THOSE [hypocrites] who were left behind rejoiced in their staying away [from war] after [the departure of] God's Apostle, for they hated the thought of striving with their possessions and their lives in God's cause; and they had [even] said [to the others,] "Do not go forth to war in this heat!" Say: "The fire of hell is hotter by far!" Had they but grasped this truth! 81 Let them laugh a little: much will they weep: a recompense for the (evil) that they do. 82 When God brings you back safely and a group of hypocrites ask you to make them exempt from taking part in the battle, tell them, "Never march with me and never fight with us against any of the enemies (of God). You chose to linger behind the first time, so this time stay behind with those who are of no help in the battle." 83 And never offer prayer for any one of them who dies and do not stand by his grave; surely they disbelieve in Allah and His Apostle and they shall die in transgression. 84 And let not their wealth and children astonish you. God wishes to punish them through these in the world, and their souls will depart in a state of disbelief. 85 When a Sura comes down, enjoining them to believe in Allah and to strive and fight along with His Messenger, those with wealth and influence among them ask thee for exemption, and say: "Leave us (behind): we would be with those who sit (at home)." 86 They were content to stay behind with the womenfolk. Their hearts were sealed, leaving them bereft of understanding. 87 But the messenger and those who believe with him strive with their wealth and their lives. Such are they for whom are the good things. Such are they who are the successful. 88 Allah has prepared for them gardens underneath which rivers flow, in which they shall live for ever. That is the greatest winning. 89