AL MAARIJ
(The Ascending Pathways)
INTRODUCTION
#lookingatoneself
Al-Maarij represents the levels of ascension, depicting the trajectory of awareness in our evolutionary journey. It involves elevating our faculties of authority and expanding our spirit of Surah Al-Ma‘arij unfolds as a profound exploration of the inward journey of consciousness as it moves through restlessness, fragmentation, resistance, and eventual alignment with truth. The surah reveals the ascending pathways within the insaan, the gradual unfolding through which awareness evolves from reactive separation toward stable connection with the Rabb. It exposes both the turbulence of the fragmented self and the hidden possibility of inward transformation always present beneath human experience.
A central theme running through the surah is the restless nature of evolving consciousness. The insaan is shown moving through agitation, fear, possessiveness, and instability whenever outward conditions shift. When touched by difficulty, consciousness contracts into distress. When touched by ease and abundance, it tightens into withholding and attachment. The surah unveils how the separate self continuously oscillates between fear of loss and craving for security, unable to find lasting peace while remaining identified with transient forms.
Against this restless condition, the surah reveals the emergence of the musallin, those who remain continually connected through the living alignment by which they experience the presence of Allah. Through preserving this connection, consciousness gradually becomes stabilized. Awareness learns to remain grounded amidst changing circumstances, no longer completely overwhelmed by expansion or contraction. The surah repeatedly returns to this preservation of connection as the foundation through which inward transformation unfolds.
Another major theme is the movement from fragmentation toward integration. The surah exposes the divided condition of those who conceal truth while rushing anxiously through outward pursuits, fragmented into opposing factions within consciousness. One movement claims correctness while another remains contradictory and unstable. The self becomes scattered among competing identities, attachments, fears, and desires. In contrast, the connected ones cultivate inward coherence through truthful witnessing, preservation of trusts, and continual attentiveness to the covenant of alignment with the Rabb.
The surah also introduces the subtle idea of the twilight threshold through the mushfiqūn — those who remain aware of the delicate interval where consciousness may still return toward truth before descending further into darkness and consequence. Punishment is not presented merely as external retribution, but as the natural unfolding of separation, fragmentation, and inward veiling when consciousness repeatedly refuses alignment with truth. Yet within every stage of concealment remains the possibility of return because the Rabb continues governing both the illuminated states of clarity and the darkened states of forgetfulness with precise measure.
A deeply transformative theme within the surah is that consciousness evolves through what it already inwardly knows. The insaan repeatedly encounters signs, consequences, moments of clarity, and hidden recognitions throughout the unfolding of life. The problem is not total absence of truth, but the repeated concealment and avoidance of what has already become inwardly evident. Thus the surah continuously invites awareness to stop fleeing from its own recognition and to remain present with what Allah has already revealed within consciousness itself.
The later movements of the surah expose the futility of endless distraction and superficial striving. Those who conceal truth become immersed in aimless movement and absorbed in temporary pursuits until they inevitably encounter the promised moment where concealment collapses. Perception becomes humbled, false certainty dissolves, and the fragmented self is brought face to face with the realities it long resisted. Yet even this humbling contains mercy, because the collapse of illusion opens the possibility for genuine receptivity and return.
The title Al-Ma‘arij, the ascending pathways or rising stages, reflects the entire inward architecture of the surah. Consciousness ascends not through outward superiority, but through continual refinement, truthful witnessing, preservation of connection, and surrender to the unfolding guidance of the Rabb. Every movement within the surah points toward the gradual elevation of awareness from fragmentation into hidden gardens of flourishing consciousness where truth becomes living, integrated, and inwardly honored.
The key takeaway of the surah is that the insaan cannot find lasting peace through restless pursuit, attachment, distraction, or fragmented identity. True flourishing emerges only through continual alignment with Allah, preserving the inward connection through which awareness experiences His presence. The journey of consciousness moves through cycles of illumination and concealment, yet all of it unfolds within the precise measure of the Rabb who remains fully capable of transforming every state into deeper clarity and truthful alignment.
With the name of Allah - the Rahmaan, the Raheem.
NOTES : The name of Allah is the vibrational signature of the Being in whom all forms appear and disappear, the indivisible presence that pervades both the lower consciousness for the world of experience and thought, and the higher consciousness for the unbounded, unseen field from which all meaning flows. To invoke this name is to recognise that every measure of existence, every unfolding event, every hidden arrangement of cause and effect, arises within the vastness of this singular reality.
Nothing resembles Him because everything that appears is only a representation of His existence, a sign pointing toward reality, not reality itself. Every form, every pattern, every value reflected in the world is a symbol through which the truth expresses itself. But the symbol is never the source. The representation is never the reality it gestures toward. He is the unmoving screen upon which every thought, sensation, and perception arises, yet remains utterly untouched by what appears upon it. To say Bismillah is to turn from the shifting images to the luminous presence that knows them. In that moment, you stop identifying with the forms that come and go and recognise yourself as the aware space in which all experience unfolds.
Ar-Raḥmaan, the All-Merciful is the ever-present, all-encompassing nurturing reality within which your entire existence unfolds—prior to thought, effort, or identity. It is not merely mercy as an emotion, but the continuous sustaining, developing, and guiding presence that holds you in every moment, like a womb that gives life, supports growth, and brings things to completion without force. To recognize Ar-Raḥman is to see that you are not separate or self-sustaining, but are being carried, shaped, and unfolded within a boundless field of care that never withdraws.Ar-Raheem, by contrast, is the intimate grace with which this guidance arrives. It is the soft, inward unfolding of direction that naturally meets you exactly where you are. Even your missteps are met with a tenderness that does not punish but redirects. This mercy is not separate from you; it is the very movement of your own higher nature leading you back to clarity.To begin with this name is to begin from stillness, from wholeness, from the recognition that the intelligence that moves galaxies is the same intelligence guiding your next breath. It is a return to the awareness that everything you seek is already held within the One who is nearer than your own being. In this recognition, the journey becomes simple, that is to remain open, to listen deeply, and to allow the mercy that shapes all things to shape you from within.
70.1 A questioning consciousness asked concerning adhaab waaqi' / inevitable punishment,
NOTES: A questioning consciousness asks concerning the inevitable punishment that unfolds through disalignment from truth within awareness itself. The insaan wonders whether the consequences of fragmentation, denial, attachment, compulsive narratives, emotional turbulence, and the veiling of realization are truly real and unavoidable, or whether consciousness may continue resisting truth without inward consequence.
Yet the punishment described here is already unfolding inevitably within the structure of consciousness itself. Whenever awareness repeatedly turns away from truthful alignment with Allah, the inward atmosphere gradually becomes burdened with constriction, instability, confusion, fear, emotional heaviness, rigidity, and burning inner tension. The suffering is not arbitrary, but naturally emerges from separation from truthful coherence.
The questioning consciousness often seeks certainty only after fragmentation has already deepened within awareness. The insaan may temporarily ignore subtle inward consequences while preserving conditioned identity and attachment, yet the deeper disalignment continues accumulating beneath the surface until the constriction becomes undeniable within consciousness itself.
The inevitability of the punishment reveals that truth and falsehood do not produce the same inward unfolding. Alignment gradually opens awareness toward clarity, receptivity, tranquility, and coherence, while disalignment generates fragmentation, inner conflict, veiling, and painful constriction within consciousness.
The verse therefore serves as an awakening to the reality that inward consequence is already woven into the structure of awareness itself. What consciousness continually aligns with eventually shapes the inward condition of the insaan, either toward harmony with truth or toward the painful fragmentation that naturally unfolds through separation from Allah’s guidance.
70.2 For the kaafirin / those who conceal truth; there is no daafi' / repelling,
NOTES: For the states within consciousness that continually conceal and veil truth, there exists no power capable of repelling the inevitable consequences of disalignment from unfolding within awareness. The insaan may attempt to suppress realization, rationalize fragmentation, distract the mind, preserve conditioned identity, or escape inward confrontation, yet the consequences of concealing truth continue deepening beneath the surface of consciousness itself.
When awareness repeatedly covers what has already been unveiled through Allah’s guidance, fragmentation gradually strengthens within the inward atmosphere. Emotional heaviness, confusion, compulsive narratives, fear, rigidity, inner tension, and instability begin taking root because consciousness is no longer moving in harmony with truthful coherence.
The concealment of truth does not leave awareness unchanged. Every time realization is suppressed beneath attachment, self-preservation, conditioned perception, and the resistance of the separate self, the inward condition becomes increasingly burdened by the very fragmentation consciousness attempts to avoid.
Thus there is no true repelling of the consequence while truth continues to be concealed. The insaan cannot permanently shield awareness from the suffering generated through sustained disalignment with Allah’s unfolding guidance. The painful unfolding persists because the veiling itself continually nourishes fragmentation within consciousness.
The verse reveals that truth carries an unavoidable inward reality. Consciousness either moves toward greater clarity, receptivity, and coherence through alignment, or toward increasing constriction and suffering through concealment. What awareness continually chooses to preserve eventually shapes the entire inward condition of the insaan.
70.3 From Allah, possessor of the ma'arij / ascending pathways (towards truthful realization).
NOTES: All unfoldings within consciousness originate from Allah, the Possessor of the pathways of ascension through which awareness rises toward deeper truthful realization. The insaan is not left trapped within fragmentation, fear, conditioned perception, and emotional heaviness without guidance, but is continually being offered inward pathways through which consciousness may ascend toward clarity, refinement, and alignment with truth.
