (115-116)
Why were there not, out of the generations that passed away before you persons possessed of understanding who would have forbidden corruption in the earth, except the few whom We saved from among them because of their doing it? The wrongdoers in each generation preferred ease and comfort and thus became offenders. Thy Lord would not destroy communities unjustly while the people thereof were righteous. Had thy Lord enforced His will, He would surely have made mankind one people; as it is, they will not cease to differ, save those on whom thy Lord has had mercy, and for this had He created them. But the word of Thy Lord shall be fulfilled: Verily, I will fill hell with men, high and low, all together, who persist in differing. (117-120)
We relate unto thee all of the tidings of the Messengers whereby We make thy heart firm; and herein have come to thee the truth and wisdom, and an exhortation and a reminder for the believers. Tell those who believe not: Continue to act on your side as you think best; we shall continue to act as we are admonished; and wait on, we too shall wait. The knowledge of the secret of the heavens and the earth belongs to Allah alone, and to Him shall all affairs be returned. So worship Him and put thy trust in Him alone. Thy Lord is not unmindful of that which you do. (121-124)

Chapter 12
Yusuf
revealed before Hijra
________________________________________
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Ever Merciful.
I Am Allah, The All Seeing.
These are verses of the Book which sets forth clearly the truth. We have revealed the Quran which expounds its meaning plainly, so that you may ponder over it with wisdom. We relate everything to thee in the best manner, for We have revealed this Quran to thee comprising the truth. Before this thou wast one of those not aware of the truth. (2-4)
Call to mind when Joseph said to his father: Believe me, father, I have seen eleven stars and the sun and the moon in my dream, and the wonder is that I saw them making obeisance to me. His father said to him: Dear son, do not relate thy dream to thy brethren, lest they should contrive some stratagem against thee. Satan is, indeed, man's declared enemy. Thus will thy Lord, as thou hast seen, make thee His chosen one, and teach thee the meaning of things divine, and perfect His favour unto thee, and unto the true descendants of Jacob, as He perfected it of yore unto thy two forefathers, Abraham and Isaac. Truly thy Lord is All-Knowing, Wise. (5-7)
Surely, in the affair of Joseph and his brethren there are many Signs for seekers after truth, when they conferred together and said: Joseph and his brother are dearer to our father than we are, though we are a strong party. In this matter our father is surely in manifest error. Therefore, let us put Joseph to death or cast him out to some distant land so that we may enjoy our father's favour exclusively, and we can thereafter become a righteous band. (8-10)
One of them said: Do not put Joseph to death, but if you must do something, cast him into the bottom of a deep well, some of the travellers will pick him up and you will achieve your purpose. (11)
So they went to their father and said: Father, what do you apprehend from us concerning Joseph that you do not trust him with us, while we truly wish him well? Now, send him with us tomorrow, he will play about and enjoy himself and we shall take good care of him. He replied: Your taking him away with you would surely distress me; besides, I would be afraid lest, while you are otherwise occupied, a wolf may approach and rend him and devour him. They said: Should a wolf devour him, despite our being a strong party, what sorry losers we would be! (12-15)
So, when they took him along and having agreed to cast him into the bottom of a deep well, they carried out their design, We comforted him with Our revelation: You will surely tell them one day of this affair. But they knew naught of this. They came to their father in the evening weeping and said: Father, we started playing and went racing with one another, leaving Joseph with our things, and a wolf did rend and devour him, though we know you will not believe us, however truthful we may be. In support of their tale they produced Joseph's shirt smeared with false blood. Seeing this, their father said:
It is not as you say; in truth your minds have presented to you in an agreeable shape the evil thing that you have compassed. It now behoves me to be steadfast. It is Allah alone Whose help can avail against that which you assert, and Him I shall beseech for help. (16-19)
Presently there arrived a caravan of travellers and they sent their water-drawer to draw water from the well. He let down his bucket into the well and perceiving a youth at the bottom he cried out:
This is a piece of good luck I have found a youth. They concealed him as part of their merchandise, and Allah knew well what they did. Later they sold him for a paltry sum, a few dirhems, not being keen in the matter of the price. The man of Egypt who bought him said to his wife: Lodge him honourably, he may prove of benefit to us, or we may even adopt him as our son. Thus did We establish Joseph honourably in the land so that We may also teach him the meaning of things divine. Allah has full power to carry out His design, but most people do not realise this. (20-22)
When Joseph attained his age of full maturity, We granted him judgment and learning; thus do We reward the doers of good. The woman in whose house he was sought to seduce him against his will. She bolted the doors of the house and said: Now come along. He protested: I seek refuge with Allah against any such thing. He is my Lord. He has made honourable provision for me. In truth the wrongdoers never prosper. She made up her mind to have her wish of him, and he made up his mind to stand firm, which he could not have done had he not seen a manifest Sign of his Lord. Thus it was that We might turn away from him all evil and indecency. He was truly of Our chosen servants. (23-25)
They both ran to the door and in the struggle she tore his shirt at the back. They found her husband at the door where upon she exclaimed: The recompense of one who planned evil towards thy wife can only be that he should be put in prison or be grievously chastised! Joseph said:
It was she who sought to seduce me against my will! One of her household testified: If his shirt is rent at the front then she has spoken truth, and he is lying, but if his shirt is rent at the back then she has lied and he speaks truth. When her husband saw that Joseph's shirt was rent at the back, he said to his wife: Of a surety, this situation has ensued in consequence of some stratagem devised by you women, you are adept at devising stratagems. Joseph, do thou forbear and, woman, do thou ask forgiveness for thy sin, for undoubtedly thou wert in error. (26-3O)
Some of the women in the town began to gossip: The wife of the Aziz seeks to seduce her slave boy. She must be infatuated with him. We consider this great folly on her part. When the gossip reached her ears she invited them to a banquet and prepared seats for them and provided each of them with a knife and then asked Joseph to appear before them. When they beheld him they esteemed him highly and in wonderment pressed their fingers between their teeth and exclaimed: He has resisted evil for fear of Allah: He is superhuman, he must be a noble angel. (31-32)
She said: Well now, this is the one concerning whom you have been finding fault with me. I did indeed seek to seduce him against his will, but he safeguarded himself. If he will not bend himself to my will he shall certainly be put in prison and be humiliated. Whereupon Joseph prayed:
My Lord, prison is more agreeable to me than that to which these women invite me, and unless Thou turn away their guile from me I may incline towards them and behave like a fool. So his Lord heard his prayer and turned away their guile from him. It is He alone who oft hears prayer and knows all about everything. (33-35)
Then it appeared seemly to them, after they had perceived certain indications, that he be put in prison for a while. Two young men entered the prison along with him. One of them said to Joseph: I have seen in my dream that I am pressing wine; and the other said: I have seen that I am carrying bread upon my head on which birds are feeding. Interpret these dreams for us, for we consider thee a righteous person. Joseph said to them: I shall inform you of the interpretation of your dreams before your meal is brought to you. I am able to do this as my Lord has bestowed knowledge upon me. I have shunned the creed of a people who do not believe in Allah and who reject the Hereafter, and I have adhered to the faith of my fathers, Abraham and Isaac and Jacob. It is not for us to associate anything with Allah as a partner. This is of Allah's grace upon us and upon the people, but most people are not grateful. O my two prison companions, are diverse lords better or Allah, the One the Most Supreme? That which you worship beside Allah is nothing but idle names which you and your fathers have devised. Allah has sent down no authority concerning them. All judgment rests with Allah; He has commanded that you worship none save only Him. That is the true faith, but most men know not. (36-41)
O my two prison companions, the interpretation of your dreams is this: As for one of you, he will pour out wine for his lord to drink; and as for the other, he will be crucified and birds will feed off his head. The matter concerning which you desired to know has been so decreed. To the one who he believed would be set free, Joseph said: Make mention of me to thy lord. But Satan caused him to forget mentioning this to his lord, so that Joseph bided his time in prison for some years. (42-43)
Some time, thereafter, the King announced to his courtiers: I have seen in my dream seven fat kine being devoured by seven lean ones, and seven fresh green ears of corn and seven others dry and withered. Now ye nobles, expound to me the meaning of my dreams, if you are versed in the interpretation of dreams. They made answer: These are confused dreams, and we know not the meaning of such. Then he of the two companions of Joseph who had been set free, and who now remembered, after the lapse of a period, that which had passed between Joseph and him, exclaimed: I shall let you know the interpretation of the dream, only send me to find out. He hurried to Joseph and implored him: Joseph, thou righteous one, do expound to us the meaning of a dream in which seven fat kine are devoured by seven lean ones, and there are seven green ears of corn and seven others which are dry, that I may return to the people and they may know the interpretation, (44-47)
Joseph explained: You shall work diligently and continuously at cultivation for seven years, but leave what you reap in the ear, except the little that you consume. Then there will follow seven years of great hardship which will eat up all that you will have laid by in advance for them, except the little that you may set aside. After this will come a year in which the people will be relieved and there will be rejoicing and exchange of gifts. (48-50)
When the King heard all this, he said: Bring him to me. When the King's messenger came to Joseph, he said: Go back to thy lord and ask him how fare the women who had gnawed at their fingers? My Lord knows well their design. The King enquired of the women: What was the truth of the affair in which you sought to seduce Joseph against his will? They answered: He eschewed vice for fear of Allah; we have not known any evil against him. Whereupon the wife of the Aziz exclaimed: The truth has now come to light. It was I who sought to seduce him against his will, he is surely one of the righteous. (51-52)
Joseph declared: I had asked for this enquiry to be made so that the Aziz should know that I had not been disloyal to him in his absence and that I believe that Allah suffers not the design of the unfaithful to prosper. On the other hand, I do not claim infallibility for myself, for the mind of man (except for him upon whom my Lord has mercy) is ever ready to incite to evil. Surely my Lord is Most Forbearing, Ever Merciful. (53-54)
The King commanded: Bring him to me that I may assign him to my special projects. After he had talked to Joseph he told him: From now on you will be a man of established position and trust with us. Said Joseph: Then grant me authority over the resources of the earth for I shall conserve them well and would know how to exploit them. Thus did We bring about the assignment of Joseph to a position of authority in the land. He could dwell therein wherever he pleased. We bestow Our mercy on whomsoever We please in this very life, and We suffer not the reward of the righteous to perish, and of a surety, the reward of the Hereafter is even better for those who believe and are righteous. (55-58)
During the period of famine the brethren of Joseph also came to the country and presented themselves before him. He recognised them as soon as he saw them, but they knew him not. When he had made provision for them he told them: Next time bring with you your brother on the father's side. See you not that I give full measure and am the best of hosts? But if you bring him not to me, you will get no measure from me and so come not near me. They said: We shall try to induce his father to part with him and we are sure to succeed. Joseph said to those who worked for him: Put their money back into their sacks so that they may call it to mind when they have rejoined their families. Haply they may come back. (59-63)
When they returned home they said to their father: Father, we have been denied further supplies unless you send our brother with us, in which case we shall obtain supplies and we shall certainly take care of him. Their father said: How can I trust you with him expecting anything different from that which befell when I trusted you with his brother aforetime? You may take him with you, but I put my trust in Allah alone Who is the best Protector and the Most Merciful of all. (64-65)
When they unpacked their things they found their money had been returned to them, whereupon they cried: Father what more can we wish for? Here is our money returned to us! This time if we take our brother with us, we shall bring provision for our families, we shall guard our brother, and we shall secure an additional camel-load of grain. That will be a great bounty! Their father said: I will certainly not send him with you until you make me a solemn promise, in the name of Allah, that you will surely bring him back to me, unless you are encompassed yourselves. When they gave him their solemn promise, he said: Allah watches over what we have said. (66-67)
When they were about to set out, their father enjoined them: My sons, do not enter the city all by one gate, but enter it separately by different gates. I can avail you nothing against Allah's decree. All judgment rests with Allah. In Him I put my trust, and in Him should trust all those who trust. When they entered the city in the manner their father had commanded them, his purpose was fulfilled, yet he had no power to guard them against Allah's decree. He succeeded only in fulfilling a desire he had in his mind. Jacob was a man of great knowledge because of that which We had taught him, but most people know not. When they presented themselves before Joseph, he placed his own brother close to himself, and reassured him saying: I am indeed thy brother who was lost, so grieve no more at what they have been doing. (68-70)
When Joseph had provided for them and they were preparing to depart, he inadvertently placed the drinking cup from which he had just drunk water in his brother's sack. When all was ready, a royal herald announced: Men of the caravan! You have committed theft. They all turned round and asked: What is it that you miss? The answer was: We miss one of the royal measuring cups. Whoso is able to restore it shall have a camel-load of grain and I stand surety for it. They retorted: By Allah, you know well we have not come here to cause disturbance in the land, nor are we thieves. What, then, shall be the penalty, if you are proved wrong? The penalty? He in whose sack it is found shall himself be the penalty for it. Thus do we punish the wrongdoers. Thereupon the herald began to search their sacks before searching the sack of Joseph's brother. In the end, he found the cup in the sack of Joseph's brother, and took it out therefrom. Thus did We devise a plan on behalf of Joseph. He could not have held back his brother under the king's law, except for Allah's plan. We exalt whomsoever We please, and above every possessor of knowledge is One possessing greater knowledge. His brothers said: If this one has stolen, no wonder; for a brother of his had also committed theft aforetime. Joseph concealed his chagrin and did not give expression to it in their presence. He only said to himself: You are a sorry lot, but Allah knows well what you allege. (71-78)
They pleaded: Exalted one, he has a very aged father, and, to spare him suffering, we implore thee seize one of us in his stead; we esteem thee a gracious personage. Joseph answered: Allah forbid that we should seize any save him with whom we found our property, for then we would surely be unjust. When they despaired of him, they withdrew conferring among themselves. Their leader said: Do you not recall that your father has taken from you a solemn promise in the name of Allah, and, how, afore time, you were guilty of a default with respect to Joseph? I will, therefore, not leave this land until my father gives me special permission or Allah decrees something in my favour. He is the best of Judges. Go ye back to your father and say to him: Father, your younger son was certainly guilty of theft and we have stated to you only that which we know as a fact. We could not guard against the unseen. You may enquire of the people of the city wherein we were and of the caravan with which we travelled, we are telling you the truth. (79-83)
When they told him this, Jacob said: It cannot be thus. It seems your minds have dressed up something in a plausible guise. It behoves me to be steadfast. May be Allah will bring them to me together. He is the All-Knowing, the Wise. Then he turned away from them and made supplication: Lord I appeal to Thee again in the matter of Joseph. His eyes welled up with tears but he did not permit his sorrow to be witnessed by others. They admonished him: By Allah, it seems you will not cease worrying about Joseph, till you make yourself ill or you expire. He expostulated: I make my plaint of grief and sorrow only to Allah, and I know from Allah that which you know not. Go, my sons, and enquire after Joseph and his brother and despair not of the mercy of Allah; for none despairs of Allah's mercy save the unbelieving people. (84-88)
When his brothers presented themselves before Joseph again, they pleaded: Exalted one, we and our family are sore afflicted by want, and we have brought only a paltry sum; so give us full measure, and give us more out of charity; surely, Allah rewards the charitable vastly. Joseph asked: Do you recall what you did to Joseph and his brother when you did not realise the evil of what you were doing? They exclaimed: Are you indeed Joseph? He replied: I am Joseph and this is my brother. Allah has indeed been gracious to us. The truth is that whoso is righteous and is steadfast, Allah does not suffer the reward of such good ones to be lost. They affirmed: We testify to Allah that Allah has surely exalted you above us and that no doubt we were in the wrong. Joseph sought to comfort them: No blame shall lie on you this day. May Allah forgive you. He is the Most Merciful of all those who show mercy. Take this shirt of mine and lay it before my father, he will comprehend everything; and bring to me the whole of your family. (89-94)
When the caravan set out from Egypt, their father said to those around him: Were it not that you would call me a dotard, I would say that I certainly perceive the fragrance of Joseph. They retorted: By Allah, you still persist in your fixed illusion. But when the bearer of the good news arrived, he laid Joseph's shirt before his father, who thereupon comprehended everything and reminded them: Did I not say to you: I know from Allah that which you know not! (95-97)
His sons then begged him: Father, do pray for forgiveness of our sins, we were manifestly in the wrong. He comforted them: I shall certainly pray for forgiveness for you to my Lord, most assuredly He is the Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. (98-99)
When they approached, Joseph went forth to do honour to his parents and welcomed them: Enter ye all into Egypt in peace as is the pleasure of Allah. He installed his parents in the place of honour and they all fell down prostrate before Allah in gratitude for His favours to him. Joseph said: Father, this is the fulfilment of my dream of old. My Lord has made it come true. He was indeed gracious unto me for He took me out of prison and appointed me to a place of honour and brought you from the desert after Satan had brought about discord between me and my brethren. Surely, my Lord is benignly Gracious unto whomsoever He pleases, for He is the All-Knowing, the Wise. Then Joseph prayed: My Lord, Thou hast bestowed upon me a portion of sovereignty and taught me somewhat of the interpretation of dreams. Maker of the heavens and the earth, Thou art my Helper in this world and the Hereafter, let death when it comes find me in a state of complete submission to Thy will and join me to the company of the righteous. (100-102)
These are tidings of the unseen that We reveal to thee, O Prophet, though thou wast not present with them when they plotted and agreed upon a plan. However much dost thou desire that all men should believe, most of them will not. Thou dost not ask of them any reward in return for that which thou dost teach. On the contrary, it is hut a source of honour for all mankind. (103-105)
How many a Sign is there in the heavens and the earth which they pass by, turning away from it; and most of them, even when they profess belief in Allah, at the same time attribute partners to Him. Do they, then, feel secure against the coming on them of an overwhelming chastisement from Allah, or against the sudden coming upon them, without their perceiving it, of the Hour of which they have been forewarned (106-108)
Announce then: This is my way; I call to Allah on the basis of sure knowledge, I and those who follow me. Holy is Allah; and I am not of those who associate partners with Allah. (109)
Before thee also, We sent as Messengers men to whom We sent revelation from among the dwellers of earthly towns. Have they not, then, travelled in the earth, so as to witness the end of those before them who rejected Our Messengers? Surely, the abode of the Hereafter is better for the righteous. Will you not, then, understand? (109)
Thus it was that when Our Messengers despaired of the disbelievers, and the latter became sure that they were being told lies, Our help came to Our Messengers and those were saved whom We desired to save. Our chastisement is not averted from the guilty. (111)
In these, their annals, there is a lesson for men of understanding. This is not a thing forged, but fulfillment of previous revelations and a detailed exposition of all things and a guidance and a mercy for people who believe. (112)

Chapter 13
Al-Ra'd (Thunder)
revealed before Hijra
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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Ever Merciful.
