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Part XIX

SECTION 3
21. Those who entertain no fear about being present before Us, nor do they expect it, say, `Why should not the angels be sent down to us? Or we see our Lord?' They have indeed thought very highly of themselves and have exceeded all limits of transgression.
22. (Do they not realize that) the day when they will see the angels there will be no good tidings that day for those who cut off their ties (with God), and they will say (in distress), `Would that there were some strong barrier (between us and this punishment).'
23. And We have turned (Our attention) to whatsoever attempt they have made (against Islam) and so We will render this (attempt) like thin dust particles scattered about (as it was in the battle of Badr).
24. (Only) the owners of Paradise will be better off with regard to (their) abode and happier still in respect of (their) place of repose.
25. (Call to mind) the day when the heaven shall burst and melt into raining clouds and the angels shall be made to descend in large numbers;
26. The true sovereignty that day shall belong only to the Most Gracious (God) and it shall be really a (very) hard day for the disbelievers.
27. On that day the unjust shall bite his hands (in regret); he will say, `If only I had followed the (same) path along with the Messenger!
28. `Ah, woe is me! would that I had not made friends with so and so.
29. `He indeed led me astray from this source of rising to eminence (- the Qur'ân) after it had come to me. And satan is ever a deserter of human being (in the hour of need).
30. And (on that Day) the Messenger will say, `My Lord! my people treated even this Qur'ân (full of blessings) as (a thing) abandoned.
31. (Just as We have turned them into your enemies) so do We make those who cut off their ties (with Allâh) as the enemies of each and every Prophet. Yet your Lord is sufficient to guide and (enough) in respect of rendering help.
32. And those who disbelieve say, `Why has not (the whole of) the Qur'ân been revealed to him all at once? (But We have revealed it) in this manner (- piece by piece out of necessity). And (inspite of the fact that it has not been revealed all at once,) We have arranged it in an excellent (form and order of) arrangement (and free of all contradictions) so that We may thereby lend strength to your heart.
33. They bring you no parable (by way of an objection) but We have provided you with the true fact and perfect interpretation (of it, in answer to the objection beforehand).
34. And those who shall be brought to Gehenna dragged on their faces (and along with their leaders) are the worst placed and they have completely lost the straight path.

SECTION 4
35. And We gave Moses the Scripture and made with him his brother Aaron a sharer of (his) burden.
36. We said, `Go both of you to the people who have cried lies to Our commandments. Then (when they had accomplished their mission of conveying the Message and were again rejected) We destroyed these disbelievers with an utter destruction.
37. And (We destroyed) the people of Noah (too), when they treated (Our) Messengers as liars, We drowned them and made them a sign (to learn a lesson from) for mankind. Indeed We have in store a woeful punishment for (such of) the wrongdoers.
38. And (tribes of) `âd and Thamûd and the People of the Rass and many a generation in between them (were all destroyed).
39. And for (the guidance of) each one (of them) We quoted excellent pieces of advice and (when they still persisted in refusal) We ruined each one of them, a complete ruination.
40. And certainly these (Makkan disbelievers) pass by the (ruined) township (of Sodom situated on the highway between Arabia and Syria) which suffered a painful rain (of stones). Have they not been seeing (the ruins of) this (township of the people of Lot). Why, they have been, (but the reason behind their refusal is) they do not (believe and) expect not to be resurrected (after death and to be called to account for their deeds).
41. And Whenever they see you they treat you disdainfully (saying), `What! is this the man whom Allâh has raised for

a Messenger?
42. `He indeed had well-nigh led us astray from our gods if we had not adhered to them steadfastly.' And they shall soon know for certain, when they see the punishment who had completely lost the straight path.
43. Have you considered (over the plight of) one who has taken his own low desires for his deity? Can you then be a guardian over such a one?
44. Do you think that most of these (opponents) can hear and understand (what you say)? They are only like cattle, rather they are even worse in their ways and behaviour.
SECTION 5
45. Do you not see (the wonderful doing of) your Lord how He stretches the shadow? If He had pleased He could have made it still. Not only that (We stretch the shadow) We make (the position of) the sun its indicator.
46. Then (as the sun rises higher in the sky), We withdraw it (- the shadow) to Ourselves; a gradual withdrawing.
47. It is He Who has made the night as a covering mantle for you and (Who has made) sleep for (a short) rest (as well as a sign of eternal rest - the death), and (has made) the day for rising up and going about (to seek livelihood and also a sign of Resurrection).
48. And it is He Who sends the winds as happy heralds of His mercy, and We send down from above water (also representing Divine revelation) for the purification (of the souls as well).
49. That We may thereby bring the dead land to life and give it as a drink to (most of the things) whom We have created, beasts and mankind in large numbers.
50. And We have explained this (topic) to them in diverse ways so that they may take heed, but most of the people would refuse (to adopt any other attitude) except (that of) disbelief.
51. If We had so willed We would surely have raised (in place of universal Prophethood) a Warner in every town.
52. So do not follow the disbelievers, and strive hard against them with the help of this (Qur'ân), a mighty striving.
53. It is He Who has let the two spans of water loose to flow, one of them (- a river) sweet and thirst-quenching while the other (a sea) saltish (and) bitter, and He has set a barrier and an insurmountable partition between them; (still both exist side by side in the world and would continue).
54. And it is He Who created human being from water and has given him relations by descent and (kindred) by marriage (and thus sought to establish a civilization and social life based on oneness of humanity under oneness of God). And your Lord is All-Powerful.
55. Yet they (- the disbelievers) worship apart from Allâh the things which can neither do them good nor avert harm from them. And the disbeliever is ever a helper (of the upholders of the cause of untruth) against his Lord.
56. But We have sent you only as a Bearer of happy tidings (to the doers of good) and as a Warner ( to the wicked and the unjust).
57. Say, `I ask of you no recompense for it (- the services I render). All that I ask is that whosoever chooses may follow the path (that leads) to his Lord.'
58. Hence put your trust in the Ever-Living (God) Who is free from death, and glorify His holiness along with (celebrating) His praise and (also tell,) `Sufficient is He as being Well-Aware of the short-comings of His servants.'
59. It is He Who created the heavens and the earth and all that lies between them in six aeons. Besides He is firmly established on the Throne (of Power). He is the Most Gracious (God). And ask concerning Him one who knows (- the Prophet Muhammad).
60. And when it is said to them, `Prostrate (to show submission) to the Most Gracious (God).' They say, `What (thing) is this the Most Gracious (God)? Shall we prostrate to whatever you bid us to show submission?' So this (bidding of the Prophet to submit to the Lord) increased them in aversion (to the truth).
[Prostration]

SECTION 6
61. Blessed is He Who has placed stars in the heaven and has set in it the glowing sun (that produces light) and the glittering moon (that reflects light).
62. And it is He Who has made the night and the day, one following the other; (He has done it) for (the benefit of) the person who would care to receive exhortation and who would care to be grateful.
63. Those alone are the true servants of the Most Gracious (God) who walk upon the earth in all humility, (but in a dignified manner), and when the ignorant address them, they (do not wrangle but) observe a peaceful attitude.
64. And who pass the nights for the sake of their Lord prostrating and standing up (before Him in Prayer).
65. And who say (while praying), `Our Lord, avert from us the punishment of Gehenna, for its punishment is indeed most vehement and unshakable.

66. `It is of course, an evil place to lodge temporarily and an evil abode to remain therein permanently.'
67. And (the true servants of God are those) who, when spending, are neither extravagant nor niggardly, (but their spendings follow) a middle course, ever moderate;
68. And who invoke none as god along with Allâh and who do not kill anyone whom Allâh has forbidden (to be killed), except for a just and lawful cause, and who do not commit fornication and adultery; and he who does (these things) shall meet the punishment of (his) sin.
69. His punishment shall be doubled on the Day of Resurrection. Humiliated and disgraced he shall suffer the punishment for long.
70. Different however shall be the case of him who turns (to God in repentance) and believes and does righteous deeds. For such people only Allâh will replace their evil deeds with good ones. And Allâh is Great Protector, Most Merciful.
71. And he who turns (to God in sincere repentance) and accordingly does righteous deeds, no doubt he turns to Allâh in proper and true repentance.
72. And those who do not give false evidence and when they pass by something vain they (do not indulge in it, but) pass on with dignity.
73. And who do not shut their ears and eyes to the commandments of their Lord (but listen to them attentively and with their eyes open) when they are reminded of them (so that their belief is based on conviction and not on mere hearsay).
74. And who (in their prayers) say, `Grant that our wives and our children be (a source of) comfort for (our) eyes and make us a model for those who guard against evil.'
75. It is such of those who will be rewarded the highest place (in Paradise) for their fortitude and they will be received therein with greeting and salutation of peace.
76. They will abide therein (for ever). How excellent it is as a lodging place (to rest) and how noble as an abode for permanent stay.
77. Say (to the disbelievers), `My Lord will not hold you to be of any worth if you do not call on Him (in your prayers seeking His protection). Since you cried lies (to the word of God), so you must now encounter a lasting punishment.'