These ascensions are not merely outward elevations, but inward unfoldings of awareness itself. Consciousness gradually rises through stages of discernment, receptivity, purification, surrender, embodiment of truthful qualities, and deeper realization of Allah’s guidance within the inward journey.
Every unveiling, every sincere return toward truth, every softening of attachment, and every movement beyond conditioned identity becomes part of this ascension within consciousness. The insaan ascends not through egoic self-exaltation, but through increasing transparency to truth and deeper harmony with Allah’s unfolding.
The verse also reveals that the One who governs consequence is the same One who opens the way toward elevation. Even moments of constriction, fragmentation, and inward struggle may become openings toward higher realization when consciousness turns back toward truthful alignment and receptivity.
Thus Allah is revealed as the continual source of inward transformation and elevation. The pathways toward truthful realization are already present within the unfolding structure of consciousness itself, and Allah continually guides awareness upward through the gradual ascension from concealment into clarity, from fragmentation into coherence, and from conditioned identity into deeper nearness to truth.
70.4 The malaaikah / faculties of authority and the ruh / living spirit (essence) ascend to Him within a moment miqdaruhu / whose unfolding measure is khamsina alfa sanah / fifty thousand years (immense stages of refinement).
NOTES: The faculties of authority within consciousness and the living spirit ascend toward Allah through an immense unfolding journey of refinement and realization. As awareness aligns with truth, the inward faculties responsible for discernment, perception, order, receptivity, and truthful governance gradually rise beyond fragmentation, emotional turbulence, conditioned identity, and compulsive attachment toward deeper harmony with Allah’s guidance.
Alongside these faculties, the living spirit, the subtle essence continually drawn toward truth and nearness, also ascends through the inward journey of transformation. The ruh within the insaan is not satisfied by superficial existence alone, but continually seeks deeper realization, coherence, clarity, and alignment with the source from which consciousness unfolds.
Yet this ascension unfolds through immense stages of refinement. The journey toward truthful realization is not immediate or superficial, but requires prolonged purification, unveiling, surrender, embodiment, patience, and inward maturation. Consciousness rises gradually through cycles of opening, struggle, softening, discernment, integration, and transformation.
The immense measure described in the verse reveals the vast depth of the inward path. Awareness cannot force realization prematurely because each stage prepares consciousness for deeper capacities of receptivity and truthful embodiment. Allah unfolds the ascent according to precise wisdom and measure within the insaan.
The verse reveals that the journey toward truthful realization is itself an ascension of consciousness. Every sincere movement toward clarity, refinement, receptivity, and inward alignment becomes part of the gradual rising of awareness and spirit toward deeper nearness with Allah through the immense unfolding process of transformation.
70.5 So remain steadfastly patient with jamilan / a beautiful patience (free from resistance and fragmentation).
NOTES: So remain steadfastly patient through the unfolding journey of consciousness with a beautiful patience free from resistance, bitterness, emotional fragmentation, and compulsive struggle against Allah’s unfolding decree. The insaan is invited to remain inwardly grounded and receptive even while passing through prolonged stages of refinement, uncertainty, unveiling, and transformation.
This beautiful patience does not arise from suppression or passive endurance, but from a consciousness gradually learning to trust the wisdom unfolding beneath every stage of the inward journey. Awareness no longer reacts with panic, resentment, haste, or despair when realization unfolds slowly or when hidden layers of fragmentation become exposed within consciousness.
Instead, the insaan learns to remain inwardly harmonious through the process itself. Beautiful patience softens the tendency of the separate self to resist discomfort, demand immediate answers, or cling anxiously to conditioned certainty. Awareness becomes capable of abiding within uncertainty without losing receptivity to truth.
Such patience preserves coherence within consciousness during transformation. Rather than becoming inwardly divided through fear, frustration, and resistance, awareness remains aligned with Allah’s guidance while allowing realization to unfold gradually according to Divine wisdom and measure.
The verse reveals that truthful ascension requires a patience rooted in surrender and inward harmony. Consciousness matures not by forcing transformation prematurely, but by remaining beautifully receptive throughout the immense unfolding journey toward deeper truthful realization.
70.6 Indeed they see it as ba'idan / a remote matter (far from awareness),
NOTES: Indeed, there are states within consciousness that perceive truthful consequence, transformation, and realization as a remote matter far removed from present awareness. The insaan veiled by conditioned perception often imagines that the unfolding of truth belongs to some distant future rather than recognizing that the inward consequences of alignment and disalignment are already unfolding within consciousness itself.
Because awareness becomes absorbed in surface appearances, emotional distractions, compulsive narratives, worldly attachment, and the preservation of conditioned identity, it loses sensitivity to the subtle movements already taking place within the inward journey. Truth appears distant only because consciousness has become disconnected from direct inward seeing.
This perception of remoteness allows the separate self to postpone transformation, delay surrender, and continue sustaining fragmentation without urgency. The insaan assumes there is still distance between awareness and the inevitable unveiling of reality, while inward consequences are already quietly shaping the condition of consciousness moment by moment.
Yet what appears remote is in fact deeply near. Every attachment, fear, resistance, concealment, and movement toward or away from truth is already unfolding within the present structure of awareness itself. The ascent toward realization and the consequences of fragmentation are not separate from the insaan, but are continually being lived inwardly even when consciousness remains unaware of them.
The verse reveals how conditioned perception distorts nearness into distance. What consciousness imagines to be far away is already unfolding intimately within awareness, waiting only for the veils obscuring truthful clarity to soften and dissolve.
70.7 But We see it, qariban / a near affair.
NOTES: But Allah sees it as a near affair. What consciousness imagines to be distant, delayed, or far removed from awareness is already intimately present within the unfolding structure of the insaan itself. The unveiling of truth, the consequences of fragmentation, the ascent toward realization, and the transformation of consciousness are not remote future possibilities to Allah, but realities already unfolding within every movement of awareness.
The separate self perceives distance because it remains veiled by conditioned perception, attachment, distraction, fear, and emotional fixation. Awareness becomes absorbed in surface appearances and temporary concerns, causing the deeper movements of realization and consequence to appear hidden and far away. Yet Allah sees beyond these veils directly into the inward reality already taking shape within consciousness.
Every subtle inclination, every concealment of truth, every sincere return toward alignment, every movement of fragmentation, and every unfolding realization is already near within the living present of awareness itself. The insaan may delay recognition, but the inward processes continue unfolding moment by moment beneath conditioned perception.
This nearness also reveals the intimacy of Allah’s guidance. The ascent toward truthful realization is not distant from consciousness, but continuously available within the present unfolding of awareness. The pathways toward clarity, refinement, surrender, and realization are already near because Allah Himself sustains and unfolds them within the insaan.
The verse reveals the contrast between conditioned perception and Divine seeing. Consciousness imagines truth to be remote because it sees through veils, while Allah sees the unfolding reality directly, intimately, and completely near within the inward life of awareness itself.
70.8 A moment the samaa' / higher consciousness becomes like almuhli / the melted dissoving residue (under the unfolding intensity of truthful realization),
NOTES: A moment arrives when the higher consciousness becomes like melted dissolving residue under the unfolding intensity of truthful realization. The elevated structures through which awareness once maintained certainty, identity, emotional control, and conditioned perception begin softening and losing their rigid form as deeper truth unveils itself within consciousness.
What once appeared solid and unquestionable within awareness can no longer remain fixed beneath the pressure of realization. Conditioned beliefs, inherited narratives, egoic self-images, emotional defenses, attachments, and conceptual structures begin dissolving as truth exposes what was previously concealed beneath the surface of consciousness.
This melting is not destruction for its own sake, but a necessary inward transformation. The separate self depends upon hardened structures to preserve continuity and psychological certainty, yet truthful realization gradually dissolves these rigid formations so awareness may become more transparent, receptive, and aligned with reality.
The imagery of melted residue reveals that consciousness undergoes an intense purification where what is false, artificial, and heavily conditioned loses its stability within awareness. The insaan may initially experience uncertainty, emotional exposure, vulnerability, or inward upheaval as these structures dissolve, yet this softening prepares consciousness for deeper clarity and truthful coherence.
The verse reveals that truthful realization is not merely an addition to existing awareness, but a transformative force that melts the hardened formations within consciousness itself. As Allah’s unveiling intensifies, the higher consciousness is purified through dissolution, allowing awareness to ascend beyond conditioned rigidity into deeper receptivity and alignment with truth.
70.9 And the jibaalu / fixed headed thoughts become like the 'ihni / loosen thing (loosened and scattered),
NOTES: And the fixed hardened thoughts within consciousness become loosened and scattered under the unfolding intensity of truthful realization. The rigid mental structures, deeply rooted certainties, conditioned beliefs, emotional attachments, self-images, and compulsive patterns that once appeared solid and immovable within awareness begin losing their firmness as truth unveils itself more directly within the insaan.
These hardened thoughts function like inward mountains sustaining the continuity of the separate self. Consciousness clings to them for psychological security, identity, certainty, and control. Yet when truthful realization deepens, these fixed structures can no longer maintain their previous rigidity beneath the light of clearer perception.
What was once tightly held within awareness begins loosening. Conditioned narratives scatter, rigid conclusions soften, emotional fixations weaken, and the hardened formations of perception gradually dissolve. Consciousness becomes less imprisoned within fixed patterns of seeing and reacting.
This loosening may initially feel unsettling because the insaan is being inwardly detached from structures previously mistaken for truth and stability. Yet the scattering is part of purification. Awareness cannot ascend toward deeper realization while remaining bound by rigid formations shaped through fear, attachment, and conditioned perception.
