Those who believe ask why no chapter [about fighting] has been sent down. Yet when a decisive chapter that mentions fighting is sent down, you can see the sick of heart looking at you [Prophet] as if they were under the shadow of death. Therefore, woe to 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 It is these upon whom Allah has laid His curse: so He made them deaf and deprived them of their sight. 23 Will they not then contemplate on the Koran? Or are there locks upon their hearts! 24 As for those who turn back in their footsteps after the guidance of Allah has become clear to them, it was satan who tempted them, and Allah has respited them. 25 That is because they say to those averse to what Allah has sent down 'We shall obey you in some of the matters' Allah knows their secrets. 26 Then how (will it be with them) when the angels gather them, smiting their faces and their backs! 27 That is because they followed that which angered Allah, and hated that which pleased Him. So He made their deeds fruitless. 28