Chapter: 3 Sura: 50

And (I come) confirming that which is before me, namely the Torah, and that I declare lawful for you some of the things that had been forbidden to you. I come to you with a sign from your Lord, so take Allâh as a shield and obey me. 3|51|"Surely, Allâh is my Lord as well as your Lord, therefore worship Him; this is the right path".' 3|52|But when Jesus felt disbelief on their part (and thought his people would renounce him,) he said, `Who are my helpers (in calling the people) towards Allâh?' The disciples said, `We are the helpers (in the cause) of Allâh. We have believed in Allâh. Bear witness that, we are the submitting ones (to His will).' 3|53|(The disciples then prayed,) `Our Lord! We believe in that which You have revealed and we follow this Messenger, so count us with the witnesses (of the truth).' 3|54|And they (- the persecutors of Jesus) planned (to crucify him) and Allâh planned (to save him) and Allâh is the best of the planners. 3|55|(Recall the time) when Allâh said, `O Jesus! I will cause you to die a natural death, and will exalt you to Myself and I will clear you of the unchaste accusations of those who disbelieve. I am going to make your followers prevail over the disbelievers till the Day of Resurrection, then to Me (O people!) shall be your return, and I will judge all your differences. 3|56|`Then as for those who disbelieve I will punish them sternly in this world and in the Hereafter and they shall have no helpers. 3|57|`As for those who believe and do deeds of righteousness, He will pay them their rewards in full. Allâh loves not the unjust.' 3|58|That is what We recite to you; the Messages and the Reminder full of wisdom. 3|59|Verily, the case of Jesus is as the case of Adam in the sight of Allâh. He fashioned him out of dust, then He said to him,`Be', and he came to be. 3|60|(O reader!) this is the real truth from your Lord, hence do not be of the disputers at all (of the facts). 3|61|Now whoso disputes with you in this matter (of Jesus) after there has come to you true knowledge, then say (to him), `Come let us summon our sons and your sons, our women and your women, and our people and your people, then let us pray fervently one against the other and invoke the disapproval of Allâh upon the liars.' 3|62|Verily, this (which We have told) is certainly the true account. There is no other, cannot be and will never be One worthy of worship but Allâh; and surely it is Allâh Who is the All-Mighty, the All-Wise. 3|63|But if they turn away, then (remember that) Allâh, of course, knows the mischief-makers. 3|64|Say, `O people of the Scripture! let us agree to a proposition common to us both that we worship none but Allâh and that we associate no partner with Him and that some of us shall not hold others as lords besides Allâh.' But if they turn away (refusing) say, `Bear witness that we are the only submitting ones (to one God).' 3|65|O people of the Scripture! why do you argue about Abraham while the Torah and the Evangel were not revealed till after him? Have you no sense? 3|66|Behold! you are such as have argued about that whereof you had a little knowledge, now, why do you argue about that whereof you have no knowledge at all? Indeed, Allâh knows the truth while you do not. 3|67|Abraham was neither a Jew nor a Christian, but he was upright who had submitted (to the will of God), and he was not one of the polytheists. 3|68|The people nearest to Abraham are surely those who followed him (in the days of his prophethood) and this Prophet and those who believe (in him). Indeed, Allâh is the Patron of the believers. 3|69|(Believers!) a section of the people of the Scripture would fain lead you astray, but it is only the people like themselves that they lead astray, only they perceive not. 3|70|O people of the Scripture! Why do you deny the revelations of Allâh while you are witnessing (their truth)? 3|71|O people of the Scripture! Why do you confound the truth with falsehood and conceal the truth and that (too) deliberately? 3|72|A section of the people of the Scripture said (to their companions in confidence), `Avow belief in that (- the Qur'ân) which has been revealed to the believers, in the early hours of the day and deny (it) in the latter part of it, so that they (- the newly converted Muslims) may return (to disbelief), 3|73|`Yet avow this belief only for the sake of those who follow your creed.' Say, `Surely, the true guidance is Allâh's guidance', (and they also said, `Do not believe,) that anyone will ever be given the like of that (gift of prophethood) which you have been given, or that they will ever be able to prevail upon you in argument before your Lord.' Say, `Eminence (of prophethood and sovereignty) is entirely in the hands of Allâh. He confers it to whomsoever He will.' And Allâh is All-Embracing, All-Knowing. 