A Medinan sura that speaks of how man is tested (verses 2–3) and what the results will be for the evildoers (verse 4) and for the righteous (verses 5–22). The Prophet is urged to persevere in his devotion and to bear with patience (verses 23–6).
In the name of God, the Lord of Mercy, the Giver of Mercy
1Was there not a period of time when man was nothing to speak of?b 2We created man from a drop of mingled fluid to put him to the test; We gave him hearing and sight; 3We guided him to the right path, whether he was grateful or not.
4We have prepared chains, iron collars, and blazing Fire for the disbelievers, but 5the righteous will have a drink mixed with kafur,c 6a spring for God’s servants, which flows abundantly at their wish. 7They fulfil their vows; they fear a day of widespread woes; 8they give food to the poor, the orphan, and the captive, though they love it themselves, 9saying, ‘We feed you for the sake of God alone: We seek neither recompense nor thanks from you. 10We fear the Day of our Lord—a woefully grim Day.’" So God will save them from the woes of that Day, give them radiance and gladness, 12and reward them, for their steadfastness, with a Garden and silken robes. 13They will sit on couches, feeling neither scorching heat nor biting cold, 14with shady [branches] spread above them and clusters of fruit hanging close at hand. “They will be served with silver plates 16and gleaming silver goblets according to their fancy, 17and they will be given a drink infused with ginger 18from a spring called Salsabil. 19Everlasting youths will attend them—if you could see them, you would think they were scattered pearls— 20and if you were to look around, you would see bliss and great wealth: 21they will wear garments of green silk and brocade; they will be adorned with silver bracelets; their Lord will give them a pure drink. 22[It will be said], ‘This is your reward. Your endeavours are appreciated.’
23We Ourself have sent down this Qur’an to you [Prophet] in gradual revelation. 24Await your Lord’s Judgement with patience; do not yield to any of these sinners or disbelievers; 25remember the name of your Lord at dawn and in the evening; 26bow down before Him, and glorify Him at length by night.
27These people love the fleeting life. They put aside [all thoughts of] a Heavy Day. 28Yet We created them; We strengthened their constitution; if We please, We can replace such people completely.
29This is a reminder. Let whoever wishes, take the way to his Lord. 30But you will only wish to do so if God wills—God is all knowing, all wise— 31He admits whoever He will into His Mercy and has prepared a painful torment for the disbelievers.