The believers used to say: “Why is a surah (that would ordain fighting) not revealed?” But when a definitive surah was revealed wherein fighting was mentioned, you saw that those in whose hearts there was a sickness looked at you as though they were about to faint at the approach of death. Pity on them! 20 Were it to obey and say what is just, and when a matter is resolved on, it were best for them if they were true to Allah. 21 Then, is it to be expected of you, if ye were put in authority, that ye will do mischief in the land, and break your ties of kith and kin? 22 They are those who were condemned by God, whose ears were blocked by Him and their eyes blinded. 23 Do they not ponder on what the Qur'an says? Or have their hearts been sealed with locks? 24 As for those who turn back in their footsteps after the guidance of Allah has become clear to them, it was satan who tempted them, and Allah has respited them. 25 That is because they say to those averse to what Allah has sent down 'We shall obey you in some of the matters' Allah knows their secrets. 26 But how will they fare when angels will take their souls at death and will carry them, striking their faces and backs? 27 That is because they follow what is displeasing to Allah and are averse to His pleasure, therefore He has made null their deeds. 28