The verse reveals that truthful realization transforms consciousness by loosening the hardened structures within awareness itself. As the inward mountains soften and scatter, consciousness becomes more open, receptive, fluid, and capable of aligning with the living unfolding of truth through Allah’s guidance.
70.10 And no hamim / corrosive emotional agitated thought will ask hamiman / a corrosive (of another) emotional agitated thought,
NOTES: When truthful realization intensifies within consciousness, the network of reactive emotional patterns, compulsive narratives, fears, attachments, and inward agitations that once continually reinforced one another begins collapsing and separating beneath the unveiling of truth.
Previously, these agitated thoughts operated together within consciousness, feeding emotional turbulence, sustaining fragmentation, and preserving the continuity of the conditioned self. Fear strengthened anger, attachment reinforced anxiety, emotional wounds supported defensive narratives, and compulsive reactions nourished further agitation within awareness.
Yet as realization unfolds, these corrosive structures lose their mutual coherence and support. The inward patterns no longer sustain or protect one another because truth begins exposing each movement directly within consciousness. The insaan can no longer unconsciously hide one agitation behind another or escape fragmentation through continual emotional reinforcement.
This reveals a profound inward unraveling where conditioned emotional structures become isolated and exposed before awareness itself. The emotional system sustaining fragmentation begins weakening because truth no longer allows these reactive patterns to remain unconsciously fused together within the inward atmosphere of consciousness.
The verse reveals that truthful realization dissolves the false solidarity of fragmentation within awareness. The agitated emotional structures that once collectively sustained the separate self gradually lose their interconnected dominance, preparing consciousness for deeper purification, clarity, and truthful coherence through Allah’s unfolding guidance.
70.11 They (the corrosive agitated thoughts) yubassaruna / are made fully exposed to ne another. The mujrimu / one who violated the covenant wished yaftadi / to redeem from the punishment at that moment bibanihi / with his construct,
NOTES: The inwardly corrosive and emotionally agitated thoughts become fully exposed before one another within consciousness. What was previously hidden beneath distraction, denial, self-justification, emotional suppression, and conditioned narratives can no longer remain concealed when truthful realization intensifies within awareness. The fragmented structures of the separate self are laid bare before direct inward seeing.
At that moment, the one who violated the covenant of truthful alignment desperately seeks redemption from the painful consequences unfolding within consciousness. The insaan realizes that the suffering generated through fragmentation, concealment of truth, attachment, and disalignment can no longer be escaped through the usual defenses and distractions of the conditioned self.
The attempt to redeem oneself through one’s own constructs reveals how deeply consciousness clings to the structures it has built — identities, beliefs, achievements, emotional attachments, self-images, psychological protections, and the inward systems created to preserve continuity and control. The insaan hopes that these constructions may somehow shield awareness from the consequences of disalignment.
Yet the unveiling of truth exposes the inability of these constructs to provide true redemption. What was built through conditioned perception cannot ultimately rescue consciousness from the fragmentation sustained by separation from truthful alignment with Allah. The very structures once trusted for security become exposed as insufficient before the intensity of realization.
The verse reveals a profound inward confrontation where consciousness sees clearly the collapse of its false securities. When truth becomes fully unveiled within awareness, the insaan recognizes that no construct of the separate self can redeem consciousness except the return toward truthful alignment, surrender, and receptivity to Allah’s guidance.
70.12 And saahibatihi / his intimate companions (close emotional attachments) and akhihi / his brotherly thoughts (the reinforcing thought systems),
NOTES: Under the intensity of truthful unveiling, the insaan becomes willing to sacrifice even the closest emotional attachments and the reinforcing thought systems that once sustained the separate self within consciousness. What was previously cherished, defended, emotionally relied upon, and inwardly protected can no longer provide security when awareness directly confronts the painful consequences of fragmentation and disalignment from truth.
The intimate companions represent the emotional attachments, comforting identifications, familiar dependencies, and inward associations that remained closely tied to consciousness throughout its conditioned existence. These attachments once gave the insaan a sense of continuity, comfort, and psychological stability within the fragmented self.
Alongside them are the brotherly thoughts; the reinforcing thought systems, self-validating narratives, defensive frameworks, inherited beliefs, and familiar mental structures that worked together to support and justify the conditioned identity. These inward alliances continually strengthened the separate self by preserving its attachments, fears, compulsions, and distortions from exposure.
Yet when truthful realization intensifies, these emotional and psychological supports lose their ability to protect consciousness from direct inward seeing. The insaan realizes that neither attachment nor the thought systems defending it can redeem awareness from the consequences created through prolonged concealment of truth.
The verse reveals the collapse of the inward network sustaining fragmentation. The emotional attachments and their reinforcing mental structures are exposed together, showing consciousness that the entire conditioned system supporting the separate self is ultimately incapable of providing salvation from the suffering generated by disalignment with Allah’s unfolding truth.
70.13 And fashilatihi / his inward support structure (psychological tribe within consciousness) gave him shelter.
NOTES: The insaan becomes willing to sacrifice even the inward support structure that once gave consciousness psychological shelter and refuge. This inward psychological tribe consists of the decisively separated identity-frameworks, conditioned affiliations, familiar belief systems, emotional loyalties, inherited narratives, and structured patterns of perception through which the separate self maintained its continuity and protection within awareness.
These inward structures functioned like a psychological shelter for consciousness. Whenever truthful realization threatened the stability of the conditioned self, awareness would retreat into familiar identities, defensive thought systems, emotional certainties, and collective inner narratives that reinforced separation from direct truthful exposure.
This inward tribe gave the insaan a sense of belonging, stability, continuity, and protection from the vulnerability required for transformation. Consciousness sought refuge within these structured partitions because they preserved the familiar self-image and reduced the discomfort created by deeper realization.
Yet when truthful unveiling intensifies, even these deeply rooted shelters become exposed as incapable of redeeming consciousness from the consequences of fragmentation and disalignment with Allah. The very structures once trusted for inward protection are seen as part of the veiling itself.
The verse reveals that truthful realization dismantles not only individual attachments and thoughts, but the entire inward system of separated identity through which consciousness sheltered itself from direct alignment with truth. What once provided refuge to the separate self gradually dissolves so awareness may rest instead within the deeper coherence and guidance of Allah.
70.14 And (willing to sacrifice) all whoever in the ardh / lower consciousness jami'an / altogether then yunjihi / save it (from the consequence disalignment).
NOTES: The intensity of truthful unveiling becomes so overwhelming for the fragmented self that consciousness becomes willing to sacrifice everything contained within the lower grounded structures of awareness if only it could be saved from the painful consequences of disalignment. Every attachment, identity, emotional investment, psychological construct, worldly fixation, and conditioned structure gathered within the lower consciousness is offered inwardly in hope of escape from the suffering now fully exposed within awareness.
The lower consciousness represents the entire inward field shaped by conditioned perception, egoic preservation, compulsive narratives, emotional turbulence, attachment, fear, and fragmented identity. What consciousness once collected, defended, and relied upon for security is now seen as incapable of protecting the insaan from the consequences generated through separation from truthful alignment with Allah.
The gathering together of all these inward structures reveals the desperation of the separate self when direct realization becomes unavoidable. Consciousness hopes that by surrendering all its conditioned possessions and identifications, it may still rescue itself from the inward collapse brought by truthful exposure.
Yet the verse reveals that no accumulation within the lower consciousness possesses the power to truly save awareness from fragmentation. The suffering cannot be redeemed through exchanging one conditioned structure for another because the root of the pain lies in the very disalignment sustaining the separate self itself.
Truthful realization gradually exposes the insufficiency of every false refuge within consciousness. The insaan eventually discovers that real salvation cannot emerge from the lower conditioned structures of awareness, but only through surrender, purification, and return toward truthful coherence with Allah’s unfolding guidance.
70.15 Certainly not! Indeed, it is surely laza / flame of intensified friction,
NOTES: Certainly not. None of the structures within the lower conditioned consciousness can rescue the insaan from the consequences of disalignment, because what unfolds within awareness is an intensified flame of inward friction itself. The suffering is not arbitrary, but arises naturally from the conflict between truthful realization and the fragmented structures sustained by the separate self.
As truth becomes increasingly unveiled within consciousness, every attachment, concealment, defensive narrative, rigid identity, emotional fixation, and conditioned pattern resisting alignment begins generating intense inward friction. Awareness becomes divided against itself — one movement seeking truthful coherence while another clings to fragmentation and preservation of the conditioned self.
This inward friction burns because consciousness can no longer fully sustain the illusion upon which the separate self depended. The insaan begins directly experiencing the tension created by resisting what truth has already exposed within awareness. The more consciousness clings to concealment, attachment, and fragmentation, the more intense the inward burning becomes.
The flame therefore represents the consuming pressure of disalignment itself. Fear burns. Attachment burns. Contradiction burns. Emotional agitation burns. Compulsive identification burns. Every movement within consciousness opposing truthful coherence contributes to the intensified friction unfolding within awareness.
Yet hidden within this burning is also purification. The intensified friction gradually exposes and weakens the false structures sustaining separation from Allah. What cannot remain aligned with truth begins dissolving beneath the pressure of realization, allowing consciousness to eventually soften toward surrender, receptivity, and deeper inward coherence.
70.16 Nazza'aah / a force intensely stripping away the shawaa / outer coverings.
NOTES: The intensified inward friction becomes a force that relentlessly strips away the outer coverings within consciousness. The surfaces through which the separate self once protected, concealed, justified, and maintained itself can no longer remain intact beneath the unfolding intensity of truthful realization.