I Am Allah, The All-Knowing, The All-Seeing.
These are verses of the Perfect Book. That which has been revealed to thee from thy Lord is the Truth, but most men believe not. Allah is He Who raised up the heavens without any pillars that you can see. Then He settled Himself on the Throne, and constrained the sun and the moon to serve you; each planet pursues its course during an appointed term. He regulates it all and expounds the Signs, that you may have firm belief in the meetmg with your Lord. He it is Who spread out the earth and made therein firmly fixed mountains and rivers, and of fruits of every kind He has made pairs. He causes the night to cover the day. In all this, verily, are Signs for a people who reflect. In the earth are diverse tracts adjoining one another, and vineyards, and cornfields and date-palms, some growing from one root and others from separate roots, which are irrigated by the same water, and yet We make some of them excel others in the quality of their fruits. Therein also are Signs for a people who understand. (2-5)
If thou dost wonder at their saying, wondrous indeed it is: What, when we become dust, shall we enter upon a new state of creation? These are they who disbelieve in their Lord, they shall have shackles round their necks, and they shall be the inmates of the Fire, wherein they shall abide. They demand that thou shouldst hasten on their punishment ahead of any good that may befall them, despite the fact that exemplary punishments have been meted out to people like them before. Thy Lord is indeed Most Forgiving for mankind, despite their wrongdoing; and thy Lord is also Severe in punishment. Those who disbelieve ask:
Wherefore has not a Sign been sent down to him from His Lord? Thou art but a Warner; and every people has had its guide. (6-8)
Allah knows well that which every female bears and that which the wombs reject as defective and that which they foster. With Him is everything in proper measure. He is the Knower of the unseen and the seen, Great above all, Most High. He among you who talks in secret and he who talks openly are equally within His ken; and so also he who seeks to hide himself by night and he who goes forth openly by day. He has appointed a succession of angels in front of the Messenger and behind him to guard him by the command of Allah. Surely, Allah would not withdraw a favour that He has conferred upon a people, until they change their own attitude towards Him. But when Allah decrees punishment for a people, there is no repelling it, nor can they have any helper beside Him. He it is Who shows you the lightning to inspire fear and hope, and raises heavy clouds. The thunder proclaims His Praise and Holiness, and likewise do the angels for awe of Him. He directs the thunderbolts and smites therewith whom He wills, yet they dispute concerning Allah, ignoring that He is Severe in punishing. Unto Him is the true prayer. Those on whom they call beside Him, do not respond to them at all. Their case is like that of one who stretches forth his hands toward water that it may reach his mouth, but it reaches it not. The prayer of the disbelievers is but a delusion.
To Allah submits whosoever is in the heavens and in the earth willingly or unwillingly, and likewise do their shadows in the mornings and the evenings. (9-16)
Ask them: Who is the Lord of the heavens and the earth? Then tell them: It is Allah. Again ask them: Have you, then, taken beside Him helpers who have no power to acquire good or to repel harm even in respect of their own selves? Can the blind and the seeing be equal? Or, can darkness and light be the same? Or, do they assign to Allah partners who have created the like of His creation so that the two creations appear indistinguishable to them? Tell them: Allah alone is the Creator of all things, and He is the Single, the Most Supreme. He sends down water from the sky so that valleys begin to flow according to their capacity, and the flood carries swelling foam on its surface. In the same way foam comes up from that which they heat up in the fire, for the purpose of making ornaments or articles of domestic use. Thus does Allah illustrate truth and falsehood. The foam passes off like froth, and that which benefits people stays on in the earth. Thus does Allah expound all things. For those who respond to their Lord is the best of everything; and those who respond not to Him, if they had all that is in the earth and the like of it added thereto, they would seek to ransom themselves therewith. They shall have an evil reckoning, and their abode is hell. A wretched resting place it is! (17-19)
Is he who knows that what has been revealed to thee from thy Lord is the Truth, like one who is blind? It is only those gifted with understanding who take heed; those who fulfil Allah's pact and break not the covenant; who join together the ties of kinship that Allah has bidden to be joined, and fear their Lord, and dread the evil reckoning; those who are steadfast in seeking the favour of their Lord, and observe Prayer, and spend secretly and openly out of that with which We have provided them, and overcome evil with good. For them is the best reward of the Hereafter: Gardens of Eternity, which they shall enter and also those who are righteous from among their ancestors, and their consorts and their progeny. Angels will come to them from every gate, greeting them: Peace be unto you, because you were steadfast. Behold how good is the reward of this abode. Those who break the covenant of Allah after havin made it firm, and cut asunder that which Allah has commanded to be joined together, and act corruptly in the land are under a curse and for them is an evil abode. Allah enlarges His provision or straitens it for whomsoever He pleases. They are content with the hither life whereas the hither life is but a temporary provision in contrast with that which is to come. (20-27)
Those who disbelieve ask: Why is not a Sign sent down to him by his Lord? Tell them: Allah lets go astray those whom He wills and guides to Himself those who turn to Him: those who believe and whose hearts find comfort in the remembrance of Allah. It is only in the remembrance of Allah that hearts can find comfort. Those who believe and act righteously, shall have happiness and an excellent retreat. (28-3O)
Thus have We sent thee to a people, before whom other people have passed away waiting for a Messenger, that thou mayest recite to them that which We have revealed to thee: for they disbelieve in the bounty of the Gracious One. Tell them: He is my Lord; there is no god but He; in Him do I put my trust and towards Him is my return. If there were a Quran by which mountains could be moved or by which the earth could be cut asunder, or by which the dead could be spoken to they would still not believe in it. Indeed, the matter of their believing rests wholly with Allah. Have not the believers yet realised that, if Allah had enforced His will, He could have surely guided all mankind? Calamity shall not cease to strike the disbelievers because of that which they have wrought, or to strike near their homes, until the promise of Allah of the final triumph of the believers comes to pass. Surely, Allah fails not in His promise. (31-32)
Messengers were also mocked at before thee; but I granted respite to those who disbelieved, and at the end of it I seized them. Observe, then, how severe was My punishment. Will then He, Who watches the conduct of every one, call not to account those who mock at thee? They ascribe partners to Allah. Say to them: Name them. Or is it that you presume to inform Him of something in the earth of which He does not know? Or, is all this only your verbal assertion? The truth is that their own contrivance appears attractive to the disbelievers and they have been kept back from the right path. He whom Allah lets go astray can have no guide. For such as these there shall be a punishment in this life also; and, surely, the punishment of the Hereafter is harder to bear, and they will have no one to save them from Allah's punishment. (33-35)
The Paradise promised to the righteous is as if rivers flow through it; its fruit is everlasting and also its shade. That is the recompense of those who are righteous and the recompense of the disbelievers is the Fire.
Those to whom We have given the Book rejoice in that which has been revealed to thee; though of the different parties there are some who deny a part thereof. Say to them: I have been commanded only to worship Allah and not to associate partners with Him. Unto Him do I call and unto Him is my return. Thus have We revealed it as a detailed commandment. Then if thou follow their vain desires, after the knowledge that has come to thee, thou shalt have no friend nor anyone to save thee from the wrath of Allah. (36-38)
We did indeed send Messengers before thee and We made for them wives and children. It is not possible for a Messenger to bring a Sign except by the command of Allah. For every design there is an appointed term. Allah effaces what He wills and establishes what He wills; with Him is the source of all commandments. Whether We bring to pass during thy lifetime some of that which We have designed for them, or whether We cause thee to die, it will all be fulfilled. Thy part is to convey the Message; it is for Us to make the reckoning. Do they not see that We are approaching from the borders of the land, reducing it as We proceed? Allah judges; no one has power to reverse His judgment. He is Swift in reckoning. Those who were before them also devised plans, but they came to naught. All planning belongs to Allah. He knows what everyone does. The disbelievers will soon know to whom belongs the true recompense of the ultimate resort. Those who disbelieve say: Thou art not a Messenger of Allah. Say to them:
Sufficient is Allah as a Witness between you and me, and so also is he who possesses knowledge of the Book. (39-44)

Chapter 14
Ibrahim
revealed before Hijra
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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Ever Merciful.
I Am Allah The All-Seeing.
This is a Book that We have revealed to thee that thou mayest bring mankind out of every kind of darkness into the light, by the command of their Lord, to the path of the Mighty, the Praiseworthy Allah, to Whom belongs whatsoever is in the heavens and whatsoever is in the earth. Woe to the disbelievers for a grievious chastisement: those who have chosen the hither life in preference to the Hereafter, and hinder people from the way of Allah and seek to make it appear crooked. It is these who have gone far astray. We have sent every Messenger with revelation in the language of his people that he might make it clear to them. Then Allah lets go astray whom He wills and guides whom He wills. He is the Mighty, the Wise. (2-5)
We did send Moses with Our Signs, commanding him: Bring forth thy people from every kind of darkness into the light and remind them of the favour and chastisement of Allah; for surely therein are Signs for every steadfast and grateful person. Moses said to his people: Call to mind Allah's favour upon you when He delivered you from Pharaoh's people who afflicted you with grievous torment, slaying your male children and sparing your female ones; and therein was a great trial for you from your Lord. Call to mind also when your Lord declared: If you will use My bounties beneficently, I will surely multiply them unto you, but if you misuse them, My punishment is severe indeed. Moses also admonished his people: If you and all others in the earth beside you were to deny Allah, it would not detract one jot from His Majesty, for Allah is Self-Sufficient, Praiseworthy. (6-9)
Have not the terrible tidings of those before you, the people of Noah, and the tribes of 'Ad and Thamud and those who came after them, reached you? They were so utterly destroyed that none knows of them now save Allah. Their Messengers came to them with clear Signs, but they repudiated them, and said: We disbelieve in that with which you have been sent, and we are in grave doubt concerning that to which you call us. Their Messengers expostulated: Are you in doubt concerning Allah, Originator of the heavens and the earth? He calls you that He may forgive you your sins, and grant you respite for an appointed term. They rejoined: You are but human like ourselves; you desire to turn us away from that which our fathers used to worship. If you are in the right, then bring us some clear proof. Their Messengers replied to them: Indeed we are human like yourselves, but Allah bestows His favour on whomsoever He wills from among His servants. It is not within our power to bring you a proof except by the command of Allah. In Allah alone should the believers put their trust. (10-12)
Wherefore should we not put our trust in Allah, when He has guided us to our appropriate ways? We will, surely, continue steadfast under your persecution. In Allah alone let those who trust put their trust. Those who disbelieved sought to intimidate their Messengers: We will, surely, expel you from our land unless you return to our religion. Whereupon their Lord reassured them with the revelation: We will surely destroy these wrongdoers and will make you dwell in the land after them. This is a promise for those who are mindful of My Majesty and are mindful of My warnings. They sought Our Judgment, and every haughty enemy of truth came to naught, and found himself facing hell. He shall be given boiling water to drink; he shall sip it by mouthfuls and shall not find it easy to swallow it. Death will approach him from every quarter, yet he will not die. There shall be for him further grievous torment. (13-18)
The works of those who deny their Lord are like ashes on which the wind blows fiercely on a stormy day. They shall not be able to avail of any portion of that which they seek to earn. That, indeed, is utter ruin. Dost thou not perceive that Allah has created the heavens and the earth in accordance with the requirements of truth and wisdom? If He pleases, He can bring you to naught and replace you with a new creation; and this is not at all difficult for Allah. They shall all stand before Allah; then shall the weak ones say to the haughty ones: We only followed you. Now can you rid us of aught of Allah's chastisement? They will reply: Had Allah guided us, we would, surely, have guided you. As it is, it is all the same whether we are patient or impatient; there is no way of deliverance for us. When the matter is concluded, Satan will say: Allah made you a true promise; and I also made you a promise, but I failed you. I had no authority over you, except that I called you and you obeyed me. So blame me not, but blame your own selves. I cannot help you, nor can you help me. I have already disclaimed your associating me with Allah. Thus for the wrongdoers there shall surely be a grievous chastisement, and those who believe and work righteousness will be admitted into Gardens beneath which rivers flow, wherein they will abide by the command of their Lord. Their greeting therein will be: Peace. (19-24)
Dost thou not see how Allah sets forth the case of a good Word, which is like a good tree whose root is firm and every one of whose branches reaches into heaven? It brings forth fresh fruit at all times by the command of its Lord. Allah sets forth for people all that they stand in need of that they may take heed. The case of an evil word is like that of an evil tree, which is uprooted from the earth and has no stability. Allah strengthens the believers with the Word that is firmly established, both in the hither life and the Hereafter; and Allah brings the wrongdoers to naught. Allah does what He wills. (25-28)
Hast thou not observed those who have ungratefully cast aside Allah's favour and landed their people in hell and an abode of ruin it is. They have set up rivals to Allah to lead people away from His path. Warn them: Enjoy yourselves awhile, you will then proceed to the Fire. Say to My servants who have believed, that they should observe Prayer and spend secretly and openly out of that which We have given them, before there comes the day wherein there will be neither bargaining nor mutual friendship. (29-32)
Allah is He Who created the heavens and the earth and caused water to come down from the clouds, and brought forth therewith fruits for your sustenance. He has constrained to your service the winds that vessels may sail through the sea by His command, and the rivers also has He constrained to your service. He has also constrained to your service the sun and the moon, both carrying out their functions incessantly; and He has subjected to you the night as well as the day. He has given you all that you asked of Him; and if you try to count the favours of Allah, you will not be able to number them. Verily, man is very unjust, very ungrateful. (33-35)
Call to mind when Abraham prayed: My Lord, make this city inviolate, and keep me and my children away from the worship of idols. My Lord, they have indeed led astray large numbers of people. So whoever follows me, he is certainly of me; and whoever disobeys me in his case also Thou art surely Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. Our Lord, I have settled some of my progeny in a barren valley near Thy Sacred House, that they may perform Prayer with due observance, Our Lord. So make people's hearts incline towards them and provide them with fruits of all kinds that they may be grateful. Our Lord, Thou certainly knowest that which we conceal and that which we make known; nothing whatsoever is hidden from Allah, whether in the earth or in the heaven. All praise belongs to Allah Who has bestowed upon me, despite my old age, Ishmael and Isaac. Surely My Lord is the Hearer of prayer. My Lord, make me constant in observing Prayer and every one of my children also. Our Lord, of Thy grace accept my prayer.
