Those who believe ask why no chapter [about fighting] has been sent down. Yet when a decisive chapter that mentions fighting is sent down, you can see the sick of heart looking at you [Prophet] as if they were under the shadow of death. Therefore, woe to them! 20 Since they have (pledged) Us obedience and to speak reasonably, it would be more proper for them, when it is decided (that everyone must take part in the battle), to remain true (in their pledge to God). 21 Now, if you were to turn away, what else can be expected but that you will work corruption in the land and fly at each other's throats? 22 Such are they whom Allah has cursed, so that He has made them deaf and blinded their sight. 23 Will they not, then, ponder over this Qur'an? - or are there locks upon their hearts? 24 Those who turn back as apostates after Guidance was clearly shown to them,- the Evil One has instigated them and busied them up with false hopes. 25 This is because they have said to those who hate God's revelation, "We shall obey you in some matters." But God knows all their secrets. 26 How will it be when the angels draw out their souls striking their faces and their backs? 27 Because they followed what displeases God, and they were averse to pleasing Him. So We nullified their deeds. 28