The believers used to say: “Why is a surah (that would ordain fighting) not revealed?” But when a definitive surah was revealed wherein fighting was mentioned, you saw that those in whose hearts there was a sickness looked at you as though they were about to faint at the approach of death. Pity on them! 20 Yet obedience and honorable words (would be better for them). Then, when the matter is decided, if they were true to Allah it would be better for them. 21 Now, if you were to turn away, what else can be expected but that you will work corruption in the land and fly at each other's throats? 22 Such are they whom Allah curseth so that He deafeneth them and maketh blind their eyes. 23 So do they not ponder the Qur’an deeply, or are there locks on some of their hearts? 24 VERILY, those who turn their backs [on this message] after guidance has been vouchsafed to them, [do it because] Satan has embellished their fancies and filled them with false hopes: 25 This is because they said to those who dislike what Allah has sent down, “We will obey you regarding one matter*”; and Allah knows their secrets. (* To fight against the Holy Prophet). 26 But how will it be when the angels cause them to die smiting their backs. 27 for their following that which had incurred God's anger, and their hatred to please God. Thus, God has made their deeds devoid of all virtue. 28