Our Lord, extend Thy forgiveness to me and to my parents and to all the believers on the day when the reckoning is held. (36-42)
Think not that Allah is unaware of what these wrongdoers do. He only gives them respite till the day on which their eyes will stare fixedly in horror, and they will hurry on in fright, their heads lifted up, their gaze directed forward, their minds utterly void. (43-44)
Warn them, O Prophet, of the day when the promised chastisement will come upon them, and the wrongdoers will say: Our Lord, grant us respite for a short while; we will respond to Thy call and will follow the Messengers. They will be reminded: Are you not those who swore that you would never suffer any decline? You are a people who carried on the traditions of a wrong-doing people who passed away before you, whose dwellings you occupy, knowing how We had dealt with them. We have made everything plain to you. They devised their plans; their plans are all within Allah's knowledge. Even if their plans were such as to make the mountains move, they would be brought to naught. (45-47)
Think not that Allah is one who would fail in His promise to His Messengers. Surely, Allah is Mighty, Lord of retribution. The day will come when the heavens and the earth will be changed into other heavens and another earth, and they will all appear before Allah, the Single, the Most Supreme. Thou shalt see the guilty ones secured in chains on that day; their garments will be black as if fashioned out of pitch; and the Fire shall envelop their faces. This will be in the course of Allah's requital of each soul for what it has wrought. Surely, Allah is Swift at reckoning. This is an admonition for mankind, that they may be warned thereby and that they may know that Allah is the only One God, and that those possessed of understanding may take heed. (48-53)

Chapter 15
Al-Hijr
revealed before Hijra
________________________________________
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Ever Merciful.
I Am Allah, The All-Seeing.
These are verses of the Perfect Book and of the perspicuous Quran. Those who reject it would often wish that they would be its followers. Leave them occupied with eating and enjoying themselves and being beguiled by vain hopes; soon will they realise the futility of their endeavours. We have never destroyed a township except after a definite decree has gone forth concerning it. No people can outstrip its appointed term, nor can it tarry behind it. They have asserted: O thou to whom this Exhortation has been sent down, surely thou art deluded; else why dost thou not bring down the angels upon us if thou art truthful? Know they not that We do not send down angels but when they are justly due, and then the guilty ones are granted no respite; Surely, We Ourself have sent down this Exhortation, and We will, most surely, safeguard it. (2-10)
We indeed sent Messengers before thee among groups of ancient peoples; but whenever a Messenger came to any of them they mocked at him. Thus do We cause this attitude to become a characteristic of the minds of the guilty ones. Now in their turn this people do not believe in the Quran, though they have before them the example of the former peoples. Even if We were to bestow upon them some extraordinary means of perception and they were to begin to perceive the truth through it, they would be sure to say: Our senses are clouded; in fact we have been bewitched. (11-16)
We have indeed appointed stages for planets in the heaven and have adorned it for beholders; and We have safeguarded the spiritual heaven of true revelation against every rejected Satan.
But if any one having heard a portion of it stealthily seeks to pervert it, he is pursued by a bright flame of illuminating truth. We have also spread out the earth and set therein firm mountains and caused every appropriate article to grow and multiply therein. We have provided therein means of livelihood for you and for such of Our creation as you have not to provide for. There is not a thing but We have unbounded stores thereof, and We send it down in regulated quantities. We put in motion winds carrying moisture, then we send down fresh water from the clouds, wherewith We provide you with drink. You could not have stored it up for yourselves. Truly it is We Who bring to life and We Who cause death and it is We Who are the sole Inheritor of all. We know well those of you who go ahead and We know well those who lag behind. It is thy Lord Who will gather them all together. Surely, He is Wise, All-Knowing. (17-26)
We brought man into being from dry ringing clay which was wrought from black mud, and the Jinn We had brought into being before from the fire of a glowing blast. Call to mind when thy Lord said to the angels: I am about to bring into being a man from dry ringing clay wrought from black mud; so when I have perfected him and have enlightened his mind with My revelation, do ye all fall down in prostration along with him. In obedience to this command the angels all fell down in prostration together, but Iblis did not; he refused to join those who prostrated.
Allah asked him: What is the matter with thee, that thou wouldst not be among those who have prostrated? He answered I am not one to submit in the manner of man whom Thou hast created from dry ringing clay wrought from black mud. (27-34)
Allah decreed: Then get out hence, for thou art rejected, and be sure that on thee shall rest My curse till the Day of Judgment. He begged: My Lord, grant me respite till the day when they shall be raised up. Allah said: Thou art granted respite till that appointed day. He boasted:
Lord, since Thou hast adjudged me as lost, I will make error appear attractive to them in this life and I will lead them all astray, excepting Thy chosen servants from among them. Allah said: This is the path which leads straight to Me. Surely, thou shalt have no power over My true servants, barring those erring ones who choose to follow thee; and, surely hell is the rendezvous for them all. It has seven gates, each gate has a portion of them allotted to it. The righteous will surely be amid gardens and fountains; they will be told: Enter therein, in peace and security. We shall cleanse their hearts of all traces of ill-will; they will be as brethren seated on couches facing one another. They shall never be weary, nor shall they be ejected therefrom. (35-49)
Announce to My servants, O Prophet, that I am the One Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful; and that it is My chastisement that is the truly grievous chastisement. Tell them about Abraham's guests. When they came to him they greeted him with: Peace, He said: We feel afraid of our errand. They tried to reassure him: Have no fear. We give thee glad tidings of a learned son. Abraham enquired: Do you give me the tidings despite my old age? On what do you base the tidings? They answered:
We have given thee true tidings; do not, therefore, be despondent. Abraham observed: It is only the misguided ones who despair of the mercy of their Lord. Well, now, tell me what errand have you been sent on? They made answer: We have been sent to a guilty people who are condemned to ruin, excepting the family of Lot. We must save them all; only we surmise that his wife will be among those who remain behind and will be lost. (50-61)
When the messengers came to Lot and his family, he observed: You must be strangers here. They answered: The fact is we have come to thee with tidings of that about which they doubted. We have brought thee sure tidings and we are truthful. Set out with thy family some time in the latter part of the night, and do thou follow in their wake. Let none of you look back, and proceed to where you are commanded. We communicated to whom Our decree that the guilty ones would be utterly destroyed by morning. (62-67)
The people of the city came to lot rejoicing in the conviction that they would now have him securely in their power. He expostulated with them: These are my guests, so do not humiliate me; fear Allah and disgrace me not. They said:
Did we not forbid thee extending hospitality to strangers? Lot remonstrated with them: If you are bent upon taking action, there are my daughters, you can treat them as hostages for your security against any harm you may apprehend from my guests. (By thy life, O Prophet, thy opponents also are wandering distractedly in their intoxication!) Then the chastisement seized them at sunrise. We turned the city upside down, and We rained upon them stones of clay. Surely, in this there are Signs for people of intelligence. The city lies along a well known route. Surely, in this is a Sign or those who believe. The People of the Wood were also wrong-doers; and We chastised them also. Both these cities lie along an easily identifiable way. (68-80)
The People of Hijr also rejected the Messengers as liars. We gave them Our Signs too, but they turned away from them. They used to hew out houses in the mountains, dwelling therein in security. The chastisement seized them in the morning; and all that they had worked at availed them nothing. (81-85)
We have created the heavens and the earth and all that is between the two in accordance with the requirements of truth and wisdom, and the appointed Hour is sure to come; so forbear generously. Verily, thy Lord is the Great Creator, the All-Knowing. We have indeed bestowed upon thee the seven oft-recited verses of the Fatiha, and the Great Quran. So do not lift thine eyes towards that which We have bestowed upon some of them of temporary provision, and grieve not over them and continue to be kindly gracious towards the believers. Proclaim: I am indeed, a plain Warner; for We have determined the punishment for those who have been assigned different tasks in opposition to thee; who have pronounced the Quran a collection of falsehoods. So, by thy Lord, We shall question them all concerning that which they used to do. Declare thou openly that which thou art commanded to proclaim and turn aside from those who ascribe partners to Allah. (86-95)
We will safeguard thee against the scoffers who set up other gods with Allah; soon will they know the consequences of their enormity. Indeed, We know that thou art sore grieved by that which they say; but continue to glorify thy Lord with his praise, and be of those who render obedience to Him, and carry on the worship of thy Lord till death comes to thee. (96-100)

Chapter 16
Al-Nahl
revealed before Hijra
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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Ever Merciful.
