THE HOLY QUR'AAN

SURAH 28

Al-Qasas  (The Story, Stories)

This Surah contains 88 verses, 441 sentences, 5,800 letters and 9 Ruku's 

Name

It takes its name from verse 25 in which the word Al-Qasas occurs. Lexically, qasas means to relate events in their proper sequence. Thus, from the viewpoint of the meaning too, this word can be a suitable title for this Surah, for in it the detailed story of the Prophet Moses has been related.

Period of Revelation

As already mentioned in the introduction to Surah An Naml, according to Ibn Abbas and Jabir bin Zaid, Surahs Ash-Shuaraa, An-Naml and Al-Qasas were sent down one after the other. The language, the style and the theme also show that the period of the revelation of these three Surahs is nearly the same. Another reason for their close resemblance is that the different parts of the Prophet Moses story as mentioned in these surahs together make up a complete story. In Surah Ash-Shuaraa, excusing himself for not accepting the office of Prophethood the Prophet Moses submits, "The people of Pharaoh have the charge of a crime against me; therefore, I fear that they will put me to death." Then, when he goes before Pharaoh, the latter says, "Did we not bring you up as a child in our house? You lived quite a few years of your life among us, and then you did what you did." Nothing more of this has been mentioned there, but in this Surah the other details have been supplied. Similarly, in Surah An-Naml the story starts abruptly from the time when the Prophet Moses was journeying with his family and suddenly saw a fire at a distance. In that Surah nothing has been said about the nature of his journey, or the place he was coming from, or his destination, but this Surah supplies all the necessary details. Thus, the three Surahs read together complete the story of the Prophet Moses (Allah's peace be upon him).

Theme and Topics

The main theme is to remove the doubts and objections that were being raised against the Prophethood of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (upon whom be Allah's peace and blessings) and to invalidate the excuses which were being offered for not believing in him.

For this purpose, first the story of the Prophet Moses has been related, which, by analogy with the period of revelation, impresses the following points in the listener's mind automatically:

First, Allah provides the means and motives of whatever He wills to do, in imperceptible ways. Thus, Allah so arranged things that the child through whom Pharaoh had to be removed from power, was bred and brought up in his own house, and he could not know whom he was fostering. Who can then fight God and frustrate Him by his machinations.

Secondly, Prophethood is not granted to a person amid festivities by issuing a proclamation from the earth and heavens. You wonder how Muhammad (upon whom be Allah's peace) has been blessed with Prophethood unexpectedly, all of a sudden, but Moses whom you yourselves acknowledge as a Prophet (v. 48) had also become a Prophet unexpectedly, while on a journey, and nobody had known what event had occurred in the desolation at the foot of Mt. Sinai. Even Moses himself did not know a moment before what he was going to be blessed with. He, in fact, had gone to bring a piece of the fire but had returned with the gift of Prophethood

Thirdly, the person from whom Allah wants to take some service comes out without any army and armour and without an apparent helper or force at his back, yet he puts to rout much stronger and better equipped opponents. The contrast that existed between the strengths of Moses (peace be upon him) and Pharaoh was much more prominent and glaring than that which existed between Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the quraish; yet the world knows who had come out victorious in the end and who had been routed.

Fourthly, you refer to Moses again and again and say, "Why has Muhammad not been given the same which was given to Moses? i.e. miracles of the staff, the shining liand, etc. as if to suggest that you would readily believe only if you were shown the kind of the miracles that were shown by Moses to Pharaoh. But do you know what sort of response was made by those who were shown those miracles? They had not believed even after seeing the miracles, and had only said, "This is magic", for they were involved in stubbornness and hostility to the Truth. The same malady afflicts you today. Will you believe only when you are shown the same kind of miracles? Then, do you know what fate the disbelievers had met even after seeing the miracles? They were annihilated by Allah. Do you now wish to meet the same doom by asking for the miracles in your obstinacy?

These were the things which were automatically impressed in the mind of every listener who heard this story in the pagan environment of Makkah, for a similar conflict was going on at that time between the Holy Prophet and disbelievers of Makkah as had already taken place between the Prophet Moses and Pharaoh before. This was the background against which the story of the Prophet Moses was narrated so that a perfect analogy was established automatically in every detail between the conditions prevailing then in Makkah and those existing in the time of the Prophet Moses. Then, from verse 43 onward the discourse turns to the real theme.

In the first place, the narration of a two thousand year old historical event by the Holy Prophet with such accuracy and detail, is presented as a proof of his Prophethood although he was un-lettered and the people of his city and clan knew full well that he had no access to any source of such information as they could point out. Then his appointment as a Prophet is put forward as Allah's mercy to them, for they were heedless and Allah had made this arrangement for their guidance. Then their oft-repeated objection, "Why has not this Prophet brought the miracles which Moses had brought?" has been answered. It is said to them, "How can you be justified in demanding miracles from this Prophet when you did not believe in Moses either, who, as you yourselves acknowledge, had brought miracles from God? You can still see the truth only if you do not serve your lusts and whims. But if you remained afflicted with this malady, you would never see it even though you were shown any kind of miracles."

Then the disbelievers of Makkah have been warned and put to shame for an event that occurred in those very days. Some Christians had come to Makkah and embraced Islam when they heard the Qur'an from the Holy Prophet. Instead of learning any lesson from this the Makkans were so upset at this that their leader, Abu Jahl, disgraced those people publicly. In conclusion, the excuse that the disbelievers put forward for not believing in the Holy Prophet has been dealt with. What they feared was this: "If we give up the polytheistic creed of the Arabs and accept the doctrine of Tauhid instead, this will put an end to our supremacy in the religious, political and economic fields, which, in turn, will destroy our position of the most influential tribe of Arabia and we shall be left with no refuge anywhere in the land." As this was the real motive of the chiefs of the Quraish for their antagonism towards the Truth, and their doubts and objections were only the pretences, which they invented to deceive the common people, Allah has dealt with these fully till the end of the Surah, considered each aspect of these in a wise manner and offered the remedy for their basic ailment due to which those people judged the Truth and falsehood only from the viewpoint of their worldly interests.

 Maududi

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THE HOLY QUR'AAN

 SURAH 28

AL-QASAS (THE STORY)

Bismi Allahi alrrahmani alrraheemi

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful.

Section 1.

28 : 1

1. Ta-seen-meem

Tâ­Sîn­Mîm

28 : 2

2. Tilka ayatu alkitabi almubeeni

These are revelations of the Scripture, which makes plain.

28 : 3

3. Natloo AAalayka min naba-i moosa wafirAAawna bialhaqqi liqawmin yu/minoona

We narrate to you at length the events surrounding Moses and Pharaoh with truth for those who believe.

28 : 4

4. Inna firAAawna AAala fee al-ardi wajaAAala ahlaha shiyaAAan yastadAAifu ta-ifatan minhum yuthabbihu abnaahum wayastahyee nisaahum innahu kana mina almufsideena

Pharaoh reigned supreme on earth and reduced the people to drudgery. There was a tribe amongst them whom he persecuted by slaying their sons and sparing the women. Verily he was an awesome despot who wreaked havoc.

28: 5

5. Wanureedu an namunna AAala allatheena istudAAifoo fee al-ardi wanajAAalahum a-immatan wanajAAalahumu alwaritheena

But We desired to show favour to those who were emaciated in the land and make them the leaders and the inheritors of their country and its wealth -

28: 6

6. Wanumakkina lahum fee al-ardi wanuriya firAAawna wahamana wajunoodahuma minhum ma kanoo yahtharoona

to establish them on earth and make those things come to pass which Pharaoh and Hamaan and their armies dreaded the most from them.

28 : 7

7. Waawhayna ila ommi moosa an ardiAAeehi fa-itha khifti AAalayhi faalqeehi fee alyammi wala takhafee wala tahzanee inna raddoohu ilayki wajaAAiloohu mina almursaleena

And We inspirited the mother of Moses saying: 'Suckle him for now but when you become too concerned for his safety, cast him into the river. Fear not nor grieve, for We shall bring him back to you and make him one of Our messengers.'

28 : 8

8. Failtaqatahu alu firAAawna liyakoona lahum AAaduwwan wahazanan inna firAAawna wahamana wajunoodahuma kanoo khati-eena

Pharaohs family took the infant in who was later to become an enemy to them and a source of immense grief. Verily Pharaoh and Hamaan and their armies were utter recusants.

28 : 9

9. Waqalati imraatu firAAawna qurratu AAaynin lee walaka la taqtuloohu AAasa an yanfaAAana aw nattakhithahu waladan wahum la yashAAuroona

And Pharaohs wife said to him: 'He is such a solace to mine and your eyes, so slay him not. Perhaps he would be of some use to us, or we might even adopt him as our own son!' And they did not argue any more.

28 : 10

10. Waasbaha fu-adu ommi moosa farighan in kadat latubdee bihi lawla an rabatna AAala qalbiha litakoona mina almu/mineena

And shortly the heart of the mother of Moses became so depressed that she almost betrayed him, were it not for Us giving her strength to keep faith in Our promise.

28 : 11

11. Waqalat li-okhtihi qusseehi fabasurat bihi AAan junubin wahum la yashAAuroona

And she said to his sister : 'Follow him!' So she watched him from a distance and yet again they suspected not!

28 : 12

12. Waharramna AAalayhi almaradiAAa min qablu faqalat hal adullukum AAala ahli baytin yakfuloonahu lakum wahum lahu nasihoona

 And since We had forbidden the milk of wet nurses for him, the sister said : 'Shall I show you a family who will raise this baby for you and can take good care of him?'

28 : 13

13. Faradadnahu ila ommihi kay taqarra AAaynuha wala tahzana walitaAAlama anna waAAda Allahi haqqun walakinna aktharahum la yaAAlamoona

Thus We restored him to the arms of his mother so that she might be comforted and no longer grieved for him and realize that the promise of Allah is binding, though most of them seldom realize it! (R)

OTHER TRANSLATIONS BY MUHSIN, YUSUFALI, PICKTHAL AND SHAKIR:

MUHSIN:

1. Tâ­Sîn­Mîm

[These letters are one of the miracles of the Qur'ân, and none but Allâh (Alone) knows their meanings]

2. These are Verses of the manifest Book (that makes clear truth from falsehood, good from evil, etc.).

3. We recite to you some of the news of Mûsa (Moses) and Fir'aun (Pharaoh) in truth, for a people who believe (those who believe in this Qur'ân, and in the Oneness of Allâh).

4. Verily, Fir'aun (Pharaoh) exalted himself in the land and made its people sects, weakening (oppressing) a group (i.e. Children of Israel) among them, killing their sons, and letting their females live. Verily, he was of the Mufsidûn (i.e. those who commit great sins and crimes, oppressors, tyrants, etc.).

5. And We wished to do a favour to those who were weak (and oppressed) in the land, and to make them rulers and to make them the inheritors,

6. And to establish them in the land, and We let Fir'aun (Pharaoh) and Hâmân and their hosts receive from them that which they feared.

7. And We inspired the mother of Mûsa (Moses), (saying): "Suckle him [Mûsa (Moses)], but when you fear for him, then cast him into the river and fear not, nor grieve. Verily! We shall bring him back to you, and shall make him one of (Our) Messengers."

8. Then the household of Fir'aun (Pharaoh) picked him up, that he might become for them an enemy and a (cause of) grief. Verily! Fir'aun (Pharaoh), Hâmân and their hosts were sinners.

9. And the wife of Fir'aun (Pharaoh) said: "A comfort of the eye for me and for you. Kill him not, perhaps he may be of benefit to us, or we may adopt him as a son." And they perceive not (the result of that).

10. And the heart of the mother of Mûsa (Moses) became empty [from every thought, except the thought of Mûsa (Moses)]. She was very near to disclose his (case, i.e. the child is her son), had We not strengthened her heart (with Faith), so that she might remain as one of the believers.

11. And she said to his [Musa's (Moses)] sister: "Follow him." So she (his sister) watched him from a far place secretly, while they perceived not.

12. And We had already forbidden (other) foster suckling mothers for him, until she (his sister came up and) said: "Shall I direct you to a household who will rear him for you, and sincerely they will look after him in a good manner?"

13. So did We restore him to his mother, that she might be delighted, and that she might not grieve, and that she might know that the Promise of Allâh is true. But most of them know not.

028.001
YUSUFALI: Ta. Sin. Mim.
PICKTHAL: Ta. Sin. Mim.
SHAKIR: Ta sin Mim.

028.002
YUSUFALI: These are Verses of the Book that makes (things) clear.
PICKTHAL: These are revelations of the Scripture that maketh plain.
SHAKIR: These are the verses of the Book that makes (things) clear.

028.003
YUSUFALI: We rehearse to thee some of the story of Moses and Pharaoh in Truth, for people who believe.
PICKTHAL: We narrate unto thee (somewhat) of the story of Moses and Pharaoh with truth, for folk who believe.
SHAKIR: We recite to you from the account of Musa and Firon with truth for people who believe.