3|74|Allâh has singled out for His grace (of the bestowal of Divine revelation) one whom He has pleased, for Allâh is the Lord of great eminence. 3|75|And among the people of the Scripture there is he if you trust him with a huge treasure he will surrender it to you; yet there is another among them that if you entrust him with a single dinâr he will not surrender it to you unless you keep on pressing him. They do that because they say, `We are not liable to be called to account in the matter of the unlettered (- not of Jewish race),' and they tell a lie in the name of Allâh deliberately. 3|76|Nay (they will indeed be called to account). Yet whoso discharges his obligations and guards against evil, (he will find that) Allâh, infact, loves those who guard against evil. 3|77|(On the contrary) those who take paltry gains for (shaking off their) covenant with Allâh and their oaths, it is these for whom there shall be no big share in the Hereafter, Allâh will never speak to them (lovingly) nor look at them (with affection) on the Day of Resurrection, nor will He treat them as pure; there awaits them a woeful punishment. 3|78|There are some among them who twist their tongues while reciting their Scripture that you may think that (what they recite) is a part of the Scripture, whilst it is no part of the Scripture and they say, `This is from Allâh,' whereas it is not from Allâh. They tell a lie in the name of Allâh deliberately. 3|79|It is not given to a human being that Allâh should give him the Book, the sovereignty and the prophethood and then he should say to the people, `Be servants to me beside Allâh.' He would rather say, `Be you the sole devotees of (Allâh) the Lord, for you teach the Book and because you study (it).' 3|80|Nor would (it be possible for him that) he bid you take the angels and Prophets as your lords. Would he bid you disbelieve after you have submitted yourselves (to the will of God)? 3|81|(Recall the time) when Allâh bound (the people) to a covenant through the Prophets (saying), `Indeed, whatever I have vouchsafed to you of the Book and the Wisdom, and then there comes to you a Messenger fulfilling that which is with you, you shall surely believe in him and have to help him.' (The Lord further) said, `Do you agree and do you undertake the heavy responsibility of My covenant on these (terms)?' They said, `We do agree.' (God) said, `Bear witness to it and I am with you among the witnesses.' 3|82|Now those who turn away (and break their pledge) after this, will be the real transgressors. 3|83|Do they then seek a creed other than Allâh's while all those that are in the heavens and on the earth submit to Him willingly or unwillingly, and to Him they shall be made to return? 3|84|Say, `We believe in Allâh and in that which has been revealed to us and in that which was revealed to Abraham and Ismâîl and Isaac and Jacob and his children and in that which was given to Moses and Jesus and to all other Prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between anyone of them (in believing them) and to Him alone do we submit.' 3|85|And whosoever seeks a faith other than Islam (- complete submission to the will of God,) it will never be accepted from him, and he shall be of the losers in the Hereafter. 3|86|How is Allâh to guide a people who renounce their faith after having accepted it and after testifying to the truth of the Messenger and after clear and sound proofs had come to them? And Allâh never guides a people who cannot discriminate between right and wrong. 3|87|It is these whose recompense is that the disapproval of Allâh shall be upon them, and that of the angels and of mankind, all together. 3|88|They shall abide there for long, their punishment shall not be reduced, nor shall they be reprieved; 3|89|Except those who repent after this and make amends, (such will find that) surely Allâh is Great Protector, Ever Merciful. 3|90|Verily, those who chose disbelief after they had believed and then go on increasing in disbelief, their repentance shall not be accepted and these are the people who are completely lost. 3|91|Verily, as to those who have disbelieved and die while they are disbelievers, there shall not be accepted from anyone of them (even) an earthful of gold if he would ransom himself thereby. There awaits them a woeful punishment, they shall have no helpers (either). 