The decree of Allah is at hand, so seek not to hasten it. Holy is He, and exalted far above that which they associate with Him. He sends down the angels with revelation by His command on whomsoever of His servants He pleases, directing: Warn people that there is no god beside Me, so make Me alone your shield against all ill. He has created the heavens and the earth in accordance with the requirements of truth and wisdom. Exalted is He far above that which they associate with Him. He has created man from a drop of fluid, and lo: he becomes a bold wrangler! He has created cattle for your benefit; they are a source of warmth for you and you have other uses for them and you also eat of their flesh; and they are a credit for you when you drive them forth to pasture in the morning and when you bring them home in the evening. They carry your loads to places which you could not reach without great hardship to yourselves. Surely, your Lord is Compassionate, Ever Merciful. He has created horses, mules and donkeys that you may ride them, and also as adornment; and He will create for that purpose other means which you do not yet know. Allah points out the right way, for some ways are devious. Had He enforced His will, He would have guided you all. (2-10)
He it is Who sends down water for you from the clouds, from it you drink and with it grow trees on which you pasture your cattle. (11)
Therewith He grows for you corn, and the olive and the date-palm and the grape, and all kinds of fruits. Surely, in that is a Sign for a people who reflect. He has constrained to your service the night and the day and the sun and the moon; and the stars too have been constrained to your service by His command. Surely in all this there are Signs for a people who make use of their understanding. In that which He has created for you in the earth of diverse types of articles, there is a Sign for people who take heed. He it is Who has constrained the sea to your service that you may eat fresh seafood therefrom and may take out therefrom articles that you wear as ornaments. Thou seest the vessels ploughing through it that you may voyage across the oceans seeking His bounty and that you may be grateful. He has set in the earth firm mountains lest it roll beneath you, and has made rivers and tracks that you may find your way; and He has set up other marks. By these and by the stars they set their course. (12-17)
Is He, then, Who creates like one who creates not? Will you not, then, take heed? If you try to count the favours of Allah, you will not be able to number them. Surely, Allah is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. Allah knows all that you conceal and all that you disclose. Those on whom they call beside Allah create not anything, but are themselves created; they are lifeless, not living; and they know not when they will be raised up. (18-22)
Your God is One God. The minds of those who do not believe in the Hereafter are strangers to truth, and they are arrogant. Of a surety, Allah knows that which they conceal and that which they disclose. Surely, He loves not the arrogant. When it is said to them: How glorious is that which your Lord has sent down! they retort: Only old wives' tales! The consequence will be that they shall bear their burdens in full on the Day of Judgment, and also the burdens of those ignorant ones whom they lead astray. Evil is that which they bear! (23-26)
Those who were before them also devised plans against their Messengers, but Allah approached the structure of their plans at their very foundations, so that the roof crashed upon them from above them; and the chastisement came upon them from where they knew not. Then on the Day of Judgment He will humiliate them and will enquire from them: Where are those alleged partners of Mine for whose sake you opposed My Messengers? Those endowed with knowledge will say: This day humiliation and affliction will surely befall the disbelievers. (27-28)
Those whom the angels cause to die while they are wronging their souls, will offer submission, pleading: We used not to do any evil. The will be told: Indeed? Allah knows well what you used to do. Enter now the gates of hell, to abide therein. Evil indeed is the abode of the arrogant. (29-30)
When it is said to the righteous: How glorious is that which your Lord has sent down! they answer: Indeed it is the best. For those who do good is good in this world; and the abode of the Hereafter is even better. Excellent indeed is the abode of the righteous:
Gardens of Eternity, which they will enter, through which rivers flow. They will have therein all that they wish for. Thus does Allah reward the righteous, those whom the angels cause to die while they are pure, greeting them with: Upon you is peace for all time! Enter into Paradise because of that which you used to do. (31-33)
What do the disbelievers wait for, except that the angels should come upon them or that the decree of thy Lord should come to pass? Thus did those before them. Allah did not wrong them but they used to wrong themselves. So the evil consequences of that which they did overtook them, and the chastisement at which they used to mock encompassed them. (34-35)
Those who ascribe partners to Allah assert: If Allah had so willed we would not have worshipped anything beside Him, neither we nor our fathers, nor would we have forbidden anything without His command. So did those who denied the truth before them. Do they not consider that the duty of the Messengers is but to convey the Message clearly? We did raise among every people a Messenger who enjoined: Worship Allah alone and shun every transgressor. Then of them there were those who took heed and whom Allah guided, and there were those who became deserving of ruin. So travel through the earth and observe what was the end of those who rejected the Messengers. If thou art solicitous of their being guided, then know that Allah guides not those who lead others astray; nor have they any helpers. They swear their strongest oaths by Allah that Allah will not raise up those who die. On the contrary, this is a promise He has charged Himself with (but most people know not) that He may make clear to them the reality concerning which they differ today and that those who disbelieve may realise that they had lied. When We have willed a matter, it is for Us only to say concerning it: Be; and it is. (36-4l)
We will surely provide those who have migrated from their homes for the sake of Allah after having been wronged, being steadfast and putting their trust in their Lord, with a goodly abode in this world; and truly the reward of the Hereafter is even greater if the disbelievers but knew. (42-43)
Before thee also We sent as Messengers only men to whom We vouchsafed revelation; and if you do not know this, O disbelievers, then enquire from those who believe in this Reminder. We sent them with clear Signs and Scriptures. We have sent down this Reminder to thee that thou mayest expound to people Allah's commandments that have been sent down to them through thee, and that they may reflect over them. (44-45)
Do those who design evil against thee feel secure that Allah will not humiliate them in the land, or that the punishment of which they have been warned will not come upon them whence they do not perceive; or that He will not destroy them in the course of their journeyings to and fro? They should know that they shall never be able to frustrate His design. Or, that He will not destroy them through a process of attrition? Your Lord is indeed Compassionate, Ever Merciful towards the believers. Have the disbelievers, despite their constant humiliation, never been impelled to observe that the shadows of everything that Allah has created move from the right and from the left in submission to Allah? Whatever is in the heavens and whatever creature is in the earth, and the angels also all submit humbly to Allah, and they behave not proudly. They fear their Lord in Whose power they are and do that which they are commanded. (46-51)
Allah has ever commanded: Take not for worship two gods. There is only One God. So fear Me alone. To Him belongs whatsoever is in the heavens and in the earth, and obedience is due to Him alone. Will you then take any other than Allah as your Protector? Whatever blessing you have is from Allah, and when distress afflicts you it is to Him that you cry for help. Then as soon as He removes the distress from you, some of you ascribe partners to their Lord, thus denying that which We have bestowed upon them. Well then, enjoy yourselves awhile; you will soon realise the consequences of your conduct. They set apart a portion of that which We have bestowed upon them for the false gods of which they know nothing. Allah bears witness you will certainly be called to account for that which you fabricate. (52-57)
They ascribe daughters to Allah (Holy is He!) and for themselves they have what they desire. When one of them is told of the birth of a female child, his face is overcast with gloom and he is deeply agitated. He seeks to hide himself from the people because of the ominous news he has had. Shall he preserve it despite the disgrace involved or bury it in the ground? Evil is that which they judge. Those who do not believe in the Hereafter are in evil case. All high attributes belong to Allah alone. He is the Mighty, the Wise. (58-61)
If Allah were to punish people instantly for their wrongdoing, He would not spare a living creature on the earth, but He grants them respite till an appointed term that they may make amends. When their time for punishment arrives they cannot tarry a single hour nor can they go ahead. They attribute to Allah that which they dislike for themselves, and they assert with confidence the falsehood that a happy state is assured for them. Undoubtedly, they are destined for the Fire; and therein shall they be abandoned. (62-63)
Allah bears witness: We did send Messengers to the people before thee; but Satan made their doings appear attractive to them; so he is their partner this day, and they shall have a grievous punishment. We have now sent down the Book to thee that it may expound to them that concerning which they differ and as a guidance and mercy for those who believe therein. It is Allah Who has sent down water from heaven and has quickened therewith the earth after its death. Surely, in that is a Sign for a people who would listen to the truth. (64-66)
There is a lesson for you in the cattle. We provide you with a drink out of that which is in their bellies; that is, from betwixt the faeces and the blood We provide milk pure and pleasant for those who drink it. Of the fruits of date-palms and the grapes you obtain intoxicating drinks, and also pure and wholesome food. Surely, in that is a Sign for a people who make use of their understanding. Thy Lord directed the bee: Prepare thou hives in the hills and in the trees and in the trellises that they put up, and eat of every hind of fruit and follow the ways appointed for thee by thy Lord which have been made easy for thee. There comes out of the bellies of the bees a drink of varying hues, possessing healing qualities for people. Surely, in that is a Sign for a people who reflect. Allah creates you, then He causes you to die; and there are some among you who are made to revert to a decrepit old age in which they lose all knowledge after having acquired it. Surely, Allah is All-Knowing, Determiner of the measure. (67-71)
Allah has favoured some of you above others in the matter of worldly provision; but those more favoured will by no means restore a portion of their provision to those under their control, so that they may be equal sharers therein. Will they then deny the favour of Allah? Allah has made for you consorts of your own kind and has produced for you from your consorts, sons and grandsons, and has provided for you all manner of wholesome things. Will they then believe in that which will perish and deny the favour of Allah? They worship beside Allah such as have no power to bestow upon them anything from the heavens or the earth, nor can they have such power. Then fabricate not similitudes concerning Allah. Surely, Allah knows everything and you know nothing. (72-75)
Allah draws attention to the case of a person who is owned by another and has no power over anything, and the case of one whom We have provided with a fair provision from Ourself, and he spends thereof secretly and openly. Can they be equal? All praise belongs to Allah, but most of them know not. Allah also draws attention to the case of two men: One of them is dumb, having no capacity to achieve anything, and is a burden on his master; whithersoever he sends him, be brings back no good. Can such a one be the equal of him who enjoins justice and follows the straight path? (76-77)
To Allah belongs the knowledge of the unseen of the heavens and the earth; and the coming of the Hour is like the twinkling of an eye, or even quicker. Surely, Allah has full power over everything. (78)
Allah brought you forth from the wombs of your mothers, when you knew nothing, and gave you ears and eyes and hearts that you may be grateful. Do they not see the birds held under control in the vault of heaven? It is only Allah Who keeps them back from swooping down upon you. In that are Signs for a people who believe. Allah has made your homes your habitations and has made for you, of the skins of cattle, habitations which are easy for you to transport and easy to set up; and He provides for you from the wool and furs and hair of cattle, household goods and articles for use over a period. Allah has made for you, of that which He has created, trees and other means of shade, and places of shelter in the mountains; and He has made for you garments which protect you from heat and cold, and coats of mail which protect you in battle. Thus does He complete His favour unto you, that you may submit wholly to Him. Yet, if they turn away thy duty is only to convey the Message clearly. They recognise the favour of Allah and yet deny it, and most of them are confirmed disbelievers. (79-84)
Keep in mind the day when We shall raise up a witness from every people, then those who disbelieve shall not be permitted to put forward excuses or to beg for favours. When those who did wrong see the punishment, they will not be granted any alleviation or respite. When those who associate partners with Allah will see their associate-gods, they will exclaim: Lord these are our associated-gods, whom we used to call upon instead of Thee. Whereupon they will retort: Certainly you are liars. They will offer submission to Allah on that day, and all that they used to devise will fail them. We will add punishment to punishment in the case of those who disbelieve and turn people away from the way of Allah, because of the corruption they worked. Keep in mind the day when We will raise up in every people a witness against them from amongst themselves, and We will bring thee as a witness against all of them. We have sent down the Book to thee as an exposition of everything, and a guidance, and a mercy, and glad tidings for those who render perfect obedience. (85-90)
Allah enjoins equity and benevolence and graciousness as between kindred, and forbids evil designs, ill-behaviour and transgression. He admonishes you that you may take heed. Fulfil the covenant of Allah when you have made one; and break not your pledges after making them firm, having made Allah your surety; Allah knows that which you do. Be not like the woman who having made strong yarn, breaks it into pieces. You make your covenants a means of increasing your influence by deceit, for fear lest one people become more powerful than another. Surely, Allah tries you therewith, and on the Day of Judgment He will make clear to you that wherein you differed. Had Allah enforced His will, He would surely have made you all one people; but He lets go astray him who wishes it, and guides him who wishes it, and you will surely be called to account for that which you do. Make not your covenants a means of achieving ulterior purposes, or your foot will slip after having been firmly established, and you will face evil consequences because by so acting you turned people away from Allah's way, and you will have a severe punishment. Barter not the covenant of Allah for a paltry price. Surely, that which is with Allah is far better for you if you only knew. Whatever you have shall pass away, but that which is with Allah is lasting. We will certainly reward those who are steadfast according to the measure of the best of their works. Of the believers whoso acts righteously, whether male or female. We will surely grant such a one a pure life; and We will certainly reward them according to the measure of the best of their works. (91-98)
When thou recitest the Quran, seek the protection of All ah against the wiles of Satan the rejected. Surely, he has no power over those who believe and put their trust in their Lord. He has power only over those who make friends with him and set up partners with Allah under his incitement. (99-101)
When We substitute in the Quran one commandment in place of another in older scriptures (and Allah knows best the appropriateness of that which He reveals) they say: Thou art but a fabricator. Nay, but most of them know not. Tell them the Spirit of Holiness has brought it down from thy Lord in accordance with the requirements of truth and wisdom, that He may strengthen those who believe, and also as a guidance and as good tidings for those who submit. Indeed We know that they say: A certain person instructs him; but the tongue of the one they have in mind is foreign, while the language of the Quran is plain and clear Arabic. Allah will not guide those who do not believe in the Signs of Allah, and they shall have a grievous punishment. Only those fabricate lies concerning Allah who do not believe in the Signs of Allah, and these are confirmed liars. (102-106)
Whoso disbelieves in Allah after he has believed, excepting the case of one who is forced to make a declaration of disbelief while his heart rests securely in faith, but one who opens his mind wide to disbelief, on him is Allah's wrath and he shall have a grievous punishment. That is because such people love the hither life better than the Hereafter and because Allah guides not the disbelieving people. In consequence of their disbelief Allah has set a seal on their hearts and ears and eyes, and they are indeed heedless. Undoubtedly, they will be the losers in the Hereafter. Surely, thy Lord will be Most Forgiving and Merciful towards those who migrated after they had been persecuted and strove hard in the cause of Allah and continued steadfast, on the day when every one will come pleading for himself, and every one will be fully recompensed for that which he did and they will not be wronged. (107-112)
Allah sets forth for your guidance the case of a city which enjoyed peace and security, and its provisions came to it in plenty from every quarter; but it proved ungrateful for Allah's favour and in consequence, Allah enveloped it in hunger and fear because of that which its people did. Indeed there came to them a Messenger from among themselves, but they rejected him as false, so punishment overtook them as they were wrongdoers. (113-114)
So, drawing a lesson from their case, eat of the lawful and wholesome things that Allah has provided for you; and be grateful for the bounty of Allah, if it is Him you worship. He has forbidden you only the flesh of dead animals, blood, the flesh of swine and that on which the name of any other than Allah has been invoked. But he who is impelled by necessity to partake of any of these, neither being defiant of the law, nor going beyond the limits of his immediate need, will surely find Allah Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful. Say not, because of the false utterances of your tongues: This is lawful and that is unlawful; fabricating lies against Allah. Surely, those who fabricate lies against Allah do not prosper; theirs is only a brief enjoyment to be followed by a grievous punishment. We had made unlawful for the Jews before this all that We have recited to thee. We wronged them not, but they used to wrong themselves. Surely, thy Lord is Most Forgiving, Ever Merciful towards those who do evil in ignorance and repent thereafter and make amends. (115-120)
Abraham was indeed a paragon of virtue, humble for the sake of Allah, ever inclined to Him, and was not of those who ascribe partners to Allah. He was appreciative of the favours of his Lord, Who exalted him and guided him to the straight path.
