Could, then, one whose bosom God has opened wide with willingness towards self-surrender unto Him, so that he is illumined by a light [that flows] from his Sustainer, [be likened to the blind and deaf of heart]? Woe, then, unto those whose hearts are hardened against all remembrance of God! They are most obviously lost in error! 22 Allah hath (now) revealed the fairest of statements, a Scripture consistent, (wherein promises of reward are) paired (with threats of punishment), whereat doth creep the flesh of those who fear their Lord, so that their flesh and their hearts soften to Allah's reminder. Such is Allah's guidance, wherewith He guideth whom He will. And him whom Allah sendeth astray, for him there is no guide. 23 How woeful is the plight of him who has nothing except his face to shield him from severe chastisement on the Day of Resurrection? Such evil-doers shall be told: “Taste now the consequence of your deeds.” 24 Those before them denied, and punishment came upon them from where they did not perceive. 25 so God let them taste degradation in this present life; and the chastisement of the world to come is assuredly greater, did they but know. 26 We have indeed propounded for mankind all kinds of parables in this Qur'an that they may take heed. 27 This Quran is a flawless reading text in the Arabic language. Perhaps they will have fear of God. 28 God sets forth a parable: there are two men -- one belonging to many masters, all disagreeing with one another, and the other belonging entirely to one master: are those two equal in comparison? Praise be to God! But most of them have no knowledge. 29 (O Prophet), you are destined to die and they too are destined to die. 30 Then indeed you, on the Day of Resurrection, before your Lord, will dispute. 31