Chapter
26
Al-Shu`arâ'
(The Poets)
(Revealed before Hijrah)

With the name of Allâh,
the Most Gracious, the Ever Merciful
(I commence to read Sûrah Al-Shu`arâ').
1. Tâ Sîn Mîm - Allâh is Benign, All-Hearing and All-Knowing.
2. These are the verses of the perfect Book which tells the right from the wrong (and which also makes the meaning and significance of the verses clear).
3. Perhaps you will consume yourself away (with anxiety) because they do not become believers.
4. If We so please We can send down upon them such a sign from above that their necks would bend (and heads bow down) in submission to it.
5. There never comes to them a fresh Reminder (in a new form and with new details) from the Most Gracious (God) but they turn away from it.
6. Now, when they have cried lies (to the Messages of their Lord and denied the Qur'ân), there will soon come to them the great tidings (about their own doom and predominance of Islam) which they used to take lightly.
7. Do they not see the earth, how many excellent and useful things of all species We have caused to grow on it?
8. Indeed, there is a sign in this, yet most of them would not believe.
9. And your Lord, of course, He is the All-Mighty, the Ever Merciful.

SECTION 2
10. And (recall the time) when your Lord called to Moses (directing him ), `Go to the wrongdoing people,
11. `The people of Pharaoh (and say to them), "Will they not guard against evil?'"
12. (Moses) said, `My Lord! I am afraid they will cry me lies.
13. `And my bosom straitens, (and my heart fails me), and my tongue is not fluent (for feeling inadequate to deliver

the message I am entrusted with), therefore send to Aaron (to help me).
14. `Moreover, they have a charge (of the murder of an Egyptian) against me, so I fear they will kill me (before I am able to deliver Your Message to them).'
15. (The Lord) said, `That shall not be, go then both of you, with Our Messages and We are assuredly with you listening (to your prayers).
16. `Go to Pharaoh both of you and say, "We are bearers of a Message from the Lord of the worlds.
17. "(Who commands you) to send the Children of Israel with us".'
18. (So when Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh) he said (to Moses), `Did we not bring you up among us when you were a mere babe? And you stayed with us many years of your life.
19. `And you have surely committed an act (of homicide), and you are of the ungrateful.'
20. (Moses) said, `Indeed I did it (then inadvertently and) as I was lost (for the love of my people and was in a perplexed state of mind).
21. `So I fled from you when I apprehended (injustice from) you; then (it came to pass that) my Lord granted me knowledge and (right) judgment and made me (one) of the Messengers.
22. `And this insignificant favour (of your bringing me up) that you (so tauntingly) remind me of (can be no reasonable excuse) for you have enslaved (the whole community of) the Children of Israel (for no fault of theirs).'
23. Pharaoh (was confounded and turning the topic of the conversation) said, `What is (this) Lord of the world (by whom you claim to be sent?)'
24. (Moses) said, `(In respect of apace) He is the Lord of the heavens and the earth and of all that lies between the two; if you (and your companions) be convinced (of this true knowledge and have faith in Him).'
25. (Thereupon Pharaoh) said to those around him, `Do you not hear (what is being said)?'
26. (Moses continued, `He is the same Who is) your Lord and the Lord of your fathers of yore.'
27. (Pharaoh) said, `Most surely, this Messenger of yours who has been sent to you is a mad man indeed.'
28. (Moses) said (continuing his speech), `(In respect of time the Lord of the worlds is the same as) the Lord of the east and of the west and of all that lies between the two. (You can be rightly guided) if you could only use your senses.'
29. (Pharaoh) said, `If you worship any god other than me, I will certainly make you one of the imprisoned.'
30. (Moses) said, `(Will you do this,) even though I bring to you something that makes (the truth of my statement) clear to you?'
31. (Pharaoh) said, `Bring it then, if you are of the truthful.'
32. So he put his staff (on the ground) and behold, it was a serpent plainly visible.
33. And he stuck his hand out and lo! it was (shining) white to the beholders.

SECTION 3
34. (Pharaoh) said to the courtiers around him, `This (man) is surely a skilled sorcerer,
35. `Who seeks to turn you out of your country by dint of his sorcery. Now, what do you advise?'
36. They said, `Detain him and his brother for a while and send heralds into the cities to collect;
37. `And bring to you all skilled and very expert sorcerers.'
38. So the sorcerers were gathered together at the appointed time and place on a fixed day.
39. And it was said to the people, `Will you (also) assemble together (in the field of contest);
40. `So that we may follow the sorcerers if they win clear supremacy.'
41. So when all the sorcerers came they said to Pharaoh, `Shall we be really and richly rewarded if we gain clear supremacy?'
42. He said, `Yes, and surely you will in that case be among my close companions.'
43. Moses said to them, `(Now) put forward (of your things of sorcery), what you have to put forward.'
44. So they put down (on the ground) their ropes and their staffs and said, `By Pharaoh's honour and might it is we who will certainly be the winners.'
45. Then Moses put down (on the ground) his staff; lo! it instantly destroyed all that they had fabricated.
46. Thereupon the sorcerers were impelled to fall down prostrating;
47. And they said, `We believe in the Lord of the worlds;
48. `The Lord of Moses and Aaron.'
49. (Pharaoh) said, `Have you believed in him before I gave you leave? Indeed he is your chief, the same who taught you sorcery. So you will soon know (your horrible end). I will most surely cut off your hands and your feet on alternate sides for (your this) opposition (to me); and I will crucify you to death one and all.'
50. They said, `It does not matter at all. We have, after all, to return to our Lord.

51. `We do hope that our Lord will forgive us our offences, since we are the first to believe.'

SECTION 4
52. And We revealed to Moses (directing him), `Take away My servants by night for you shall certainly be pursued.'
53. Pharaoh (when he came to know of the exodus) sent heralds to the towns to collect (troops and announce saying),
54. `These (Israelites) are indeed a despicable party, a few in number,
55. `Yet they have offended us (by defying us and making good their escape),
56. `And we are, (as compared with them,) a united multitude, fully equipped and vigilant.'
57. So We made them (- Pharaoh and his troops) leave the land of gardens and springs,
58. As well as (every place with) treasures and every abode of honour (and grandeur).
59. That is what We did (for their wrong- doings). And We gave (the like of) these (- gardens and springs) as a free gift to the Children of Israel.
60. And they (- the hosts of Pharaoh) pursued them at sunrise.
61. And when the two hosts sighted each other the companions of Moses said, `We are surely overtaken.'
62. (Moses) said, `No, not at all, my Lord is with me, He will lead me out of the impasse (and to safety).'
63. Then We revealed to Moses (saying), `Strike the sea with your staff. (And as he did) so it parted, and each part (of the two hosts) looked like a huge mound.
64. And We caused the others (the pursuers, the people of Pharaoh,) draw near the same place.
65. And We saved Moses and those who were with him all together.
66. Then We drowned the others.
67. Behold! there is a (marvelous) sign in this (episode), yet most of them would not be believers.
68. And indeed your Lord, He is the All-Mighty (to crush His enemies), the Ever Merciful (towards His servants).

SECTION 5
69. And narrate to them the important event (of the life) of Abraham.
70. When he said to his sire and his people, `What things are those which you worship?'
71. `We worship idols and will remain constantly devoted to them,' said they.
72. Abraham said, `Can they listen to you when you call (on them)?
73. `Or can they do you good or avert harm from you?'
74. They said, `Nay, it is not so, but we found our fathers doing likewise.'
75. (Abraham) said, `But have you (ever) considered what you have been worshipping,
76. `You and your fathers before you,
77. `They are (all) enemies to me. Different however is the case of the Lord of the world (Who is kind to me).
78. `He has created me and it is He Who will guide me to reach the goal.
79. `And Who gives me food and drink,
80. `And Who restores me to health, (through His grace and mercy), whenever I am taken ill (due to some fault of mine),
81. `And Who will call me to death and then will raise me to life (again).
82. `And Who, I eagerly hope, will protect me from (the undesirable consequences of) my faults on the Day of Requital.'
83. (Abraham then turned to his Lord and said,) `My Lord! grant me strong and right judgment and make me follow and join the righteous.
84. `And ordain for me a noble, true and lasting reputation among posterity;
85. `And make me one of the heirs of the Garden of Great Bliss.
86. `And protect my sire (- âzar against his faults), he is of course of the erring ones.
87. `And do not put me to shame and disgrace on the day when people will be resurrected,
88. `The day when wealth will not avail, nor sons (be of any good),
89. `But (he alone will be saved) who comes to Allâh with a sound and pure heart.'
90. (The day when) Paradise will be brought near to those who guard against evil,
91. And Gehenna shall be unveiled and placed in full view to those (wretched ones) who had deviated from the right path;
92. And who shall be asked, `Where are (your deities) that you worshipped,
93. `Apart from Allâh? Can they come to your help or inflict punishment?'
94. Then they (- the false deities) shall all be hurled headlong into the depths of it (- the Hell), again and again, and along with them all those (wretched fellows) who had deviated from the right path.
95. And the supporters of Iblîs all together.
96. They will say disputing therein (- in the Hell) among themselves,

97. `By Allâh! we were certainly in manifest (and deep) error,
98. `In holding you (- deities) as equal with the Lord of the worlds,
99. `And none but those who cut off their ties with Allâh led us astray,
100. `So that (now) we have none of the intercessors,
101. `Nor any warm-hearted true friend.
102. `Could we have but another (chance to) return (to the world) then we would surely become of the (true) believers.'
103. Verily, there is a remarkable sign in this (episode of Abraham's life), yet most of the people would not be believers.
104. And of course your Lord, He is the All-Mighty (to crush and obliterate His enemies and), the Ever Merciful (to the supporters of true faith).