We bestowed on him great success in this world, and in the Hereafter he will surely be among the righteous. Now We have commanded thee: Follow the way of Abraham who had submitted himself wholly to Allah and was not of those who ascribe partners to Allah. The penalty for profaning the Sabbath was imposed only on those who had differed about it, and thy Lord will surely judge between them on the day of Judgment concerning that wherein they differed. (121-125)
Call unto the way of thy Lord with wisdom and goodly exhortation, and contend with them on the basis of that which is best. Thy Lord knows best those who have strayed away from His path, and He knows best those who are rightly guided. If you desire to exact retribution, then adjust the penalty to the wrong you have suffered, but if you endure with fortitude, that surely is best for the steadfast. Do thou endure with fortitude, and thou canst do so only with the help of Allah; and grieve not for them, nor feel distressed because of their plottings. Surely Allah is with those who restrain themselves and those who are benevolent. (126-129)

Chapter 17
Bani Isra'il
revealed before Hijra
________________________________________
In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Ever Merciful. (1)
Holy is He Who took His servant by night from the Sacred Mosque to the Distant Mosque, the precincts of which We have blessed, that We might show him some of Our Signs. Surely, it is He Who is the All-Hearing, the All-Seeing. (2)
We gave Moses the Book and made it a guidance for the children of Israel, directing them: Take no partner beside Me, O descendants of those whom We carried in the Ark with Noah. He was indeed a grateful servant. We had conveyed it clearly to the children of Israel in the Book: You will twice spread corruption in the land and be elated with great insolence. When the time of the first of these warnings came, We sent against you servants of Ours, mighty in war, who penetrated into your houses. The warning was bound to be fulfilled. Then We restored to you the initiative against them, bestowed upon you an increase of wealth and children and made you more numerous than before. If you act beneficently it will be to your own good, and if you act corruptly it will be to your own loss. When the time of the second warning came, that your enemies may humiliate your leading people, and enter the Mosque as they had entered it the first time, and destroy utterly all that over which they might gain the upper hand; that too was fulfilled. It may be that your Lord may now have mercy on you; but if you revert to your old ways, We too will revert to chastising you. We have devised hell as a prison for the disbelievers: (3-9)
Surely, this Quran guides to the way which is most firm and right, and gives to the believers who work righteousness the glad tidings that they shall have a great reward and warns that for those who do not believe in the Hereafter We have prepared a grievous chastisement. (10-11)
Man calls for evil as eagerly as Allah calls him to good; man is indeed hasty. We have made the night and the day two Signs; the Sign of the night We obliterate and the Sign of the day We make sight-giving that you may seek the bounty of your Lord, and that you may know the computation of years and the method of reckoning. We have expounded everything in detail. (12-13)
Every person's doings have We fastened firmly to his neck; and on the Day of Judgment We shall place before him a book which he will find wide open, and he will be told: Read thy record, thou art sufficient as a reckoner against thyself this day. He who follows the right way follows it to his own good, and he who goes astray does it to his own loss. He who carries a responsibility cannot be relieved of it by another. We never punish a people until after We have sent a Messenger. Before We decide to destroy a township, We command the affluent section of its people to adopt the ways of righteousness, whereupon they decide on disobedience. Thus the sentence becomes due against it, and We destroy it utterly. Many generations have We destroyed after Noah. Thy Lord is well aware of the sins of His servants and sees them all. (14-18)
Whoso desires only the hither life, We bestow upon those of them We please such immediate advantage as We determine; thereafter We appoint hell for them which they enter condemned and rejected. Whoso desires the Hereafter and, being a believer, strives properly for it, the striving of such will be duly appreciated. We assist all these as well as those as a bounty from thy Lord. Thy Lord's bounty is not held back from any. Observe, how We have exalted some of them over others in respect of the provisions of this life; and surely, the life of the Hereafter will be more varied in degrees of ranks and degrees of excellence. Set not up, therefore, another god with Allah, lest thou sit down humiliated and forsaken. (19-23)
Thy Lord has commanded that ye worship none but Him and has enjoined benevolence towards parents. Should either or both of them attain old age in thy life-time, never say: Ugh; to them nor chide them, but always speak gently to them. Be humbly tender with them and pray:
Lord, have mercy on them, even as they nurtured me when I was little. Your Lord knows best that which is in your minds; if you will be righteous, then surely He is Most Forgiving towards those who turn constantly to Him. Render to the kinsman his due and the needy and the wayfarer, and squander not thy substance extravagantly, for the extravagant fall into evil company and misuse the bounties of their Lord. On occasions when thou must turn away from any of those who should be the objects of thy benevolence, while seeking thy Lord's mercy for which thou hopest, then speak kindly to them. Do not hold back altogether out of miserliness and render thyself blameworthy, nor spend without restraint and exhaust thy substance, thus becoming thyself an object of charity. Thy Lord enlarges His prevision for whom He wills, and straitens it for whom He wills. He is well-aware of all that relates to His servants and sees it all. (24-31)
Do not destroy your offspring for fear of poverty; it is We Who provide for them and for you. Surely, destroying them is a great sin. Do not even approach adultery; surely, it is a foul thing and an evil way. Do not destroy the life that Allah has declared sacred save for just cause. The heir of one who is killed wrongfully has Our authority to demand retribution, but let him not transgress the prescribed limits in exacting retribution, for within the limits he is upheld by law. Do not approach the property of the orphan during his minority, except for the most beneficent purpose, and fulfil every covenant, for you will be called to account for it. Give full measure when you measure out, and weigh out with a true balance; that is best and most commendable in the end. Follow not that of which thou hast no knowledge; for the ear and the eye and the heart shall all be called to account. (32-37)
Do not tread haughtily upon the earth, for thou canst not thereby reach its confines nor outstrip those who are of the highest rank. The evil of all this is hateful in the sight of thy Lord. (38-39)
This is part of the wisdom that thy Lord has revealed to thee. Set not up with Allah any other god, lest thou be cast into hell, condemned and rejected. Has your Lord, then, honoured you with sons and Himself adopted some of the angels as daughters? Indeed you utter an enormity. (4O-41)
We have expounded the truth in this Quran in diverse ways that they may be admonished, but it only adds to their aversion. Tell them: Had there been other gods with Him, as they allege, they would surely have helped them to discover a way to find favour with the Lord of the Throne. Holy is He and exalted far above that which they allege. The seven heavens and the earth and those that are therein celebrate His praise; and there is not a thing but glorifies Him with His praise; but you do not comprehend their glorification. Verily, He is Forgiving. When thou recitest the Quran, We put between thee and those who do not believe in the Hereafter an invisible veil, and We put coverings over their hearts which disable them from comprehending it, and We afflict their ears with deafness. When thou dost mention thy Lord, the Single One, in thy recitation of the Quran, they turn their backs in aversion. We know well what they listen for, when they listen to thee, and when they confer in private, when the unjust ones say: You are only following one who is self-deceived. Observe how they invent explanations concerning thee, which lead them astray, so that they are incapacitated from discovering the right way. (42-49)
They ask: When we shall have become bones and broken particles, shall we indeed be raised up as a new creation? Tell them: Aye even if you become stones or iron or any other form of creation that you deem hardest of all, you shall be raised up. Then will they ask: Who is it that shall restore us to life? Answer them:
He Who created you the first time. They will shake their heads at thee in wonder and enquire: When will all this be? Say to them: It may be that the time is nigh. When He will call you and you will respond praising Him, you will imagine that you had tarried only a short while in the world. (50-53)
Tell My servants that they should always say that which is best. Satan stirs up discord among them. Surely, Satan is man's declared enemy. Your Lord knows you best. if He please He will have mercy on you and if He please He will chastise you. We have not sent thee to be a keeper over them. Thy Lord knows best those that are in the heavens and the earth. We exalted some of the Prophets over the others and We gave David the Psalms. Point out to them, O Prophet: Call on those angels and Prophets whom you claim to be gods beside Him and you will know that they have no power to remove affliction from you or to bring about any change that you may desire. Those whom they call on themselves seek a way of approach to their Lord, trying to discover which of them is nearer to Him, and hope for His mercy and fear His punishment. Surely, the punishment of thy Lord is to be feared.
There is not a township but We shall destroy it before the Day of Judgment or chastise its people with a severe chastisement. That is written down in the Book. People after people have rejected Our Signs, but that cannot hinder Us from sending them. We gave Thamud the she-camel as a clear Sign, but they were cruel to it. We send the Signs only to warn. When we said to thee: Thy Lord has decreed the ruin of thy enemies; and We showed thee the vision of the Distant Mosque; it was all a trial and a warning for the people concerned, as also is the pedigreed people on whom a curse has been pronounced in the Quran. We continue warning them but that only serves to impel them into greater transgression. (54-61)
Call to mind when We commanded the angels: Fall down into prostration along with Adam. They all prostrated, but Iblis did not. He protested: Shall I prostrate myself along with one whom Thou hast created of clay? Tell me, Lord, can I submit to this one whom Thou hast honoured above me? If Thou wilt grant me respite till the Day of Judgment, I will most surely reduce his posterity to subjection except a few. Allah said: Get out. Hell shall be the recompense of you all, thee and those who follow thee from among them: an adequate recompense. Go ahead and entice whomsoever of them thou canst, with thy voice, and mount assaults against them with thy horse and foot and be their partner in wealth and offspring, and make promises to them (Satan's promises are all deceit), thou shalt have no authority over My true servants. O My servant, thy Lord is sufficient as Guardian. (62-66)
Your Lord is He Who propels the vessels in the sea for your benefit, that you may seek of His bounty. Surely, He is Ever Merciful towards you. When danger threatens you in the sea you call upon Him, and forget all others upon whom you call. But when He brings you safe to land, you turn aside. Man is ever ungrateful. Do you then feel secure against His causing you to be swallowed up by the earth or His sending a sandstorm to cover you up, when you would find no one to rescue you? Or, do you feel secure against His sending you back therein once more and raising a fierce gale against you and drowning you because of your ingratitude, when you would find no one to help you against Us? We have indeed honoured the children of Adam, and provided for them means of transportation in land and sea, and given them wholesome food and exalted them high above the greater part of Our creation. (67-71)
Keep in mind the day when We shall summon every people with its leader. Then those who are given their book in their right hands will read their record eagerly, and they will not be wronged a whit. But he who continues blind in this life will be blind in the Hereafter and even more astray from the right path. They were minded to inflict upon thee severest suffering because of that which We have revealed to thee, that thou mayest substitute in its place something of thy own, in which case they would have certainly taken thee as a fast friend. Even if We had not strengthened thee with the Quran, thou wouldst have inclined to them but little. Hadst thou done what they had wished of thee We would have afflicted thee with intensified chastisement in this life and intensified chastisement after death, and thou wouldst not have found any helper for thyself against Us. They continue to conspire against thee that they may force thee to leave the land, but in that ease they too would not tarry long after thee. That has been Our way with Our Messengers whom We sent before thee; and thou wilt not find Our way subject to any change. (72-78)
Observe Prayer at different times between the declining of the sun and the deep darkness of the night, and recite the Quran at dawn. The recitation of the Quran at dawn is specially acceptable to Allah. At night also wake up for its recitation, an additional favour unto thee. It may be that thereby thy Lord will raise thee to a praiseworthy Station. Keep praying: My Lord, make my re-entry into Mecca a beneficent event, and make my going forth from Mecca also a beneficent event, and grant me from Thyself a helper and a witness; and announce: Truth has come and falsehood has disappeared, falsehood is bound to perish. We reveal progressively of the Quran that which is a healing and a mercy for the believers; but it only impels the wrongdoers into greater ruin. When We bestow a favour upon a person, he turns arrogantly away and draws aside; and when evil afflicts him he gives himself up to despair. Say to them: Everyone acts in his own way, and your Lord knows best who is rightly guided. (79-85)
They question thee concerning the soul. Tell them: The soul has been created by the command of my Lord; and you have been granted but little knowledge concerning it. If We pleased, We could certainly take away that which We have revealed to thee and then thou wouldst find no helper for thyself against Us, except through the special mercy of thy Lord. Surely, great is His grace on thee. (86-88)
Proclaim: If all men, high and low, were to gather together to produce the like of this Quran, they would not be able to produce the like thereof, even though they all combined in the effort. We have expounded for mankind all things necessary in this Quran, but most people adhere obstinately to disbelief. They assert: We will never believe anything thou sayest until thou cause a spring to flow for us from the earth; or thou have a garden of date-palms and vines and cause streams to flow plentifully in the midst thereof; or thou cause the heavens to fall on us in pieces, as thou hast claimed; or thou bring Allah and the angels before us face to face; or thou have a house of gold; or thou ascend up into heaven; and we will not believe in thy ascension until thou send down on us a book that we can read. Tell them: Holy is my Lord. I am but a human being sent as a Messenger. (89-94)
The one thing that stands in the way of people believing when the guidance comes to them is, that they wonder: Has Allah sent a man as a Messenger? Tell them: Had there been angels walking about in peace and quiet in the earth, he would certainly have sent down to them an angel from heaven as a Messenger. Say to them: Sufficient is Allah for a Witness between you and me; surely He knows and sees His servants full well. Those whom Allah guides are the truly guided, and for those whom He lets go astray, thou wilt find no helper beside Him, and on the Day of Judgment We shall gather them together, blind, dumb and deaf in accordance with their motives and designs. Their abode shall be hell; every time its heat abates We shall add to its fierceness. That is their recompense, because they rejected Our Signs and said: When we are reduced to bones and broken particles shall we indeed be raised up as a new creation? Do they not realise that Allah Who created the heavens and the earth has the power to create the like of them? He has appointed a definite term for them there is no doubt about it, but the wrongdoers persist in disbelief. Say to them: Even if you possessed the limitless treasures of my Lord's mercy, you would surely hold them back for fear of exhausting them. Man is indeed niggardly. (95-101)
We did indeed give Moses nine manifest Signs; thou canst enquire from the children of Israel. When he came to them, Pharaoh's response to him was: Moses, I am sure thou art self-deceived. He said: Thou knowest well that these Signs have been sent down by the Lord of the heavens and the earth as manifest demonstrations and, Pharaoh, I am sure thou art destined to perish. So Pharaoh resolved to remove Moses and his people from the earth; but We drowned him and those who were with him, all together. Thereafter We said to the children of Israel: Dwell in the Promised land; and when the time of the second promise in respect of the Muslims approaches, We shall bring you back, a mingled crowd. (l02-105)
We have sent down this Discourse in accordance with the requirements of truth and wisdom, and with truth and wisdom has it descended; and We have sent thee only as a bearer of good tidings and a Warner. The Quran We have divided into parts that thou mayest recite it to the people slowly and deliberately, and We have sent it down a little at a time. Say to them: Whether you believe in it or not, those to whom knowledge has been given before it fall down prostrate in token of complete submission when it is recited to them, and say: Holy is our Lord, surely, the promise of our Lord is bound to be fulfilled. They weep while they prostrate, and this adds to their humility. Say to them: Call upon Him as Allah or call upon Him as Rahman; by whichever name you call upon Him, His are the best attributes. Do not utter the words of Prayer aloud, nor too low, but seek a way in between. Proclaim widely: All praise belongs to Allah Who has taken unto Himself no son, and Who has no partner in His kingdom, nor does anyone befriend Him because of any weakness of His. Proclaim His Greatness on every occasion. (lO6-112)

Chapter 18
Al-Kahf
revealed before Hijra
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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Ever Merciful.
