The believers ask: 'Has a chapter been sent down' But when a clear chapter is sent down and fighting is mentioned in it, you see those in whose hearts is sickness looking towards you as one who swoons at death. 20 Obedience and a gentle word (was proper); but when the affair becomes settled, then if they remain true to Allah it would certainly be better for them. 21 Would you then, if you were given the authority, do mischief in the land, and sever your ties of kinship? 22 Those are they whom God has cursed, and so made them deaf, and blinded their eyes. 23 Is it that they do not think about the Quran or are their hearts sealed? 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 This is because they said to those who hate what Allah has sent down: "We will obey you in part of the matter," but Allah knows their secrets. 26 How shall it be when the angels (of death) take them and beat them on their face and back? 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