These outer coverings are the emotional masks, conditioned identities, defensive narratives, reactive patterns, social personas, inherited assumptions, and psychological layers that shielded awareness from directly confronting its fragmentation and disalignment with truth. They formed the outer shell through which consciousness preserved familiarity and avoided inward exposure.
As realization deepens, these coverings begin tearing away one after another. What was once hidden beneath self-protection and conditioned certainty becomes exposed within awareness itself. The insaan can no longer comfortably maintain the false surfaces that previously concealed fear, attachment, contradiction, emotional agitation, and fragmentation.
This stripping away often feels painful because consciousness experiences the dissolving of the very structures upon which the separate self depended for continuity and security. The insaan feels inwardly uncovered, vulnerable, and psychologically exposed as the protective layers weaken beneath the pressure of truth.
Yet this forceful unveiling is part of purification. The coverings must be removed so awareness may no longer remain imprisoned within conditioned surfaces and fragmented appearances. Through the stripping away of these outer layers, consciousness is gradually opened toward deeper honesty, receptivity, transparency, and truthful alignment with Allah’s unfolding guidance.
70.17 It calls whoever adbara / withdrew and tawalla / turned away (from truthful alignment),
NOTES: The intensified inward friction calls toward the states within consciousness that repeatedly withdraw and turn away from truthful alignment with Allah. Whenever awareness senses the unveiling of truth yet retreats back into attachment, fear, emotional protection, conditioned identity, and self-preservation, the inward tension deepens within the fragmented structures of the separate self.
70.18 And jama'a / gathered (the conditioned structures that strengthen separate self) then aw'aa / hold tightly (its presence).
NOTES: The separate self continually gathers structures within consciousness that strengthen its sense of independent identity and continuity. Awareness accumulates attachments, emotional investments, defensive narratives, conditioned beliefs, ambitions, fears, self-images, memories, and psychological patterns that reinforce fragmentation and separation from truthful alignment with Allah.
Yet the gathering is followed by tightly holding and preserving these structures within awareness. The insaan clings to them because they provide familiarity, emotional security, control, and a stable sense of selfhood within the conditioned consciousness. What is accumulated becomes inwardly guarded and protected from exposure, dissolution, and transformation.
This tight holding strengthens the rigidity of the separate self. Consciousness becomes increasingly occupied with maintaining the continuity of what it has gathered rather than remaining open and receptive to truthful realization. The more awareness identifies with these preserved structures, the more difficult surrender and inward transformation become.
The intensified friction arises because truth continually challenges what the separate self tries to preserve. Realization exposes the instability of these conditioned structures, yet consciousness resists releasing them because it fears the dissolving of its familiar identity and inward refuge.
The verse reveals a central mechanism of fragmentation within consciousness itself. The separate self survives through accumulation and preservation, while truthful alignment calls awareness toward release, openness, purification, and freedom from the tightly held structures that sustain separation from Allah’s unfolding guidance.
70.19 Indeed, the insaan / intellect capable to align with truth, evolved through halu'an / a restless unfolding.
NOTES: The verse does not point toward an original corruption within the essence of the human being, but toward the turbulent movement through which consciousness develops within the field of experience. The unfolding of the insaan passes through instability, longing, attachment, fear, desire, confusion, and searching. This restlessness becomes part of the journey through which deeper recognition eventually emerges.
The word halu‘ reflects more than ordinary anxiety. It is the inward agitation that arises when consciousness becomes identified with changing forms while simultaneously carrying an unrecognized longing for what is enduring. The insaan seeks completion in possessions, relationships, certainty, identity, achievement, and control, yet no outward attainment fully resolves the deeper thirst beneath the movement. Thus the unfolding becomes restless, always reaching, resisting, fearing loss, or pursuing gain.
Yet this restlessness itself carries hidden wisdom. Without the discomfort of incompleteness, the insaan might remain fully absorbed in fleeting appearances. The agitation becomes a force pushing consciousness beyond surface identification. Every disappointment, every unfulfilled desire, every moment of inner instability quietly exposes the limitation of seeking permanence within what continually changes. In this way, the restless unfolding becomes part of the evolution toward clarity.
The surah therefore reveals a movement rather than a condemnation. The insaan is not abandoned to agitation, but refined through it. As awareness matures, the restless striving gradually softens into attentiveness, alignment, and inward stability. What was once sought outside begins to be recognized as already present beneath the movements of the separate self. The unfolding continues, but now with increasing awareness of the sustaining presence of the Rabb within every stage of the journey.
70.20 When the sharru / evil touches him, jazu'an / a deeply distress agitation,
NOTES: The verse reveals how the evolving self reacts when confronted by experiences that threaten its constructed sense of stability. The disturbance itself may come outwardly through loss, fear, rejection, uncertainty, or suffering, yet the deeper agitation emerges from inward attachment to what was believed to provide security and continuity.
The word massahu, touches him, is subtle. It shows that even slight contact with disturbance can activate intense inner turbulence when consciousness remains identified with fleeting forms. The separate self becomes highly reactive because it fears dissolution, exposure, or loss of control. What has been mentally grasped as “mine,” “me,” or “necessary for my completeness” immediately generates anxiety when threatened.
Then comes jazu‘. This is not merely sadness or discomfort. It is a state of inward collapse, emotional contraction, and restless distress. Consciousness becomes overwhelmed by resistance to what is unfolding. Thought spirals into fear, imagination amplifies suffering, and the mind searches desperately for escape or restoration of certainty. The agitation reveals how dependent the conditioned self has become upon external conditions remaining favorable.
Yet hidden within this reaction is a profound unveiling. Disturbance exposes the places where awareness still seeks permanence within what cannot remain permanent. Every moment of agitation becomes a mirror revealing unconscious attachment and inward imbalance. Through this seeing, the insaan slowly begins to understand that lasting stability cannot be found in changing forms, but only in alignment with the sustaining presence of the Rabb beneath all passing conditions.
Thus the verse is not a condemnation of human weakness, but a compassionate revelation of the stage through which consciousness evolves. The agitation itself becomes part of the journey, gradually refining awareness until one learns to remain inwardly grounded even while the movements of life continue to rise and fall.
70.21 And when the khayr / goodness touches him, manu'an / withholding,
NOTES: The verse reveals another movement within the restless unfolding of the insaan. Just as disturbance exposes inward instability, goodness exposes attachment and possessiveness. Consciousness that still seeks security in changing conditions begins tightening around what it perceives as beneficial.
The word massahu, touches him, again carries subtle depth. Even the touch of prosperity, comfort, recognition, success, or emotional satisfaction can awaken fear beneath the surface. The separate self immediately begins protecting what has been gained, anxious that the experience may fade or be taken away. What appears outwardly as enjoyment often conceals an inward contraction built upon fear of loss.
Then comes manu‘. This is not merely withholding from others materially. It points toward a deeper inward restriction. Consciousness closes around experiences, identities, possessions, insights, or emotional states, attempting to preserve them as “mine.” The natural flow of life becomes obstructed by psychological grasping. Instead of allowing goodness to move through awareness freely, the self tries to secure permanence within what is inherently passing.
The verse therefore reveals that both adversity and ease can veil consciousness when identity remains attached to transient forms. In hardship, the self becomes distressed. In prosperity, it becomes possessive. Both reactions arise from the same illusion that lasting completion can be found in what changes. The insaan fluctuates between fear of losing and fear of lacking.
Yet within this unveiling lies the beginning of freedom. When awareness sees the tendency to grasp and withhold, a deeper understanding starts to emerge. Goodness is no longer experienced as personal ownership, but as a flowing provision continuously given by the Rabb. From this recognition, openness replaces contraction, generosity softens fear, and consciousness gradually learns to remain inwardly balanced amidst both gain and loss.
70.22 Except the musallin / those who are connected (through which they experience His presence).
NOTES: Except the musallīn, those who are connected, those through whom the presence of Allah is consciously experienced. After unveiling the restless movements of the conditioned self, the surah now reveals the beginning of transformation. There are those who no longer remain entirely imprisoned within agitation, fear, grasping, and reactivity because their awareness has become oriented toward a deeper continuity beneath changing conditions.
The root connected to ṣalaah carries meanings of connection, alignment, closeness, and joining. The musallin are not merely performing outward motions, but are inwardly linked to the sustaining presence of the Rabb. Their consciousness repeatedly returns to alignment. Through this connection, they begin to experience a stability not dependent upon external circumstances.
Because of this inward orientation, disturbance no longer completely overwhelms them, nor does prosperity fully possess them. They still experience the movements of life, yet something deeper remains present beneath those movements. The reactive self gradually loosens because awareness is no longer seeking its fulfillment solely within fleeting forms. The heart begins to rest in a subtler recognition of what does not come and go.
The verse therefore marks a turning point within the surah. The restless unfolding of the insaan is not the final condition. Through conscious alignment and continual inward connection, a different mode of being begins to emerge. The musallin are those who learn to remain inwardly connected amidst both expansion and contraction, receiving each moment within the presence of Allah rather than through the fears and cravings of the separate self.
This connection is not an escape from life, but a transformation in how life is experienced. The outward world continues to move, yet inwardly there is increasing stillness, trust, attentiveness, and balance. Through this alignment, consciousness slowly evolves from compulsive reaction toward peaceful witnessing, where every experience becomes an opportunity to remain connected to the One continuously sustaining all unfolding.