028.004
YUSUFALI: Truly Pharaoh elated himself in the land and broke up its people into sections, depressing a small group among them: their sons he slew, but he kept alive their females: for he was indeed a maker of mischief.
PICKTHAL: Lo! Pharaoh exalted himself in the earth and made its people castes. A tribe among them he oppressed, killing their sons and sparing their women. Lo! he was of those who work corruption.
SHAKIR: Surely Firon exalted himself in the land and made its people into parties, weakening one party from among them; he slaughtered their sons and let their women live; surely he was one of the mischiefmakers.

028.005
YUSUFALI: And We wished to be Gracious to those who were being depressed in the land, to make them leaders (in Faith) and make them heirs,
PICKTHAL: And We desired to show favour unto those who were oppressed in the earth, and to make them examples and to make them the inheritors,
SHAKIR: And We desired to bestow a favor upon those who were deemed weak in the land, and to make them the Imams, and to make them the heirs,

028.006
YUSUFALI: To establish a firm place for them in the land, and to show Pharaoh, Haman, and their hosts, at their hands, the very things against which they were taking precautions.
PICKTHAL: And to establish them in the earth, and to show Pharaoh and Haman and their hosts that which they feared from them.
SHAKIR: And to grant them power in the land, and to make Firon and Haman and their hosts see from them what they feared.

028.007
YUSUFALI: So We sent this inspiration to the mother of Moses: "Suckle (thy child), but when thou hast fears about him, cast him into the river, but fear not nor grieve: for We shall restore him to thee, and We shall make him one of Our messengers."
PICKTHAL: And We inspired the mother of Moses, saying: Suckle him and, when thou fearest for him, then cast him into the river and fear not nor grieve. Lo! We shall bring him back unto thee and shall make him (one) of Our messengers.
SHAKIR: And We revealed to Musa's mothers, saying: Give him suck, then when you fear for him, cast him into the river and do not fear nor grieve; surely We wi!l bring him back to you and make him one of the messengers.

028.008
YUSUFALI: Then the people of Pharaoh picked him up (from the river): (It was intended) that (Moses) should be to them an adversary and a cause of sorrow: for Pharaoh and Haman and (all) their hosts were men of sin.
PICKTHAL: And the family of Pharaoh took him up, that he might become for them an enemy and a sorrow, Lo! Pharaoh and Haman and their hosts were ever sinning.
SHAKIR: And Firon's family took him up that he might be an enemy and a grief for them; surely Firon and Haman and their hosts were wrongdoers.

028.009
YUSUFALI: The wife of Pharaoh said: "(Here is) joy of the eye, for me and for thee: slay him not. It may be that he will be use to us, or we may adopt him as a son." And they perceived not (what they were doing)!
PICKTHAL: And the wife of Pharaoh said: (He will be) a consolation for me and for thee. Kill him not. Peradventure he may be of use to us, or we may choose him for a son. And they perceived not.
SHAKIR: And Firon's wife said: A refreshment of the eye to me and to you; do not slay him; maybe he will be useful to us, or we may take him for a son; and they did not perceive.

028.010
YUSUFALI: But there came to be a void in the heart of the mother of Moses: She was going almost to disclose his (case), had We not strengthened her heart (with faith), so that she might remain a (firm) believer.
PICKTHAL: And the heart of the mother of Moses became void, and she would have betrayed him if We had not fortified her heart, that she might be of the believers.
SHAKIR: And the heart of Musa's mother was free (from anxiety) she would have almost disclosed it had We not strengthened her heart so that she might be of the believers.

028.011
YUSUFALI: And she said to the sister of (Moses), "Follow him" so she (the sister) watched him in the character of a stranger. And they knew not.
PICKTHAL: And she said unto his sister: Trace him. So she observed him from afar, and they perceived not.
SHAKIR: And she said to his sister: Follow him up. So she watched him from a distance while they did not perceive,

028.012
YUSUFALI: And we ordained that he refused suck at first, until (His sister came up and) said: "Shall I point out to you the people of a house that will nourish and bring him up for you and be sincerely attached to him?"...
PICKTHAL: And We had before forbidden foster-mothers for him, so she said: Shall I show you a household who will rear him for you and take care of him?
SHAKIR: And We ordained that he refused to suck any foster mother before, so she said: Shall I point out to you the people of a house who will take care of him for you, and they will be benevolent to him?

028.013
YUSUFALI: Thus did We restore him to his mother, that her eye might be comforted, that she might not grieve, and that she might know that the promise of Allah is true: but most of them do not understand.
PICKTHAL: So We restored him to his mother that she might be comforted and not grieve, and that she might know that the promise of Allah is true. But most of them know not.
SHAKIR: So We gave him back to his mother that her eye might be refreshed, and that she might no grieve, and that she might know that the promise of Allah is true, but most of them do not know.

Section 2

28 : 14

14. Walamma balagha ashuddahu waistawa ataynahu hukman waAAilman wakathalika najzee almuhsineena

And when he grew up and reached the prime of his life, We bestowed upon him wisdom and knowledge. Thus do we reward the righteous!

28 : 15

15. Wadakhala almadeenata AAala heeni ghaflatin min ahliha fawajada feeha rajulayni yaqtatilani hatha min sheeAAatihi wahatha min AAaduwwihi faistaghathahu allathee min sheeAAatihi AAala allathee min AAaduwwihi fawakazahu moosa faqada AAalayhi qala hatha min AAamali alshshaytani innahu AAaduwwun mudillun mubeenun

And he arrived in a town when its folk were having a siesta where he found two men engaged in a tussle, one of whom was of his own tribe and the other of a hostile tribe; and when he who was of his tribe sought his help against him who was of his enemies, Moses dealt him a fatal blow which resulted in his death. He said : 'This is the devil's doing! Verily he is an open enemy to man and forever a misleader!'

28 : 16

16. Qala rabbi innee thalamtu nafsee faighfir lee faghafara lahu innahu huwa alghafooru alrraheemu

And he said : 'O my Lord! I have wronged myself, so forgive me!' And He forgave him, for He verily is Magnanimous and Merciful!

28 : 17

17. Qala rabbi bima anAAamta AAalayya falan akoona thaheeran lilmujrimeena

He said : 'My Lord! Since You have showered upon me your Grace, I too will pledge never to support the insidious!'

28 : 18

18. Faasbaha fee almadeenati kha-ifan yataraqqabu fa-itha allathee istansarahu bial-amsi yastasrikhuhu qala lahu moosa innaka laghawiyyun mubeenun

So the day broke as he waited in town, fearful and watchful, when suddenly he saw the same man who had sought his help on the previous day seeking his help again. Moses said : 'Ah! Verily you are but a blatant miscreant!'

28 : 19

19. Falamma an arada an yabtisha biallathee huwa AAaduwwun lahuma qala ya moosa atureedu an taqtulanee kama qatalta nafsan bial-amsi in tureedu illa an takoona jabbaran fee al-ardi wama tureedu an takoona mina almusliheena

But as soon as he tried to grab him who was the enemy of both of them, he said : 'O Moses! Aim you to kill me just as you killed that other man yesterday? All you want to be in the land is a mere tyrant and have no inclination towards making peace!'

28 : 20

20. Wajaa rajulun min aqsa almadeenati yasAAa qala ya moosa inna almalaa ya/tamiroona bika liyaqtulooka faokhruj innee laka mina alnnasiheena

Then a man came running from the other side of the town and said : 'O Moses! The Royal courtiers are plotting to slay you, so flee from here at once. I happen to be a well wisher of yours!'

28 : 21

21. Fakharaja minha kha-ifan yataraqqabu qala rabbi najjinee mina alqawmi alththalimeena

So he became scared and fled from the town. He prayed : 'O my Lord! Deliver me from the clutches of my assailants! (R)

OTHER TRANSLATIONS BY MUHSIN, YUSUFALI, PICKTHAL AND SHAKIR:

MUHSIN:

14. And when he attained his full strength, and was perfect (in manhood), We bestowed on him Hukman (Prophethood, right judgement of the affairs) and religious knowledge [of the religion of his forefathers i.e. Islâmic Monotheism]. And thus do We reward the Muhsinûn (i.e. good doers - see the footnote of V.9:120).

15. And he entered the city at a time of unawareness of its people, and he found there two men fighting, - one of his party (his religion - from the Children of Israel), and the other of his foes. The man of his (own) party asked him for help against his foe, so Mûsa (Moses) struck him with his fist and killed him. He said: "This is of Shaitân's (Satan) doing, verily, he is a plain misleading enemy."

16. He said: "My Lord! Verily, I have wronged myself, so forgive me." Then He forgave him. Verily, He is the Oft-Forgiving, the Most Merciful.

17. He said: "My Lord! For that with which You have favoured me, I will never more be a helper for the Mujrimûn (criminals, disobedient to Allâh, polytheists, sinners, etc.)!"

18. So he became afraid, looking about in the city (waiting as to what will be the result of his crime of killing), when behold, the man who had sought his help the day before, called for his help (again). Mûsa (Moses) said to him: "Verily, you are a plain misleader!"

19. Then when he decided to seize the man who was an enemy to both of them, the man said: "O Mûsa (Moses)! Is it your intention to kill me as you killed a man yesterday? Your aim is nothing but to become a tyrant in the land, and not to be one of those who do right."

20. And there came a man running, from the farthest end of the city. He said: "O Mûsa (Moses)! Verily, the chiefs are taking counsel together about you, to kill you, so escape.Truly, I am to you of those who give sincere advice."

21. So he escaped from there, looking about in a state of fear. He said: "My Lord! Save me from the people who are Zâlimûn (polytheists and wrong-doers)!"

028.014
YUSUFALI: When he reached full age, and was firmly established (in life), We bestowed on him wisdom and knowledge: for thus do We reward those who do good.
PICKTHAL: And when he reached his full strength and was ripe, We gave him wisdom and knowledge. Thus do We reward the good.
SHAKIR: And when he attained his maturity and became full grown, We granted him wisdom and knowledge; and thus do We reward those who do good (to others).

028.015
YUSUFALI: And he entered the city at a time when its people were not watching: and he found there two men fighting,- one of his own religion, and the other, of his foes. Now the man of his own religion appealed to him against his foe, and Moses struck him with his fist and made an end of him. He said: "This is a work of Evil (Satan): for he is an enemy that manifestly misleads!"
PICKTHAL: And he entered the city at a time of carelessness of its folk, and he found therein two men fighting, one of his own caste, and the other of his enemies; and he who was of his caste asked him for help against him who was of his enemies. So Moses struck him with his fist and killed him. He said: This is of the devil's doing. Lo! he is an enemy, a mere misleader.
SHAKIR: And he went into the city at a time of unvigilance on the part of its people, so he found therein two men fighting, one being of his party and the other of his foes, and he who was of his party cried out to him for help against him who was of his enemies, so Musa struck him with his fist and killed him. He said: This is on account of the Shaitan's doing; surely he is an enemy, openly leading astray.

028.016
YUSUFALI: He prayed: "O my Lord! I have indeed wronged my soul! Do Thou then forgive me!" So (Allah) forgave him: for He is the Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.
PICKTHAL: He said: My Lord! Lo! I have wronged my soul, so forgive me. Then He forgave him. Lo! He is the Forgiving, the Merciful.
SHAKIR: He said: My Lord! surely I have done harm to myself, so do Thou protect me. So He protected him; surely He is the Forgiving, the Merciful.

028.017
YUSUFALI: He said: "O my Lord! For that Thou hast bestowed Thy Grace on me, never shall I be a help to those who sin!"
PICKTHAL: He said: My Lord! Forasmuch as Thou hast favoured me, I will nevermore be a supporter of the guilty.
SHAKIR: He said: My Lord! because Thou hast bestowed a favor on me, I shall never be a backer of the guilty.

028.018
YUSUFALI: So he saw the morning in the city, looking about, in a state of fear, when behold, the man who had, the day before, sought his help called aloud for his help (again). Moses said to him: "Thou art truly, it is clear, a quarrelsome fellow!"
PICKTHAL: And morning found him in the city, fearing, vigilant, when behold! he who had appealed to him the day before cried out to him for help. Moses said unto him: Lo! thou art indeed a mere hothead.
SHAKIR: And he was in the city, fearing, awaiting, when lo! he who had asked his assistance the day before was crying out to him for aid. Musa said to him: You are most surely one erring manifestly.

028.019
YUSUFALI: Then, when he decided to lay hold of the man who was an enemy to both of them, that man said: "O Moses! Is it thy intention to slay me as thou slewest a man yesterday? Thy intention is none other than to become a powerful violent man in the land, and not to be one who sets things right!"
PICKTHAL: And when he would have fallen upon the man who was an enemy unto them both, he said: O Moses! Wouldst thou kill me as thou didst kill a person yesterday. Thou wouldst be nothing but a tyrant in the land, thou wouldst not be of the reformers.
SHAKIR: So when he desired to seize him who was an enemy to them both, he said: O Musa! do you intend to kill me as you killed a person yesterday? You desire nothing but that you should be a tyrant in the land, and you do not desire to be of those who act aright.

