O believers, obey God and His Messenger, and do not turn away from him when you hear (him speak); 20 Do not be like those who say, "We hear," but pay no heed to what they hear -- 21 ۞ Surely the vilest of animals, in Allah's sight, are the deaf, the dumb, who do not understand. 22 If God had seen any good in them He would surely have made them hear. Now even if He makes them hear they will turn away (in obduracy). 23 O you who have attained to faith! Respond to the call of God and the Apostle whenever he calls you unto that which will give you life; and know that God intervenes between man and [the desires of] his heart, and that unto Him you shall be gathered. 24 And beware of an affliction that will not smite exclusively those among you who have done wrong. Know that God is severe in exacting retribution. 25 And remember when you were few, deemed weak in the land, fearing lest people might carry you off by force, but He sheltered you and strengthened you with His aid and gave you of the good things that you may give thanks. 26 O you who believe! be not unfaithful to Allah and the Apostle, nor be unfaithful to your trusts while you know. 27 and know that your worldly goods and your children are but a trial and a temptation, and that with God there is a tremendous reward. 28