All praise belongs to Allah Who has sent down the Book to His servant, free from all distortion, full of truth and guidance, that it may give warning of a grievous chastisement proceeding from Him, and that it may give the believers who work righteousness the glad tidings that they shall have a good reward which they shall enjoy for ever; and that it may warn those who say: Allah has taken unto Himself a son. They have no knowledge whatever concerning it, nor had their fathers. Grievous is the assertion that they make; they only utter a falsehood. Wilt thou grieve thyself to death for sorrow over them, if they believe not in this Discourse? We have made all that is on the earth an ornament for it, that We may try the dwellers thereof which of them is best in conduct. The time will come when We shall turn all that is on it into a barren waste. (2-9)
Dost thou think that the People of the Cave and Inscription were one of Our wondrous Signs? When the young men betook themselves to the wide cave for refuge, they prayed: Our Lord, bestow on us special mercy from Thyself and provide for us right guidance in our affair. So, for a number of years We deprived them of news of the outside world. Then We raised them up that We might know which of the parties of their co-religionists had a better recollection of the period that they had sojourned in the Cave. Now We will recite to thee their true narrative. They were a party of young men who believed truly in their Lord, and We had bestowed further guidance on them. When they made up their minds to leave their homes, We strengthened their hearts, and they said one to another: Our Lord is the Lord of the heavens and the earth; we shall never call upon any god beside Him; for if we did so, we would utter a preposterous thing. These, our people, have adopted other gods beside Him. Why do they not produce some clear authority in their support, and, failing that, why do they not realise that there can be no one more unjust than one who fabricates a lie concerning Allah? Now that you have withdrawn from them and from that which they worship beside Allah, continue secure in the Cave; your Lord will extend His mercy to you and will provide facilities for you in your present situation. The sun could be observed to move away from their Cave on the right, as it rose, and to turn away from them on the left, when it set; and they were in a spacious hollow in the Cave. This is one of the Signs of Allah. He whom Allah guides is rightly guided; but for him whom He lets go astray, thou wilt find no helper or guide. (10-18)
Thou wouldst deem them awake but they are asleep. We shall cause them to turn to the right and to the left; their dog stretching out its forelegs on the threshold. If thou were to come to know of their pomp and power, thou wouldst surely turn away from them in fright, and be filled with awe of them. So We raised them up from their lowly condition, and they began to question one another. One of them asked; How long have you tarried here? Some of them said: We have tarried a day or part of a day. Others said: Your Lord knows best how long you have tarried. Now send one of you with these coins to the city, and let him see which of them has the best food, and let him bring you some provisions therefrom. He should be courteously alert, and should not inform any one about you. For, should they come to know of you, they would stone you or force you to return to their faith and then you will have no chance whatever to prosper. Thus did We acquaint the people with their condition that they might know that Allah's promise is true and that there is no doubt about the Hour. Call to mind the time when people disputed among themselves concerning them and some said: Raise a building above them. Their Lord knew them best. Those who won their point said: We will, surely, build a place of worship above them. (19-22)
Those who have no definite knowledge concerning them will make guesses: They were three, the fourth was their dog; or they will say: They were five, the sixth was their dog; or they will say: They were seven, the eighth was their dog. Say to them: My Lord knows their number best; none knows them save a few. So argue about them only on the strength of knowledge, nor seek information about them from any of them. Never say about anything I shall certainly do this tomorrow; but say only: I shall do as Allah wills. Shouldst thou forget, call to mind the assurance of thy Lord and say: I trust my Lord will guide me to that which is even nearer to the right path than this. Some will say they remained in their cave three hundred years plus nine. Say to them: Allah knows best how long they remained there. He alone has knowledge of the secrets of the heavens and the earth. He sees all and hears all. They have no helper beside Him and He does not let any one share His authority. (23-27)
Recite that which has been revealed to thee of the Book of thy Lord. There is none who can change His words; nor wilt thou find a place of refuge beside Him. Continue thy companionship with those who call on their Lord, morning and evening, seeking His pleasure, and look not beyond them, for if thou dost that thou wouldst be seeking the values of this life; and follow not him whom We have caused to be heedless of Our remembrance who pursues his low desires, and whose case exceeds all bounds. Proclaim: This is the truth from your Lord; then let him who will, believe, and let him who will, disbelieve. We have prepared for the wrongdoers a fire which already covers them like a canopy. If they cry for help their only help will be boiling water like molten brass which will scorch their faces. A terrible drink and an evil resting place! Those who believe and work righteousness shall have their reward; We suffer not the reward of those who act virtuously to be lost. They will have Gardens of Eternity beneath which rivers flow, wherein they will be adorned with bracelets of gold, and will wear green robes of fine and heavy silk, reclining upon raised couches. An excellent reward and a delightful resting place. (28-32)
Recite to them the case of two men: One of them We had provided with two vineyards which We had surrounded with date-palms, and between the two We had placed corn-fields. Each garden yielded its fruit in abundance without failure: and between the two We caused a stream to flow. The owner gathered large quantities of fruit, and boasted to his companion: I am richer in wealth than thou and have a stronger company of retainers. On one occasion he entered his garden in a mood of self-righteousness and vainglory and said: I am sure this will never perish; and I do not think the Hour will ever come. But even if I am brought back to my Lord, I shall, surely, find a better resort than this. His companion admonished him: Dost thou deny Him Who created thee from dust, then from a sperm-drop, then fashioned thee into a whole man? As for me, Allah alone is my Lord, and I do not associate anyone with my Lord. When thou didst enter thy garden why didst thou not say: All will go as Allah wills, for it is only by the grace of Allah that any power is bestowed. If thou dost consider me as less than thyself in the matter of riches and offspring, it is quite likely that my Lord will bestow upon me a garden better than thine, and may direct against thy garden a thunder-bolt from heaven, converting it into barren slippery ground. Or, its water may sink into the eaath, so that thou wilt not be able to find it. So it was and all his fruit was destroyed. The garden had all fallen down on its trellises, and its owner wrung his hands bewailing all that he had spent on it, and said: would that I had not associated anyone with my Lord. He had no party to help him against Allah, nor could he avenge himself. At such time it is only the support of Allah, the True, that can be of avail. He is the Best in rewarding and the Best in respect of the final outcome. (33-45)
Expound to them the case of the life of this world. It is like the water that We send down from the sky, and the vegetation of the earth grows and mingles with it and all becomes stubble which is scattered about by the winds. Allah has full power over everything. Wealth and children are an ornament of the life of this world; then of these that which is converted into a source of permanent beneficence is best in the sight of thy Lord, both in respect of immediate reward and in respect of expected benefits. Keep in mind the day when We shall remove the mountains, and thou wilt see the nations of the earth march forth against one another and We shall gather them together and shall not leave any one of them out. They will be presented to thy Lord, all lined up, and will be greeted with: You have, indeed, come to Us as We created you at first, though you did think that We would not fix the Hour for the fulfilment of Our promise to you. The Book will be placed before them and thou wilt see the guilty ones terrified at its contents. They will cry out: Woe to us, What is the matter with this Book that it leaves out nothing, small or great, but has recorded it. They will find all that they did confronting them. Thy Lord does not wrong any one. (48-50)
Call to mind when We commanded the angels: Fall down prostrate along with Adam. They did so, but Iblis did not. He was one of the fiery-tempered arrogant ones, so he disobeyed the command of his Lord. Will you then take him and his progeny, all of whom are your enemies, for friends instead of Me? Evil is this exchange for the wrongdoers. I did not have them witness the creation of the heavens and the earth, nor their own creation; nor could I take as helpers those who lead people astray. On the day when He will say to them: Now call those whom you deemed to be My partners; they will call on them but they will receive no answer, and We shall place a barrier between them. The guilty ones shall see the Fire and realise that they are going to fall therein, but they shall find no way of deliverance from it. (51-54)
We have, indeed, expounded all necessary things, in diverse ways, in this Quran for the benefit of mankind, but man is most contentious. That which prevents people from believing when the guidance comes to them, or from asking forgiveness of their Lord is their desire that they should be afflicted in the same manner as the ancients or that punishment should come upon them face to face. We send the Messengers only as bearers of glad tidings and as Warners. Those who disbelieve contend by means of falsehood that they may nullify the truth thereby. They treat My Signs and that which they are warned against as a jest. Who can be more unjust than one who is reminded of the Signs of his Lord, but turns away from them, and forgets his own misconduct which is the provision he has laid up for the Hereafter. We have placed several coverings over their hearts and have afflicted their ears with deafness that they may not understand. If thou call them to guidance, they will not follow it out of sheer perversity. Thy Lord is Most Forgiving, Lord of Mercy. Had He wished to destroy them on account of their evil conduct, He would have afflicted them with punishment quickly; but they have an appointed time, whereafter they will find no deliverance except through suffering the punishment. We destroyed these towns because of the iniquities of their people, and We had appointed a term for their destruction. (55-60)
In his vision Moses said to his young man: I will not quit until I arrive at the junction of the two seas, or else I will journey on for ages. When they arrived at the junction between them, they forgot to take care of their fish and it made its way into the sea swiftly. After they had passed the place, Moses said to the young man: Bring us our morning meal; we have surely been fatigued by this journey of ours. He answered: Look, what shall we do now? When we betook ourselves to the rock for rest I forgot to look after the fish (it is only Satan who made me forget it) and the fish made its way into the sea in a strange manner. Moses said: That is the place we have been seeking; so they returned retracing their footsteps. (61-65)
There they found a Servant of Ours upon whom We had bestowed Our mercy and whom We had taught knowledge from Ourself. Moses said to him: May I follow thee that thou mayest teach me part of the guidance that thou hast been taught? He answered: Keeping company with me will not be easy for you, as you will not be able to restrain your curiosity, and, in truth, how can you keep quiet concerning matters which you do not comprehend! Moses said: If Allah please, you will find me patient, and I will not disobey you in anything. He said: Well, then, if thou wouldst follow me ask me no question about anything till I speak to thee of it. (66-71)
So they set out till, when they embarked in a boat, he made a hole in it. Moses exclaimed: Have you made a hole in the boat to drown the people in it? You have, indeed, done a strange thing! He answered: Did I not tell you that you would not be able to restrain yourself in my company? Moses pleaded: Do not take me to task, because I forgot your instruction; and do not be hard on me for this lapse on my part. So they proceeded till, when they met a boy, he slew him. On this Moses protested: Is it not that you have slain an innocent person without his having slain any one? Surely you have committed an heinous act! He repeated: Did I not tell you that you would not be able to restrain yourself in my company? Moses was full of remorse: If I question you with anything after this, do not keep me with you. You will then be fully justified. So they went on till, when they came to a town, they asked its people for food, but they refused to extend hospitality to them. They found a wall in the town which was about to fall down, and he buttressed it. Moses said: If you had so desired, you could have asked payment for it. (72-78)
He said: This must be the parting between us. I shall now explain to you the meaning of that concerning which you were not able to restrain your curiosity. The boat belonged to some poor people who worked on the river, across which was a tyrant who seized every boat by force, so I decided to make a hole in it. The boy's parents were believers, and we apprehended lest on growing up he should afflict them with distress through rebellion and disbelief; so we desired that their Lord may bestow upon them in his place a child better than him in purity and closer in affection. The wall belonged to two orphan boys in the town, and beneath it was a treasure belonging to them; their father had been a righteous man, so thy Lord desired that they should arrive at their full maturity and bring out their treasure, as a mercy from thy Lord. I did not do it of my own accord. This is the explanation of that which you were not able to contemplate with equanimity. (79-83)
The ask thee concerning Dhul Qarnain also. Tell them: I shall certainly recite something about him to you. We established him in the earth and provided him with the means of achieving everything. He followed a certain way and when he arrived at the place of the setting of the sun, he discovered as if it was setting in an expanse of murky water, and found in its vicinity a people. We said to him: Dhul Qarnain, you may punish them or treat them with kindness. He said: We shall certainly punish him who does wrong; then shall he be brought back to his Lord, Who will chastise him with a grievous chastisement. He who believes and works righteousness will have a good reward in the Hereafter, and We shall also facilitate everything for him by Our command. Then he followed another way, and when he arrived at the place of the rising of the sun, he found it rising on a people for whom We had made no shelter against it. Thus indeed it was, and We have securely preserved all knowledge concerning him. (84-92)
Then he followed still another way. When he reached between the two barrlers, he found on either side a people who could scarcely understand what he said. They said to him: Dhul Qarnain, verily, Gog and Magog are creating disorder in the land. Shall we appoint a tribute to be paid to thee on condition that thou set up a barrier between them and us? He said to them: The resources which my Lord has made available to me for such purposes are far better than those of my enemies, but you may help me according to your means and I will set up a rampart between them and you. So bring me lumps of iron. When he had filled up the space between the two natural barriers, the mountain and the sea, he said to them: Now blow on the fire with your bellows. When he had made it as fire, he said: Now bring me molten copper that I may pour it thereon. When all was finished Gog and Magog were not able to scale it, nor were they able to bore through it. (93-98)
Dhul Qarnain said: All this has been accomplished through the mercy of my Lord. When my Lord's warning of universal catastrophe is to be fulfilled, He will knock it down into a flat mound. My Lord's warning is bound to be fulfilled. (99)
When that day comes We shall let some of them surge against others like the waves of the ocean, and the trumpet will be blown, and We shall gather them all together. On that day We shall present hell, face to face, to the disbelievers whose eyes were veiled against My Reminder (the Quran) so that they heeded it not, and who could not even afford to listen. Do the disbelievers imagine that they can take My servants as helpers instead of Me? We have prepared hell as entertainment for the disbelievers. Ask them: Shall We tell you of those who are the greatest losers in respect of their works? It is those whose effort is devoted wholly to the life of this world and they imagine that they are engaged in producing excellent works. They are those who reject the Signs of their Lord and disbelieve in the meeting with Him. So their works are vain, and on the Day of Judgment We shall attach no weight to them. Hell will be their reward, because they disbelieved, and made a jest of My Signs and My Messenges. Those who believe and work righteousness will have Gardens of Paradise for an abode, wherein they will abide. They will desire no change therefrom. (1O0-109)
Tell them: If the ocean became ink for transcribing the words of my Lord, surely the ocean would be exhausted before the words of my Lord came to an end, even though We augmented it with the like thereof. Tell them: I am but a man like yourselves; only it is revealed to me that your God is One God. So let him who hopes to meet his Lord work righteousness and let him associate no one in the worship of his Lord. (110-111)

Chapter 19
Maryam
revealed before Hijra
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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Ever Merciful.
Thou Art Sufficient And Thou Art The Guide, All-Knowing Thuthful One. (2)
This is an account of the mercy of thy Lord bestowed upon His servant Zachariah, when he called upon his Lord in low tones, praying: My Lord, my very bones have become feeble, and my head has turned hoary with age, but never have my supplications to Thee, O Lord, remained unfruitful. I am apprehensive of the behaviour of my relations after my death, and my wife is barren. I beg Thee, therefore, do Thou bestow upon me from Thyself a successor to be my heir and to be the heir of the blessings of the House of Jacob; and make him one who should be pleasing in Thy sight, O Lord. His Lord responded: Zachariah, We give thee glad tidings of a son who shall grow up to maturity and whose name shall be Yahya. We have designated no one before him by this name. Zachariah exclaimed:
My Lord, how shall it be that I shall have a son grown up, seeing that my wife is barren and that I have arrived at extreme old age. His Lord answered: So it is, but thy Lord sayeth: It is easy for Me; seest thou not that I created thee before, when thou wast nothing. Zachariah begged:
My Lord, lay a command upon me. His Lord said: Thou art commanded not to speak to anyone for three successive days and nights. Thereupon Zachariah came forth from the chamber unto his people and conveyed to them by signs to glorify the Lord morn and eve. (3-12)
We commanded Yahya: Hold fast the Book; and We bestowed upon him wisdom while he was still young, as a token of tenderness from Ourself and to purify him. He grew up righteous, and was dutiful towards his parents and was not haughty or rebellious. Peace was on him on the day of his birth, and on the day of his death, and peace will be on him on the day he will be raised up to life again. (13-16)
Recite the account of Mary according to this Book, when she withdrew from her people to a place towards the east, and screened herself off from them. Then We sent Our angel to her and he appeared to her in the form of a well proportioned man. On perceiving him she exclaimed:
I seek refuge with the Gracious One from thee if thou art at all righteous. The angel reassured her: I am but a messenger from thy Lord, that I may give thee a righteous son who will grow up to maturity. She marvelled: How shall it be that I shall have a grown son, seeing that no man has touched me and I have not been unchaste? The angel said: So it is, but thy Lord sayeth: It is easy for Me. It is so ordained that We may make him a Sign unto people and a source of Our mercy. This has been decreed. (17-22)
Thus she conceived him, and withdrew with him to a remote place. When her time came the pains of childbirth drove her to the trunk of a palm-tree. Realising her condition, she cried out: Would that I had died before this and had been quite forgotten. The voice of the angel reached her from below: Grieve not; for thy Lord has provided a rivulet below thee, wherein thou mayest wash thyself and the child. Then take hold of the branch of the palm-tree and shake it; it will shed fresh ripe dates upon thee. Thus eat and drink and be at rest. Shouldst thou see anyone approaching, call out: I have this day vowed a fast to the Gracious One. I will, therefore, hold no converse with any person. (23-27)
She accompanied him to her people, while he was riding. They upbraided her: Mary, thou hast perpetrated an abominable thing. O sister of Aaron, thy father was not a wicked man, nor was thy mother an unchaste woman. She pointed to him. They said: How can we hold converse with one who was but yesterday a child being rocked in a cradle? (28-30)
Jesus taught: I am a servant of Allah, He has given me the Book, and has appointed me a Prophet; He has made me blessed wheresoever I may be, and has enjoined upon me Prayer and almsgiving throughout my life. He has made me dutiful towards my mother, and has not made me haughty and graceless. Peace was ordained on me the day I was born, the day I shall die and the day I shall be raised up to life again. (31-34)
Such was Jesus son of Mary. This is a statement of the truth about that concerning which they entertain doubt. It is not in accord with the Majesty of Allah that He should take unto Himself a son. Holy is He. When He decrees a thing, He says concerning it: Be, and it is.