028.020
YUSUFALI: And there came a man, running, from the furthest end of the City. He said: "O Moses! the Chiefs are taking counsel together about thee, to slay thee: so get thee away, for I do give thee sincere advice."
PICKTHAL: And a man came from the uttermost part of the city, running. He said: O Moses! Lo! the chiefs take counsel against thee to slay thee; therefor escape. Lo! I am of those who give thee good advice.
SHAKIR: And a man came running from the remotest part of the city. He said: O Musa! surely the chiefs are consulting together to slay you, therefore depart (at once); surely I am of those who wish well to you.

028.021
YUSUFALI: He therefore got away therefrom, looking about, in a state of fear. He prayed "O my Lord! save me from people given to wrong-doing."
PICKTHAL: So he escaped from thence, fearing, vigilant. He said: My Lord! Deliver me from the wrongdoing folk.
SHAKIR: So he went forth therefrom, fearing, awaiting, (and) he said: My Lord! deliver me from the unjust people.

Section 3. 

28 : 22

22. Walamma tawajjaha tilqaa madyana qala AAasa rabbee an yahdiyanee sawaa alssabeeli

And when his attention focussed upon Midian, he said : 'It may be that my Lord will guide me towards the right direction!'

28 : 23

23. Walamma warada maa madyana wajada AAalayhi ommatan mina alnnasi yasqoona wawajada min doonihimu imraatayni tathoodani qala ma khatbukuma qalata la nasqee hatta yusdira alrriAAao waaboona shaykhun kabeerun

And when he reached the pond in Midian, he came across some shepherds watering their sheep and at a distance from them he also noticed two young women struggling to hold back their herd from rushing to the water. He said : 'What is your problem?' They said : 'We cannot water our sheep until the shepherds have had their turn and our father is a very old man.'

28 : 24

24. Fasaqa lahuma thumma tawalla ila alththilli faqala rabbi innee lima anzalta ilayya min khayrin faqeerun

So he watered their flocks for them and then, pausing for a while underneath the shade of a tree he said : 'My Lord! I am in dire need of whatever good You send down for me!'

28 : 25

25. Fajaat-hu ihdahuma tamshee AAala istihya-in qalat inna abee yadAAooka liyajziyaka ajra ma saqayta lana falamma jaahu waqassa AAalayhi alqasasa qala la takhaf najawta mina alqawmi alththalimeena

Then one of the women came to him bashfully and said : 'My father has invited you in order to remunerate you for watering our herd.' And when he went to him and gave him an account of his own predicament, the old man said : 'Fear not, for you are now beyond the reach of those wicked men.'

28 : 26

26. Qalat ihdahuma ya abati ista/jirhu inna khayra mani ista/jarta alqawiyyu al-ameenu

One of the women said : 'O my father! Hire him, for verily an ideal employee is one who is strong as well as trustworthy.'

28 : 27

27. Qala innee oreedu an onkihaka ihda ibnatayya hatayni AAala an ta/juranee thamaniya hijajin fa-in atmamta AAashran famin AAindika wama oreedu an ashuqqa AAalayka satajidunee in shaa Allahu mina alssaliheena

He said : 'I would prefer it that you married one of these two daughters of mine and then hired yourself to me for a period of eight pilgrimages; but if you make it a term of ten years, it would be of your own accord, for I have no wish to take advantage of you. By the will of Allah, you will see that I am of the righteous!'

28 : 28

28. Qala thalika baynee wabaynaka ayyama al-ajalayni qadaytu fala AAudwana AAalayya waAllahu AAala ma naqoolu wakeelun

He said : 'Between you and me this matter is settled! Whichever of the two terms I accept, neither of these would be unfair to me and let Allah be the witness to this our pact.' (R)

 OTHER TRANSLATIONS BY MUHSIN, YUSUFALI, PICKTHAL AND SHAKIR:

MUHSIN:

22. And when he went towards (the land of) Madyan (Midian) he said: "It may be that my Lord guides me to the Right Way."

23. And when he arrived at the water of Madyan (Midian) he found there a group of men watering (their flocks), and besides them he found two women who were keeping back (their flocks). He said: "What is the matter with you?" They said: "We cannot water (our flocks) until the shepherds take (their flocks). And our father is a very old man."

24. So he watered (their flocks) for them, then he turned back to shade, and said: "My Lord! Truly, I am in need of whatever good that You bestow on me!"

25. Then there came to him one of the two women, walking shyly. She said: "Verily, my father calls you that he may reward you for having watered (our flocks) for us." So when he came to him and narrated the story, he said: "Fear you not. You have escaped from the people who are Zâlimûn (polytheists, disbelievers, and wrong-doers)."

26. And said one of them (the two women): "O my father! Hire him! Verily, the best of men for you to hire is the strong, the trustworthy."

27. He said: "I intend to wed one of these two daughters of mine to you, on condition that you serve me for eight years, but if you complete ten years, it will be (a favour) from you. But I intend not to place you under a difficulty. If Allâh will, you will find me one of the righteous."

28. He [Mûsa (Moses)] said: "That (is settled) between me and you whichever of the two terms I fulfill, there will be no injustice to me, and Allâh is Surety over what we say."

028.022
YUSUFALI: Then, when he turned his face towards (the land of) Madyan, he said: "I do hope that my Lord will show me the smooth and straight Path."
PICKTHAL: And when he turned his face toward Midian, he said: Peradventure my Lord will guide me in the right road.
SHAKIR: And when he turned his face towards Madyan, he said: Maybe my Lord will guide me in the right path.

028.023
YUSUFALI: And when he arrived at the watering (place) in Madyan, he found there a group of men watering (their flocks), and besides them he found two women who were keeping back (their flocks). He said: "What is the matter with you?" They said: "We cannot water (our flocks) until the shepherds take back (their flocks): And our father is a very old man."
PICKTHAL: And when he came unto the water of Midian he found there a whole tribe of men, watering. And he found apart from them two women keeping back (their flocks). He said: What aileth you? The two said: We cannot give (our flocks) to drink till the shepherds return from the water; and our father is a very old man.
SHAKIR: And when he came to the water of Madyan, he found on it a group of men watering, and he found besides them two women keeping back (their flocks). He said: What is the matter with you? They said: We cannot water until the shepherds take away (their sheep) from the water, and our father is a very old man.

028.024
YUSUFALI: So he watered (their flocks) for them; then he turned back to the shade, and said:"O my Lord! truly am I in (desperate) need of any good that Thou dost send me!"
PICKTHAL: So he watered (their flock) for them. Then he turned aside into the shade, and said: My Lord! I am needy of whatever good Thou sendest down for me.
SHAKIR: So he watered (their sheep) for them, then went back to the shade and said: My Lord! surely I stand in need of whatever good Thou mayest send down to me.

028.025
YUSUFALI: Afterwards one of the (damsels) came (back) to him, walking bashfully. She said: "My father invites thee that he may reward thee for having watered (our flocks) for us." So when he came to him and narrated the story, he said: "Fear thou not: (well) hast thou escaped from unjust people."
PICKTHAL: Then there came unto him one of the two women, walking shyly. She said: Lo! my father biddeth thee, that he may reward thee with a payment for that thou didst water (the flock) for us. Then, when he came unto him and told him the (whole) story, he said: Fear not! Thou hast escaped from the wrongdoing folk.
SHAKIR: Then one of the two women came to him walking bashfully. She said: My father invites you that he may give you the reward of your having watered for us. So when he came to him and gave to him the account, he said: Fear not, you are secure from the unjust people.

028.026
YUSUFALI: Said one of the (damsels): "O my (dear) father! engage him on wages: truly the best of men for thee to employ is the (man) who is strong and trusty"....
PICKTHAL: One of the two women said: O my father! Hire him! For the best (man) that thou canst hire in the strong, the trustworthy.
SHAKIR: Said one of them: O my father! employ him, surely the best of those that you can employ is the strong man, the faithful one.

028.027
YUSUFALI: He said: "I intend to wed one of these my daughters to thee, on condition that thou serve me for eight years; but if thou complete ten years, it will be (grace) from thee. But I intend not to place thee under a difficulty: thou wilt find me, indeed, if Allah wills, one of the righteous."
PICKTHAL: He said: Lo! I fain would marry thee to one of these two daughters of mine on condition that thou hirest thyself to me for (the term of) eight pilgrimages. Then if thou completest ten it will be of thine own accord, for I would not make it hard for thee. Allah willing, thou wilt find me of the righteous.
SHAKIR: He said: I desire to marry one of these two daughters of mine to you on condition that you should serve me for eight years; but if you complete ten, it will be of your own free will, and I do not wish to be hard to you; if Allah please, you will find me one of the good.

028.028
YUSUFALI: He said: "Be that (the agreement) between me and thee: whichever of the two terms I fulfil, let there be no ill-will to me. Be Allah a witness to what we say."
PICKTHAL: He said: That (is settled) between thee and me. Whichever of the two terms I fulfil, there will be no injustice to me, and Allah is Surety over what we say.
SHAKIR: He said: This shall be (an agreement) between me and you; whichever of the two terms I fulfill, there shall be no wrongdoing to me; and Allah is a witness of what we say.

Section 4. 

28 : 29

29. Falamma qada moosa al-ajala wasara bi-ahlihi anasa min janibi alttoori naran qala li-ahlihi omkuthoo innee anastu naran laAAallee ateekum minha bikhabarin aw jathwatin mina alnnari laAAallakum tastaloona

And when Moses completed the stipulated term and set out with his wife, he noticed a fire in the distance and said : 'Wait here! I see a fire over there in those hills. Perhaps I can bring some news for you or a torch to keep warm.'

28 : 30

30. Falamma ataha noodiya min shati-i alwadi al-aymani fee albuqAAati almubarakati mina alshshajarati an ya moosa innee ana Allahu rabbu alAAalameena

But when he approached the fire, a voice came from the right side of the valley and from behind a tree which stood in the hallowed field saying : 'Oh Moses! Verily I am none other than Allah, the Lord of the Worlds!

28 : 31

31. Waan alqi AAasaka falamma raaha tahtazzu kaannaha jannun walla mudbiran walam yuAAaqqib ya moosa aqbil wala takhaf innaka mina al-amineena

'Throw down your staff!' And when he saw it come to life as if it were an illusion, he turned round to flee without even looking back. (Then it was said to him) : 'O Moses! Come near and fear not! Verily you are safe!

28 : 32

32. Osluk yadaka fee jaybika takhruj baydaa min ghayri soo-in waodmum ilayka janahaka mina alrrahbi fathanika burhanani min rabbika ila firAAawna wamala-ihi innahum kanoo qawman fasiqeena

'Thrust your hand in the bosom of your robe and then draw it forth. You will find it white, though not from disease. Then place that hand upon your chest to rid yourself of fear! These shall be two proofs from your Lord to Pharaoh and his chiefs. Verily they are a sinful folk!

28 : 33

33. Qala rabbi innee qataltu minhum nafsan faakhafu an yaqtulooni

He said : 'My Lord! Verily I have already killed one of their men and I am afraid they would kill me too.

28 : 34

34. Waakhee haroonu huwa afsahu minnee lisanan faarsilhu maAAiya rid-an yusaddiqunee innee akhafu an yukaththibooni

My brother Aaron is much more articulate than I am. So appoint him a messenger to help me and confirm my prophethood. Otherwise, I fear that they will repudiate me.

28 : 35

35. Qala sanashuddu AAadudaka bi-akheeka wanajAAalu lakuma sultanan fala yasiloona ilaykuma bi-ayatina antuma wamani ittabaAAakuma alghaliboona

He (Allah) said : 'We will strengthen your arm with your brother and give you both powers so that they cannot harm either of you. And by virtue of Our portents, you as well as those who follow you shall prevail!'

28 : 36

36. Falamma jaahum moosa bi-ayatina bayyinatin qaloo ma hatha illa sihrun muftaran wama samiAAna bihatha fee aba-ina al-awwaleena

But when Moses brought to them Our clear portents, they said : 'This is nothing but magic. We never heard of any such thing during the times of our forefathers either!'

28 : 37

37. Waqala moosa rabbee aAAlamu biman jaa bialhuda min AAindihi waman takoonu lahu AAaqibatu alddari innahu la yuflihu alththalimoona

Moses said : 'My Lord is best aware of him who brings guidance from His presence and to whom belongs the eternal abode in the Hereafter! Verily it is the sinful who shall not attain their goal!

28 : 38

38. Waqala firAAawnu ya ayyuha almalao ma AAalimtu lakum min ilahin ghayree faawqid lee ya hamanu AAala altteeni faijAAal lee sarhan laAAallee attaliAAu ila ilahi moosa wa-innee laathunnuhu mina alkathibeena

And Pharaoh said : 'O Chiefs! I know not that there is a god other than me! Set up for me a kiln, O Hamaan, to bake the bricks and build me a tower so that I may spy on the God of Moses! I am of the conviction that he is a fraud!’

