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 Since they have (pledged) Us obedience and to speak reasonably, it would be more proper for them, when it is decided (that everyone must take part in the battle), to remain true (in their pledge to God). 21 Then, belike ye are, if ye turn, to cause corruption in the earth and to sever your kinship. 22 Such are those whom Allah has cursed, making them deaf and blinding their eyes. 23 Do they not then earnestly seek to understand the Qur'an, or are their hearts locked up by them? 24 Surely, those who turn their backs [on this message] after guidance has been shown to them, [do it because] Satan has embellished their fancies and God gives them respite; 25 This is because they said to those who hate what Allah has sent down: "We will obey you in part of the matter," but Allah knows their secrets. 26 But how will they fare when angels will take their souls at death and will carry them, striking their faces and backs? 27 That is because they followed what angered Allah and disliked [what earns] His pleasure, so He rendered worthless their deeds. 28