Jesus taught: Allah is my Lord and your Lord; so worship Him alone. This is the right path. (35-37)
Thereafter, different groups differed among themselves. Woe to those who disbelieve in the meeting of the great day. The day they present themselves before Us, how keen will be their hearing and sight, but the wrongdoers are in manifest error today. Warn them of the day of remorse when the affair will be conclusively determined, while today they are heedless and believe not. Of a surety, it is We Ourself Who will inherit the earth and all who are thereon; and to Us will they all be returned. (38-41)
Recite the account of Abraham according to this Book; he was indeed a righteous person and a Prophet. Call to mind when he said to his father: Father, wherefore dost thou worship that which hears not, nor sees, nor can avail thee aught? Father, there has indeed been given to me knowledge such as has not been given to thee. Follow me, therefore, I shall guide thee along a straight path. Father, serve not Satan; surely, Satan is persistently disobedient to the Gracious One. Father, indeed I fear lest a chastisement from the Gracious One afflict thee, and thou become a companion of Satan. His father rebuked him: Is it that thou art turning away from my gods, Abraham? If thou desist not, I shall surely cause thee to be stoned to death. Now leave me alone for a while, lest I do thee some injury.
Abraham made answer: Peace be on thee; I will ask forgiveness of my Lord for thee; He is indeed gracious unto me. I shall keep away from you and from that which you call upon beside Allah; and I will supplicate my Lord, and surely I will encounter no ill fortune by virtue of my supplications. So when he left them and that which they worshipped beside Allah, We bestowed on him Isaac and after him Jacob, and each of them We made a Prophet; and We granted them of Our mercy and bestowed on them true and high renown. (42-5l)
Recite the account of Moses according to this Book. He was indeed a chosen one, and was a Messenger and a Prophet. We called him from the right side of the Mount and made him draw near to Us through close communion; and We bestowed upon him, as his helper, out of Our mercy, his brother Aaron, having made him a Prophet. (52-54)
Recite the account of Ishmael according to this Book. He was indeed always true to his promise and was a Messenger and a Prophet. He axhorted his people to Prayer and almsgiving, and was well liked by his Lord. (55-56)
Recite the account of Idris according to this Book; he was indeed a righteous person and a Prophet, and We exalted him to a lofty station. (57-58)
These were the people on whom Allah bestowed His blessings from among the Prophets, of the posterity of Adam and of those whom We carried in the Ark with Noah, and of the posterity of Abraham and Israel; and they were of those whom We guided and chose for Our service. When the Word of the Gracious One was recited to them their hearts were moved and they fell down into prostration. Then they were followed by a people who laid aside Prayer and followed evil desires; they will be seized with ruin, except those of them who repent and believe and act righteously. Such will enter Paradise -- not being wronged in the least -- Gardens of Eternity, which the Gracious One has promised to His servants without their having seen them. His promise is always fulfilled. They will not hear therein anything vain, only greetings of Peace; and they will have their sustenance therein, morning and evening. This is the Paradise that We bestow as an inheritance on those of Our servants who are righteous. (59-64)
The angels declare: We descend not save by the command of thy Lord; to Him belongs all that is before us and all that is behind us and all that is between. Thy Lord is not forgetful in the least. He is the Lord of the heavens and of the earth and of all that is between the two. So worship Him alone and be steadfast in His service. Knowest thou anyone who possesses attributes like unto His? (65-66)
Man will ever ask: When I am dead, shall I be brought forth alive? Does not man remember that We created him before when he was naught? By thy Lord, We shall most surely gather them together, men and satans alike, and bring them close to hell on their knees. Then We shall select from every group those who were most stubbern in their opposition to the Gracious One. We know best those most deserving of arriving therein. There is not one of you but will come to it in this life or the next; this is an unalterable decree of thy Lord. Then shall We save the righteous and shall leave the wrongdoers therein, on their knees. (67-73)
When Our manifest Signs are recited unto them, the disbelievers ask the believers: Which of us two groups is better in status and more desirable as company? How many a generation have We destroyed before them, who were better off than these in belongings and outward display! Tell them The Gracious One grants respite for a time to those who are in error until, when they are confronted with that which they are promised, torment or ruin, they realise who is worse situated and is weaker in numbers. Allah increases in guidance those who follow guidance; and lasting good works are better in the sight of thy Lord in of reward and in respect of the end. (74-77)
Knowest thou of him who disbelieved in Our Signs and boasted: I shall certainly be given wealth and children? Has he been apprised of the unseen or taken a promise from the Gracious One? Indeed not. We shall note down what he says and shall prolong his agony, and We shall inherit that of which he boasts, and he shall come to us empty handed. They have taken other gods than Allah, that they may be a source of honour for them. That will not be. Their false gods will reject their worship and will stand in opposition to them. (78-83)
Knowest thou not that We have appointed satans to inoite the disbelievers to disobedience? So move not against them in haste; We have fixed a reckoning for them. Keep in mind the day when We shall gather the righteous ones in honour before the Gracious One, and shall drive the guilty ones to hell in disgrace. On that day no one will have the capacity to intercede, save he who has received a promise from the Gracious One. (84-88)
They allege: The Gracious One has taken unto Himself a son. Assuredly, you have uttered a monstrous thing! The heavens might well-nigh burst thereat, and the earth cleave asunder, and the mountains fall down in pieces, because they ascribe a son to the Gracious One; whereas it becomes not the Gracious One to take unto Himself a son. There is no one in the heavens and the earth but he shall come to the Gracious One as a bondman. Verily He encompasses them and has numbered them all, Each one of them shall come to Him singly on the Day of Judgment. The Gracious One will create enduring love for those who believe and work righteousness. So We have made the Quran easy in thy tongue that thou mayest convey thereby glad tidings to the righteous, and warn thereby a contentious people. How many a generation have We destroyed before them! Canst thou perceive a single one of them, or hear even a whisper of them? (89-99)

Chapter 20
Ta Ha
revealed before Hijra
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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Ever Merciful.
O man of perfect capacities, We have not sent down the Quran to thee that thou may be distressed, but as an exhortation for him who fears Allah. It is a revelation from Him Who created the earth and the high heavens, the Gracious One Who has settled Himself on the Throne. To Him belongs whatsoever is in the heavens and whatsoever is in the earth, and whatsoever is between them, and whatsoever is beneath the moist subsoil. If thou speakest aloud or speakest in a low voice, He hears all for He knows all that is secret and most hidden. Allah is He beside Whom there is no god. His are the most excellent attributes. (2-9)
Has an account of Moses reached thee, when he perceived a fire and said to his family: Tarry ye awhile. I have perceived a fire, perchance I may bring you a brand therefrom or find guidance at the fire. When he came to it he heard a call: Moses, verily I am thy Lord. Cast off thy shoes; for thou art in the sacred vale of Tuwa. I have chosen thee; so hearken to what is revealed. Verily, I am Allah; there is no god beside Me; so worship Me alone, and observe Prayer for My remembrance. Of a surety, the Hour is coming; I will manifest it, so that every one may be recompensed according to his endeavour. So let not him who believes not therein and follows his own evil inclinations turn thee away from believing firmly in it, lest thou perish. (1O-17)
Allah asked: What is that in thy right hand, Moses? He replied: It is my rod. I lean on it, and beat down therewith leaves from the trees for my sheep, and I have also other uses for it. Allah directed: Cast it down, Moses. So he cast it down, and lo! It was a running serpent. Allah reassured him: Catch hold of it and be not afraid. We shall restore it to its former condition. Now draw thy hand close under thy other arm; it shall come forth white, without any blemish -- another Sign. All this is a preparation that We may show thee some of Our greater Signs. Go thou to Pharaoh, he has transgressed grievously. (18-25)
Moses supplicated: Lord, expand my mind, and make it easy for me to carry out Thy behest, and remove every impediment from my speech that people may understand easily what I say, and appoint for me a helper from among my family, even Aaron, my brother. Make him my collaborator in my task and thus add to my strength, that we may glorify Thee constantly and remember Thee much. Thou hast full knowledge of us. (26-36)
Allah responded to him: Granted is thy prayer, Moses. I have been gracious towards thee before also when I revealed to thy mother all that was needed to be revealed, to wit: Put him in the ark, and place it in the river. The river will cast it on to the bank and one who is an enemy of Mine and his will take him up. I surrounded thee with My love, so that thou mightest be reared under My care. Thy sister walked along, repeating: Shall I inform you of one who will take care of him? Thus We restored thee to thy mother so that she might be comforted and might not grieve. Then thou didst kill a man, and We delivered thee from sorrow. Then We proved thee in diverse ways and thou didst tarry several years among the people of Midian. Then thou camest up to the standard, Moses, and I chose thee for Myself. Now go, thou and thy brother, with My Signs, and be diligent in remembering Me. Go, both of you, to Pharaoh, for he has transgressed grievously; but speak gently to him, perchance he may take heed or be humble.
They urged: Lord, we fear lest he commit some excess against us or press us hard. Allah reassured them: Fear not at all; for I am with you both, hearing and seeing. Go ye both to him and say: We are the Messengers of thy Lord; so let the children of Israel go with us, and oppress them not. We have indeed brought thee a Sign from thy Lord. Allah's peace shall be on him who follows the guidance brought by us, and, it has been revealed to us, that punishment shall overtake him who rejects it and turns away from it. (37-49)
Pharaoh enquired: Who then is the Lord of you both, Moses? He said: Our Lord is He Who has bestowed upon everything its appropriate faculties and then guided it to their proper use. Pharaoh asked: What then will be the fate of former peoples who knew nought of it? Moses said: The knowledge thereof is with my Lord all recorded in a Book. My Lord errs not, nor forgets. Moses added: My Lord is He Who has made the earth a cradle for you, and has caused pathways to run through it for your benefit and Who sends down rain from the sky. My Lord says: Thereby We bring forth diverse kinds of vegetation, so eat ye of them and also pasture your cattle. Verily, in this are Signs for those endowed with reason. From the earth have We created you, and into it We shall cause you to return and from it shall We bring you forth once more. (50-56)
We did show Pharaoh Our Signs of all kinds, but he rejected them and persisted in disbelief. He said: Hast thou come to us, Moses, to drive us out of our land by thy magic? If so, we shall assuredly oppose thee with the like magic; so make an appointment between thyself and us which we should not fail to keep, neither thou nor we, at a place alike for us both. (57-59)
Moses said: Let your appointment be for the day of the Festival, and let the people be assembled when the sun is risen high. Thereupon Pharaoh withdrew and concerted his plan and returned for the appointment. Moses admonished Pharaoh and his party: Woe unto you; concert not a lie against Allah, lest He destroy you by some calamity. Surely, he who fabricates a lie shall perish. Thereupon they began to argue amongst themselves and conferred in secret. They argued: These two are big magicians, who desire to drive you out from your land by their magic and to destroy your excellent way of life; therefore, concert your plan and go forward in a body. Surely, he who gains the ascendancy this day will flourish. (60-65)
Those who came forward against Moses enquired: Moses, will you make the first cast, or shall we be the first to make the cast? He said: Do you make the cast. And lo! their cords and their staves appeared to him, by their magic, as though they scurried about. Moses conceived a fear in his mind, but We reassured him: Fear not, for surely thou wilt have the upper hand. Put down that which is in thy right hand, it will swallow up that which they have wrought, for that which they have wrought is but a magician's trick, and a magician shall not thrive, come whence he may. When Moses put down his rod and the magicians were exposed, they were impelled to fall down prostrate and cried: We believe in the Lord of Aaron and Moses. Pharaoh was incensed thereat and stormed: What? Do you believe in him before I give you leave? He must be your chief who has taught you magic. Therefore, I will certainly cut off your hands and your feet on alternate sides, and I will surely crucify you on the trunks of palmtrees. Then shall you know which of us can inflict severer and more lasting punishment. They retorted: We cannot refer thee to the manifest Signs that have come to us, nor to Him Who created us. So decree what thou wilt decree, thou canst but terminate this present life. We have believed in our Lord that He may forgive us our sins and forgive us the deceit that thou hast forced us to practise. Allah is the Best and Most Abiding. (66-74)
The truth is, that the portion of him who comes to his Lord a sinner is hell; he shall neither die therein nor live. But he who comes to Him a believer, having acted righteously, for such are the highest ranks in Gardens of Eternity, beneath which rivers flow; they will abide therein forever. That is the recompense of those who keep themselves pure. (75-77)
We directed Moses: Set forth with My servants in the darkness of the night and show them a dry path in the sea. Thou wilt not have any apprehension of being overtaken nor wilt thou be oppressed by any other fear. Pharaoh pursued them with his hosts and a great volume of the waters of the sea overwhelmed them. Pharaoh led his people astray and did not guide them aright. (78-80)
Children of Israel, We delivered you from your enemy, and We made a covenant with you on the right side of the Mount, and We sent down on you Manna and Salwa, and admonished you: Eat of the good things that We have provided for you, and transgress not therein, lest My wrath descend upon you; and he on whom My wrath descends is surely ruined. But I am Most Forgiving towards him who repents and believes and acts righteously and follows the guidance. (81-83)
When Moses arrived for his tryst with his Lord he was asked: What has brought thee away in haste from thy people, Moses? He answered: They are close behind me, and I have hastened to Thee, my Lord, that Thou mightest be pleased. His Lord told him: We have tried thy people in thy absence, and the Samiri has led them astray. So Moses returned to his people chagrined and in a rage and upbraided them: O my people, did not your Lord make you a gracious promise? Did, then, the appointed time appear too long to you, and did you desire that your Lord's wrath should descend upon you, that you went against your promise to me? They made answer: We did not go against our promise to thee of our own accord; but we were heavily laden with ornaments of Pharaoh's people and cast them away and so did Samiri. Then he produced a calf for them, a lifeless body which made a meaningless sound. He and those with him said: This is your god and the god of Moses. He has forgotten it and left it behind. Did they not see that it made no answer to them and had no power to do them harm or good? (84-90)
Even before the return of Moses, Aaron had warned them: O my people you have been tried by reason of the calf. Surely, the Gracious One is your Lord; so follow me and obey my command. They replied: We shall not cease to worship it till Moses return to us. Moses upbraided his brother: Aaron, what hindered thee from following me, when thou didst see them go astray? Didst thou, then, disobey my command! Aaron answered: Son of my mother, seize me not by my beard, nor by the hair of my head. I feared lest thou shouldst say: Thou hast caused a division among the children of Israel and didst not mind my word. Then Moses turned to Samiri and asked him: What hast thou to say, Samiri? He said: I perceived what they had not perceived. I had adopted only part of the teaching of the Messenger and then even that I cast away, and my mind commended to me that which I did.