28 : 39

39. Waistakbara huwa wajunooduhu fee al-ardi bighayri alhaqqi wathannoo annahum ilayna la yurjaAAoona

He and his warlords had seized power in the land to which they were not entitled and were under the impression that they would not be brought back to Us one Day!

28 : 40

40. Faakhathnahu wajunoodahu fanabathnahum fee alyammi faonthur kayfa kana AAaqibatu alththalimeena

So We seized him and his warlords and drowned them in the sea! And behold what became of those who transgressed!

28 : 41

41. WajaAAalnahum a-immatan yadAAoona ila alnnari wayawma alqiyamati la yunsaroona

 And We made them leaders of the hell bound so they beckon them towards the Fire, and on the Day of Resurrection, they shall receive no succour -

28 : 42

42. WaatbaAAnahum fee hathihi alddunya laAAnatan wayawma alqiyamati hum mina almaqbooheena

And We made a curse to follow them in this world, and on the Day of Resurrection they shall be amongst the most despised! (R)

OTHER TRANSLATIONS BY MUHSIN, YUSUFALI, PICKTHAL AND SHAKIR:

MUHSIN:

29. Then, when Mûsa (Moses) had fulfilled the term, and was travelling with his family, he saw a fire in the direction of Tûr (Mount). He said to his family: "Wait, I have seen a fire; perhaps I may bring to you from there some information, or a burning fire-brand that you may warm yourselves."

30. So when he reached it (the fire), he was called from the right side of the valley, in the blessed place from the tree: "O Mûsa (Moses)! Verily! I am Allâh, the Lord of the 'Alamîn (mankind, jinns and all that exists)!

31. "And throw your stick!" But when he saw it moving as if it were a snake, he turned in flight, and looked not back. (It was said): "O Mûsa (Moses)! Draw near, and fear not. Verily, you are of those who are secure.

32. "Put your hand in your bosom, it will come forth white without a disease, and draw your hand close to your side to be free from fear (that which you suffered from the snake, and also by that your hand will return to its original state). these are two Burhân (signs, miracles, evidences, proofs) from your Lord to Fir'aun (Pharaoh) and his chiefs. Verily, they are the people who are Fâsiqûn (rebellious, disobedient to Allâh).

33. He said: "My Lord! I have killed a man among them, and I fear that they will kill me.

34. "And my brother Hârûn (Aaron) he is more eloquent in speech than me so send him with me as a helper to confirm me. Verily! I fear that they will belie me."

35. Allâh said: "We will strengthen your arm through your brother, and give you both power, so they shall not be able to harm you, with Our Ayât (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.), you two as well as those who follow you will be the victors."

36. Then when Mûsa (Moses) came to them with Our Clear Ayât (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.), they said: "This is nothing but invented magic. Never did we hear of this among our fathers of old."

37. Mûsa (Moses) said: "My Lord knows best him who came with guidance from Him, and whose will be the happy end in the Hereafter. Verily, the Zâlimûn (wrong-doers, polytheists and disbelievers in the Oneness of Allâh) will not be successful."

38. Fir'aun (Pharaoh) said: "O chiefs! I know not that you have an ilâh (a god) other than me, so kindle for me (a fire), O Hâmân, to bake (bricks out of) clay, and set up for me a Sarhan (a lofty tower, or palace, etc.) in order that I may look at (or look for) the Ilâh (God) of Mûsa (Moses); and verily, I think that he [Mûsa (Moses)] is one of the liars."

39. And he and his hosts were arrogant in the land, without right, and they thought that they would never return to Us.

40. So We seized him and his hosts, and We threw them all into the sea (and drowned them). So behold (O Muhammad SAW) what was the end of the Zâlimûn [wrong-doers, polytheists and those who disbelieved in the Oneness of their Lord (Allâh), or rejected the advice of His Messenger Mûsa (Moses) <><>].

41. And We made them leaders inviting to the Fire, and on the Day of Resurrection, they will not be helped.

42. And We made a curse to follow them in this world, and on the Day of Resurrection, they will be among Al-Maqbuhûn (those who are prevented to receive Allâh's Mercy or any good, despised or destroyed, etc.).

028.029
YUSUFALI: Now when Moses had fulfilled the term, and was travelling with his family, he perceived a fire in the direction of Mount Tur. He said to his family: "Tarry ye; I perceive a fire; I hope to bring you from there some information, or a burning firebrand, that ye may warm yourselves."
PICKTHAL: Then, when Moses had fulfilled the term, and was travelling with his housefolk, he saw in the distance a fire and said unto his housefolk: Bide ye (here). Lo! I see in the distance a fire; peradventure I shall bring you tidings thence, or a brand from the fire that ye may warm yourselves.
SHAKIR: So when Musa had fulfilled the term, and he journeyed with his family, he perceived on this side of the mountain a fire. He said to his family: Wait, I have seen a fire, maybe I will bring to you from it some news or a brand of fire, so that you may warm yourselves.

028.030
YUSUFALI: But when he came to the (fire), a voice was heard from the right bank of the valley, from a tree in hallowed ground: "O Moses! Verily I am Allah, the Lord of the Worlds....
PICKTHAL: And when he reached it, he was called from the right side of the valley in the blessed field, from the tree: O Moses! Lo! I, even I, am Allah, the Lord of the Worlds;
SHAKIR: And when he came to it, a voice was uttered from the right side of the valley in the blessed spot of the bush, saying: O Musa! surely I am Allah, the Lord of the worlds.

028.031
YUSUFALI: "Now do thou throw thy rod!" but when he saw it moving (of its own accord) as if it had been a snake, he turned back in retreat, and retraced not his steps: O Moses!" (It was said), "Draw near, and fear not: for thou art of those who are secure.
PICKTHAL: Throw down thy staff. And when he saw it writhing as it had been a demon, he turned to flee headlong, (and it was said unto him): O Moses! Draw nigh and fear not. Lo! thou art of those who are secure.
SHAKIR: And saying: Cast down you staff. So when he saw it in motion as if it were a serpent, he turned back retreating, and did not return. O Musa! come forward and fear not; surely you are of those who are secure;

028.032
YUSUFALI: "Move thy hand into thy bosom, and it will come forth white without stain (or harm), and draw thy hand close to thy side (to guard) against fear. Those are the two credentials from thy Lord to Pharaoh and his Chiefs: for truly they are a people rebellious and wicked."
PICKTHAL: Thrust thy hand into the bosom of thy robe it will come forth white without hurt. And guard thy heart from fear. Then these shall be two proofs from your Lord unto Pharaoh and his chiefs. Lo! they are evil-living folk.
SHAKIR: Enter your hand into the opening of your bosom, it will come forth white without evil, and draw your hand to yourself to ward off fear: so these two shall be two arguments from your Lord to Firon and his chiefs, surely they are a transgressing people.

028.033
YUSUFALI: He said: "O my Lord! I have slain a man among them, and I fear lest they slay me.
PICKTHAL: He said: My Lord! Lo! I killed a man among them and I fear that they will kill me.
SHAKIR: He said: My Lord! surely I killed one of them, so I fear lest they should slay me;

028.034
YUSUFALI: "And my brother Aaron - He is more eloquent in speech than I: so send him with me as a helper, to confirm (and strengthen) me: for I fear that they may accuse me of falsehood."
PICKTHAL: My brother Aaron is more eloquent than me in speech. Therefor send him with me as a helper to confirm me. Lo! I fear that they will give the lie to me.
SHAKIR: And my brother, Haroun, he is more eloquent of tongue than I, therefore send him with me as an aider, verifying me: surely I fear that they would reject me.

028.035
YUSUFALI: He said: "We will certainly strengthen thy arm through thy brother, and invest you both with authority, so they shall not be able to touch you: with Our Sign shall ye triumph,- you two as well as those who follow you."
PICKTHAL: He said: We will strengthen thine arm with thy brother, and We will give unto you both power so that they cannot reach you for Our portents. Ye twain, and those who follow you, will be the winners.
SHAKIR: He said: We will strengthen your arm with your brother, and We will give you both an authority, so that they shall not reach you; (go) with Our signs; you two and those who follow you shall be uppermost.

028.036
YUSUFALI: When Moses came to them with Our clear signs, they said: "This is nothing but sorcery faked up: never did we head the like among our fathers of old!"
PICKTHAL: But when Moses came unto them with Our clear tokens, they said: This is naught but invented magic. We never heard of this among our fathers of old.
SHAKIR: So when Musa came to them with Our clear signs, they said: This is nothing but forged enchantment, and we never heard of it amongst our fathers of old.

028.037
YUSUFALI: Moses said: "My Lord knows best who it is that comes with guidance from Him and whose end will be best in the Hereafter: certain it is that the wrong-doers will not prosper."
PICKTHAL: And Moses said: My Lord is Best Aware of him who bringeth guidance from His presence, and whose will be the sequel of the Home (of bliss). Lo! wrong-doers will not be successful.
SHAKIR: And Musa said: My Lord knows best who comes with guidance from Him, and whose shall be the good end of the abode; surely the unjust shall not be successful.

028.038
YUSUFALI: Pharaoh said: "O Chiefs! no god do I know for you but myself: therefore, O Haman! light me a (kiln to bake bricks) out of clay, and build me a lofty palace, that I may mount up to the god of Moses: but as far as I am concerned, I think (Moses) is a liar!"
PICKTHAL: And Pharaoh said: O chiefs! I know not that ye have a god other than me, so kindle for me (a fire), O Haman, to bake the mud; and set up for me a lofty tower in order that I may survey the god of Moses; and lo! I deem him of the liars.
SHAKIR: And Firon said: O chiefs! I do not know of any god for you besides myself; therefore kindle a fire for me, O Haman, for brick, then prepare for me a lofty building so that I may obtain knowledge of Musa's god, and most surely I think him to be one of the liars.

028.039
YUSUFALI: And he was arrogant and insolent in the land, beyond reason,- He and his hosts: they thought that they would not have to return to Us!
PICKTHAL: And he and his hosts were haughty in the land without right, and deemed that they would never be brought back to Us.
SHAKIR: And he was unjustly proud in the land, he and his hosts, and they deemed that they would not be brought back to Us.

028.040
YUSUFALI: So We seized him and his hosts, and We flung them into the sea: Now behold what was the end of those who did wrong!
PICKTHAL: Therefor We seized him and his hosts, and abandoned them unto the sea. Behold the nature of the consequence for evil-doers!
SHAKIR: So We caught hold of him and his hosts, then We cast them into the sea, and see how was the end of the unjust.

028.041
YUSUFALI: And we made them (but) leaders inviting to the Fire; and on the Day of Judgment no help shall they find.
PICKTHAL: And We made them patterns that invite unto the Fire, and on the Day of Resurrection they will not be helped.
SHAKIR: And We made them Imams who call to the fire, and on the day of resurrection they shall not be assisted.

028.042
YUSUFALI: in this world We made a curse to follow them and on the Day of Judgment they will be among the loathed (and despised).
PICKTHAL: And We made a curse to follow them in this world, and on the Day of Resurrection they will be among the hateful.
SHAKIR: And We caused a curse to follow them in this world, and on the day of resurrection they shall be of those made to appear hideous.

Section 5.  

28 : 43

43. Walaqad atayna moosa alkitaba min baAAdi ma ahlakna alquroona al-oola basa-ira lilnnasi wahudan warahmatan laAAallahum yatathakkaroona

And We gave the Scripture to Moses after having dispensed with all the older generations, containing clear testimonies for mankind and a Guidance and a Mercy for them so that perchance they might introspect!.

28 : 44

44. Wama kunta bijanibi algharbiyyi ith qadayna ila moosa al-amra wama kunta mina alshshahideena

You (Mohammed) were not present on the western side of (Mount) when We entrusted our Commandments to Moses and were not amongst those who witnessed it, -

28 : 45

45. Walakinna ansha-na quroonan fatatawala AAalayhimu alAAumuru wama kunta thawiyan fee ahli madyana tatloo AAalayhim ayatina walakinna kunna mursileena

But the fact remains that since then We have brought forth many generations and their term dragged on for a long time! And you were not amongst the dwellers of Midian, reciting to them Our revelations, but the fact remains that We did send other messengers to mankind!

28 : 46

46. Wama kunta bijanibi alttoori ith nadayna walakin rahmatan min rabbika litunthira qawman ma atahum min natheerin min qablika laAAallahum yatathakkaroona

You were not physically present on the Mount when We spoke to Moses, and yet it is a mercy from your Lord that We did give you the knowledge about it so that you may warn a people to whom no warner came before you, in the hope that perchance they might heed your admonitions -

28 : 47

47. Walawla an tuseebahum museebatun bima qaddamat aydeehim fayaqooloo rabbana lawla arsalta ilayna rasoolan fanattabiAAa ayatika wanakoona mina almu/mineena

Lest, should an adversity afflict them because of what their own hands sent ahead of them, they might say : 'Our Lord! Why did you not send us a warner so that we had followed your revelations and had been of those who believed?’

