Read in the name of your Lord who has created
created man out of a germ- cell.
Read for your Lord is the most Bountiful One,
who has taught the use of the pen,
taught man what he did not know.
Indeed, man becomes grossly overweening,
once he thinks himself self- sufficient.
Surely to your L rd all must return.
Look at the one who tries to prevent
a servant of God from praying!
Think: does he follow the right guidance
and enjoin [others to be] God-fearing?
Think: if he denies the truth and turns his back,
does he not realize that God sees all?
Nay, if he does not desist, We will most certainly drag him by his forelock,
his lying, sinful forelock.
Then let him call his henchmen.
We will call the guards of hell.
No, pay no heed to him, but prostrate yourself and draw closer to God.