1. By those [angels] lined up in rows

2. And those who drive [the clouds]

3. And those who recite the message,

4. Indeed, your God is One,

5. Lord of the heavens and the earth and that between them and Lord of the sunrises.

6. Indeed, We have adorned the nearest heaven with an adornment of stars

7. And as protection against every rebellious devil

8. [So] they may not listen to the exalted assembly [of angels] and are pelted from every side,

9. Repelled; and for them is a constant punishment,

10. Except one who snatches [some words] by theft, but they are pursued by a burning flame, piercing [in brightness].

11. Then inquire of them, [O Muhammad], "Are they a stronger [or more difficult] creation or those [others] We have created?" Indeed, We created men from sticky clay.

12. But you wonder, while they mock,

13. And when they are reminded, they remember not.

14. And when they see a sign, they ridicule

15. And say, "This is not but obvious magic.

16. When we have died and become dust and bones, are we indeed to be resurrected?

17. And our forefathers [as well]?"

18. Say, "Yes, and you will be [rendered] contemptible."

19. It will be only one shout, and at once they will be observing.

20. They will say, "O woe to us! This is the Day of Recompense."