70.23 They are those who are daa'imun / constant over their salla / connection (through which they experience His presence),
NOTES: They are those who are dā’imūn — constant, enduring, unwavering — over their ṣalla, their connection through which they experience His presence. The verse reveals that transformation does not arise through occasional moments of awareness alone, but through continuity of inward alignment. The musallīn are those who repeatedly return their consciousness toward the sustaining presence of Allah until that connection becomes a stable foundation beneath all changing experiences.
70.24 And they are those within their amwaa / wealth of resources (all they have been given), is a haqqun ma'lum / known truth (a recognize truth established by Allah),
NOTES: And they are those within their amwaa, wealth of resources, all they have been given, is a ḥaqqun ma‘lum, a known truth, a recognized reality established by Allah. The verse reveals a profound transformation in how consciousness relates to provision. What was once seen as personal possession is now understood as part of a deeper trust woven into the fabric of existence itself.
70.25 Lilsaa'ili / for those who ask (the haqqun ma'lum), and the mahrum / deprived,
NOTES: Lilsaa’ili, for those who ask for the ḥaqqun ma‘lum, the known truth established by Allah, and the maḥrum, the deprived, the one withheld from access. The verse continues unveiling how aligned consciousness naturally responds once it recognizes that provision carries a truth beyond personal ownership. What has been given is no longer guarded solely for the separate self, but begins flowing toward where deprivation, need, and seeking are present.
The saa’il is the one who asks openly. This asking may appear outwardly through material need, guidance, care, understanding, support, or sincere seeking for truth. The connected heart does not dismiss the one who asks, because it recognizes that all beings move through moments of need within the unfolding sustained by Allah. To respond becomes part of honoring the ḥaqq already established within provision itself.
Then comes the maḥrum, the deprived one, the one cut off or withheld from access through the structures, fears, neglect, or limitations of others. This deprivation is often hidden. Some do not ask because they have been silenced inwardly. Some remain unseen beneath appearances of strength. Some are deprived not only materially, but emotionally, intellectually, spiritually, or relationally. The verse expands awareness beyond visible requests into sensitivity toward concealed absence and unmet need.
The connected ones therefore do not wait only for formal asking before responding. Their awareness becomes refined enough to perceive imbalance, deprivation, and restriction even where words are absent. This sensitivity arises because their consciousness is no longer contracted entirely around itself. Through continual connection with Allah, they begin participating in the natural flow through which provision, care, insight, and support move within creation.
Inwardly, the verse also mirrors the human condition itself. There are aspects within consciousness constantly asking for truth, clarity, and nourishment, while other aspects remain deprived due to fear, conditioning, and veiling. As alignment deepens, the insaan learns to respond compassionately both outwardly and inwardly, allowing the known truth established by Allah to flow wherever deprivation is recognized.
70.26 And those who yusaddiqun / are truthful with moment of the deen / obligation to consciously fulfill the covenant (to live in alignment with truth).
NOTES: And those who yuṣaddiqun; are truthful, confirm through embodiment, and live sincerely with the moment of the deen, the obligation to consciously fulfill the covenant to live in alignment with truth. The verse moves beyond outward acknowledgment into lived authenticity. The connected ones do not merely speak about truth or intellectually agree with it; they allow it to shape perception, response, and the movement of their lives.
The root of yuṣaddiqun carries the sense of confirming something as true through sincerity, embodiment, and faithful expression. Truth is no longer held as an abstract concept separated from daily existence. What is inwardly recognized begins to manifest outwardly through conduct, awareness, and orientation. The insaan gradually becomes integrated rather than divided between what is known inwardly and how life is lived outwardly.
The deen here points toward more than institutional religion or external systems alone. At its deeper root, it carries the meaning of obligation, indebtedness, accountability, reciprocity, and the conscious fulfillment of what is due within the covenant of existence. It is the recognition that life itself carries a responsibility to remain aligned with the truth revealed by Allah within consciousness.
Then comes the significance of the yawm, the moment, the unfolding instant in which this alignment is continuously tested and revealed. Truth is not fulfilled once and completed permanently. Every moment presents the opportunity either to remain aligned or to fall back into unconscious reaction, grasping, denial, or forgetfulness. The connected ones remain truthful within the living immediacy of experience itself.
Thus the verse reveals that spiritual alignment is not passive belief, but active sincerity. The covenant with truth is fulfilled moment by moment through awareness, honesty, compassion, balance, and responsiveness to what Allah continuously unveils within consciousness. Through this living truthfulness, the insaan gradually becomes less fragmented inwardly, because what is known, felt, spoken, and lived begin moving together in harmony.
70.27 And they are mushfiqun / those who remain aware of the twilight threshold (concerning the consequences drifting into) punishment of their Rabb / Lord.
NOTES: The verse reveals a refined state of inward vigilance within consciousness. These are not those living in terror, but they are deeply sensitive to the subtle moments where awareness begins moving away from truth toward increasing veiling, contraction, and separation.
The root connected to mushfiqun carries the meaning of twilight, the delicate interval where light has not fully disappeared into darkness. It is the threshold where return is still possible. The connected ones remain attentive to these inward moments within themselves. They recognize when clarity begins dimming, when heedlessness starts reappearing, when egoic grasping quietly returns, and when consciousness begins drifting away from alignment with the sustaining presence of the Rabb.
The mention of ʿadhaab here points toward the painful consequences that emerge when this drift continues unchecked. Punishment is not presented merely as an externally imposed event, but as the lived experience of increasing separation from truth. The more consciousness identifies with fear, attachment, pride, and unconscious reaction, the deeper it enters fragmentation and inward suffering. The connected ones remain aware of this movement before it fully overtakes awareness.
Yet the verse carries immense compassion because twilight still contains light. The threshold itself is mercy. As long as awareness can still perceive the dimming, return remains possible. The mushfiqun therefore cultivate sensitivity rather than denial. They do not allow small deviations to harden into complete forgetfulness. Through continual attentiveness, they repeatedly turn back toward alignment before consciousness descends further into darkness.
The mention of their Rabb reveals that even this vigilance unfolds within divine nurturing. The Rabb continuously guides consciousness toward refinement, maturity, and truthful alignment. Thus the connected ones remain humble and inwardly watchful, understanding that every moment carries a direction, either toward greater openness to truth or toward deeper immersion in separation. Their awareness of the twilight threshold becomes itself a protection, allowing them to return again and again before the light within consciousness fades from view.
70.28 Indeed, punishment of their Rabb / Lord (consequences from drifting away into darkness) are other than (not from) ma'mun / a state of security.
NOTES: The verse reveals that true security cannot coexist with continued movement away from truth. When consciousness drifts from alignment with the sustaining presence of the Rabb, it gradually loses the inward stability, clarity, and peace that arise from truthful orientation.
The word ʿadhaab points toward the lived consequences of this drift. As awareness becomes increasingly absorbed in egoic attachment, heedlessness, fear, and unconscious reaction, inner fragmentation begins to deepen. What was once light becomes obscured. What was once openness contracts into defensiveness and separation. The punishment is not merely something externally imposed in the future, but the immediate unfolding of darkness within consciousness itself when alignment is abandoned.
Then comes ghayru ma’muu, other than a state of security. The root of amn carries meanings of safety, reassurance, settled trust, and inward peace. The verse therefore reveals a profound principle; one cannot move continuously into separation while expecting lasting inner security. Consciousness cannot remain deeply at peace while simultaneously resisting truth and clinging to illusion. The further one drifts from alignment, the more unstable and restless the inner condition becomes.
This is why the mushfiqun remain aware of the twilight threshold. They understand how subtle the drift can be. Small moments of heedlessness, arrogance, attachment, or denial gradually accumulate if left unseen. Yet the awareness of this possibility does not imprison them in fear. Rather, it keeps consciousness humble, attentive, and receptive to continual return before the darkness deepens further.
The mention of their Rabb reveals that even these consequences unfold within divine nurturing. The loss of inner security becomes itself a sign calling consciousness back toward truth. Agitation, emptiness, and fragmentation quietly reveal where awareness has departed from balance. Thus the connected ones remain inwardly watchful, understanding that true security is not found through control over external conditions, but through remaining aligned with the sustaining presence of Allah within every moment of unfolding.
70.29 And those who khafizun / carefully preserve furujihim / their points of exposure,
NOTES: And those who ḥaafiẓun, carefully preserve and attentively guard furujihim, their points of exposure. The verse reveals a deepening maturity within consciousness. The connected ones become aware that the inner condition of the insaan is shaped by what is repeatedly allowed to enter through the openings of perception, desire, emotion, thought, and attention.
The word furuj carries the meaning of openings, gaps, vulnerable spaces, and points of exposure through which influence enters or exits. Inwardly, these are the subtle places where consciousness becomes susceptible to distraction, compulsion, egoic desire, emotional imbalance, and movements that gradually pull awareness away from truthful alignment. The verse therefore points toward careful inward discernment rather than unconscious openness to every impulse arising within experience.
Then comes ḥāfiẓūn — those who preserve attentively. This guarding is not repression, fear, or denial of life. Rather, it is the conscious protection of the clarity and balance that emerge through continual connection with Allah. The connected ones begin recognizing that what repeatedly occupies awareness slowly shapes the direction of consciousness itself. Thus they become careful regarding what they nourish inwardly, what they dwell upon, and what they allow to take root within the heart and mind.
The verse also reveals that spiritual alignment requires responsibility toward the subtle movements within consciousness. Every opening can either become a passage toward greater clarity or an entry point into fragmentation and heedlessness. When awareness becomes careless, the separate self gradually strengthens through repeated indulgence in unconscious patterns. But when these openings are preserved with attentiveness, consciousness remains more stable, integrated, and receptive to truth.