3|92|Never shall you attain the highest state of virtue unless you spend (in the cause of Allâh) out of that which you love; and whatever you spend, Allâh, indeed, knows it well. 3|93|All the (pure) food (which is lawful in Islam) was lawful for the Children of Israel except what Israel forbade himself before the advent of Torah. Say, `Bring then the Torah and read it, if you are right (in your assertions).' 3|94|Now, whoso forges a lie against Allâh after that, it is they who are the unjust. 3|95| 3|96|Verily, the first House founded for the good of mankind is the one at Bakkah (- the valley of Makkah). (It is the House) full of blessings and a means of guidance for all the peoples. 3|97|Therein are clear Memorials: (The first is) the Place where Abraham stood for prayers (- Maqâm Ibrahîm); (secondly,) whosoever enters it (- the valley of Bakkah) is in a state of peace and security; (thirdly,) Pilgrimage to the House (- Ka`bah) is due to Allâh from everyone of mankind who is (physically, financially and in many other ways) able and has the means to make the journey thereto. And whosoever disobeys (let him remember that) Allâh is Independent of the worlds. 3|98|Say, `O you people of the Scripture! Why do you deny the Messages of Allâh, while Allâh is Witness to all that you do.' 3|99|Say, `O people of the Scripture! Why do you hinder him who believes, from (following) the path of Allâh? You try to seek crookedness in it, while you yourselves are witnesses (to its truth). And Allâh is not at all unmindful of what you do.' 3|100|O you who believe! If you obey a section of those who have been given the Scripture, they will turn you back into disbelievers after your having believed. 3|101|And how would you disbelieve while the Messages of Allâh are rehearsed to you, and His Messenger is present in your midst. And whosoever holds fast to Allâh is indeed guided on to the exact right path. 3|102|O you who believe! Observe your duty to Allâh as it ought to be observed, and let not death overtake you unless you be in a state of complete submission (to your Lord). 3|103|Hold fast to the means of access to Allâh all together, and do not be disunited, and remember Allâh's favours to you, when you were enemies one to another. He united your hearts in love so that by His grace you became brethren. And you were on the brink of a pit of fire, He saved you therefrom. Thus does Allâh explain to you His Messages that you may be guided aright. 3|104|And let there always be a community (of such people) among you who should call people to goodness and enjoin equity and forbid evil. It is these who shall attain to their goal. 3|105|And do not be like those who were disunited and fell into variance after clear proofs had come to them. It is these for whom a great punishment awaits. 3|106|On the day when some faces shall be lit up by happiness and some faces shall be clouded because of sorrow. (It will be said to) those whose faces are clouded, `Is it not (true) that you disbelieved after your belief? Taste now, the punishment because you disbelieved.' 3|107|And as for those whose faces shall be lit up, they shall come under the mercy of Allâh, and in it they shall abide for ever. 3|108|Such are the revelations of Allâh comprising the truth. We rehearse them to you. And Allâh means no injustice to (any of His) creatures. 3|109|And to Allâh belongs whatsoever is in the heavens and whatsoever is in the earth, and all matters stand referred to Allâh. 3|110|You are the noblest people raised up for the good of mankind. You enjoin equity and forbid evil, and you believe truly in Allâh. Had the people of the Scripture (also) believed, it would surely have been best for them. Some of them are believers, yet most of them are disobedient. 3|111|They shall do you no harm except a trifling hurt, and if they fight you, they will show you their backs (and flee), they shall never be helped then. 3|112|Smitten are they with ignominy wherever they are found unless they have a bond (of protection) from Allâh, or a bond (of security) from the people. They have incurred the displeasure of Allâh and have been condemned to humiliation. That is so because they would disbelieve in the Messages of Allâh and would seek to kill the Prophets without any just cause. And that is so because they rebelled and had been transgressing as usual. 3|113|They (- the people of the Scripture) are not all alike. Among these people of the Scripture there are some upright people. They rehearse the Message of Allâh in the hours of the night and they prostrate themselves (in His worship). 3|114|They believe in Allâh and the Last Day and enjoin good and forbid evil, and they vie one with another in (doing) good deeds. And it is these who are of the truly righteous. 