Heavenly Souls

I

ndeed man was born with a restless disposition. When evil befalls him he is filled with self-pity, but blessed with good fortune he grows niggardly. Not so the worshippers who are steadfast in their prayer; who set aside a due portion of their goods for the needy and the dispossessed; who truly believe in the Day of Reckoning and dread the punishment of their Lord (for none is secure from the punishment of God); who preserve their chastity (save with their wives and slave girls, for in their case they are not blameworthy; but those who lust after other than those are transgressors); who keep their trusts and promises and bear true witness; and who attend to their prayers. These shall be laden with honours, and shall dwell in fair Gardens. (70:19-35)