Of the people there are some who say: "We believe in Allah and the Last Day;" but they do not (really) believe. 8 They think to beguile Allah and those who believe, and they beguile none save themselves; but they perceive not. 9 There is a sickness in their hearts which Allah has increased. For them there is a painful punishment because they lie. 10 When it is said to them, 'Do not corruption in the land', they say, 'We are only ones that put things right.' 11 Yet they are surely mischief-mongers, even though they do not know. 12 And when they are told, "Believe as other people believe," they answer, "Shall we believe as the weak-minded believe?" Oh, verily, it is they, they who are weak-minded - but they know it not! 13 When they meet the faithful they say: "We believe;" but when alone with the devils (their fellows), they say: "We are really with you; we were joking." 14 But God will turn the joke against them and allow them to sink deeper into evil and wander perplexed in their wickedness. 15 Such are those who barter away guidance for error, their trade did not profit (them), nor are they guided. 16 Their parable is like the parable of one who kindled a fire, but when it had illumined all around him, Allah took away their light, and left them in utter darkness-- they do not see. 17 Deaf, dumb and blind; and they are not to return. 18 Or like rain pouring from the sky which hides within it darkness, thunder and lightning. They thrust their fingers into their ears for safety against noise and death. But God surrounds those who believe not from all sides. 19 The lightning almost snatches away their sight, whenever it flashes upon them they walk on, but as soon as it darkens they stand still. Indeed, if Allah willed, He could take away their sight and hearing. Allah has power over all things. 20