28 : 48

48. Falamma jaahumu alhaqqu min AAindina qaloo lawla ootiya mithla ma ootiya moosa awa lam yakfuroo bima ootiya moosa min qablu qaloo sihrani tathahara waqaloo inna bikullin kafiroona

And yet when there did come to them the Truth from Our presence, they said : 'Why has he not been given something similar to what Moses was given?' Did they not refute what Moses was given in the past? They said : 'Both incantations, supporting each other!' And they said : 'Verily we reject them both!'

28 : 49

49. Qul fa/too bikitabin min AAindi Allahi huwa ahda minhuma attabiAAhu in kuntum sadiqeena

Say to them (O Mohammed) : 'Then bring me from Allah a Scripture which provides better guidance than these two so that I may follow it, - if you are truthful!'

28 : 50

50. Fa-in lam yastajeeboo laka faiAAlam annama yattabiAAoona ahwaahum waman adallu mimmani ittabaAAa hawahu bighayri hudan mina Allahi inna Allaha la yahdee alqawma alththalimeena

And if they do not respond to your challenge, then know that what they follow are their own caprices! And who commits a worse sin than him that pursues his lusts in preference to the guidance of Allah! Verily Allah guides not the flagitious! (R)

  OTHER TRANSLATIONS BY MUHSIN, YUSUFALI, PICKTHAL AND SHAKIR:

MUHSIN:

43. And indeed We gave Mûsa (Moses), after We had destroyed the generations of old, the Scripture [the Taurât (Torah)] as an enlightenment for mankind, and a guidance and a mercy, that they might remember (or receive admonition).

44. And you (O Muhammad SAW) were not on the western side (of the Mount), when We made clear to Mûsa (Moses) the commandment, and you were not among those present.

45. But We created generations [after generations i.e. after Mûsa (Moses) <><>], and long were the ages that passed over them. And you (O Muhammad SAW) were not a dweller among the people of Madyan (Midian), reciting Our Verses to them. But it is We Who kept sending (Messengers).

46. And you (O Muhammad SAW) were not at the side of the Tûr (Mount) when We did call, [it is said that Allâh called the followers of Muhammad SAW , and they answered His Call, or that Allâh called Mûsa (Moses)]. But (you are sent) as a mercy from your Lord, to give warning to a people to whom no warner had come before you, in order that they may remember or receive admonition. [Tafsir At-Tabarî, Vol. 20, Page 81].

47. And if (We had) not (sent you to the people of Makkah) in case a calamity should seize them for (the deeds) that their hands have sent forth, they should have said: "Our Lord! Why did You not send us a Messenger? We should then have followed Your Ayât (Verses of the Qur'ân) and should have been among the believers."

48. But when the truth (i.e. Muhammad SAW with his Message) has come to them from Us, they say: "Why is he not given the like of what was given to Mûsa (Moses)? Did they not disbelieve in that which was given to Mûsa (Moses) of old? They say: "Two kinds of magic [the Taurât (Torah) and the Qur'ân] each helping the other!" And they say: "Verily! In both we are disbelievers."

49. Say (to them, O Muhammad SAW): "Then bring a Book from Allâh, which is a better guide than these two [the Taurât (Torah) and the Qur'ân], that I may follow it, if you are truthful."

50. But if they answer you not (i.e. do not believe in your doctrine of Islâmic Monotheism, nor follow you), then know that they only follow their own lusts. And who is more astray than one who follows his own lusts, without guidance from Allâh? Verily! Allâh guides not the people who are Zâlimûn (wrong-doers, disobedient to Allâh, and polytheists).

51. And indeed now We have conveyed the Word (this Qur'ân in which is the news of everything to them), in order that they may remember (or receive admonition).

028.043
YUSUFALI: We did reveal to Moses the Book after We had destroyed the earlier generations, (to give) Insight to men, and guidance and Mercy, that they might receive admonition.
PICKTHAL: And We verily gave the Scripture unto Moses after We had destroyed the generations of old: clear testimonies for mankind, and a guidance and a mercy, that haply they might reflect.
SHAKIR: And certainly We gave Musa the Book after We had destroyed the former generations, clear arguments for men and a guidance and a mercy, that they may be mindful.

028.044
YUSUFALI: Thou wast not on the Western side when We decreed the Commission to Moses, nor wast thou a witness (of those events).
PICKTHAL: And thou (Muhammad) wast not on the western side (of the Mount) when We expounded unto Moses the commandment, and thou wast not among those present;
SHAKIR: And you were not on the western side when We revealed to Musa the commandment, and you were not among the witnesses;

028.045
YUSUFALI: But We raised up (new) generations, and long were the ages that passed over them; but thou wast not a dweller among the people of Madyan, rehearsing Our Signs to them; but it is We Who send messengers (with inspiration).
PICKTHAL: But We brought forth generations, and their lives dragged on for them. And thou wast not a dweller in Midian, reciting unto them Our revelations, but We kept sending (messengers to men).
SHAKIR: But We raised up generations, then life became prolonged to them; and you were not dwelling among the people of Madyan, reciting to them Our communications, but We were the senders.

028.046
YUSUFALI: Nor wast thou at the side of (the Mountain of) Tur when we called (to Moses). Yet (art thou sent) as Mercy from thy Lord, to give warning to a people to whom no warner had come before thee: in order that they may receive admonition.
PICKTHAL: And thou was not beside the Mount when We did call; but (the knowledge of it is) a mercy from thy Lord that thou mayst warn a folk unto whom no warner came before thee, that haply they may give heed.
SHAKIR: And you were not on this side of the mountain when We called, but a mercy from your Lord that you may warn a people to whom no warner came before you, that they may be mindful.

028.047
YUSUFALI: If (We had) not (sent thee to the Quraish),- in case a calamity should seize them for (the deeds) that their hands have sent forth, they might say: "Our Lord! why didst Thou not sent us a messenger? We should then have followed Thy Signs and been amongst those who believe!"
PICKTHAL: Otherwise, if disaster should afflict them because of that which their own hands have sent before (them), they might say: Our Lord! Why sentest Thou no messenger unto us, that we might have followed Thy revelations and been of the believers?
SHAKIR: And were it not that there should befall them a disaster for what their hands have sent before, then they should say: Our Lord! why didst Thou not send to us a messenger so that we should have followed Thy communications and been of the believers !

028.048
YUSUFALI: But (now), when the Truth has come to them from Ourselves, they say, "Why are not (Signs) sent to him, like those which were sent to Moses?" Do they not then reject (the Signs) which were formerly sent to Moses? They say: "Two kinds of sorcery, each assisting the other!" And they say: "For us, we reject all (such things)!"
PICKTHAL: But when there came unto them the Truth from Our presence, they said: Why is he not given the like of what was given unto Moses? Did they not disbelieve in that which was given unto Moses of old? They say: Two magics that support each other; and they say: Lo! in both we are disbelievers.
SHAKIR: But (now) when the truth has come to them from Us, they say: Why is he not given the like of what was given to Musa? What! did they not disbelieve in what Musa was given before? They say: Two magicians backing up each other; and they say: Surely we are unbelievers in all.

028.049
YUSUFALI: Say: "Then bring ye a Book from Allah, which is a better guide than either of them, that I may follow it! (do), if ye are truthful!"
PICKTHAL: Say (unto them, O Muhammad): Then bring a scripture from the presence of Allah that giveth clearer guidance than these two (that) I may follow it, if ye are truthful.
SHAKIR: Say: Then bring some (other) book from Allah which is a better guide than both of them, (that) I may follow it, if you are truthful.

028.050
YUSUFALI: But if they hearken not to thee, know that they only follow their own lusts: and who is more astray than one who follow his own lusts, devoid of guidance from Allah? for Allah guides not people given to wrong-doing.
PICKTHAL: And if they answer thee not, then know that what they follow is their lusts. And who goeth farther astray than he who followeth his lust without guidance from Allah. Lo! Allah guideth not wrongdoing folk.
SHAKIR: But if they do not answer you, then know that they only follow their low desires; and who is more erring than he who follows his low desires without any guidance from Allah? Surely Allah does not guide the unjust people.

028.051
YUSUFALI: Now have We caused the Word to reach them themselves, in order that they may receive admonition.
PICKTHAL: And now verily We have caused the Word to reach them, that haply they may give heed.
SHAKIR: And certainly We have made the word to reach them so that they may be mindful.

Section 6. 

28 : 51

51. Walaqad wassalna lahumu alqawla laAAallahum yatathakkaroona

And now We have caused Our message to reach them so that they may introspect.

* * *

Context of Revelation : The following verses were revealed when a group of Christians from North Africa visited the Prophet and, upon listening to his sermons, they were so impressed that they embraced Islam. And subsequently, noticing the penury and plight of fellow Muslims, they took leave of the Prophet, went back to their country and then returned with all their wealth so that they may help improve their lot.

28 : 52

52. Allatheena ataynahumu alkitaba min qablihi hum bihi yu/minoona

Those to whom We gave the Scripture prior to the (Qur'aan) believe in it.

28 : 53

53. Wa-itha yutla AAalayhim qaloo amanna bihi innahu alhaqqu min rabbina inna kunna min qablihi muslimeena

And when it is recited to them, they say : 'We do believe in it! Verily it is the Truth from our Lord before whom we have already bowed down our heads!

28 : 54

54. Ola-ika yu/tawna ajrahum marratayni bima sabaroo wayadraoona bialhasanati alssayyi-ata wamimma razaqnahum yunfiqoona

They will be given twice the reward in return for their equanimity, for they repel evil with virtue and spend in Our way some of what We have provided them!

28 : 55

55. Wa-itha samiAAoo allaghwa aAAradoo AAanhu waqaloo lana aAAmaluna walakum aAAmalukum salamun AAalaykum la nabtaghee aljahileena

And when they hear a profanity, they become indifferent to it and say : 'What you do is your business and what we do is ours. So peace be upon you! We relate not to the ignorant!

* * *

Context of revelation : The following verse was revealed when the moment of death approached for the Prophet's most cherished uncle Abu Talib whilst he was still in an unclean state of apostasy, and the Prophet was desperate for him to say the words and embrace Islam before he breathed his last so that he attained redemption. Bur such was not the will of Allah, which is made clear in the verse
 
 

28 : 56

56. Innaka la tahdee man ahbabta walakinna Allaha yahdee man yashao wahuwa aAAlamu bialmuhtadeena

Verily it is not for you (O Mohammed) to give guidance to those whom you favour but it is for Allah to give guidance to those He will! And He is best aware of those who tread the right path!

* * *

28 : 57

57. Waqaloo in nattabiAAi alhuda maAAaka nutakhattaf min ardina awa lam numakkin lahum haraman aminan yujba ilayhi thamaratu kulli shay-in rizqan min ladunna walakinna aktharahum la yaAAlamoona

And they say : 'If we follow the guidance which you provide, we will be ejected from our land by our folk!' Have We not given them a secure sanctuary in the holy land where all kinds of produce are brought for trade, - a generous provision from Our presence? But most of them do not acknowledge it!
 

(The reference here is to those Arabs who were convinced that the Prophet was speaking the truth and that both he and the religion he preached were in accordance with Allah's will and instruction, yet they hesitated in embracing Islam because they were afraid that it could lead to their being expelled from the homeland by the fierce opponents of Islam.

Their faith was not firm enough to make them realize that whatever Allah gave them, He could also take it away from them)
 

28 : 58

58. Wakam ahlakna min qaryatin batirat maAAeeshataha fatilka masakinuhum lam tuskan min baAAdihim illa qaleelan wakunna nahnu alwaritheena

And how many communities have We destroyed that were thankless for the comforts which they were given! And there stands the debris of their dwellings, never again inhabited by any other human beings ever since their extinction, except for a while. And We alone shall be their inheritors!

28 : 59

59. Wama kana rabbuka muhlika alqura hatta yabAAatha fee ommiha rasoolan yatloo AAalayhim ayatina wama kunna muhlikee alqura illa waahluha thalimoona

And never has your Lord destroyed a township unless a messenger was dispatched to its metropolis to recite to them Our revelations. And never did We annihilate a township unless its occupants have become corrupted!

28 : 60

60. Wama ooteetum min shay-in famataAAu alhayati alddunya wazeenatuha wama AAinda Allahi khayrun waabqa afala taAAqiloona

And whatever you have been given is a transient provision for the life of this world and its ostentation, while that which Allah has for you is better and more enduring! Have you then no sense? (R)

OTHER TRANSLATIONS BY MUHSIN, YUSUFALI, PICKTHAL AND SHAKIR:

MUHSIN:

 52. Those to whom We gave the Scripture [i.e. the Taurât (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel), etc.] before it, - they believe in it (the Qur'ân).

53. And when it is recited to them, they say: "We believe in it. Verily, it is the truth from our Lord. Indeed even before it we have been from those who submit themselves to Allâh in Islâm as Muslims (like 'Abdullâh bin Salâm and Salmân Al-Farisî, etc.).^[]

54. These will be given their reward twice over^[], because they are patient, and repel evil with good, and spend (in charity) out of what We have provided them.