SECTION 6
105. The people of Noah cried lies to the Messengers.
106. (Recall the time) when their kinsman Noah said to them, `Will you not guard against evil?
107. `Surely, I am to you a Messenger, faithful to (my) trust.
108. `So take Allâh as a shield and obey me.
109. `And I ask no reward from you for it (- the delivery of the Message of God). My reward lies with the Lord of the worlds alone.
110. `So take Allâh as a shield and obey me.'
111. They (- the disbelievers) said, `Shall we believe in you whereas (we see that) only the people of a very low status follow you?'
112. He said, `I have no knowledge what (good) deeds they did (in the past that now they have the honour to accept the truth).
113. `It is only up to my Lord to call them to account; if you could but perceive.
114. `I cannot drive away the believers (thinking them to be of low status).
115. `I am but a plain Warner.'
116. `Noah!' they said, `If you do not desist, you shall be excommunicated or done away with.'
117. (Noah) said (praying), `My Lord! my people have treated me as a liar,
118. `So judge between me and them, a decisive judgment, and deliver me and the believers who are with me.'
119. So We delivered him and all those who were with him by means of the fully-laden Ark.
120. Then after that We drowned the remaining ones.
121. Behold! there is a great sign in this (episode), yet most of them would not be believers.
122. And indeed your Lord, He is the All-Mighty, the Ever Merciful.

SECTION 7
123. (The tribe of) `âd (too) cried lies to the Messengers (sent to them).
124. (Recall the time) when their kinsman Hûd said to them, `Will you not guard against evil?
125. `Surely, I am to you a Messenger; faithful to (my) trust.
126. `Therefore take Allâh as a shield and obey me.
127. `I ask no reward from you for this (service I render). My reward lies only with the Lord of the worlds.
128. `What is (wrong with you)? You build a monument on every prominent place, in vain you do it.
129. `And you raise fortresses in the hope that you will abide till long.
130. `And when you lay hold (on anyone), you do it like tyrants.
131. `You should take Allâh as a shield and obey me.
132. `And take Him as a shield Who has helped you with all (the favours and blessings) that you know of.
133. `He has helped you with cattle and sons,
134. `And gardens and springs.
135. `Indeed, I fear lest the punishment of an awful day should befall you.'
136. They said, `It makes no difference with us whether you admonish us or be not of the admonishers.
137. `This way (of admonition) is merely the manner of the ancients.
138. `And we are not at all going to be punished.'
139. Thus they cried him lies and We destroyed them. There is indeed, a remarkable sign in this (episode), yet most of them would not be believers.

140. And infact your Lord, He is the All-Mighty (to crush and obliterate His enemies), and the Ever Merciful (towards His obedient servants).
SECTION 8
141. (The tribe of) Thamûd (too) cried lies to the Messengers.
142. (Recall the time) when their kinsman Sâlih said to them, `Will you not guard against evil?
143. `Surely, I am to you a Messenger, faithful to (my) trust.
144. `So take Allâh as a shield and obey me.
145. `I ask no reward from you for this (service I render). My reward lies with the Lord of the worlds alone.
146. `(Do you think that) you will be left in peace amidst all (enjoyable things) which you have here,
147. `Amidst gardens and springs,
148. `And cornfields and date-palms having (fine and heavy) spathes near breaking.
149. `And you hew out houses in the mountains with great skill and elated with your greatness.
150. `Take Allâh as a shield and obey me.
151. `And do not obey the biddings of those who exceed the bounds.
152. `Who create disorder in the country and set not (things) in order (to promote security and peace).'
153. They said, `You are merely one of those (mortals) who are (dependent on being) given food.
154. `You are nothing but a human being like ourselves. So bring (us) a sign if you are of the truthful.'
155. (Sâlih) said, `Here is a she-camel. She will have her share of water (at the water-course), while you will have your share of water at a time appointed (for you).
156. `And you shall do her no harm otherwise the punishment of an awful day shall befall you.'
157. Notwithstanding (all this warning) they hamstrung her and then they became regretful.
158. Consequently (the threatened) punishment overtook them. Behold! there is a remarkably great sign in this (episode); yet most of them would not be believers.
159. And indeed your Lord, He is the All-Mighty, the Ever Merciful.

SECTION 9
160. And the people of Lot cried lies to the Messengers.
161. (Recall the time) when their kinsman Lot said to them, `Will you not guard against evil?
162. `Verily, I am to you a Messenger, faithful to (my) trust.
163. `So take Allâh as a shield and obey me.
164. `And I ask no reward from you for this (service I render). My reward lies with the Lord of the worlds alone.
165. `(Is it not true that) of all people you alone approach males (for sexual satisfaction),
166. `And leave that (abode of love) which your Lord has created for you in your wives. `Nay, (the real fact is) you are a people who know no limits.'
167. They said, `If you desist not (of admonishing us for sodomy) O Lot! you shall indeed be of the banished ones.'
168. He said, `I surely abhor your practice (of going to males),
169. `My Lord! save me and my followers from (the evil consequences) of their deeds.'
170. So We saved him and his followers, all of them,
171. Except an old woman (- wife of Lot), who was among those who stayed behind,
172. Then We destroyed the others.
173. And We pelted them with a terrible rain (of stones). Look! how terrible was the rain (that descended) upon those who were warned.
174. There is a great sign in this (episode), yet most of them would not be believers.
175. And indeed your Lord, He is the All-Mighty, the Ever Merciful.

SECTION 10
176. The dwellers of the Wood (in Midian) cried lies to the Messengers.
177. (Recall) when Shu`aib said to them, `Will you not guard against evil?
178. `Indeed, I am to you a Messenger, faithful to (my) trust.
179. `Therefore take Allâh for (your) shield and obey me.
180. `And I ask no reward from you for it (- the services I render). Surely, my reward lies with the Lord of the worlds alone.
181. `Give full measure and be not of those who give short;
182. `And weigh with even and balanced scales.

183. `And do not defraud people of their things. Do not go about acting corruptly, creating disorder in the country.
184. `Take Him Who has created you and former generations as a shield.'
185. They said, `You are simply of those who stand in need of being given food.
186. `And you are but a human being like ourselves; as a matter of fact we believe you to be of the liars.
187. `So let a fragment of the cloud fall upon us (by way of punishment) if you are of the truthful.'
188. (Shu`aib thereupon) said, `My Lord knows best all that you do.'
189. Yet they cried him lies, so the punishment of the gloomy day with dark overshadowing clouds overtook them; it was indeed the punishment of an awful day.
190. Behold! there is a great sign in this (episode), yet most of them would not be believers.
191. Though infact your Lord, He is the All-Mighty, the Ever Merciful
.

SECTION 11
192. And verily this (Qur'ân) is a revelation from the Lord of the worlds.
193. The Spirit, Faithful to the Trust (- Gabriel) has descended with it.
194. (Revealing it) to your heart with the result that you became of the Warners (- a Prophet of God);
195. (The Qur'ân has been revealed) in plain and clear Arabic language.
196. Verily, it (is the Book which) finds mention in the Scriptures of the earlier peoples.
197. Is it not a sufficient proof for them that the learned among the Children of Israel recognize it (- the Qur'ân)?
198. And if We had revealed it to one of the non-Arabs,
199. And he had recited this (eloquent word of God in Arabic) to them, (even then) they would never have believed in it.
200. That is how We cause it (- the disbelief) take root in the hearts of those who cut off their ties (with God),
201. (That) they will not believe in it until they see the grievous punishment.
202. So this (punishment) will come upon them all of a sudden (taking them unaware), while they do not perceive (and calculate it).
203. They will say then, `Shall we be given some respite?'
204. Is that why they seek to expedite Our punishment?
205. Do you not see that even if We let them enjoy (worldly bounties) for some more years,
206. And then that (punishment) with which they are threatened befalls them;
207. That (respite) which they were allowed to enjoy will be of no avail to them?
208. And never did We destroy (any people of) a township but it had (its) Warners;
209. So that they may be admonished and We are never unjust.
210. It was not the evil ones who have brought this (Qur'ân) down.
211. It does neither suit them nor have they the power (to reveal it).
212. Infact, they (- the evil ones) are precluded from listening (to the Divine revelation).
213. Therefore call on no god beside Allâh, for (if you do) you will become of those who are (severely) punished.
214. And (Prophet!) warn your nearest kinsmen,
215. And be gentle and affectionate to the believers who follow you.
216. But if they (- your kinsmen) disobey you, say (to them), `Surely, I am not responsible for what you do.'
217. And put your trust in the All-Mighty, the Ever Merciful (God),
218. Who sees you (at the time) when you stand up (in Prayer, and also for calling the people to the right path).
219. And (Who sees) your moving about among those (Companions) who prostrate themselves (before the All-Mighty Lord).
220. Verily, He is the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing
221. Shall I tell you to whom the evil ones appear?
222. They appear to every habitual and hardened liar (and) great sinner;
223. Who listen eagerly (to what the evil ones say), yet mostly they tell them lies.
224. And (as for) the poets, it is the erring ones who follow them.
225. Do you not see how they wander distracted in every valley,
226. And they say (such things) which they do not practice (themselves),
227. Except those (poets) who believe and do deeds of righteousness and who mention the greatness of Allâh over and over again and who retaliate (and defend themselves) only after they are done injustice to. Behold! those who acted unjustly will soon know to what (a wretched) end they are heading for.

