[18:21]
And in like manner We disclosed
them (to the people of the city) that they might know that the promise of Allah
is true, and that, as for the Hour, there is no doubt concerning it. When (the
people of the city) disputed of their case among themselves, they said: Build
over them a building; their Lord knoweth best concerning them. Those who won
their point said: We verily shall build a place of worship over them.
[18:22]
(Some) will say: They were three, their dog the fourth, and (some) say: Five, their dog the sixth, guessing
at random; and (some) say: Seven, and their dog the eighth. Say (O Muhammad):
My Lord is Best Aware of their number. None knoweth them
save a few. So contend not concerning them except with an outward contending,
and ask not any of them to pronounce concerning them.
[18:23]
And say not of anything: Lo! I shall do that
tomorrow,
[18:24]
Except if Allah will. And remember thy Lord when thou forgettest, and say: It may be
that my Lord guideth me unto a nearer way of truth than this.
[18:25]
And (it is said) they tarried in their Cave
three hundred years and add nine.
[18:26]
Say: Allah is Best Aware how long they tarried.
His is the Invisible of the heavens and the earth. How clear of sight is He and
keen of hearing! They have no protecting friend beside Him, and He maketh none
to share in His government.
[18:27]
And recite that which hath been revealed unto
thee of the Scripture of thy Lord. There is none who can
change His words, and thou wilt find no refuge beside Him.