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 (to Allah) and good words (were better for them). And when the matter (preparation for Jihad) is resolved on, then if they had been true to Allah, it would have been better for them. 21 Now, if you were to turn away, what else can be expected but that you will work corruption in the land and fly at each other's throats? 22 Those it is whom Allah has cursed so He has made them deaf and blinded their eyes. 23 Ponder then they not on the Qur'an, or are on the hearts locks thereof? 24 Indeed, those who reverted back [to disbelief] after guidance had become clear to them - Satan enticed them and prolonged hope for 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 then shall it be when the angels shall take them away at death smiting their faces and their backs! 27 This is because they followed the matter which displeases Allah, and they disliked what pleases Him – He therefore squandered away all their deeds. 28