Chapter
27
Al-Naml
(The Tribe of Naml)
(Revealed before Hijrah)

With the name of Allâh,
the Most Gracious, the Ever Merciful
(I commence to read Sûrah Al-Naml).
1. Tâ Sîn - I am the Benign, the All-Hearing (God). These are the verses of the Qur'ân, of the Book that tells the right from the wrong and makes (the truth) manifest.
2. (It is) a guidance and good tidings to the believers;
3. Who observe Prayer and (regularly) spend in charity and who are such people as have firm faith in the Hereafter.
4. (As to those) who do not believe in the Hereafter We had made their deeds (they ought to do) fair-seeming to them, but they wander on aimlessly ( making all sorts of blunders).
5. It is they for whom there awaits a grievous punishment. It is these alone who shall be the greatest losers in the Hereafter.
6. And as a matter of fact you are being made to learn the Qur'ân from the presence of the All-Wise, the All-Knowing (God).
7. (Recall) when Moses said to his companions, `Surely I see with feelings of warmth, of love, something like a fire. I will soon bring you some important information from there or at least bring you a flaming brand so that you may warm yourselves.'
8. So when he came (close) to it (- the fire) he was called by a voice, `Blessed be he who is in quest of the fire (of Divine light) and blessed are those around this (place of the fire), Holy is Allâh, the Lord of the worlds.
9. `O Moses! the fact is that I am Allâh, the All-Mighty, the All-Wise.
10. `And put down your staff (on the ground).' When (Moses put down his staff) he saw it shifting about as if it were a tiny serpent with quick movements, he turned his back retreating and did not look behind. (Whereupon We said,) `O Moses! do not fear. Verily, I am the One in Whose presence the Messengers need have no fear.
11. `Nor (does he fear) who acts unjustly and commits some evil deed and then changes over to good after giving up evil. I am to such a person a Great Protector, Ever Merciful, indeed.
12. `And put your hand into your bosom, it will come forth (sparkling) white without any disease. (These are two signs) from among the nine signs (which you shall show) to Pharaoh and his people. They are truly a rebellious people.'
13. But when Our eye-opening signs were shown to them (- Pharaoh and his people) they said, `This is plain witchcraft (to cause disruption among the people).'
14. And they strongly rejected them (- the signs) out of spite and arrogance, although their minds were convinced of (the truth in) them. Look, then how (evil) was the end of those who acted corruptly.

SECTION 2
15. And We granted knowledge to David and Solomon, and they said, `All true and perfect praise belongs to Allâh alone Who has exalted us over many of His believing servants.'
16. And Solomon succeeded David and he said, `O you people! we have been taught the language of the birds (and also the technique of horsemanship), and bestowed with everything (essential for us). This indeed is a distinct favour (of God and His grace).'
17. And there were gathered together before Solomon his hosts comprising of jinn (- haughty) and (ordinary) men and birds and swift footed horses, and they were then arranged in separate well-disciplined columns.
18. (Once he was marching with them) until when they (his armies) reached the valley of (the tribe named) al-Naml, a distinguished Namlite said, `O al-Naml! get into your habitations lest Solomon and his hosts should crush you unknowingly.'
19. Thereupon he (- Solomon) wondered and was pleased with (the good opinion the Namlite expressed about his own and his army's power and piety) and said (praying), `My Lord! rouse me up that I may offer thanks for the favours You have shown me and my forefathers and that I should do such deeds as are righteous and may please You, and count

me through Your mercy with Your righteous servants.'
20. And (once) he reviewed the birds and the (cavalry of) swift running horses and said, `How is it that I do not see (my officer named) Hudhud? Is he deliberately absent?
21. `I will certainly punish him very severely, rather I will execute him or else he must give me some valid excuse (for remaining absent).
22. But he (- Solomon) had not to wait long (before Hudhud came) and said, `I have acquired that information which you do not possess. I have come to you from (the territory of a Yemanite tribe) Saba' with sure and important news (to tell).
23. `I found (there) a (wonderful) woman ruling over them (- the Sabaeans) and she has been given everything (she requires) and owns a magnificent throne.
24. `I (also) found her and her people worshipping the sun instead of Allâh. And satan has made their deeds fair-seeming to them (so that they take pride in their practices), and has thus hindered them from the right way, so that they do not follow true guidance.
25. `And (satan has done this) so that they do not worship Allâh while Allâh is He Who brings to light all that lies hidden in the heavens and the earth and knows all that you (O people!) conceal (in your minds) and all that you make known (of your designs).
26. `Allâh! there is no other, cannot be and will never be One worthy of worship but He, the Lord of the Mighty Throne.'
[Prostration]

27. (Thereupon Solomon) said, `We will now look into it and see whether you have spoken the truth or whether you are of the liars.
28. `Take this letter of mine, deliver it to them (-the people of Saba') then withdraw from them and wait what (answer) they make in return,
29. (When the Queen saw the letter) she said, `Chieftains! there has been delivered to me a noble letter.
30. `It is from Solomon and it says, "With the name of Allâh, the Most Gracious, the Ever Merciful (I commence to write to you).
31. "Do not rise up against me but come to me (surrendering yourselves) in submission".'

SECTION 3
32. She said, `Chieftains! give me your sound and mature advice in the matter which confronts me, (for) I decide no important matter except when you are present with me (to advise).'
33. They said, `We are a people possessing (extraordinary) power and are gallant fighters; but as for the decision it rests with you, therefore you may thoroughly consider what order you want to give.'
34. She said, `Surely, when the kings enter a township (as invaders) they ruin it and reduce its most honourable residents to the most degraded positions. And such indeed will be their (- of Solomon and his men's) ways.
35. `I am going to send them a (significant) gift and shall wait to see what (answer) the envoys bring back.'
36. So when he (- the Queen's envoy) came (with the present) to Solomon he (- Solomon) said, `Do you mean to help me with (your) wealth? Well, what Allâh has given me is far better than what He has given you. You seem to be rather proud of your gift.
37. `Go back to them (and tell your people that), we shall certainly come down upon them with hosts they have no power to withstand and we shall, surely, drive them out from there (- their country) disgraced, while they are subjugated?'
38. (Later on addressing his courtiers Solomon) said, `Nobles! which one of you will bring me a throne befitting her (- the Queen) before they come to me surrendering in submission.'
39. A stalwart from among the jinn said, `I will bring it to you (prepared as you desire), before you rise and depart from your place of encampment. Surely, I am strong and expert enough (to accomplish this task and can be) trusted (with it).'
40. One (Israelite) who had knowledge of the Scripture said, `I will bring it to you before your Yemanite (noble guests) come to you.' And when he (- Solomon) saw it (- the throne) set before him he said, `This is due to the grace of my Lord; so that He may reveal my inner self to show whether I am grateful (for all His favours) or ungrateful. Indeed, he who thanks, his thanksgiving is for his own good, and he who shows ingratitude (let him remember that) My Lord is truly Self-Sufficient (and is in need of no praise), Oft-Generous (and Noble in His own right).'
41. He (further) said, `Make her own (old) throne seem discredited to her (in her own estimation by making this new throne of a very excellent standard). We shall see (thereby) whether she follows the right way (by discarding her old idolatrous throne) or whether she is (one) of those who do not follow the right way.'
42. When she came (to Solomon) it was said to her, `Is your throne like this?' She said, `It is as though it were much

the same. We had been given the knowledge (about your excellence and perfection) before this and we have already surrendered in submission (to you).'
43. And (Solomon) held her back from the things she used to worship apart from Allâh, for she belonged to an unbelieving people.
44. It was said to her, `Enter the palace.' And when she saw it she took it for a great expanse of water. She was greatly perturbed. (Solomon) said, `It is a palace paved smooth with slabs of glass.' She (realizing the truth that she worshipped outward objects like the sun in place of Reality, the true God,) said, `My Lord! I have done injustice to myself and (now) I submit myself through Solomon to Allâh, the Lord of the worlds.'

SECTION 4
45. And (likewise) We sent to Thamûd their kinsman Sâlih, (who said), `Worship Allâh.' But (as soon as they heard this preaching) they broke up into two factions who contended with each another.
46. He said, `O my people! why do you seek to hasten on evil, rather than good, (and you ask for a sign of destruction instead of that of bliss for you)? Why do you not ask for Allâh's protection so that you may be shown mercy?'
47. They said, `We have suffered due to you and your companions.' (Sâlih) said, `Your deeds and true cause of your sufferings is with Allâh (Who is punishing you for your evil deeds). Nay, you are a people who are being tried (to distinguish the good of you from the bad).
48. And there were in the city a gang of nine (persons) who had upset the order and peace in the country and would not reform (themselves).
49. They said one to another, `Let us swear by Allâh that we will surely make a raid on him (-Sâlih) and his family by night and then we will say to his claimant (- the next of kin, if he seeks vengeance) that we were not present at the time and place of the destruction of his family and most surely we speak the truth.'
50. And they hatched a plot and We likewise brought forth a counter plan of which they were not aware (that their plotting would go in vain).
51. Look, then how (evil) was the end their planning met; We utterly destroyed them and their people one and all.
52. So their houses are lying deserted over there because of their acting unjustly. Indeed, in this (episode) there is a great sign for a people who would know.
53. (Whereas We destroyed them,) We saved those who had believed and used to guard against evil.
54. And (We also sent) Lot (as a Messenger). (Recall) when he said to his people, `Do you commit obscenity while you see (the evil thereof).
55. `What! (is it true) you approach men instead of (your) women to satisfy (your) lust? Nay, you are indeed a people who act senselessly.'
56. But his people had no reply except that they said, `Drive the followers of Lot out of your township. They are a people who would pose (and parade) to be extra pure and righteous (internally and externally).'
57. So the result was that We saved him and his followers except his wife. We had ordained about her (for her foul deeds) to be with those who stayed behind (and thus would not be saved).
58. And We pelted them with a terrible rain (of stones). So (look,) how evil was the rain which descended upon those who had been warned!

SECTION 5
59. Say, `All kind of true and perfect praise belongs to Allâh. And peace be upon those of His servants whom He has chosen.' Who is to be preferred, Allâh or the things they associate (with Him)?