At a deeper level, this preservation reflects reverence for the sacredness of awareness itself. The connected insaan no longer treats consciousness as something to be scattered endlessly into fleeting desires and compulsive reactions. Instead, the openings within the self are guarded so that what enters and emerges through them remains aligned with the nurturing presence of the Rabb. Through this careful preservation, inward balance deepens, and consciousness remains capable of returning again and again toward light rather than drifting unconsciously into darkness.
70.30 Except upon azwaajihim / their pair (zakara / divine masculine attributes and unthaa / divine feminine attributes from their Rabb), or ma malakat aymaanuhum / what authority of their self-imposed affirmations, (that represent correctness, based on truth), then indeed they are not malumin / to be blamed.
NOTES: Except upon azwaajihim, their pairings, the integrated balance of zakara, the divine masculine attributes, and unthaa, the divine feminine attributes from their Rabb, or maa malakat aymaanuhum, what authority they rightfully hold within their hands through truthful alignment, correctness, good moral balance, and actions harmonious with the Natural Law that do not result in harm to others. Then indeed, they are not malumin, not blameworthy, not living in distortion or imbalance.
The verse reveals that the preservation of the points of exposure within consciousness is not a rejection of expression, relationship, or embodied living. Rather, it points toward alignment and integration. The azwaaj represent the harmonious pairing within the insaan itself, firmness balanced with receptivity, clarity balanced with compassion, discernment balanced with nurturing presence. These complementary attributes are not oppositional forces, but divinely sustained dimensions meant to function together in balance.
Then comes maa malakat aymaanuhum, what their right authority possesses within their hands. Inwardly, this points toward what consciousness rightfully governs through truthful awareness and aligned action. The hand symbolizes agency, expression, and enacted responsibility within the world. What is held within the authority of the aligned self must remain rooted in truth, justice, moral clarity, and harmony with the deeper order established by Allah. Expression detached from truth becomes harmful, but expression aligned with divine balance remains integrated and blameless.
The phrase ghayru malumīn reveals that blame arises not from the existence of human faculties and expressions themselves, but from unconscious misuse, imbalance, and harm arising through separation from truth. When the masculine and feminine attributes within consciousness remain integrated and actions unfold through aligned awareness that does not violate the balance of life, then the insaan remains inwardly coherent rather than fragmented.
The verse therefore reveals a path of conscious embodiment rather than suppression. The connected ones do not reject the movements of life, nor do they abandon themselves to unconscious indulgence. Instead, they preserve the openings within consciousness by ensuring that what flows through them remains aligned with truth, balance, compassion, and the sustaining guidance of their Rabb. Through this integration, expression itself becomes part of the unfolding harmony of consciousness rather than a movement into separation and harm.
70.31 Then whoever ibtagha / seeks beyond that, then they are the 'aadun / repeatedly refuse to accept the truth.
NOTES: Then whoever ibtagha; seeks, pursues, or reaches beyond that balance, then they are the ʿaadun, those who repeatedly refuse to accept the truth. The verse reveals a decisive movement within consciousness. After balance has been revealed, after the boundaries preserving harmony have become inwardly recognizable, and after moments of clarity have appeared, the insaan still retains the capacity to continue pursuing beyond alignment through restless desire, egoic insistence, and unconscious seeking.
The word ibtagha carries the sense of intense pursuit and striving beyond rightful measure. It reflects the movement of the separate self constantly searching for fulfillment outside the balance established by Allah. Even after glimpsing truth, consciousness may still repeatedly seek excess through attachment, indulgence, domination, or the desire to satisfy itself without regard for alignment and consequence.
Then comes the unveiling of the ʿaadun. They are not merely those who accidentally fall into imbalance, but those who repeatedly move beyond truth even after moments of inward recognition arise within consciousness. The refusal often begins subtly, repeatedly ignoring inner clarity, repeatedly justifying imbalance, and repeatedly dismissing the quiet guidance already present within awareness. Over time, these repeated departures gradually strengthen separation and veiling within the self.
The verse therefore reveals the danger of persistent misalignment. Each repeated movement beyond the revealed balance deepens fragmentation within consciousness. What was once a subtle drift slowly becomes a reinforced condition of separation. The heart begins losing sensitivity to truth because the inward guidance that once called consciousness back is continually overridden through repetition.
Yet hidden within the verse is still mercy, because the possibility of return remains present as long as awareness can still perceive the imbalance. Every moment of recognizing the drift is itself an opening toward realignment. The connected ones therefore remain attentive to the subtle movements within consciousness, continually returning toward truthful balance before separation hardens further into darkness.
Through this unveiling, the surah reveals that true freedom is not found in endlessly pursuing beyond measure, but in remaining harmonized with the truth already established by the Rabb within the unfolding of existence.
70.32 And they are those who observe attentively (to keep it upright) their trusts and covenant,
NOTES: The verse reveals a consciousness that no longer moves carelessly through life, but remains inwardly watchful regarding what has been entrusted within its care. The connected ones understand that every trust carries responsibility, and every covenant carries an obligation toward truthful alignment.
The amaanat, the trusts include far more than material responsibilities alone. They include awareness, speech, relationships, knowledge, influence, abilities, opportunities, and every subtle capacity placed within the insaan by Allah. What has been entrusted is not meant to be distorted, neglected, or misused. The connected ones therefore remain attentive to how they carry what flows through their lives, seeking to preserve balance and integrity within their actions and responses.
Then comes the ʿahd, the covenant. This is the inward commitment between consciousness and truth itself. It is the recognition that the insaan carries a responsibility to remain aligned with the guidance, clarity, and balance continuously revealed by the Rabb. The covenant is not fulfilled once and completed permanently, but renewed moment by moment through awareness, sincerity, and truthful living.
The word raaʿun carries the meaning of careful observation, tending, and watchful preservation. Like one who carefully keeps something upright so that it does not fall into corruption or neglect, the connected ones remain attentive to the condition of their trusts and covenant. They do not allow unconsciousness, egoic desire, or heedlessness to slowly distort what has been entrusted within them.
This attentiveness is not heavy or forced. It arises naturally through connection with Allah. The more consciousness experiences the sustaining presence of the Rabb, the more sacred life itself begins to appear. Every interaction becomes part of the trust. Every moment becomes part of the covenant. Through this continual tending, the insaan gradually becomes more inwardly coherent, stable, and aligned with the truth already established within the unfolding of existence.
70.33 And they are those who qaaimun / establish with their syahadah / witness (taking notice of the certainty of realities),
NOTES: And they are those who qaa’imun, establish firmly, uphold steadily, and remain upright with their shahadah, their witness, their conscious taking notice of the certainty of realities. The verse reveals a consciousness no longer drifting unconsciously through appearances, but one that stands firmly within direct recognition of truth as it continuously unfolds within experience.
The word qaa’imun carries the sense of standing upright, establishing firmly, and maintaining stability without collapse or distortion. The connected ones do not merely glimpse truth temporarily and then abandon it when circumstances change. They establish themselves upon what has become inwardly evident. Their awareness becomes grounded in the realities unveiled through continual alignment with the Rabb.
Then comes shahadah, witnessing. At its root, this is not blind belief or inherited assumption, but direct observation, conscious recognition, and inward certainty arising from what has been seen and experienced within consciousness itself. The connected ones become attentive witnesses to the realities unfolding beneath surface appearances. They begin recognizing the consequences of alignment and separation, the movements of truth and illusion, the rise of egoic contraction and the return toward openness and clarity.
Their witnessing is therefore active and living. They do not turn away from what becomes inwardly clear. They observe attentively the subtle movements within themselves, taking notice of where consciousness remains aligned and where it begins drifting into fragmentation. Through this witnessing, awareness becomes increasingly refined and capable of recognizing truth directly rather than merely conceptually.
The verse also reveals that witnessing carries responsibility. To truly witness reality is to allow that recognition to establish itself within one’s life. The connected ones therefore uphold their witnessing through sincerity, integrity, and continual return to alignment. They do not separate what they inwardly recognize from how they outwardly live.
As this witnessing deepens, consciousness gradually stabilizes within certainty. Not certainty rooted in rigid ideology or intellectual pride, but certainty arising from direct experiential recognition of the realities continuously revealed by Allah within the unfolding of existence. Through this upright witnessing, the insaan becomes increasingly anchored in truth while remaining inwardly open, attentive, and receptive to deeper unveiling.
70.34 And they are those who yuhaafizun / preserve upon solaatihim / their connection (through which they experience His presence),
NOTES: The verse returns to the foundation underlying the entire transformation of consciousness described throughout the passage. All the qualities unveiled, such as attentiveness, balance, truthful witnessing, preservation of trusts, and inward vigilance, are sustained through preserving this living connection with Allah.
The word yuḥaafiẓun carries the sense of careful protection and continual tending. The connected ones understand that awareness can easily become scattered through distraction, heedlessness, attachment, and immersion within fleeting forms. They therefore remain attentive toward the condition of their connection, not allowing it to weaken through unconscious living or neglect of inward alignment.
Ṣalaat here points toward the continual relational connection through which consciousness experiences the presence of the Rabb within the unfolding of existence. It is not limited to outward movement or isolated moments of devotion, but becomes an ongoing inward orientation. Through this connection, awareness repeatedly returns from fragmentation toward wholeness, from agitation toward stillness, and from separation toward nearness.