55. And when they hear Al­Laghw (dirty, false, evil vain talk), they withdraw from it and say: "To us our deeds, and to you your deeds. Peace be to you. We seek not the ignorant."

56. Verily! You (O Muhammad SAW) guide not whom you like, but Allâh guides whom He wills. And He knows best those who are the guided^[].

57. And they say: "If we follow the guidance with you, we would be snatched away from our land." Have We not established for them a secure sanctuary (Makkah), to which are brought fruits of all kinds, a provision from Ourselves, but most of them know not^[].

58. And how many a town (population) have We destroyed, which were thankless for its means of livelihood (disobeyed Allâh, and His Messengers, by doing evil deeds and crimes) ! And those are their dwellings, which have not been inhabited after them except a little. And verily! We have been the inheritors.

59. And never will your Lord destroy the towns (populations) until He sends to their mother town a Messenger reciting to them Our Verses. And never would We destroy the towns unless the people thereof are Zâlimûn (polytheists, wrong-doers, disbelievers in the Oneness of Allâh, oppressors and tyrants).

60. And whatever you have been given is an enjoyment of the life of (this) world and its adornment, and that (Hereafter) which is with Allâh is better and will remain forever. Have you then no sense?

028.051
YUSUFALI: Now have We caused the Word to reach them themselves, in order that they may receive admonition.
PICKTHAL: And now verily We have caused the Word to reach them, that haply they may give heed.
SHAKIR: And certainly We have made the word to reach them so that they may be mindful.

028.052
YUSUFALI: Those to whom We sent the Book before this,- they do believe in this (revelation):
PICKTHAL: Those unto whom We gave the Scripture before it, they believe in it,
SHAKIR: (As to) those whom We gave the Book before it, they are believers in it.

028.053
YUSUFALI: And when it is recited to them, they say: "We believe therein, for it is the Truth from our Lord: indeed we have been Muslims (bowing to Allah's Will) from before this.
PICKTHAL: And when it is recited unto them, they say: We believe in it. Lo! it is the Truth from our Lord. Lo! even before it we were of those who surrender (unto Him).
SHAKIR: And when it is recited to them they say: We believe in it surely it is the truth from our Lord; surely we were submitters before this.

028.054
YUSUFALI: Twice will they be given their reward, for that they have persevered, that they avert Evil with Good, and that they spend (in charity) out of what We have given them.
PICKTHAL: These will be given their reward twice over, because they are steadfast and repel evil with good, and spend of that wherewith We have provided them,
SHAKIR: These shall be granted their reward twice, because they are steadfast and they repel evil with good and spend out of what We have given them.

028.055
YUSUFALI: And when they hear vain talk, they turn away therefrom and say: "To us our deeds, and to you yours; peace be to you: we seek not the ignorant."
PICKTHAL: And when they hear vanity they withdraw from it and say: Unto us our works and unto you your works. Peace be unto you! We desire not the ignorant.
SHAKIR: And when they hear idle talk they turn aside from it and say: We shall have our deeds and you shall have your deeds; peace be on you, we do not desire the ignorant.

028.056
YUSUFALI: It is true thou wilt not be able to guide every one, whom thou lovest; but Allah guides those whom He will and He knows best those who receive guidance.
PICKTHAL: Lo! thou (O Muhammad) guidest not whom thou lovest, but Allah guideth whom He will. And He is Best Aware of those who walk aright.
SHAKIR: Surely you cannot guide whom you love, but Allah guides whom He pleases, and He knows best the followers of the right way.

028.057
YUSUFALI: They say: "If we were to follow the guidance with thee, we should be snatched away from our land." Have We not established for them a secure sanctuary, to which are brought as tribute fruits of all kinds,- a provision from Ourselves? but most of them understand not.
PICKTHAL: And they say: If we were to follow the Guidance with thee we should be torn out of our land. Have We not established for them a sure sanctuary, whereunto the produce of all things is brought (in trade), a provision from Our presence? But most of them know not.
SHAKIR: And they say: If we follow the guidance with you, we shall be carried off from our country. What ! have We not settled them in a safe, sacred territory to which fruits of every kind shall be drawn?-- a sustenance from Us; but most of them do not know.

028.058
YUSUFALI: And how many populations We destroyed, which exulted in their life (of ease and plenty)! now those habitations of theirs, after them, are deserted,- All but a (miserable) few! and We are their heirs!
PICKTHAL: And how many a community have We destroyed that was thankless for its means of livelihood! And yonder are their dwellings, which have not been inhabited after them save a little. And We, even We, were the inheritors.
SHAKIR: And how many a town have We destroyed which exulted in its means of subsistence, so these are their abodes, they have not been dwelt in after them except a little, and We are the inheritors,

028.059
YUSUFALI: Nor was thy Lord the one to destroy a population until He had sent to its centre a messenger, rehearsing to them Our Signs; nor are We going to destroy a population except when its members practise iniquity.
PICKTHAL: And never did thy Lord destroy the townships, till He had raised up in their mother(-town) a messenger reciting unto them Our revelations. And never did We destroy the townships unless the folk thereof were evil-doers.
SHAKIR: And your Lord never destroyed the towns until He raised in their metropolis a messenger, reciting to them Our communications, and We never destroyed the towns except when their people were unjust.

028.060
YUSUFALI: The (material) things which ye are given are but the conveniences of this life and the glitter thereof; but that which is with Allah is better and more enduring: will ye not then be wise?
PICKTHAL: And whatsoever ye have been given is a comfort of the life of the world and an ornament thereof; and that which Allah hath is better and more lasting. Have ye then no sense?
SHAKIR: And whatever things you have been given are only a provision of this world's life and its adornment, and whatever is with Allah is better and more lasting; do you not then understand?

Section 7. 

28 : 61

61. Afaman waAAadnahu waAAdan hasanan fahuwa laqeehi kaman mattaAAnahu mataAAa alhayati alddunya thumma huwa yawma alqiyamati mina almuhdareena

Is he to whom We have made a worthwhile promise and have guaranteed its fruition the same as he whom We have given some short-lived comforts of the life of this world and then on the Day of Resurrection he would be dragged before Us constrained?

28 : 62

62. Wayawma yunadeehim fayaqoolu ayna shuraka-iya allatheena kuntum tazAAumoona

On the day when He shall call them and say : 'Where are they whom you imagined to be My partners?

28 : 63

63. Qala allatheena haqqa AAalayhimu alqawlu rabbana haola-i allatheena aghwayna aghwaynahum kama ghawayna tabarra/na ilayka ma kanoo iyyana yaAAbudoona

They whose doom has been sealed will say : 'Our Lord! These are the ones whom we led astray! We led them astray to the same extent to which we had gone astray! We are now disillusioned and turn to you instead, for what they really worshipped was never us but their own lusts!

28 : 64

64. Waqeela odAAoo shurakaakum fadaAAawhum falam yastajeeboo lahum waraawoo alAAathaba law annahum kanoo yahtadoona

(It will be said to them) : 'Invoke your partners!' And they will invoke them but the partners will not respond to their invocation! And they will confront their doom! If only they had found guidance when there was still time!

28 : 65

65. Wayawma yunadeehim fayaqoolu matha ajabtumu almursaleena

On that day when He will address them and say : 'What was the answer you gave to your messengers?'

28 : 66

66. FaAAamiyat AAalayhimu al-anbao yawma-ithin fahum la yatasaaloona

On that day all news will be blacked out for them and they will not be able to consult one another either!

28 : 67

67. Faamma man taba waamana waAAamila salihan faAAasa an yakoona mina almufliheena

But as for him who shall repent and become a believer and perform righteous deeds, he might well be of those who have found the right path!

* * *

Context of Revelation : The following verses were revealed when a prominent idolater of Mecca asked why the Prophet was chosen by Allah to act as a messenger when there were so many other eligible men in Mecca who could have done a better job!

28 : 68

68. Warabbuka yakhluqu ma yashao wayakhtaru ma kana lahumu alkhiyaratu subhana Allahi wataAAala AAamma yushrikoona

Your Lord brings to pass what He will and what He chooses! No one has any choice in this regard. May Allah be glorified and transcend above the anathema which they ascribe to Him!

* * *

28 : 69

69. Warabbuka yaAAlamu ma tukinnu sudooruhum wama yuAAlinoona

And your Lord knows that which they conceal in their bosoms as well as that which they reveal.

28 : 70

70. Wahuwa Allahu la ilaha illa huwa lahu alhamdu fee al-oola waal-akhirati walahu alhukmu wa-ilayhi turjaAAoona

And He is Allah! There is no God save Him! His is the glory in this world as well as in the other world and His is the command and to Him shall you be brought back in the end!

28 : 71

71. Qul araaytum in jaAAala Allahu AAalaykumu allayla sarmadan ila yawmi alqiyamati man ilahun ghayru Allahi ya/teekum bidiya-in afala tasmaAAoona

Say to them : 'Did you ever wonder that, if Allah made the night everlasting until the Day of Resurrection, which other god besides Allah could bring light into it? Will you then hear not?

28 : 72

72. Qul araaytum in jaAAala Allahu AAalaykumu alnnahara sarmadan ila yawmi alqiyamati man ilahun ghayru Allahi ya/teekum bilaylin taskunoona feehi afala tubsiroona

Say to them : 'Did you ever wonder that, if Allah made the day everlasting until the Day of Resurrection, which other god besides Allah could bring darkness into it so that you may repose? Will you then see not?

28 : 73

73. Wamin rahmatihi jaAAala lakumu allayla waalnnahara litaskunoo feehi walitabtaghoo min fadlihi walaAAallakum tashkuroona

It is out of sheer compassion towards you that He has devised the night and the day so that you may rest by night and seek of His bounties by day, and so that you may perhaps tender your gratitude!

28 : 74

74. Wayawma yunadeehim fayaqoolu ayna shuraka-iya allatheena kuntum tazAAumoona

And on the Day when He shall address them and say : 'Where are those partners of Mine whom you used to invent?'

28 : 75

75. WanazaAAna min kulli ommatin shaheedan faqulna hatoo burhanakum faAAalimoo anna alhaqqa lillahi wadalla AAanhum ma kanoo yaftaroona

And We shall choose from every nation a witness and We shall say to him : 'Produce your proof!' Then they will realize that there is no Truth other than Allah, and that all their false pretences will come to a naught! (R)

 OTHER TRANSLATIONS BY MUHSIN, YUSUFALI, PICKTHAL AND SHAKIR:

MUHSIN:

61. Is he whom We have promised an excellent promise (Paradise), which he will find true, like him whom We have made to enjoy the luxuries of the life of (this) world, then on the Day of Resurrection, he will be among those brought up (to be punished in the Hell-fire)?

62. And (remember) the Day when He will call to them, and say: "Where are My (so-called) partners whom you used to assert?"

63. Those about whom the Word will have come true (to be punished) will say: "Our Lord! These are they whom we led astray. We led them astray, as we were astray ourselves. We declare our innocence (from them) before You. It was not us they worshipped."

64. And it will be said (to them): "Call upon your (so-called) partners (of Allâh), and they will call upon them, but they will give no answer to them, and they will see the torment. (They will then wish) if only they had been guided!

65. And (remember) the Day (Allâh) will call to them, and say: "What answer gave you to the Messengers?"

66. Then the news of a good answer will be obscured to them on that day, and they will not be able to ask one another.

67. But as for him who repented (from polytheism and sins, etc.), believed (in the Oneness of Allâh, and in His Messenger Muhammad SAW), and did righteous deeds (in the life of this world), then he will be among those who are successful.

68. And your Lord creates whatsoever He wills and chooses, no choice have they (in any matter). Glorified be Allâh, and exalted above all that they associate as partners (with Him).

69. And your Lord knows what their breasts conceal, and what they reveal.

70. And He is Allâh; Lâ ilâha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He). His is all praise, in the first (i.e. in this world) and in the last (i.e.in the Hereafter). And for Him is the Decision, and to Him shall you (all) be returned.

71. Say (O Muhammad SAW): "Tell me! If Allâh made night continuous for you till the Day of Resurrection, who is an ilâh (a god) besides Allâh who could bring you light? Will you not then hear?"

72. Say (O Muhammad SAW): "Tell me! If Allâh made day continuous for you till the Day of Resurrection, who is an ilâh (a god) besides Allâh who could bring you night wherein you rest? Will you not then see?"

73. It is out of His Mercy that He has put for you night and day, that you may rest therein (i.e. during the night) and that you may seek of His Bounty (i.e. during the day), and in order that you may be grateful.

74. And (remember) the Day when He (your Lord Allâh) will call them (those who worshipped others along with Allâh), and will say: "Where are My (so-called) partners, whom you used to assert?"

75. And We shall take out from every nation a witness, and We shall say: "Bring your proof." Then they shall know that the truth is with Allâh (Alone), and the lies (false gods) which they invented will disappear from them.