Moses said to him: Go thy way. Thou art unclean and shalt throughout thy life warn people: Touch me not. There is a term appointed for thee which thou shalt not outstrip. Now look at thy god before whom thou didst devotedly sit in adoration. We will certainly burn it and scatter its remains in the sea. (91-98)
Your God is only Allah, beside Whom there is no god. He embraces all things within His knowledge. Thus do We relate to thee the tidings of what has gone before and We have given thee from Ourself the Quran as a Reminder. Whoso turns away from it will surely bear a heavy burden on the Day of Judgment, abiding thereunder. It will be a sore burden for them on the Day of Judgment, the day when the trumpet will be blown. On that day We shall gather the sinful ones together, blue-eyed. They will commiserate with each other in low tones: Your period of supremacy lasted but ten centuries. We know best their meaning, when their leading dignitary will say: You flourished only during a brief period of time. (99-105)
They ask thee concerning the mountains. Tell them: My Lord will uproot them and scatter them as dust, leaving them as a barren level plain, in which there is no depression or elevation. On that day people will all follow the Caller in whose teaching there will be no deviation; and all voices will be hushed before the Gracious One and nothing will be heard except a subdued murmur. On that day no intercession shall avail, except on the part of one to whom permission is granted by the Gracious One and with whose word He is pleased. He knows all that is ahead of them and all that is behind them, but they cannot compass Him with their knowledge. On that day all leading personalities shall humble themselves before the Living, Self-Subsisting and All-Sustaining One, and he who bears the burden of iniquity will be ruined. But he who works righteoussness being a believer, shall apprehend no injustice or loss. (106-113)
Thus have We sent it down, the Quran, in Arabic and have expounded therein every kind of warning, that they may be mindful of their duty or that it may serve them as a reminder afresh. Exalted then is Allah, the True King. Be not too eager to anticipate the Quran ere its revelation is completed unto thee; but keep up the supplication: Lord, bestow on me an increase of knowledge. (114-115)
We indeed laid a commandment on Adam aforetime, but he forgot, yet We did not discover in him any determination to disobey. When We commanded the angels to prostrate themselves before Us in gratitude for the creation of Adam, they all fell down in prostration, but Iblis did not, he refused to obey. So We warned Adam: Satan is thy enemy and the enemy of thy companion, so let him not drive you out of the garden, lest each of you come to grief. It is ordained for you that you shall not be hungry in the garden nor shall you be naked, and that you shall not thirst therein nor shall you be exposed to the sun. But Satan tried to entice him away and said: Adam, shall I lead you to the tree of eternity and to a kingdom that never declines?
So they ate of the tree and their nakedness became manifest to them and they began to cover it up with the adornments of the garden. Adam thus disobeyed his Lord and fell into error. Then his Lord chose him for His grace and turned to him with mercy and guided him. Allah commanded: Go forth, both parties, all together from the garden; some of you will be enemies of others. If there comes to you guidance from Me, then whoso follows My guidance will not go astray, nor will he come to grief. But whoso will turn away from My Reminder, his will be a strait life and on the Day of Judgment We shall raise him up blind. He will ask:
Lord, why hast Thou raised me up blind, while I had good sight before? Allah will answer: Thus it is. Our Signs came to thee and thou didst disregard them; in like manner wilt thou be disregarded on this day of the manifestation of My mercy.
Thus do We recompense him who casts aside Divine guidance and believes not in the Signs of his Lord; and the chastisement of the Hereafter is severer and more lasting. Does it not furnish guidance to them how many a generation We destroyed before them, in whose dwellings they now move about? Therein indeed are Signs for those who are possessed of wisdom. Were it not for a word already gone forth from thy Lord, and a term already fixed, their punishment would have been everlasting. (116-130)
Therefore, be steadfast under their calumnies and glorify thy Lord with His praise before the rising of the sun and before its setting; and glorify Him in hours of the night and in different parts of the day, so that through His grace thou mayest win true happiness. Do not look covetously upon that which We have bestowed upon some classes of them for a brief enjoyment, of the embellishments of worldly life, that We may try them thereby. The provision bestowed upon thee by thy Lord is better and more lasting. Enjoin Prayer on thy people, and be constant therein. We ask thee not for provision; it is We Who provide for thee. The best end is that of righteousness. (131-133)
They ask: Why does he not bring us a Sign from his Lord? Has there not come to them a Sign like that mentioned in the former Books? Had We destroyed them through some calamity before the coming of this Messenger, they would surely have said: Lord, wherefore didst Thou not send to us a Messenger that we might have followed Thy commandments before we were humbled and disgraced? Tell them: Everyone is waiting for his end; wait ye on, therefore, and soon will you know who are the people of the right path and who follow true guidance and who do not. (134-l36)

Chapter 21
Al-Anbiya
revealed before Hijra
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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Ever Merciful.
The time of reckoning is drawing nigh for the people, yet they are heedless and turn away. Whenever any fresh admonition comes to them from their Lord, they listen to it and make sport of it. Their minds are indifferent towards it. The wrongdoers confer together in secret and then counsel others: See you not, is this one other than a man like yourselves? Will you then, being intelligent, be beguiled by his deceptive talk? The Prophet's response is: My Lord knows well what is spoken in the heaven and in the earth; He is the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing.
They go on to say: 'These are his confused dreams; nay, he has invented it all; he is but a poet with a fertile imagination. Let him bring us a Sign, as he alleges the former Prophets did'. Of the townships that We destroyed before them no one believed; would these then believe? Before thee also We sent as Messengers, men to whom We vouchsafed revelation. If you who disbelieve know it not, then ask the People of the Book. We did not give them bodies that needed no food, nor were they to live for ever. But We fulfilled the promise We made them; and We saved them and those with them whom We pleased, and We destroyed the transgressors.
We have now sent down to you a Book which makes provision for your uplift; will you not then understand? How many a township that acted wrongfully have We utterly destroyed, and raised up after it another people? When they perceived Our chastisement, they prepared to flee from it. Flee not, but return to the comforts and luxuries in which you exulted so that you may be interrogated. At this they exclaimed: Alas, we were indeed wrongdoers. They continued thus to bewail till We mowed them down into stubble. (2-16)
We created not the heaven and the earth and all that is between the two in sport. Had We wished to find a pastime, We would surely have found it in that which is with Us, if at all We would have been inclined in that way. Nay, We hurl the truth at falsehood and it crushes it and it disappears. Woe unto you for that which you spin out. To Him belongs whosoever is in the heavens and in the earth. Those who are in His presence do not disdain to worship Him, nor do they weary of it; they glorify Him night and day, and cease not. (17-21)
Have they taken gods from the earth who create? If there had been in the heavens and the earth other gods beside Allah, then surely both would have gone to ruin. Then glorified be Allah, the Lord of the Throne, above that which they ascribe to Him. He cannot be questioned concerning what He does, but they will be questioned. Have they taken gods beside Him? Say to them: Bring your proof.
This Quran is a source of honour for those who are with me and is also a source of honour for those who were before me. But most of them know not the truth, and so they turn away from it. We sent no Messenger before thee but We directed him: There is no god but I; so worship Me alone. But they say: The Gracious One has taken to Himself a son. Holy is He. Those whom they so designate are only His honoured servants. They utter not a word more than He directs, and they only carry out His commands. He knows what lies ahead of them and what is left behind them, and they intercede not except only he whose intercession He permits and they tremble with fear of Him. Whosoever of them should say: I am a god beside Him, We shall requite him with hell. Thus do We requite the wrongdoers. (22-3O)
Do not the disbelievers realise that the heavens and the earth were a solid mass, then We split them asunder, and We made from water every living thing? Will they not then believe? We have placed in the earth firm mountains lest it roll beneath them; and We have made wide pathways therein that they may thereby journey from place to place. We have made the heaven a guarded and protecting roof; yet they turn away from its Signs. He it is Who created the night and the day, and the sun and the moon each gliding freely in its orbit. (31-34)
We granted not everlasting life to any human being before thee; then if thou shouldst die will they live on for ever?
Every one shall suffer death; and We shall prove you through good and ill by way of trial, and to Us shall you be returned. When the disbelievers see thee they make light of thee: Is this the one who decries your gods? Yet it is they who reject with disdain the mention of the Gracious One. (35-37)
Man is hasty by nature. I will certainly show you My Signs, but do not be impatient. They ask: When will this promise be fulfilled, if you are truthful? If only the disbelievers knew the hour when they would not be able to keep off the fire from their faces nor from their backs, nor will they be helped. Indeed it will come upon them unawares so that it will utterly confound them; and they will not be able to repel it, nor will they be granted respite. Messengers have been mocked at before thee, but that whereat they mocked encompassed those of them who scoffed. (38-42)
Ask them: Who can save you from the chastisement of the Gracious One by night and by day? In truth they turn away from being reminded of their Lord. Have they any gods who can save them from Our chastisement? They cannot even help themselves, nor can their devotees be befriended by any one against Us. The truth is that We provided generously for them and their fathers and they remained in enjoyment of Our provision for a long time. Do they not perceive that We are advancing into their territory and are reducing it from its borders? Do they still hope to win? (43-45)
Tell them: I warn you only according to divine revelation, and I know that when the deaf are warned they cannot hear the call. But if even a breath of the chastisement of thy Lord were to touch them, they will surely cry out: Woe to us! We were indeed wrong-doers. We shall set up just scales for the Day of Judgment so that no one will be wronged at all. If there is good or evil equal to the weight of a mustard seed, We would bring it forth. Sufficient are We as a reckoner. We gave Moses and Aaron the Discrimination and a Light and a Reminder for the righteous, who fear their Lord in secret, and who dread the Hour of Judgment. Now this is a blessed Reminder that We have sent down. Will you then reject it? (46-51)
We had bestowed upon Abraham his wisdom before this and We knew him well. He said to his father and his people: What are these images to which you are so devoted? They said: We saw our fathers worshipping them. He observed: Then you and your fathers have been in manifest error. They enquired: Are you telling us the truth or are you jesting? He replied: The truth is that your Lord is the Lord of the heavens and the earth, Who created them, and I bear witness to that before you. By Allah, after you have gone away and turned your backs I will certainly devise a plan against your idols.
He broke them all to pieces, except the principal one, so that they might return to it. When they saw this they protested: Whoever has done this to our gods is surely a malefactor. Some of them said: We heard a young man, called Abraham, malign them. They said: Then bring him before the people that they may judge him. When he came, they asked him: Abraham, have you done this to our gods?
He answered: Somebody must have done it. This is the principal one. Ask him and the others, if they can speak. Then they conferred among themselves, and confessed: Indeed you yourselves are in the wrong; and being confounded, they said to Abraham: Thou knowest well that these do not speak. He rebuked them: Then do you worship instead of Allah that which cannot profit you at all nor harm you?
Fie on you and on that which you worship in place of Allah. Can you not understand? They were chagrined and said: Burn him and thus help your gods, if you mean to do something. When they cast him into the fire We commanded it: Be cool and a means of safety for Abraham.
They had sought to do him harm, but We frustrated them, and brought him and Lot in safety to the land which We had blessed for the peoples. We bestowed upon him Isaac, and a grandson Jacob, and We made all of them righteous. We made them leaders who guided people by Our command, and We enjoined on them the doing of good, observance of Prayer and the giving of alms. They were all Our devoted servants. To Lot also we gave wisdom and knowledge and We delivered him from the city which practised abominations. They were indeed a wicked and rebelious people. We admitted him to Our mercy, surely he was of the righteous. (52-76)
Call to mind Noah, when he called on Us aforetime, and We heard his prayer and delivered him and his family from great distress, and helped him against his people who rejected Our Signs. They were surely a wicked people, so We drowned them all. (77-78)
Call to mind David and Solomon, when they exercised their judgment concerning the crop which had been destroyed by a mob and We were witness to their judgment. We gave Solomon the right understanding of the matter, and upon each We bestowed wisdom and knowledge. We constrained to David's service the people of the mountains who celebrated the praises of Allah, and also the birds. We had power to do all this. We taught him the fashioning of coats of mail for you, to protect you in battle. Will you then be grateful? We constrained to Solomon's service the fierce wind, which blew at his bidding towards the land which We had blessed. We are fully conversant with all things. We also subjected to him expert divers who dived for him and performed other tasks; and it was We who watched over them. (79-83)
Call to mind Job when he called on his Lord: I have been afflicted with distress and Thou art the Most Merciful of all who show mercy. So We heard his prayer and removed the distress from which he suffered and bestowed upon him his family, and the like thereof with them as a mercy from Us, and as a reminder for those devoted to Our worship. (84-85)
Call to mind also Ishmael and Idris and Dhul-Kifl. All of them were steadfast, and We admitted them to Our mercy. Surely, they were of the righteous. (86-87)
Call to mind also Dhul Nun, when he went away in dudgeon, but was sure in his mind that We would not cause him distress, and he cried out in the midst of his afflictions: There is no god except Thee, Holy art Thou. I have indeed been a wrongdoer. So We heard his prayer and delivered him from sorrow. Thus do We deliver those who believe. (86-89)
Call to mind Zachariah also when he called on his Lord: Leave me not alone, Lord, Thou art the Best of heirs. So We heard his prayer and bestowed upon him Yahya, and made his wife whole for his sake. They used to hasten to do good and they called on Us in hope and in fear, and they humbled themselves before Us. (90-91)
Call to mind her also who safeguarded her chastity; so We blessed her with Our revelation and We made her and her son a Sign for peoples. (92)
These your people are one people and I am your Lord, so worship Me alone. They have cut up the teachings of the Prophets into bits; but they will all return to Us. Whoever works righteousness, being a believer, his effort will not be disregarded and We shall surely record it. (93-95)
It is ordained for every township We have destroyed that its dwellers shall not return to this life. When Gog and Magog are let loose, and they spread out leaping across every barrier of land and sea and the true promise of Allah draws nigh, the eyes of those who disbelieved will stare fixedly, and they will exclaim: Woe unto us, we were indeed heedless of this; nay, we were wrongdoers. They will be told:
Surely, you and that which you worship beside Allah, are destined to be the fuel of hell. You will also enter therein.
If these had been gods, as you allege, they would not have come to it; but long will they abide therein. Screaming will be their lot therein, and they will not be able to lend ear to admonition. Those who have been promised a good reward by Us, will be removed far from it. They will not hear the slightest sound thereof; and they will abide in a state of bliss that their souls desire. The Great Terror will not grieve them, and the angels will greet them with: This is your day that you were promised. Be mindful of the day when We shall roll up the heavens like the rolling up of the scrolls by a scribe. As We began the first creation, so shall We repeat it. We have charged Ourself with it, and so shall We do. (96-105)
We have recorded in the Book of David, after the exhortation, that My righteous servants shall inherit the Land. Herein, surely, is a message for those who are devoted to worship. We have sent thee only as a mercy for the universe. (106-108)
Proclaim: It has been revealed to me that your God is but One God. Will you then submit? If they turn away, tell them: I have warned you all alike and I know not whether that which you are promised is near or distant. Allah surely knows that which you say openly and also knows that which you conceal. Nor do I know whether that which you are promised is a trial for you, or is an enjoyment for a while. On this the Prophet prayed: Lord, judge Thou with truth. Our Lord is the Gracious One Whose help is to be sought against that which you assert. (109-113)

Chapter 22
Al-Hajj
revealed after Hijra
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In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Ever Merciful.
O people, be mindful of your duty to your Lord; verily the earthquake of the Judgment is a tremendous thing. On that day, every woman giving suck shall forget her suckling and every pregnant woman shall cast her burden; and everyone will appear intoxicated, while they will not be intoxicated, but the chastisement of Allah will be severe indeed. There are some among men who dispute concerning Allah without knowledge and follow every rebellious misguided one, concerning whom it is decreed that whosoever makes friends with him, he will lead him astray and will guide him to the torment of the Fire. (2-5)
O people, if you are in doubt concerning being raised up again, then consider that We created you from dust, then from a sperm-drop, then from clotted blood, then from a lump of flesh, formed and unformed. We cause that which We will to stay in the wombs for an appointed term, then We bring you forth as babes; then We cause you to grow that you may attain to your full strength. Then some of you die and some of you reach extreme old age, when after having acquired much knowedge you become empty of it. You obser