The Test (Al-Mumtahanah)
In the name of Allah, the Compassionate, the Merciful
O YOU who have attained to faith! Do not take My enemies - who are your enemies as well - for your friends, showing them affection even though they are bent on denying whatever truth has come unto you, [and even though] they have driven the Apostle and yourselves away, [only] because you believe in God, your Sustainer! If [it be true that] you have gone forth [from your homes] to strive in My cause, and out of a longing for My goodly acceptance, [do not take them for your friends,] inclining towards them in secret affection: for I am fully aware of all that you may conceal as well as of all that you do openly. And any of you who does this has already strayed from the right path. 1 If they gain dominance over you they will be your enemies, and will extend their hands and their tongues towards you with evil, and they wish that in some way you turn disbelievers. 2 There will profit you neither your kindred nor your children. On the Day of Resurrection He shall decide between you; and Allah is of that which you work Beholder. 3 There is a goodly pattern for you in Abraham and those with him, when they told their folk: Lo! we are guiltless of you and all that ye worship beside Allah. We have done with you. And there hath arisen between us and you hostility and hate for ever until ye believe in Allah only - save that which Abraham promised his father (when he said): I will ask forgiveness for thee, though I own nothing for thee from Allah - Our Lord! In Thee we put our trust, and unto Thee we turn repentant, and unto Thee is the journeying. 4 Our Lord, make us not a temptation to those who disbelieve; and forgive us. Our Lord, Thou art the All-mighty, the All-wise.' 5 Assuredly there hath been in them for you an excellent pattern - for him who hopeth for Allah and the last Day. And whosoever turneth away, then verily Allah! He is the Self-Sufficient, the Praiseworthy. 6