028.061
YUSUFALI: Are (these two) alike?- one to whom We have made a goodly promise, and who is going to reach its (fulfilment), and one to whom We have given the good things of this life, but who, on the Day of Judgment, is to be among those brought up (for punishment)?
PICKTHAL: Is he whom We have promised a fair promise which he will find (true) like him whom We suffer to enjoy awhile the comfort of the life of the world, then on the Day of Resurrection he will be of those arraigned?
SHAKIR: Is he to whom We have promised a goodly promise which he shall meet with like him whom We have provided with the provisions of this world's life, then on the day of resurrection he shall be of those who are brought up?

028.062
YUSUFALI: That Day (Allah) will call to them, and say "Where are my 'partners'?- whom ye imagined (to be such)?"
PICKTHAL: On the day when He will call unto them and say: Where are My partners whom ye imagined?
SHAKIR: And on the day when He will call them and say: Where are those whom you deemed to be My associates?

028.063
YUSUFALI: Those against whom the charge will be proved, will say: "Our Lord! These are the ones whom we led astray: we led them astray, as we were astray ourselves: we free ourselves (from them) in Thy presence: it was not us they worshipped."
PICKTHAL: Those concerning whom the Word will have come true will say: Our Lord! These are they whom we led astray. We led them astray even as we ourselves were astray. We declare our innocence before Thee: us they never worshipped.
SHAKIR: Those against whom the sentence has become confirmed will say: Our Lord! these are they whom we caused to err; we caused them to err as we ourselves did err; to Thee we declare ourselves to be clear (of them); they never served Us.

028.064
YUSUFALI: It will be said (to them): "Call upon your 'partners' (for help)" :they will call upon them, but they will not listen to them; and they will see the Penalty (before them); (how they will wish) 'if only they had been open to guidance!'
PICKTHAL: And it will be said: Cry unto your (so-called) partners (of Allah). And they will cry unto them, and they will give no answer unto them, and they will see the Doom. Ah, if they had but been guided!
SHAKIR: And it will be said: Call your associate-gods. So they will call upon them, but they will not answer them, and they shall see the punishment; would that they had followed the right way!

028.065
YUSUFALI: That Day (Allah) will call to them, and say: "What was the answer ye gave to the messengers?"
PICKTHAL: And on the Day when He will call unto them and say: What answer gave ye to the messengers?
SHAKIR: And on the day when He shall call them and say: What was the answer you gave to the messengers?

028.066
YUSUFALI: Then the (whole) story that Day will seem obscure to them (like light to the blind) and they will not be able (even) to question each other.
PICKTHAL: On that day (all) tidings will be dimmed for them, nor will they ask one of another,
SHAKIR: Then the pleas shall become obscure to them on that day, so they shall not ask each other.

028.067
YUSUFALI: But any that (in this life) had repented, believed, and worked righteousness, will have hopes to be among those who achieve salvation.
PICKTHAL: But as for him who shall repent and believe and do right, he haply may be one of the successful.
SHAKIR: But as to him who repents and believes and does good, maybe he will be among the successful:

028.068
YUSUFALI: Thy Lord does create and choose as He pleases: no choice have they (in the matter): Glory to Allah! and far is He above the partners they ascribe (to Him)!
PICKTHAL: Thy Lord bringeth to pass what He willeth and chooseth. They have never any choice. Glorified be Allah and Exalted above all that they associate (with Him)!
SHAKIR: And your Lord creates and chooses whom He pleases; to choose is not theirs; glory be to Allah, and exalted be He above what they associate (with Him).

028.069
YUSUFALI: And thy Lord knows all that their hearts conceal and all that they reveal.
PICKTHAL: And thy Lord knoweth what their breasts conceal, and what they publish.
SHAKIR: And your Lord knows what their breasts conceal and what they manifest.

028.070
YUSUFALI: And He is Allah: There is no god but He. To Him be praise, at the first and at the last: for Him is the Command, and to Him shall ye (all) be brought back.
PICKTHAL: And He is Allah; there is no Allah save Him. His is all praise in the former and the latter (state), and His is the command, and unto Him ye will be brought back.
SHAKIR: And He is Allah, there is no god but He! All praise is due to Him in this (life) and the hereafter, and His is the judgment, and to Him you shall be brought back.

028.071
YUSUFALI: Say: See ye? If Allah were to make the night perpetual over you to the Day of Judgment, what god is there other than Allah, who can give you enlightenment? Will ye not then hearken?
PICKTHAL: Say: Have ye thought, if Allah made night everlasting for you till the Day of Resurrection, who is a god beside Allah who could bring you light? Will ye not then hear?
SHAKIR: Say: Tell me, if Allah were to make the night to continue incessantly on you till the day of resurrection, who is the god besides Allah that could bring you light? Do you not then hear?

028.072
YUSUFALI: Say: See ye? If Allah were to make the day perpetual over you to the Day of Judgment, what god is there other than Allah, who can give you a night in which ye can rest? Will ye not then see?
PICKTHAL: Say: Have ye thought, if Allah made day everlasting for you till the Day of Resurrection, who is a god beside Allah who could bring you night wherein ye rest? Will ye not then see?
SHAKIR: Say: Tell me, if Allah were to make the day to continue incessantly on you till the day of resurrection, who is the god besides Allah that could bring you the night in which you take rest? Do you not then see?

028.073
YUSUFALI: It is out of His Mercy that He has made for you Night and Day,- that ye may rest therein, and that ye may seek of his Grace;- and in order that ye may be grateful.
PICKTHAL: Of His mercy hath He appointed for you night and day, that therein ye may rest, and that ye may seek His bounty, and that haply ye may be thankful.
SHAKIR: And out of His mercy He has made for you the night and the day, that you may rest therein, and that you may seek of His grace, and that you may give thanks.

028.074
YUSUFALI: The Day that He will call on them, He will say: "Where are my 'partners'? whom ye imagined (to be such)?"
PICKTHAL: And on the Day when He shall call unto them and say: Where are My partners whom ye pretended?
SHAKIR: And on the day when He shall call them and say: Where are those whom you deemed to be My associates?

028.075
YUSUFALI: And from each people shall We draw a witness, and We shall say: "Produce your Proof": then shall they know that the Truth is in Allah (alone), and the (lies) which they invented will leave them in lurch.
PICKTHAL: And We shall take out from every nation a witness and We shall say: Bring your proof. Then they will know that Allah hath the Truth, and all that they invented will have failed them.
SHAKIR: And We will draw forth from among every nation a witness and say: Bring your proof; then shall they know that the truth is Allah's, and that which they forged shall depart from them.

Section 8

28 : 76

76. Inna qaroona kana min qawmi moosa fabagha AAalayhim waataynahu mina alkunoozi ma inna mafatihahu latanoo-o bialAAusbati olee alquwwati ith qala lahu qawmuhu la tafrah inna Allaha la yuhibbu alfariheena

Though Kora was from the stock of Moses he oppressed them; and We gave him so many treasures that the weight of their keys could have staggered a team of mighty stalwarts! When his own folk said to him : 'Be not conceited, for verily Allah loves not the conceited -
 

(Kora (Qaroon) was the first cousin of Moses. Incredibly handsome and the best in the recitation of the Torah, he used to be a man of impeccable manners during the times of his penury. But once fortune smiled upon him and wealth poured in from all directions, he renounced his faith like Samiri, became boastful and ill mannered)
 

28 : 77

77. Waibtaghi feema ataka Allahu alddara al-akhirata wala tansa naseebaka mina alddunya waahsin kama ahsana Allahu ilayka wala tabghi alfasada fee al-ardi inna Allaha la yuhibbu almufsideena

'But seek the abode of the Hereafter with the riches which Allah has given you and neglect not your duties in this world and be kind to the others in the same way as Allah has been kind to you and perpetrate not corruption upon earth, for Allah loves not those that perpetrate corruption!'
 

(Many commentators have stated in their exegesis of this verse that apart from spending our wealth in this world in order to improve our lot in the Hereafter, its scope extends also to utilizing all our other assets as well towards the same goal, such as our health, our strength and our youth.

(According to a Hadith in this regard, our Prophet is quoted to have said that there are five assets we should value before their decline and they are : youth before senility; health before sickness; affluence before penury; abundance before scarcity; and life before death).
 

28 : 78

78. Qala innama ooteetuhu AAala AAilmin AAindee awa lam yaAAlam anna Allaha qad ahlaka min qablihi mina alqurooni man huwa ashaddu minhu quwwatan waaktharu jamAAan wala yus-alu AAan thunoobihimu almujrimoona

He said : 'I amassed these riches by virtue of the knowledge which I possess!' Realized he not that Allah has already destroyed from the generations before him men mightier in strength and greater in following? There is no point in questioning the guilty about their guilt!
 

(When his friends and well-wishers among the Children of Israel gave him sound advice not to be boastful of what Allah had given him nor to hoard his wealth but share it with those who were in desperate need of help, thereby utilizing the earthly means which were at his disposal to ameliorate himself in the Hereafter, he ignored them and refused even to acknowledge that his wealth was Allah's Grace on him!)
 

28 : 79

79. Fakharaja AAala qawmihi fee zeenatihi qala allatheena yureedoona alhayata alddunya ya layta lana mithla ma ootiya qaroonu innahu lathoo haththin AAatheemin

Then he paraded before his people his wealth with a great deal of ostentation. While those who cherished the comforts of this world said : 'If only we too were given the like of that which is given to Kora! Verily he is a lucky man -
 

(In due course, his self conceit and obsession with wealth reached such a feverish peak that in order to exacerbate the greed of those who envied him, he paraded his treasures, his horses and his camels across the town so that all could see how much wealth he had amassed in so short a time.

It had its desired effect; while those who valued earthly possessions and the short-lived comforts of the life of this world more than the comforts of the Hereafter felt jealous of Kora’s fortune, those who were aware of its futility exhorted them that the reward they would get from Allah in return for righteous deeds performed on earth was richer than all his treasures put together).

28 : 80

80. Waqala allatheena ootoo alAAilma waylakum thawabu Allahi khayrun liman amana waAAamila salihan wala yulaqqaha illa alssabiroona

But those who were given the wealth of knowledge said : 'Shame upon you! Allah's reward to those who believe and perform righteous deeds is a far better reward. And it is given only to those who are righteous!

28 : 81

81. Fakhasafna bihi wabidarihi al-arda fama kana lahu min fi-atin yansuroonahu min dooni Allahi wama kana mina almuntasireena

So We caused the earth to swallow him and his mansion! He no longer had any army, which could protect him against Allah, nor was he of those who could protect himself on his own!
 

(According to Hebrew chronicles, when Kora tried to traduce the character of Moses by persuading a well known prostitute to impute allegations of fornication against him, he felt disgraced in front of his people and demanded her to swear upon Him who parted the ocean in order to deliver the Children of Israel and then make the allegation in the presence of his folks. Scared that she might fall foul of Allah's wrath if she did that, she broke down and confessed that Kora had put her up to it by promising a lavish bride, and that she fell for it.

So distressed was Moses by the sordid affair, he prayed to Allah that He punished Kora for his evil deed with an apt punishment. In answer to his prayer, Allah caused the earth to swallow him, together with those who took a stance against Moses and rallied to his side.

It is said that, when some of the Children of Israel accused him of ordering the earth to swallow Kora so that he could help himself to his enormous wealth, Moses prayed for everything that belonged to him to go the same way. As a result, all his treasures, his possessions, belongings, his armies and his cavalries, including the luxurious mansion in which he lived, began to sink into the ground until they all disappeared from sight).

28 : 82

82. Waasbaha allatheena tamannaw makanahu bial-amsi yaqooloona waykaanna Allaha yabsutu alrrizqa liman yashao min AAibadihi wayaqdiru lawla an manna Allahu AAalayna lakhasafa bina waykaannahu la yuflihu alkafiroona

And those who had envied his pomp only a day ago said a day later : 'How strange! Allah increases the provision for whom Him will of His slaves and decreases it for whom He will! Were it not for the mercy of Allah on us, He would have caused it to swallow us as well! How true that those who disbelieve seldom prosper! (R)

OTHER TRANSLATIONS BY MUHSIN, YUSUFALI, PICKTHAL AND SHAKIR:

MUHSIN:

76. Verily, Qârûn (Korah) was of Mûsa's (Moses) people, but he behaved arrogantly towards them. And We gave him of the treasures, that of which the keys would have been a burden to a body of strong men. When his people said to him: "Do not be glad (with ungratefulness to Allâh's Favours). Verily! Allâh likes not those who are glad (with ungratefulness to Allâh's Favours).

77. But seek, with that (wealth) which Allâh has bestowed on you, the home of the Hereafter, and forget not your portion of legal enjoyment in this world, and do good as Allâh has been good to you, and seek not mischief in the land. Verily, Allâh likes not the Mufsidûn (those who commit great crimes and sins, oppressors, tyrants, mischief-makers, corrupts).

78. He said: "This has been given to me only because of knowledge I possess." Did he not know that Allâh had destroyed before him generations, men who were stronger than him in might and greater in the amount (of riches) they had collected. But the Mujrimûn (criminals, disbelievers, polytheists, sinners, etc.) will not be questioned of their sins (because Allâh knows them well, so they will be punished without account).