	Part XIX SECTION 3 21. Those who entertain no fear about being present before Us, nor do they expect it, say, `Why should not the angels be sent down to us? Or we see our Lord?' They have indeed thought very highly of themselves and have exceeded all limits of transgression. 22. (Do they not realize that) the day when they will see the angels there will be no good tidings that day for those who cut off their ties (with God), and they will say (in distress), `Would that there were some strong barrier (between us and this punishment).' 23. And We have turned (Our attention) to whatsoever attempt they have made (against Islam) and so We will render this (attempt) like thin dust particles scattered about (as it was in the battle of Badr). 24. (Only) the owners of Paradise will be better off with regard to (their) abode and happier still in respect of (their) place of repose. 25. (Call to mind) the day when the heaven shall burst and melt into raining clouds and the angels shall be made to descend in large numbers; 26. The true sovereignty that day shall belong only to the Most Gracious (God) and it shall be really a (very) hard day for the disbelievers. 27. On that day the unjust shall bite his hands (in regret); he will say, `If only I had followed the (same) path along with the Messenger! 28. `Ah, woe is me! would that I had not made friends with so and so. 29. `He indeed led me astray from this source of rising to eminence (- the Qur'ân) after it had come to me. And satan is ever a deserter of human being (in the hour of need). 30. And (on that Day) the Messenger will say, `My Lord! my people treated even this Qur'ân (full of blessings) as (a thing) abandoned. 31. (Just as We have turned them into your enemies) so do We make those who cut off their ties (with Allâh) as the enemies of each and every Prophet. Yet your Lord is sufficient to guide and (enough) in respect of rendering help. 32. And those who disbelieve say, `Why has not (the whole of) the Qur'ân been revealed to him all at once? (But We have revealed it) in this manner (- piece by piece out of necessity). And (inspite of the fact that it has not been revealed all at once,) We have arranged it in an excellent (form and order of) arrangement (and free of all contradictions) so that We may thereby lend strength to your heart. 33. They bring you no parable (by way of an objection) but We have provided you with the true fact and perfect interpretation (of it, in answer to the objection beforehand). 34. And those who shall be brought to Gehenna dragged on their faces (and along with their leaders) are the worst placed and they have completely lost the straight path. SECTION 4 35. And We gave Moses the Scripture and made with him his brother Aaron a sharer of (his) burden. 36. We said, `Go both of you to the people who have cried lies to Our commandments. Then (when they had accomplished their mission of conveying the Message and were again rejected) We destroyed these disbelievers with an utter destruction. 37. And (We destroyed) the people of Noah (too), when they treated (Our) Messengers as liars, We drowned them and made them a sign (to learn a lesson from) for mankind. Indeed We have in store a woeful punishment for (such of) the wrongdoers. 38. And (tribes of) `âd and Thamûd and the People of the Rass and many a generation in between them (were all destroyed). 39. And for (the guidance of) each one (of them) We quoted excellent pieces of advice and (when they still persisted in refusal) We ruined each one of them, a complete ruination. 40. And certainly these (Makkan disbelievers) pass by the (ruined) township (of Sodom situated on the highway between Arabia and Syria) which suffered a painful rain (of stones). Have they not been seeing (the ruins of) this (township of the people of Lot). Why, they have been, (but the reason behind their refusal is) they do not (believe and) expect not to be resurrected (after death and to be called to account for their deeds). 41. And Whenever they see you they treat you disdainfully (saying), `What! is this the man whom Allâh has raised for



	a Messenger? 42. `He indeed had well-nigh led us astray from our gods if we had not adhered to them steadfastly.' And they shall soon know for certain, when they see the punishment who had completely lost the straight path. 43. Have you considered (over the plight of) one who has taken his own low desires for his deity? Can you then be a guardian over such a one? 44. Do you think that most of these (opponents) can hear and understand (what you say)? They are only like cattle, rather they are even worse in their ways and behaviour. SECTION 5 45. Do you not see (the wonderful doing of) your Lord how He stretches the shadow? If He had pleased He could have made it still. Not only that (We stretch the shadow) We make (the position of) the sun its indicator. 46. Then (as the sun rises higher in the sky), We withdraw it (- the shadow) to Ourselves; a gradual withdrawing. 47. It is He Who has made the night as a covering mantle for you and (Who has made) sleep for (a short) rest (as well as a sign of eternal rest - the death), and (has made) the day for rising up and going about (to seek livelihood and also a sign of Resurrection). 48. And it is He Who sends the winds as happy heralds of His mercy, and We send down from above water (also representing Divine revelation) for the purification (of the souls as well). 49. That We may thereby bring the dead land to life and give it as a drink to (most of the things) whom We have created, beasts and mankind in large numbers. 50. And We have explained this (topic) to them in diverse ways so that they may take heed, but most of the people would refuse (to adopt any other attitude) except (that of) disbelief. 51. If We had so willed We would surely have raised (in place of universal Prophethood) a Warner in every town. 52. So do not follow the disbelievers, and strive hard against them with the help of this (Qur'ân), a mighty striving. 53. It is He Who has let the two spans of water loose to flow, one of them (- a river) sweet and thirst-quenching while the other (a sea) saltish (and) bitter, and He has set a barrier and an insurmountable partition between them; (still both exist side by side in the world and would continue). 54. And it is He Who created human being from water and has given him relations by descent and (kindred) by marriage (and thus sought to establish a civilization and social life based on oneness of humanity under oneness of God). And your Lord is All-Powerful. 55. Yet they (- the disbelievers) worship apart from Allâh the things which can neither do them good nor avert harm from them. And the disbeliever is ever a helper (of the upholders of the cause of untruth) against his Lord. 56. But We have sent you only as a Bearer of happy tidings (to the doers of good) and as a Warner ( to the wicked and the unjust). 57. Say, `I ask of you no recompense for it (- the services I render). All that I ask is that whosoever chooses may follow the path (that leads) to his Lord.' 58. Hence put your trust in the Ever-Living (God) Who is free from death, and glorify His holiness along with (celebrating) His praise and (also tell,) `Sufficient is He as being Well-Aware of the short-comings of His servants.' 59. It is He Who created the heavens and the earth and all that lies between them in six aeons. Besides He is firmly established on the Throne (of Power). He is the Most Gracious (God). And ask concerning Him one who knows (- the Prophet Muhammad). 60. And when it is said to them, `Prostrate (to show submission) to the Most Gracious (God).' They say, `What (thing) is this the Most Gracious (God)? Shall we prostrate to whatever you bid us to show submission?' So this (bidding of the Prophet to submit to the Lord) increased them in aversion (to the truth). [Prostration] SECTION 6 61. Blessed is He Who has placed stars in the heaven and has set in it the glowing sun (that produces light) and the glittering moon (that reflects light). 62. And it is He Who has made the night and the day, one following the other; (He has done it) for (the benefit of) the person who would care to receive exhortation and who would care to be grateful. 63. Those alone are the true servants of the Most Gracious (God) who walk upon the earth in all humility, (but in a dignified manner), and when the ignorant address them, they (do not wrangle but) observe a peaceful attitude. 64. And who pass the nights for the sake of their Lord prostrating and standing up (before Him in Prayer). 65. And who say (while praying), `Our Lord, avert from us the punishment of Gehenna, for its punishment is indeed most vehement and unshakable.



	66. `It is of course, an evil place to lodge temporarily and an evil abode to remain therein permanently.' 67. And (the true servants of God are those) who, when spending, are neither extravagant nor niggardly, (but their spendings follow) a middle course, ever moderate; 68. And who invoke none as god along with Allâh and who do not kill anyone whom Allâh has forbidden (to be killed), except for a just and lawful cause, and who do not commit fornication and adultery; and he who does (these things) shall meet the punishment of (his) sin. 69. His punishment shall be doubled on the Day of Resurrection. Humiliated and disgraced he shall suffer the punishment for long. 70. Different however shall be the case of him who turns (to God in repentance) and believes and does righteous deeds. For such people only Allâh will replace their evil deeds with good ones. And Allâh is Great Protector, Most Merciful. 71. And he who turns (to God in sincere repentance) and accordingly does righteous deeds, no doubt he turns to Allâh in proper and true repentance. 72. And those who do not give false evidence and when they pass by something vain they (do not indulge in it, but) pass on with dignity. 73. And who do not shut their ears and eyes to the commandments of their Lord (but listen to them attentively and with their eyes open) when they are reminded of them (so that their belief is based on conviction and not on mere hearsay). 74. And who (in their prayers) say, `Grant that our wives and our children be (a source of) comfort for (our) eyes and make us a model for those who guard against evil.' 75. It is such of those who will be rewarded the highest place (in Paradise) for their fortitude and they will be received therein with greeting and salutation of peace. 76. They will abide therein (for ever). How excellent it is as a lodging place (to rest) and how noble as an abode for permanent stay. 77. Say (to the disbelievers), `My Lord will not hold you to be of any worth if you do not call on Him (in your prayers seeking His protection). Since you cried lies (to the word of God), so you must now encounter a lasting punishment.' Chapter 26 Al-Shu`arâ' (The Poets) (Revealed before Hijrah) With the name of Allâh, the Most Gracious, the Ever Merciful (I commence to read Sûrah Al-Shu`arâ'). 1. Tâ Sîn Mîm - Allâh is Benign, All-Hearing and All-Knowing. 2. These are the verses of the perfect Book which tells the right from the wrong (and which also makes the meaning and significance of the verses clear). 3. Perhaps you will consume yourself away (with anxiety) because they do not become believers. 4. If We so please We can send down upon them such a sign from above that their necks would bend (and heads bow down) in submission to it. 5. There never comes to them a fresh Reminder (in a new form and with new details) from the Most Gracious (God) but they turn away from it. 6. Now, when they have cried lies (to the Messages of their Lord and denied the Qur'ân), there will soon come to them the great tidings (about their own doom and predominance of Islam) which they used to take lightly. 7. Do they not see the earth, how many excellent and useful things of all species We have caused to grow on it? 8. Indeed, there is a sign in this, yet most of them would not believe. 9. And your Lord, of course, He is the All-Mighty, the Ever Merciful. SECTION 2 10. And (recall the time) when your Lord called to Moses (directing him ), `Go to the wrongdoing people, 11. `The people of Pharaoh (and say to them), "Will they not guard against evil?'" 12. (Moses) said, `My Lord! I am afraid they will cry me lies. 13. `And my bosom straitens, (and my heart fails me), and my tongue is not fluent (for feeling inadequate to deliver



