O MEN! A parable is set forth [herewith]; hearken, then, to it! Behold, those beings whom you invoke instead of God cannot create [as much as] a fly, even were they to join all their forces to that end! And if a fly robs them of anything, they cannot [even] rescue it from him! Weak indeed is the seeker, and [weak] the sought! 73 No true understanding of God have they [who err in this way]: for, verily, God is most powerful, almighty! 74 God chooses of the angels Messengers and of mankind; surely God is All-hearing, All-seeing. 75 He knows what is before them and what lies behind them, and all things go back to God. 76 O you who believe! Bow down, and prostrate yourselves, and worship your Lord and do good that you may be successful. ۩ 77 Strive steadfastly for the Cause of God. He has chosen you but has not imposed on you hardship in your religion, the noble religion of your father, Abraham. God named you Muslims before and in this Book, so that the Messenger will witness (your actions) and will be the witness over mankind. Be steadfast in your prayer, pay the religious tax, and seek protection from God; He is your Guardian, a gracious Guardian and Helper. 78