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 obedience [to God's call] and a word that could win [His] approval: for, since the matter has been resolved [by His revelation,] it would be but for their own good to remain true to God. 21 Then if you turn away, you are likely to spread corruption on the earth and sever your ties of kinship. 22 God has condemned these people and made them deaf, dumb, and blind. 23 So do they not ponder the Qur’an deeply, or are there locks on some of 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 That is because they said to those who disliked what Allah sent down, "We will obey you in part of the matter." And Allah knows what they conceal. 26 Then how (will it be) when the angels will take their souls at death, smiting their faces and their 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