1. By the Sky and the Night-Visitant [therein];-

 

2. And what will explain to thee what the Night-Visitant is?-

 

3. [It is] the Star of piercing brightness;

 

4. There is no soul but has a protector over it.

 

5. Now let man but think from what he is created!

 

6. He is created from a drop emitted-

 

7. Proceeding from between the backbone and the ribs:

 

8. Surely [Allah] is able to bring him back [to life]!

 

9. The Day that [all] things secret will be tested,

 

10. [Man] will have no power, and no helper.

 

11. By the Firmament which returns [in its round],

 

12. And by the Earth which opens out [for the gushing of springs or the

 

sprouting of vegetation],-

 

13. Behold this is the Word that distinguishes [Good from Evil]:

 

14. It is not a thing for amusement.

 

15. As for them, they are but plotting a scheme,

 

16. And I am planning a scheme.

 

17. Therefore grant a delay to the Unbelievers: Give respite to them gently [for

 

awhile].