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 obedience, and words honourable. Then, when the matter is resolved, if they were true to God, it would be better for them. 21 Is it possible that if placed in authority you will create disorder in the land and sever your bonds of relationship? 22 They are those who were condemned by God, whose ears were blocked by Him and their eyes blinded. 23 So do they not ponder the Qur’an deeply, or are there locks on some of 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 [they do turn their backs on it] inasmuch as they are wont to say unto those who abhor all that God has revealed, "We will comply with your views on some points." But God knows their secret thoughts: 26 How shall it be when the angels (of death) take them and beat them on their face and back? 27 This, because they were wont to pursue what God condemns and to hate [whatever would meet with] His goodly acceptance: and so He has caused all their [good] deeds to come to nought. 28