	the message I am entrusted with), therefore send to Aaron (to help me). 14. `Moreover, they have a charge (of the murder of an Egyptian) against me, so I fear they will kill me (before I am able to deliver Your Message to them).' 15. (The Lord) said, `That shall not be, go then both of you, with Our Messages and We are assuredly with you listening (to your prayers). 16. `Go to Pharaoh both of you and say, "We are bearers of a Message from the Lord of the worlds. 17. "(Who commands you) to send the Children of Israel with us".' 18. (So when Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh) he said (to Moses), `Did we not bring you up among us when you were a mere babe? And you stayed with us many years of your life. 19. `And you have surely committed an act (of homicide), and you are of the ungrateful.' 20. (Moses) said, `Indeed I did it (then inadvertently and) as I was lost (for the love of my people and was in a perplexed state of mind). 21. `So I fled from you when I apprehended (injustice from) you; then (it came to pass that) my Lord granted me knowledge and (right) judgment and made me (one) of the Messengers. 22. `And this insignificant favour (of your bringing me up) that you (so tauntingly) remind me of (can be no reasonable excuse) for you have enslaved (the whole community of) the Children of Israel (for no fault of theirs).' 23. Pharaoh (was confounded and turning the topic of the conversation) said, `What is (this) Lord of the world (by whom you claim to be sent?)' 24. (Moses) said, `(In respect of apace) He is the Lord of the heavens and the earth and of all that lies between the two; if you (and your companions) be convinced (of this true knowledge and have faith in Him).' 25. (Thereupon Pharaoh) said to those around him, `Do you not hear (what is being said)?' 26. (Moses continued, `He is the same Who is) your Lord and the Lord of your fathers of yore.' 27. (Pharaoh) said, `Most surely, this Messenger of yours who has been sent to you is a mad man indeed.' 28. (Moses) said (continuing his speech), `(In respect of time the Lord of the worlds is the same as) the Lord of the east and of the west and of all that lies between the two. (You can be rightly guided) if you could only use your senses.' 29. (Pharaoh) said, `If you worship any god other than me, I will certainly make you one of the imprisoned.' 30. (Moses) said, `(Will you do this,) even though I bring to you something that makes (the truth of my statement) clear to you?' 31. (Pharaoh) said, `Bring it then, if you are of the truthful.' 32. So he put his staff (on the ground) and behold, it was a serpent plainly visible. 33. And he stuck his hand out and lo! it was (shining) white to the beholders. SECTION 3 34. (Pharaoh) said to the courtiers around him, `This (man) is surely a skilled sorcerer, 35. `Who seeks to turn you out of your country by dint of his sorcery. Now, what do you advise?' 36. They said, `Detain him and his brother for a while and send heralds into the cities to collect; 37. `And bring to you all skilled and very expert sorcerers.' 38. So the sorcerers were gathered together at the appointed time and place on a fixed day. 39. And it was said to the people, `Will you (also) assemble together (in the field of contest); 40. `So that we may follow the sorcerers if they win clear supremacy.' 41. So when all the sorcerers came they said to Pharaoh, `Shall we be really and richly rewarded if we gain clear supremacy?' 42. He said, `Yes, and surely you will in that case be among my close companions.' 43. Moses said to them, `(Now) put forward (of your things of sorcery), what you have to put forward.' 44. So they put down (on the ground) their ropes and their staffs and said, `By Pharaoh's honour and might it is we who will certainly be the winners.' 45. Then Moses put down (on the ground) his staff; lo! it instantly destroyed all that they had fabricated. 46. Thereupon the sorcerers were impelled to fall down prostrating; 47. And they said, `We believe in the Lord of the worlds; 48. `The Lord of Moses and Aaron.' 49. (Pharaoh) said, `Have you believed in him before I gave you leave? Indeed he is your chief, the same who taught you sorcery. So you will soon know (your horrible end). I will most surely cut off your hands and your feet on alternate sides for (your this) opposition (to me); and I will crucify you to death one and all.' 50. They said, `It does not matter at all. We have, after all, to return to our Lord.



	51. `We do hope that our Lord will forgive us our offences, since we are the first to believe.' SECTION 4 52. And We revealed to Moses (directing him), `Take away My servants by night for you shall certainly be pursued.' 53. Pharaoh (when he came to know of the exodus) sent heralds to the towns to collect (troops and announce saying), 54. `These (Israelites) are indeed a despicable party, a few in number, 55. `Yet they have offended us (by defying us and making good their escape), 56. `And we are, (as compared with them,) a united multitude, fully equipped and vigilant.' 57. So We made them (- Pharaoh and his troops) leave the land of gardens and springs, 58. As well as (every place with) treasures and every abode of honour (and grandeur). 59. That is what We did (for their wrong- doings). And We gave (the like of) these (- gardens and springs) as a free gift to the Children of Israel. 60. And they (- the hosts of Pharaoh) pursued them at sunrise. 61. And when the two hosts sighted each other the companions of Moses said, `We are surely overtaken.' 62. (Moses) said, `No, not at all, my Lord is with me, He will lead me out of the impasse (and to safety).' 63. Then We revealed to Moses (saying), `Strike the sea with your staff. (And as he did) so it parted, and each part (of the two hosts) looked like a huge mound. 64. And We caused the others (the pursuers, the people of Pharaoh,) draw near the same place. 65. And We saved Moses and those who were with him all together. 66. Then We drowned the others. 67. Behold! there is a (marvelous) sign in this (episode), yet most of them would not be believers. 68. And indeed your Lord, He is the All-Mighty (to crush His enemies), the Ever Merciful (towards His servants). SECTION 5 69. And narrate to them the important event (of the life) of Abraham. 70. When he said to his sire and his people, `What things are those which you worship?' 71. `We worship idols and will remain constantly devoted to them,' said they. 72. Abraham said, `Can they listen to you when you call (on them)? 73. `Or can they do you good or avert harm from you?' 74. They said, `Nay, it is not so, but we found our fathers doing likewise.' 75. (Abraham) said, `But have you (ever) considered what you have been worshipping, 76. `You and your fathers before you, 77. `They are (all) enemies to me. Different however is the case of the Lord of the world (Who is kind to me). 78. `He has created me and it is He Who will guide me to reach the goal. 79. `And Who gives me food and drink, 80. `And Who restores me to health, (through His grace and mercy), whenever I am taken ill (due to some fault of mine), 81. `And Who will call me to death and then will raise me to life (again). 82. `And Who, I eagerly hope, will protect me from (the undesirable consequences of) my faults on the Day of Requital.' 83. (Abraham then turned to his Lord and said,) `My Lord! grant me strong and right judgment and make me follow and join the righteous. 84. `And ordain for me a noble, true and lasting reputation among posterity; 85. `And make me one of the heirs of the Garden of Great Bliss. 86. `And protect my sire (- âzar against his faults), he is of course of the erring ones. 87. `And do not put me to shame and disgrace on the day when people will be resurrected, 88. `The day when wealth will not avail, nor sons (be of any good), 89. `But (he alone will be saved) who comes to Allâh with a sound and pure heart.' 90. (The day when) Paradise will be brought near to those who guard against evil, 91. And Gehenna shall be unveiled and placed in full view to those (wretched ones) who had deviated from the right path; 92. And who shall be asked, `Where are (your deities) that you worshipped, 93. `Apart from Allâh? Can they come to your help or inflict punishment?' 94. Then they (- the false deities) shall all be hurled headlong into the depths of it (- the Hell), again and again, and along with them all those (wretched fellows) who had deviated from the right path. 95. And the supporters of Iblîs all together. 96. They will say disputing therein (- in the Hell) among themselves,