The verse also reveals that this connection must be preserved continuously because the restless tendencies of the separate self do not disappear instantly. The movements of fear, desire, egoic grasping, and heedlessness still arise within experience. But the connected ones continually return, preserving the inward pathway through which truth remains alive within consciousness. They protect the subtle opening through which the light of awareness continues illuminating the heart.
The phrase ʿalaa ṣalaatihim carries the sense of being firmly established upon this connection. Their lives gradually become rooted within it. They no longer approach connection with Allah as something occasional or secondary, but as the sustaining foundation beneath all thought, action, relationship, and experience. Through preserving this connection, consciousness becomes increasingly stable, receptive, and aligned with the deeper harmony established by the Rabb.
Thus the passage concludes where true transformation both begins and continues; in the continual preservation of conscious connection with Allah. Through safeguarding this alignment, the insaan gradually evolves from restless fragmentation into inward coherence, balance, and peaceful awareness of the divine presence flowing through every moment of existence.
70.35 They are those in jannaatin / hidden gardens of flourishing state within consciousness, mukramun / those who are honored.
NOTES: The verse reveals the inward unfolding that emerges when consciousness remains aligned with truth, preserves its connection with Allah, and lives attentively within the balance established by the Rabb. What once existed in restlessness and fragmentation gradually enters a state of hidden flourishing beneath the surface of ordinary perception.
The root of jannah carries the meaning of concealment, sheltering, and growth hidden from immediate sight. These gardens are not merely external places, but inward states where clarity, peace, wisdom, compassion, discernment, and truthful awareness quietly blossom within consciousness. Like a garden growing beneath protective cover, the deeper realities of the self begin unfolding naturally once the turbulence of heedlessness and separation starts dissolving.
These flourishing states arise through continual alignment. Every return toward truth, every preservation of connection, every attentive witnessing, and every safeguarding of the trusts and covenant gradually nourishes the inner ground of consciousness. The insaan begins experiencing increasing harmony within thought, emotion, action, and awareness itself. What was once reactive becomes receptive. What was once contracted begins opening toward balance and stillness.
Then comes mukramun, those who are honored, ennobled, and elevated through divine generosity. Their honor does not arise from worldly status, superiority, or self-importance, but from the refinement of consciousness through truthful alignment. The more awareness becomes aligned with the presence of Allah, the more the insaan regains the inward dignity and nobility that emerge through clarity, humility, sincerity, and balance.
The verse therefore concludes this passage with a profound unveiling of the destination of the inward journey. The restless unfolding of the insaan is not meant to remain trapped within fear, grasping, and fragmentation. Through continual return toward alignment with the Rabb, consciousness gradually enters hidden gardens of flourishing awareness where truth becomes living, peace becomes natural, and the insaan becomes inwardly honored through nearness to the sustaining presence of Allah.
70.36 So what is with those who kafaru / concealed (rejected the truth) facing toward you (already become evident), muhti'in / those who rushed anxiously (moved without clarity),
NOTES: So what is with those who kafaru, concealed and rejected the truth, facing toward you, even after it has already become evident, muḥṭiʿin, those who rushed anxiously and moved without clarity. The verse reveals the strange condition of consciousness that encounters truth directly, yet continues reacting through restlessness, resistance, and outward urgency rather than inward recognition and stillness.
The word kafaru points toward covering over what has already become visible within awareness. Truth is no longer entirely absent from consciousness, yet the self continues concealing it beneath distraction, denial, attachment, and egoic insistence. The rejection is not always loud or deliberate. Often it appears through avoidance, through constant outward movement, through refusing to remain still enough to fully face what has become inwardly evident.
Then comes the image of them facing toward you. The signs are already before them. The unveiling has already approached consciousness. Yet instead of becoming receptive, they remain muḥṭiʿin, rushing anxiously, driven by reactive movement without inner clarity or grounded understanding. Their urgency reveals inward instability. Consciousness that has not yet settled within truth continually searches outwardly, grasping for certainty while resisting the stillness through which deeper recognition unfolds.
The verse therefore exposes a profound inner contradiction. One may stand before truth outwardly while inwardly continuing to flee from its implications. The self remains active, argumentative, reactive, and hurried because truth threatens the structures through which separation maintains itself. Rather than allowing the unveiling to dissolve false certainty, consciousness attempts to preserve its familiar patterns through restless motion and distraction.
Yet hidden within the questioning tone of the verse is compassion. The anxious rushing itself reveals that the self has not found peace. Movement without clarity becomes a sign that consciousness is still searching for what cannot be attained through outward striving alone. The verse invites the insaan to stop rushing past what has already become evident, to remain present with the unveiling itself, and to allow truth to settle within awareness rather than repeatedly concealing it beneath restless movement.
70.37 From the yamin / affirmations (that claimed correctness) and from the shimal / non-affirmations (contradictory), izin / fragmented factions?
NOTES: From the yamin, the right side that claimed correctness, and from the shimal, the contradictory and opposing side, ʿizin, fragmented factions. The verse reveals the condition of consciousness that has lost its inward center of alignment with truth. Instead of resting within unified clarity, the self becomes divided into opposing positions, competing identities, and fragmented movements within awareness.
The yamin here points toward the side that assumes itself correct, justified, secure, or morally superior. Consciousness constructs positions and identities through which it seeks certainty and control. Yet because this certainty is not rooted in direct alignment with truth, it remains unstable and defensive beneath the surface. The self clings to its claims of correctness while still carrying inward restlessness and fear.
Then comes the shimal, the contradictory side, the opposing movement pulling consciousness into reaction, denial, imbalance, and conflict. The insaan becomes internally divided between competing tendencies. One part seeks truth while another resists it. One part seeks alignment while another remains attached to separation and egoic identity. Thus consciousness oscillates between opposing movements without inward coherence.
The result is ʿizin, fragmented factions. Awareness becomes scattered into divided psychological camps within itself. Thought pulls in one direction, desire in another, fear in another, pride in another. Outwardly, these divisions may appear as ideological factions, collective identities, or conflicting social groups. Inwardly, they reflect the fragmentation of consciousness disconnected from its unifying source in the Rabb.
The verse therefore exposes the instability of a consciousness that conceals truth while still seeking certainty through division and opposition. Without inward alignment, the self continually takes sides within itself and against others, believing fragmentation will produce security. Yet the more truth is resisted, the more divided consciousness becomes.
In contrast to the connected ones described earlier, those who preserve alignment, witness reality attentively, and remain grounded in their connection with Allah, these fragmented factions continue moving outwardly between opposing claims while lacking the inward stillness through which true integration emerges. The verse invites the insaan to move beyond division and return toward the deeper unity that arises when consciousness becomes aligned with truth itself.
70.38 Does every imri'in / fragmented self (those remain divided within opposing movement) among them expect to be admitted into jannata na'im / delightful hidden gardens of flourishing state within consciousness?
NOTES: The verse poses a profound inward question regarding the contradiction within the divided self. Can consciousness remain fragmented, restless, and resistant to truth while still expecting to enter states of inward harmony, peace, and flourishing?
The imri’in here reflects the self still fragmented between competing forces within consciousness. One movement seeks truth while another clings to attachment. One part longs for peace while another continues feeding agitation, pride, fear, and separation. The self becomes divided within opposing tendencies, unable to settle because it has not yet surrendered fully to truthful alignment with the Rabb.
Yet despite this fragmentation, the self still desires jannata naʿim, delightful hidden gardens of flourishing awareness. It seeks peace, fulfillment, ease, clarity, and inward delight, but often without undergoing the refinement necessary for these gardens to unfold naturally within consciousness. The egoic self desires the fruits of alignment while continuing to preserve the very patterns that prevent true flourishing.
The hidden gardens represent inward states where awareness becomes harmonized with truth. These are not merely external rewards granted arbitrarily, but concealed dimensions of flourishing that emerge as consciousness becomes purified from fragmentation, heedlessness, and repeated concealment of truth. Peace unfolds when resistance softens. Clarity unfolds when division dissolves. Delight unfolds when awareness rests within alignment rather than conflict.
The verse therefore exposes spiritual contradiction within the fragmented self. One cannot continually nourish division, concealment, and restless opposition while expecting consciousness to blossom into the hidden gardens of harmony and delight. The gardens are entered through transformation, through continual return toward truth, through preserving connection with Allah, and through allowing consciousness to become integrated rather than divided.
Yet the question itself remains an invitation rather than mere condemnation. It calls the insaan to honestly observe the condition of the self. Do you truly seek the hidden gardens of flourishing awareness, or do you merely seek their comfort while remaining attached to fragmentation? Through this questioning, consciousness is invited to move beyond divided opposition and toward the inward unity through which the gardens of delight naturally unfold.
70.39 Certainly not! Indeed, We have evolved them from what they know.
NOTES: The verse interrupts the assumptions of the fragmented self with a decisive unveiling. The hidden gardens of flourishing consciousness are not entered through outward claims, self-deception, or continued resistance to truth. The insaan cannot pretend ignorance while the signs of reality have already been woven throughout the unfolding of consciousness itself.
The word khalaqnahum points toward measured formation, shaping, and gradual evolution through unfolding stages. The insaan is not created in separation from truth, but evolves through experiences, realizations, consequences, and inward recognitions that continuously reveal deeper realities. Every moment of clarity, every experience of imbalance, every stirring of conscience, and every encounter with truth becomes part of the unfolding through which consciousness is refined.
Then comes the profound phrase; mimma yaʿlamun, from what they know. The verse reveals that the essential signs are already present within awareness. Consciousness has already encountered truth repeatedly throughout its journey. The insaan knows inwardly the difference between alignment and fragmentation, openness and concealment, peace and agitation. Even when truth is resisted, something within still recognizes its presence.
