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 Since they have (pledged) Us obedience and to speak reasonably, it would be more proper for them, when it is decided (that everyone must take part in the battle), to remain true (in their pledge to God). 21 So would you perhaps, if you turned away, cause corruption on earth and sever your [ties of] relationship? 22 Such are they whom Allah has cursed, so that He has made them deaf and blinded their sight. 23 Do they, then, not reflect on the Qur'an? Or are there locks on their hearts? 24 Those who have reverted to disbelief after guidance has become manifest to them, have been seduced and given false hopes by satan. 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 take them, beating their faces and their backs? 27 This, because they were wont to pursue what God condemns and to hate [whatever would meet with] His goodly acceptance: and so He has caused all their [good] deeds to come to nought. 28