NOW THOSE who have attained to faith say: "Would that a revelation [allowing us to fight] was bestowed from on high!" But now that a revelation clear in and by itself, mentioning war, has been bestowed from on high, thou canst see those in whose hearts is disease looking at thee, [O Muhammad,] with the look of one who is about to faint for fear of death! And yet, far better for them would be 20 obedience, and words honourable. Then, when the matter is resolved, if they were true to God, it would be better for them. 21 Is it possible that if placed in authority you will create disorder in the land and sever your bonds of relationship? 22 It is these upon whom Allah has laid His curse: so He made them deaf and deprived them of their sight. 23 Will they then not meditate on the Qur'an, or are there locks on the hearts? 24 Verily, those who have turned back (have apostated) as disbelievers after the guidance has been manifested to them, Shaitan (Satan) has beautified for them (their false hopes), and (Allah) prolonged their term (age). 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 Then how [will it be] when the angels take them in death, striking their faces and their backs? 27 That is because they followed what angered Allah and disliked [what earns] His pleasure, so He rendered worthless their deeds. 28