And the Muslims say, “Why was not a chapter sent down?” So when a positive chapter was sent down, and war was commanded in it, you will see those in whose hearts is a disease looking at you with the dazed looks of a dying man; so it would be better for 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 Would you then, if you were given the authority, do mischief in the land, and sever your ties of kinship? 22 It is these whom Allah has cursed, so He made them deaf to the Truth and blinded their eyes. 23 Ponder then they not on the Qur'an, or are on the hearts locks thereof? 24 Those who turn back as apostates after Guidance was clearly shown to them,- the Evil One has instigated them and busied them up with false hopes. 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 Then how (will it be) when the angels will take their souls at death, smiting their faces and their backs? 27 This because they followed that which called forth the Wrath of Allah, and they hated Allah's good pleasure; so He made their deeds of no effect. 28