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 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 But if you held command, you were sure to make mischief in the land and cut off the ties of kinship! 22 Such are the men whom Allah has cursed for He has made them deaf and blinded their sight. 23 What, do they not ponder the Koran? Or is it that there are locks upon their hearts? 24 Indeed, those who reverted back [to disbelief] after guidance had become clear to them - Satan enticed them and prolonged hope for them. 25 This, because they said to those who are averse to the faith that Allah has revealed: “In some matters we shall obey you.” Allah has full knowledge of their secret parleys. 26 How shall it be, when the angels take them, beating their faces and their backs? 27 That is because they have followed a way that angered Allah, and have been averse to His good pleasure. So He reduced all their works to nought. 28