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 saying what is just would become them more; when the decision is taken, it would be better for them if they acted sincerely towards 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 Those are they whom Allah hath cursed, and then hath deafened them and blinded their sights. 23 Do they not ponder on what the Qur'an says? Or have their hearts been sealed with locks? 24 Indeed those who turn back after the guidance had become clear to them – Satan has deceived them; and made them optimistic of living for ages. 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 How shall it be when the angels (of death) take them and beat them on their face and back? 27 This is because they followed the matter which displeases Allah, and they disliked what pleases Him – He therefore squandered away all their deeds. 28