This is why the repeated concealment of truth becomes so significant. The fragmented self continues seeking fulfillment while repeatedly turning away from what it already inwardly knows. The issue is not total absence of guidance, but the refusal to remain present with what has already become evident within consciousness. The Rabb has placed signs within the unfolding of life itself so that the insaan may gradually recognize the path toward alignment.
Yet hidden within the verse is immense mercy. Because consciousness has evolved through what it already knows, the possibility of return always remains near. The truth does not need to be imported from somewhere distant. It must be uncovered, remembered, and lived sincerely within the awareness already present. The verse therefore calls the insaan to stop fleeing from its own inward recognition and to allow what has long been known beneath the surface to fully emerge into conscious alignment with the Rabb.
70.40 So I swear (that I will affirm decisively) with the Rabb / Lord of the mashaariq / illuminated state (with clarity) and the maghaarib / state of darkness (without clarity). Indeed We surely qaadirun / measure precisely.
NOTES: The verse reveals that the entire unfolding of consciousness, through both illumination and concealment, remains within the precise measure and sustaining governance of Allah.
The mashaariq point toward the many moments where truth rises within awareness like light emerging upon the horizon. These are the states of unveiling, recognition, understanding, and inward clarity through which consciousness begins perceiving reality beyond the distortions of the separate self. The insaan experiences moments where truth becomes evident, where alignment feels near, and where awareness opens toward deeper understanding of the Rabb.
Then come the maghaarib, the states where clarity sets and consciousness enters darkness, confusion, forgetfulness, or veiling. The verse acknowledges that the journey moves through cycles. Awareness rises into clarity, then falls again into concealment through attachment, heedlessness, fear, or fragmentation. Yet even these darker states are not outside divine order. The Rabb remains Lord over both illumination and concealment within consciousness.
Then comes the profound affirmation; innaa la-qadirun, indeed, We measure precisely. The root of qadr carries not only power and capability, but exact proportion, measured unfolding, and precise determination. Nothing within the journey of consciousness is random or outside measure. Every unveiling, every concealment, every rise toward clarity, and every descent into darkness unfolds within a precise divine process through which the insaan is gradually evolved and refined.
The verse therefore brings deep reassurance. Even when consciousness moves through darkness and loses clarity, the Rabb governing all states remains fully aware of every movement within the unfolding. The illuminated states are measured. The darker states are measured. The moments of awakening and the moments of fragmentation are all part of a precise nurturing process guiding consciousness toward deeper recognition of truth.
Thus the insaan is invited not to despair within moments of concealment nor become arrogant within moments of illumination. Both are stages within the measured unfolding governed by the Rabb. Through this precise movement between light and darkness, clarity and veiling, the deeper reality of consciousness is gradually revealed and brought into alignment with truth.
70.41 Upon that nubaddila / We transform them to a better state from them (current state); and We cannot bimasbuqin / to be escaped.
NOTES: Upon that, nubaddila, We transform them into a better state than their current condition; and We cannot be bimasbuqin, escaped or outrun. The verse reveals that consciousness is never fixed permanently within its fragmented, restless, or concealed condition. The Rabb who governs the illuminated states and the states of darkness continuously possesses the capacity to transform awareness into deeper alignment with truth.
70.42 So leave them behind yakhudu / immersed aimlessly (deluded, unsubstantiated, superficial movement) and yal'abu / remain absorbed (in the distraction) until they reach their moment which they yu'adun / are promised,
NOTES: The verse reveals a profound stage within the unfolding of consciousness where truth can no longer be forced upon the self. After repeated signs, unveilings, and invitations toward alignment, consciousness must sometimes be left to move through the consequences of its own distractions until direct realization emerges from within.
The word yakhuḍu carries the image of plunging into confusion without stable grounding. Consciousness becomes immersed in endless argument, reactive emotion, surface-level pursuits, assumptions without substance, and restless mental movement disconnected from deeper clarity. The fragmented self continues circulating within appearances while avoiding the inward stillness through which truth becomes directly recognized.
Then comes yalʿabu, remaining absorbed within distraction and play. The verse exposes how the separate self often treats life superficially, constantly occupied by temporary entertainments, egoic pursuits, identities, ambitions, and diversions that keep awareness moving outwardly. Beneath this distracted movement lies avoidance of confronting the deeper realities already quietly present within consciousness.
Yet the verse does not abandon them to meaninglessness. It says: until they reach their moment which they are yuʿadun, promised. This moment is not arbitrary. It is the inevitable encounter toward which consciousness is already moving through every experience, consequence, and unfolding state. The self may delay recognition through distraction and concealment, but eventually it reaches a moment where truth can no longer remain hidden beneath superficial movement.
This promised moment may arise through suffering, collapse of illusion, inward exhaustion, deep realization, or direct confrontation with the consequences of fragmentation. What was repeatedly ignored becomes undeniable. The signs long resisted begin unveiling themselves from within the very condition consciousness tried to escape.
The verse therefore reveals both divine patience and inevitability. The Rabb allows consciousness to move through its distractions until the unfolding itself matures awareness toward recognition. The insaan is not forced prematurely, yet neither can truth be escaped indefinitely. Every movement, even within confusion and distraction, remains part of the larger unfolding through which consciousness is gradually brought face to face with what has always been calling it toward alignment with the Rabb.
70.43 The moment they emerge from the ajdadhi / concealed conditions sira'an / rushing swiftly (in their course), as if they were hurrting toward nushubin / distinguishable objectives.
NOTES: The verse reveals the momentum of consciousness once what was hidden beneath distraction and concealment begins surfacing into direct experience.
The ajdadh represent the inwardly buried conditions where awareness has remained covered beneath layers of unconscious habit, attachment, denial, and fragmented identity. These concealed states cannot remain hidden indefinitely. The promised moment arrives when consciousness begins emerging from what had long remained suppressed beneath the surface of awareness.
Then comes siraaʿan, rushing swiftly. The movement is immediate and urgent. Once the concealed inner condition starts unveiling itself, consciousness continues moving rapidly along the direction it has long cultivated within itself. The self does not suddenly become still and clear merely because hidden realities emerge. Rather, it initially rushes forward according to the momentum of its established tendencies, attachments, and inward orientations.
The phrase ka’annahum ilaa nuṣubin yufiḍun reveals the nature of this movement. It is as though they are hurrying toward fixed and distinguishable objectives. The nuṣub represent the erected focuses within consciousness; the ambitions, identities, desires, ideologies, attachments, fears, and pursuits that the self has made central within its inner world. These become the objects toward which consciousness instinctively directs itself.
The verse therefore exposes how the insaan becomes shaped by repeated orientation. Whatever consciousness repeatedly pursues gradually forms the path along which it naturally rushes. The self moves toward what it has inwardly enthroned as meaningful, fulfilling, or necessary for its identity. Even after emerging from concealed states, the fragmented consciousness continues seeking completion through the same familiar pursuits unless a deeper transformation occurs.
Yet the unveiling itself carries the possibility of awakening. When awareness begins seeing the compulsive nature of its rushing, how it repeatedly moves toward fixed objectives without finding lasting peace, a deeper questioning may emerge. The verse gently exposes the patterns governing consciousness so that the insaan may begin turning away from compulsive pursuit and toward the deeper stillness through which truthful alignment with the Rabb becomes possible.
70.44 Their absaar / perception humbled (lowered and subdued), covering them with dhillah / humiliation. That is the moment which they yu'adun / had been promised.
NOTES: Their abṣaar; perception, humbled, lowered, and subdued, while dhillah, humiliation and inward collapse, covers them. That is the moment which they had been yu'adun, promised. The verse reveals the inevitable unveiling that occurs when the fragmented self can no longer sustain its concealment of truth beneath distraction, pride, and restless outward movement.
The abṣaar here point toward perception itself, the inward way consciousness sees and interprets reality. What was once inflated through certainty, egoic identity, defensiveness, and attachment now becomes humbled and subdued. The self that previously rushed anxiously toward its fixed pursuits and claims of correctness encounters the collapse of its constructed certainty. Perception is lowered because consciousness can no longer maintain the illusions through which it once protected itself from truth.
Then comes tarhaquhum dhillah, humiliation covers and overwhelms them. This humiliation is not merely outward disgrace, but the inward exposure of fragmentation once truth becomes undeniable. The pride of the separate self begins collapsing beneath direct realization. What consciousness repeatedly concealed from itself now rises clearly into awareness, and the false structures through which the self maintained its imagined security begin dissolving.
The dhillah therefore becomes the lowering of egoic resistance itself. The self finally encounters the limitations of its own attachments, distractions, and repeated refusals to remain aligned with truth. What was once outwardly defended now appears inwardly empty and unstable. The humiliation comes from seeing clearly what consciousness had long tried to avoid seeing within itself.
Then the verse concludes; dhalika al-yawm alladhi kanu yuʿadun, that is the moment they had been promised. This was the inevitable encounter toward which every unveiling, warning, consequence, and inward stirring had been pointing. The promised moment is the direct confrontation with reality once concealment can no longer continue.
Yet hidden even within this humbling is mercy. When false certainty collapses, the possibility for genuine openness begins emerging. The lowering of perception strips away arrogance and illusion, allowing consciousness to finally become receptive to truth without the constant interference of egoic resistance. Thus the promised moment is not only exposure, but also the beginning of the possibility of real return toward alignment with the Rabb.
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