79. So he went forth before his people in his pomp. Those who were desirous of the life of the world, said: "Ah, would that we had the like of what Qârûn (Korah) has been given? Verily! He is the owner of a great fortune."

80. But those who had been given (religious) knowledge said: "Woe to you! The Reward of Allâh (in the Hereafter) is better for those who believe and do righteous good deeds, and this none shall attain except those who are patient (in following the truth)."

81. So We caused the earth to swallow him^[] and his dwelling place. Then he had no group or party to help him against Allâh, nor was he one of those who could save themselves.

82. And those who had desired (for a position like) his position the day before, began to say: "Know you not that it is Allâh Who enlarges the provision or restricts it to whomsoever He pleases of His slaves. Had it not been that Allâh was Gracious to us, He could have caused the earth to swallow us up (also)! Know you not that the disbelievers will never be successful.

028.076
YUSUFALI: Qarun was doubtless, of the people of Moses; but he acted insolently towards them: such were the treasures We had bestowed on him that their very keys would have been a burden to a body of strong men, behold, his people said to him: "Exult not, for Allah loveth not those who exult (in riches).
PICKTHAL: Now Korah was of Moses' folk, but he oppressed them; and We gave him so much treasure that the stores thereof would verily have been a burden for a troop of mighty men. When his own folk said unto him: Exult not; lo! Allah loveth not the exultant;
SHAKIR: Surely Qaroun was of the people of Musa, but he rebelled against them, and We had given him of the treasures, so much so that his hoards of wealth would certainly weigh down a company of men possessed of great strength. When his people said to him: Do not exult, surely Allah does not love the exultant;

028.077
YUSUFALI: "But seek, with the (wealth) which Allah has bestowed on thee, the Home of the Hereafter, nor forget thy portion in this world: but do thou good, as Allah has been good to thee, and seek not (occasions for) mischief in the land: for Allah loves not those who do mischief."
PICKTHAL: But seek the abode of the Hereafter in that which Allah hath given thee and neglect not thy portion of the world, and be thou kind even as Allah hath been kind to thee, and seek not corruption in the earth; lo! Allah loveth not corrupters,
SHAKIR: And seek by means of what Allah has given you the future abode, and do not neglect your portion of this world, and do good (to others) as Allah has done good to you, and do not seek to make mischief in the land, surely Allah does not love the mischief-makers.

028.078
YUSUFALI: He said: "This has been given to me because of a certain knowledge which I have." Did he not know that Allah had destroyed, before him, (whole) generations,- which were superior to him in strength and greater in the amount (of riches) they had collected? but the wicked are not called (immediately) to account for their sins.
PICKTHAL: He said: I have been given it only on account of knowledge I possess. Knew he not that Allah had destroyed already of the generations before him men who were mightier than him in strength and greater in respect of following? The guilty are not questioned of their sins.
SHAKIR: He said: I have been given this only on account of the knowledge I have. Did he not know that Allah had destroyed before him of the generations those who were mightier in strength than he and greater in assemblage? And the guilty shall not be asked about their faults.

028.079
YUSUFALI: So he went forth among his people in the (pride of his wordly) glitter. Said those whose aim is the Life of this World: "Oh! that we had the like of what Qarun has got! for he is truly a lord of mighty good fortune!"
PICKTHAL: Then went he forth before his people in his pomp. Those who were desirous of the life of the world said: Ah, would that we had the like of what hath been given unto Korah! Lo! he is lord of rare good fortune.
SHAKIR: So he went forth to his people in his finery. Those who desire this world's life said: O would that we had the like of what Qaroun is given; most surely he is possessed of mighty good fortune.

028.080
YUSUFALI: But those who had been granted (true) knowledge said: "Alas for you! The reward of Allah (in the Hereafter) is best for those who believe and work righteousness: but this none shall attain, save those who steadfastly persevere (in good)."
PICKTHAL: But those who had been given knowledge said: Woe unto you! The reward of Allah for him who believeth and doeth right is better, and only the steadfast will obtain it.
SHAKIR: And those who were given the knowledge said: Woe to you! Allah's reward is better for him who believes and does good, and none is made to receive this except the patient.

028.081
YUSUFALI: Then We caused the earth to swallow up him and his house; and he had not (the least little) party to help him against Allah, nor could he defend himself.
PICKTHAL: So We caused the earth to swallow him and his dwelling-place. Then he had no host to help him against Allah, nor was he of those who can save themselves.
SHAKIR: Thus We made the earth to swallow up him and his abode; so he had no body of helpers to assist him against Allah nor was he of those who can defend themselves.

028.082
YUSUFALI: And those who had envied his position the day before began to say on the morrow: "Ah! it is indeed Allah Who enlarges the provision or restricts it, to any of His servants He pleases! had it not been that Allah was gracious to us, He could have caused the earth to swallow us up! Ah! those who reject Allah will assuredly never prosper."
PICKTHAL: And morning found those who had coveted his place but yesterday crying: Ah, welladay! Allah enlargeth the provision for whom He will of His slaves and straiteneth it (for whom He will). If Allah had not been gracious unto us He would have caused it to swallow us (also). Ah, welladay! the disbelievers never prosper.
SHAKIR: And those who yearned for his place only the day before began to say: Ah! (know) that Allah amplifies and straitens the means of subsistence for whom He pleases of His servants; had not Allah been gracious to us, He would most surely have abased us; ah! (know) that the ungrateful are never successful.

  Section 9

28 : 83

83. Tilka alddaru al-akhiratu najAAaluha lillatheena la yureedoona AAuluwwan fee al-ardi wala fasadan waalAAaqibatu lilmuttaqeena

As for that abode in the Hereafter, We have set it aside only for those who seek not conceit in the land nor perpetrate feud. Salvation belongs only to those who ward off evil!

28 : 84

84. Man jaa bialhasanati falahu khayrun minha waman jaa bialssayyi-ati fala yujza allatheena AAamiloo alssayyi-ati illa ma kanoo yaAAmaloona

He that brings with him a good deed, he will receive something better in return. But as for him who brings an evil deed, the evildoer will be requited with nothing else but the equivalent of the evil he has brought with him.
 
 

* * *

Context of Revelation : The following verse was revealed during the Prophet's flight from Mecca to Madina. When he was overwhelmed by the desire to return to the town where he was born and had left behind many a cherished consanguine.

28 : 85

85. Inna allathee farada AAalayka alqur-ana laradduka ila maAAadin qul rabbee aAAlamu man jaa bialhuda waman huwa fee dalalin mubeenin

Verily He who has made the Qur'aan binding on you, He will indeed bring you back to your cherished destination! Say : 'My Lord is aware of him who brings guidance and of him who meanders in blatant error!
 

(This verse goes far beyond the context in which it was revealed because it contains a solemn promise to him, and to the Muslims accompanying him on that tragic exodus as well as all the others who had been driven out of their homes  as a result of conflicts between them and the agnostics that one day not too distant in the future, Allah will take them all back to their forsaken homes, triumphant and proud, as victors, as rulers and as leaders, which did come to pass with the historic conquest of Mecca by the Muslims.

Some commentators have taken the words ‘bring you back’ to mean Resurrection and the ultimate return of mankind to its Maker, and the ‘cherished destination’ to the Garden.

The latter part of this verse addresses the idolaters of Mecca who had claimed that the Prophet was a misguided man and was sunk in blatant error).

* * *

28 : 86

86. Wama kunta tarjoo an yulqa ilayka alkitabu illa rahmatan min rabbika fala takoonanna thaheeran lilkafireena

You had no hope that the Scripture would be inspirited in you; but this is a Mercy from your Lord, so never add to the credence of the disbelievers!

28 : 87

87. Wala yasuddunnaka AAan ayati Allahi baAAda ith onzilat ilayka waodAAu ila rabbika wala takoonanna mina almushrikeena

And let them not deflect you from the revelations of Allah after they have been sent down to you; but call mankind towards your Lord and be not of those who ascribe partners to Him!

28 : 88

88. Wala tadAAu maAAa Allahi ilahan akhara la ilaha illa huwa kullu shay-in halikun illa wajhahu lahu alhukmu wa-ilayhi turjaAAoona

And do not worship another god along with Allah, for there is no God other than Him! All else is transient except His countenance. His is the command and unto Him is the returning! (R)

 OTHER TRANSLATIONS BY MUHSIN, YUSUFALI, PICKTHAL AND SHAKIR:

MUHSIN:

83. That home of the Hereafter (i.e. Paradise), We shall assign to those who rebel not against the truth with pride^[] and oppression in the land nor do mischief by committing crimes. And the good end is for the Muttaqûn (pious - see V.2:2).

84. Whosoever brings good (Islâmic Monotheism along with righteous deeds), he shall have the better thereof, and whosoever brings evil (polytheism along with evil deeds) then, those who do evil deeds will only be requited for what they used to do.

85. Verily, He Who has given you (O Muhammad SAW) the Qur'an (i.e. ordered you to act on its laws and to preach it to others) will surely bring you back to the Ma'âd (place of return, either to Makkah or to Paradise after your death, etc.). Say (O Muhammad SAW): "My Lord is Aware of him who brings guidance, and he who is in manifest error."

86. And you were not expecting that the Book (this Qur'ân) would be sent down to you, but it is a mercy from your Lord. So never be a supporter of the disbelievers.

87. And let them not turn you (O Muhammad SAW) away from (preaching) the Ayât (revelations and verses) of Allâh after they have been sent down to you, and invite (men) to (believe in) your Lord [i.e: in the Oneness (Tauhîd^[]) of Allâh (1) Oneness of the Lordship of Allâh; (2) Oneness of the worship of Allâh; (3) Oneness of the Names and Qualities of Allâh], and be not of Al-Mushrikûn (those who associate partners with Allâh, e.g. polytheists, pagans, idolaters, those who disbelieve in the Oneness of Allâh and deny the Prophethood of Messenger Muhammad SAW).

88. And invoke not any other ilâh (god) along with Allâh, Lâ ilâha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He). Everything will perish save His Face. His is the Decision, and to Him you (all) shall be returned.

028.083
YUSUFALI: That Home of the Hereafter We shall give to those who intend not high-handedness or mischief on earth: and the end is (best) for the righteous.
PICKTHAL: As for that Abode of the Hereafter We assign it unto those who seek not oppression in the earth, nor yet corruption. The sequel is for those who ward off (evil).
SHAKIR: (As for) that future abode, We assign it to those who have no desire to exalt themselves in the earth nor to make mischief and the good end is for those who guard (against evil)

028.084
YUSUFALI: If any does good, the reward to him is better than his deed; but if any does evil, the doers of evil are only punished (to the extent) of their deeds.
PICKTHAL: Whoso bringeth a good deed, he will have better than the same; while as for him who bringeth an ill-deed, those who do ill-deeds will be requited only what they did.
SHAKIR: Whoever brings good, he shall have better than it, and whoever brings evil, those who do evil shall not be rewarded (for) aught except what they did.

028.085
YUSUFALI: Verily He Who ordained the Qur'an for thee, will bring thee back to the Place of Return. Say: "My Lord knows best who it is that brings true guidance, and who is in manifest error."
PICKTHAL: Lo! He Who hath given thee the Qur'an for a law will surely bring thee home again. Say: My Lord is Best Aware of him who bringeth guidance and him who is in error manifest.
SHAKIR: Most surely He Who has made the Quran binding on you will bring you back to the destination. Say: My Lord knows best him who has brought the guidance and him who is in manifest error.

028.086
YUSUFALI: And thou hadst not expected that the Book would be sent to thee except as a Mercy from thy Lord: Therefore lend not thou support in any way to those who reject (Allah's Message).
PICKTHAL: Thou hadst no hope that the Scripture would be inspired in thee; but it is a mercy from thy Lord, so never be a helper to the disbelievers.
SHAKIR: And you did not expect that the Book would be inspired to you, but it is a mercy from your Lord, therefore be not a backer-up of the unbelievers.

028.087
YUSUFALI: And let nothing keep thee back from the Signs of Allah after they have been revealed to thee: and invite (men) to thy Lord, and be not of the company of those who join gods with Allah.
PICKTHAL: And let them not divert thee from the revelations of Allah after they have been sent down unto thee; but call (mankind) unto thy Lord, and be not of those who ascribe partners (unto Him).
SHAKIR: And let them not turn you aside from the communications of Allah after they have been revealed to you, and call (men) to your Lord and be not of the polytheists.

028.088
YUSUFALI: And call not, besides Allah, on another god. There is no god but He. Everything (that exists) will perish except His own Face. To Him belongs the Command, and to Him will ye (all) be brought back.
PICKTHAL: And cry not unto any other god along with Allah. There is no Allah save Him. Everything will perish save His countenance. His is the command, and unto Him ye will be brought back.
SHAKIR: And call not with Allah any other god; there is no god but He, every thing is perishable but He; His is the judgment, and to Him you shall be brought back.