	97. `By Allâh! we were certainly in manifest (and deep) error, 98. `In holding you (- deities) as equal with the Lord of the worlds, 99. `And none but those who cut off their ties with Allâh led us astray, 100. `So that (now) we have none of the intercessors, 101. `Nor any warm-hearted true friend. 102. `Could we have but another (chance to) return (to the world) then we would surely become of the (true) believers.' 103. Verily, there is a remarkable sign in this (episode of Abraham's life), yet most of the people would not be believers. 104. And of course your Lord, He is the All-Mighty (to crush and obliterate His enemies and), the Ever Merciful (to the supporters of true faith). SECTION 6 105. The people of Noah cried lies to the Messengers. 106. (Recall the time) when their kinsman Noah said to them, `Will you not guard against evil? 107. `Surely, I am to you a Messenger, faithful to (my) trust. 108. `So take Allâh as a shield and obey me. 109. `And I ask no reward from you for it (- the delivery of the Message of God). My reward lies with the Lord of the worlds alone. 110. `So take Allâh as a shield and obey me.' 111. They (- the disbelievers) said, `Shall we believe in you whereas (we see that) only the people of a very low status follow you?' 112. He said, `I have no knowledge what (good) deeds they did (in the past that now they have the honour to accept the truth). 113. `It is only up to my Lord to call them to account; if you could but perceive. 114. `I cannot drive away the believers (thinking them to be of low status). 115. `I am but a plain Warner.' 116. `Noah!' they said, `If you do not desist, you shall be excommunicated or done away with.' 117. (Noah) said (praying), `My Lord! my people have treated me as a liar, 118. `So judge between me and them, a decisive judgment, and deliver me and the believers who are with me.' 119. So We delivered him and all those who were with him by means of the fully-laden Ark. 120. Then after that We drowned the remaining ones. 121. Behold! there is a great sign in this (episode), yet most of them would not be believers. 122. And indeed your Lord, He is the All-Mighty, the Ever Merciful. SECTION 7 123. (The tribe of) `âd (too) cried lies to the Messengers (sent to them). 124. (Recall the time) when their kinsman Hûd said to them, `Will you not guard against evil? 125. `Surely, I am to you a Messenger; faithful to (my) trust. 126. `Therefore take Allâh as a shield and obey me. 127. `I ask no reward from you for this (service I render). My reward lies only with the Lord of the worlds. 128. `What is (wrong with you)? You build a monument on every prominent place, in vain you do it. 129. `And you raise fortresses in the hope that you will abide till long. 130. `And when you lay hold (on anyone), you do it like tyrants. 131. `You should take Allâh as a shield and obey me. 132. `And take Him as a shield Who has helped you with all (the favours and blessings) that you know of. 133. `He has helped you with cattle and sons, 134. `And gardens and springs. 135. `Indeed, I fear lest the punishment of an awful day should befall you.' 136. They said, `It makes no difference with us whether you admonish us or be not of the admonishers. 137. `This way (of admonition) is merely the manner of the ancients. 138. `And we are not at all going to be punished.' 139. Thus they cried him lies and We destroyed them. There is indeed, a remarkable sign in this (episode), yet most of them would not be believers.



	140. And infact your Lord, He is the All-Mighty (to crush and obliterate His enemies), and the Ever Merciful (towards His obedient servants). SECTION 8 141. (The tribe of) Thamûd (too) cried lies to the Messengers. 142. (Recall the time) when their kinsman Sâlih said to them, `Will you not guard against evil? 143. `Surely, I am to you a Messenger, faithful to (my) trust. 144. `So take Allâh as a shield and obey me. 145. `I ask no reward from you for this (service I render). My reward lies with the Lord of the worlds alone. 146. `(Do you think that) you will be left in peace amidst all (enjoyable things) which you have here, 147. `Amidst gardens and springs, 148. `And cornfields and date-palms having (fine and heavy) spathes near breaking. 149. `And you hew out houses in the mountains with great skill and elated with your greatness. 150. `Take Allâh as a shield and obey me. 151. `And do not obey the biddings of those who exceed the bounds. 152. `Who create disorder in the country and set not (things) in order (to promote security and peace).' 153. They said, `You are merely one of those (mortals) who are (dependent on being) given food. 154. `You are nothing but a human being like ourselves. So bring (us) a sign if you are of the truthful.' 155. (Sâlih) said, `Here is a she-camel. She will have her share of water (at the water-course), while you will have your share of water at a time appointed (for you). 156. `And you shall do her no harm otherwise the punishment of an awful day shall befall you.' 157. Notwithstanding (all this warning) they hamstrung her and then they became regretful. 158. Consequently (the threatened) punishment overtook them. Behold! there is a remarkably great sign in this (episode); yet most of them would not be believers. 159. And indeed your Lord, He is the All-Mighty, the Ever Merciful. SECTION 9 160. And the people of Lot cried lies to the Messengers. 161. (Recall the time) when their kinsman Lot said to them, `Will you not guard against evil? 162. `Verily, I am to you a Messenger, faithful to (my) trust. 163. `So take Allâh as a shield and obey me. 164. `And I ask no reward from you for this (service I render). My reward lies with the Lord of the worlds alone. 165. `(Is it not true that) of all people you alone approach males (for sexual satisfaction), 166. `And leave that (abode of love) which your Lord has created for you in your wives. `Nay, (the real fact is) you are a people who know no limits.' 167. They said, `If you desist not (of admonishing us for sodomy) O Lot! you shall indeed be of the banished ones.' 168. He said, `I surely abhor your practice (of going to males), 169. `My Lord! save me and my followers from (the evil consequences) of their deeds.' 170. So We saved him and his followers, all of them, 171. Except an old woman (- wife of Lot), who was among those who stayed behind, 172. Then We destroyed the others. 173. And We pelted them with a terrible rain (of stones). Look! how terrible was the rain (that descended) upon those who were warned. 174. There is a great sign in this (episode), yet most of them would not be believers. 175. And indeed your Lord, He is the All-Mighty, the Ever Merciful. SECTION 10 176. The dwellers of the Wood (in Midian) cried lies to the Messengers. 177. (Recall) when Shu`aib said to them, `Will you not guard against evil? 178. `Indeed, I am to you a Messenger, faithful to (my) trust. 179. `Therefore take Allâh for (your) shield and obey me. 180. `And I ask no reward from you for it (- the services I render). Surely, my reward lies with the Lord of the worlds alone. 181. `Give full measure and be not of those who give short; 182. `And weigh with even and balanced scales.



	183. `And do not defraud people of their things. Do not go about acting corruptly, creating disorder in the country. 184. `Take Him Who has created you and former generations as a shield.' 185. They said, `You are simply of those who stand in need of being given food. 186. `And you are but a human being like ourselves; as a matter of fact we believe you to be of the liars. 187. `So let a fragment of the cloud fall upon us (by way of punishment) if you are of the truthful.' 188. (Shu`aib thereupon) said, `My Lord knows best all that you do.' 189. Yet they cried him lies, so the punishment of the gloomy day with dark overshadowing clouds overtook them; it was indeed the punishment of an awful day. 190. Behold! there is a great sign in this (episode), yet most of them would not be believers. 191. Though infact your Lord, He is the All-Mighty, the Ever Merciful . SECTION 11 192. And verily this (Qur'ân) is a revelation from the Lord of the worlds. 193. The Spirit, Faithful to the Trust (- Gabriel) has descended with it. 194. (Revealing it) to your heart with the result that you became of the Warners (- a Prophet of God); 195. (The Qur'ân has been revealed) in plain and clear Arabic language. 196. Verily, it (is the Book which) finds mention in the Scriptures of the earlier peoples. 197. Is it not a sufficient proof for them that the learned among the Children of Israel recognize it (- the Qur'ân)? 198. And if We had revealed it to one of the non-Arabs, 199. And he had recited this (eloquent word of God in Arabic) to them, (even then) they would never have believed in it. 200. That is how We cause it (- the disbelief) take root in the hearts of those who cut off their ties (with God), 201. (That) they will not believe in it until they see the grievous punishment. 202. So this (punishment) will come upon them all of a sudden (taking them unaware), while they do not perceive (and calculate it). 203. They will say then, `Shall we be given some respite?' 204. Is that why they seek to expedite Our punishment? 205. Do you not see that even if We let them enjoy (worldly bounties) for some more years, 206. And then that (punishment) with which they are threatened befalls them; 207. That (respite) which they were allowed to enjoy will be of no avail to them? 208. And never did We destroy (any people of) a township but it had (its) Warners; 209. So that they may be admonished and We are never unjust. 210. It was not the evil ones who have brought this (Qur'ân) down. 211. It does neither suit them nor have they the power (to reveal it). 212. Infact, they (- the evil ones) are precluded from listening (to the Divine revelation). 213. Therefore call on no god beside Allâh, for (if you do) you will become of those who are (severely) punished. 214. And (Prophet!) warn your nearest kinsmen, 215. And be gentle and affectionate to the believers who follow you. 216. But if they (- your kinsmen) disobey you, say (to them), `Surely, I am not responsible for what you do.' 217. And put your trust in the All-Mighty, the Ever Merciful (God), 218. Who sees you (at the time) when you stand up (in Prayer, and also for calling the people to the right path). 219. And (Who sees) your moving about among those (Companions) who prostrate themselves (before the All-Mighty Lord). 220. Verily, He is the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing 221. Shall I tell you to whom the evil ones appear? 222. They appear to every habitual and hardened liar (and) great sinner; 223. Who listen eagerly (to what the evil ones say), yet mostly they tell them lies. 224. And (as for) the poets, it is the erring ones who follow them. 225. Do you not see how they wander distracted in every valley, 226. And they say (such things) which they do not practice (themselves), 227. Except those (poets) who believe and do deeds of righteousness and who mention the greatness of Allâh over and over again and who retaliate (and defend themselves) only after they are done injustice to. Behold! those who acted unjustly will soon know to what (a wretched) end they are heading for.



