On the other hand, could one on whom [God's] sentence of suffering has been passed [be rescued by man]? Couldst thou, perchance, save one who is [already, as it were,] in the fire?

Is, then, one against whom the decree of Punishment is justly due (equal to one who eschews Evil)? Wouldst thou, then, deliver one (who is) in the Fire?

Is he on whom the word of doom is fulfilled (to be helped), and canst thou (O Muhammad) rescue him who is in the Fire?

He against whom the sentence of chastisement is due -- canst thou save him who is in the Fire?

Then, is one who has deserved the decree of punishment [to be guided]? Then, can you save one who is in the Fire?