	Chapter 27 Al-Naml (The Tribe of Naml) (Revealed before Hijrah) With the name of Allâh, the Most Gracious, the Ever Merciful (I commence to read Sûrah Al-Naml). 1. Tâ Sîn - I am the Benign, the All-Hearing (God). These are the verses of the Qur'ân, of the Book that tells the right from the wrong and makes (the truth) manifest. 2. (It is) a guidance and good tidings to the believers; 3. Who observe Prayer and (regularly) spend in charity and who are such people as have firm faith in the Hereafter. 4. (As to those) who do not believe in the Hereafter We had made their deeds (they ought to do) fair-seeming to them, but they wander on aimlessly ( making all sorts of blunders). 5. It is they for whom there awaits a grievous punishment. It is these alone who shall be the greatest losers in the Hereafter. 6. And as a matter of fact you are being made to learn the Qur'ân from the presence of the All-Wise, the All-Knowing (God). 7. (Recall) when Moses said to his companions, `Surely I see with feelings of warmth, of love, something like a fire. I will soon bring you some important information from there or at least bring you a flaming brand so that you may warm yourselves.' 8. So when he came (close) to it (- the fire) he was called by a voice, `Blessed be he who is in quest of the fire (of Divine light) and blessed are those around this (place of the fire), Holy is Allâh, the Lord of the worlds. 9. `O Moses! the fact is that I am Allâh, the All-Mighty, the All-Wise. 10. `And put down your staff (on the ground).' When (Moses put down his staff) he saw it shifting about as if it were a tiny serpent with quick movements, he turned his back retreating and did not look behind. (Whereupon We said,) `O Moses! do not fear. Verily, I am the One in Whose presence the Messengers need have no fear. 11. `Nor (does he fear) who acts unjustly and commits some evil deed and then changes over to good after giving up evil. I am to such a person a Great Protector, Ever Merciful, indeed. 12. `And put your hand into your bosom, it will come forth (sparkling) white without any disease. (These are two signs) from among the nine signs (which you shall show) to Pharaoh and his people. They are truly a rebellious people.' 13. But when Our eye-opening signs were shown to them (- Pharaoh and his people) they said, `This is plain witchcraft (to cause disruption among the people).' 14. And they strongly rejected them (- the signs) out of spite and arrogance, although their minds were convinced of (the truth in) them. Look, then how (evil) was the end of those who acted corruptly. SECTION 2 15. And We granted knowledge to David and Solomon, and they said, `All true and perfect praise belongs to Allâh alone Who has exalted us over many of His believing servants.' 16. And Solomon succeeded David and he said, `O you people! we have been taught the language of the birds (and also the technique of horsemanship), and bestowed with everything (essential for us). This indeed is a distinct favour (of God and His grace).' 17. And there were gathered together before Solomon his hosts comprising of jinn (- haughty) and (ordinary) men and birds and swift footed horses, and they were then arranged in separate well-disciplined columns. 18. (Once he was marching with them) until when they (his armies) reached the valley of (the tribe named) al-Naml, a distinguished Namlite said, `O al-Naml! get into your habitations lest Solomon and his hosts should crush you unknowingly.' 19. Thereupon he (- Solomon) wondered and was pleased with (the good opinion the Namlite expressed about his own and his army's power and piety) and said (praying), `My Lord! rouse me up that I may offer thanks for the favours You have shown me and my forefathers and that I should do such deeds as are righteous and may please You, and count



	me through Your mercy with Your righteous servants.' 20. And (once) he reviewed the birds and the (cavalry of) swift running horses and said, `How is it that I do not see (my officer named) Hudhud? Is he deliberately absent? 21. `I will certainly punish him very severely, rather I will execute him or else he must give me some valid excuse (for remaining absent). 22. But he (- Solomon) had not to wait long (before Hudhud came) and said, `I have acquired that information which you do not possess. I have come to you from (the territory of a Yemanite tribe) Saba' with sure and important news (to tell). 23. `I found (there) a (wonderful) woman ruling over them (- the Sabaeans) and she has been given everything (she requires) and owns a magnificent throne. 24. `I (also) found her and her people worshipping the sun instead of Allâh. And satan has made their deeds fair-seeming to them (so that they take pride in their practices), and has thus hindered them from the right way, so that they do not follow true guidance. 25. `And (satan has done this) so that they do not worship Allâh while Allâh is He Who brings to light all that lies hidden in the heavens and the earth and knows all that you (O people!) conceal (in your minds) and all that you make known (of your designs). 26. `Allâh! there is no other, cannot be and will never be One worthy of worship but He, the Lord of the Mighty Throne.' [Prostration] 27. (Thereupon Solomon) said, `We will now look into it and see whether you have spoken the truth or whether you are of the liars. 28. `Take this letter of mine, deliver it to them (-the people of Saba') then withdraw from them and wait what (answer) they make in return, 29. (When the Queen saw the letter) she said, `Chieftains! there has been delivered to me a noble letter. 30. `It is from Solomon and it says, "With the name of Allâh, the Most Gracious, the Ever Merciful (I commence to write to you). 31. "Do not rise up against me but come to me (surrendering yourselves) in submission".' SECTION 3 32. She said, `Chieftains! give me your sound and mature advice in the matter which confronts me, (for) I decide no important matter except when you are present with me (to advise).' 33. They said, `We are a people possessing (extraordinary) power and are gallant fighters; but as for the decision it rests with you, therefore you may thoroughly consider what order you want to give.' 34. She said, `Surely, when the kings enter a township (as invaders) they ruin it and reduce its most honourable residents to the most degraded positions. And such indeed will be their (- of Solomon and his men's) ways. 35. `I am going to send them a (significant) gift and shall wait to see what (answer) the envoys bring back.' 36. So when he (- the Queen's envoy) came (with the present) to Solomon he (- Solomon) said, `Do you mean to help me with (your) wealth? Well, what Allâh has given me is far better than what He has given you. You seem to be rather proud of your gift. 37. `Go back to them (and tell your people that), we shall certainly come down upon them with hosts they have no power to withstand and we shall, surely, drive them out from there (- their country) disgraced, while they are subjugated?' 38. (Later on addressing his courtiers Solomon) said, `Nobles! which one of you will bring me a throne befitting her (- the Queen) before they come to me surrendering in submission.' 39. A stalwart from among the jinn said, `I will bring it to you (prepared as you desire), before you rise and depart from your place of encampment. Surely, I am strong and expert enough (to accomplish this task and can be) trusted (with it).' 40. One (Israelite) who had knowledge of the Scripture said, `I will bring it to you before your Yemanite (noble guests) come to you.' And when he (- Solomon) saw it (- the throne) set before him he said, `This is due to the grace of my Lord; so that He may reveal my inner self to show whether I am grateful (for all His favours) or ungrateful. Indeed, he who thanks, his thanksgiving is for his own good, and he who shows ingratitude (let him remember that) My Lord is truly Self-Sufficient (and is in need of no praise), Oft-Generous (and Noble in His own right).' 41. He (further) said, `Make her own (old) throne seem discredited to her (in her own estimation by making this new throne of a very excellent standard). We shall see (thereby) whether she follows the right way (by discarding her old idolatrous throne) or whether she is (one) of those who do not follow the right way.' 42. When she came (to Solomon) it was said to her, `Is your throne like this?' She said, `It is as though it were much



	the same. We had been given the knowledge (about your excellence and perfection) before this and we have already surrendered in submission (to you).' 43. And (Solomon) held her back from the things she used to worship apart from Allâh, for she belonged to an unbelieving people. 44. It was said to her, `Enter the palace.' And when she saw it she took it for a great expanse of water. She was greatly perturbed. (Solomon) said, `It is a palace paved smooth with slabs of glass.' She (realizing the truth that she worshipped outward objects like the sun in place of Reality, the true God,) said, `My Lord! I have done injustice to myself and (now) I submit myself through Solomon to Allâh, the Lord of the worlds.' SECTION 4 45. And (likewise) We sent to Thamûd their kinsman Sâlih, (who said), `Worship Allâh.' But (as soon as they heard this preaching) they broke up into two factions who contended with each another. 46. He said, `O my people! why do you seek to hasten on evil, rather than good, (and you ask for a sign of destruction instead of that of bliss for you)? Why do you not ask for Allâh's protection so that you may be shown mercy?' 47. They said, `We have suffered due to you and your companions.' (Sâlih) said, `Your deeds and true cause of your sufferings is with Allâh (Who is punishing you for your evil deeds). Nay, you are a people who are being tried (to distinguish the good of you from the bad). 48. And there were in the city a gang of nine (persons) who had upset the order and peace in the country and would not reform (themselves). 49. They said one to another, `Let us swear by Allâh that we will surely make a raid on him (-Sâlih) and his family by night and then we will say to his claimant (- the next of kin, if he seeks vengeance) that we were not present at the time and place of the destruction of his family and most surely we speak the truth.' 50. And they hatched a plot and We likewise brought forth a counter plan of which they were not aware (that their plotting would go in vain). 51. Look, then how (evil) was the end their planning met; We utterly destroyed them and their people one and all. 52. So their houses are lying deserted over there because of their acting unjustly. Indeed, in this (episode) there is a great sign for a people who would know. 53. (Whereas We destroyed them,) We saved those who had believed and used to guard against evil. 54. And (We also sent) Lot (as a Messenger). (Recall) when he said to his people, `Do you commit obscenity while you see (the evil thereof). 55. `What! (is it true) you approach men instead of (your) women to satisfy (your) lust? Nay, you are indeed a people who act senselessly.' 56. But his people had no reply except that they said, `Drive the followers of Lot out of your township. They are a people who would pose (and parade) to be extra pure and righteous (internally and externally).' 57. So the result was that We saved him and his followers except his wife. We had ordained about her (for her foul deeds) to be with those who stayed behind (and thus would not be saved). 58. And We pelted them with a terrible rain (of stones). So (look,) how evil was the rain which descended upon those who had been warned! SECTION 5 59. Say, `All kind of true and perfect praise belongs to Allâh. And peace be upon those of His servants whom He has chosen.' Who is to be preferred, Allâh or the things they associate (with Him)?