3|115|And whatever good they do, they shall not be denied its due recognition. And Allâh knows well those who guard against evil. 3|116|Verily, as to those who disbelieve, neither their possessions nor their children shall avail them aught against (the punishment of) Allâh. And it is they who are the fellows of the Fire, therein shall they live long. 3|117|That which they spend for the present life bears likeness with the wind wherein is freezing cold which smites the tilth of the people who have done injustice to themselves, so it destroys it. Allâh does no injustice to them but they wrong themselves. 3|118|O you who believe! Do not hold other people as confidants of your secrets to the exclusion of your own (honest) folk. Such people shall not be remiss to corrupt you; they love all that by which you get into trouble. Gross hatred has already expressed itself through (the utterances of) their mouths and what their hearts conceal is far worse. Now We have explained the Messages fully to you if you would only understand. 3|119|Behold! You are those who love them while they do not love you, though you believe in every (Divine) Book, in the whole of it. And when they meet you they say, `We believe,' and when they are alone they bite their finger-tips out of rage against you. Say, `Perish in your rage. Surely, Allâh knows the inmost secrets of your hearts.' 3|120|If anything good contacts you, it hurts them, but if an evil afflicts you, they rejoice thereat. However, if you patiently persevere and ward off evil, their machination will do you no harm at all. Verily, Allâh encompasses all their activities. 3|121|And (recall the time) when you (O Prophet!) went forth early in the morning from your family assigning to the believers their battle-posts (in the Battle of Uhud). And Allâh is All- Hearing, All-Knowing. 3|122|When two groups from among you (- the two clans of Banû Hârithah and Banû Salamah) were disposed to show cowardliness. And Allâh was the Protecting friend of them both, and in Allâh the believers should put their trust. 3|123|Surely, Allâh had already helped you at (the Battle of) Badr while you were utterly weak, therefore take Allâh as a shield so that (He may bless you and) you may give Him thanks. 3|124|(Recall the time) when you said to the believers, `Does it not suffice you that your Lord should reinforce you with three thousand angels sent down (by Him)? 3|125|`Indeed (it does); and if you patiently persevere and guard against evil and they (- the enemies) come upon you suddenly and in hot haste of theirs, your Lord will reinforce you with five thousand swooping and havoc-making angels.' 3|126|And Allâh meant not this (help by the angels) except as good tidings (of victory) for you, and to set your hearts at ease therewith. There is no real help and victory except from Allâh alone, the All-Mighty, the All-Wise. 3|127|(God will do accordingly at Uhud) with the result that He may cut of a section of those who disbelieve and their leaders and vanquish others with humiliation so that they might go back utterly frustrated. 3|128|(O Prophet!) You have no say whatsoever in the matter, (it is upto Him alone) whether He turns towards them with mercy or punishes them because they are certainly wrongdoers. 3|129|And to Allâh belongs whatsoever is in the heavens and whatsoever is in the earth. He protects (against sins) whom He will and punishes whom He will. Allâh is Great Protector, Ever Merciful. 3|130|O you who believe! do not practise usury and interest involving multiple additions, and keep your duty to Allâh and take Him as a shield so that you may prosper. 3|131|Be on your guard against the Fire which has been prepared for the disbelievers. 3|132|And obey Allâh and this Messenger that you may be shown mercy. 3|133|Wing your way to the protection of your Lord and to the Paradise whose expanse is as (vast as) the heavens and the earth. It is prepared for those who become secure against evil; 3|134|Those who spend (in the cause of Allâh) in prosperity and adversity and those who suppress anger and pardon (the offences of) the people. And Allâh loves such doers of good to others, 3|135|And those who when they commit any act of indecency or do injustice to themselves remember Allâh and implore (Him for) protection against their sins - and who can protect against sins except Allâh? - And they do not deliberately persist in doing wrong. 3|136|It is these whose reward is protection from their Lord, and Gardens served with running streams, therein they shall live for ever. How excellent is the reward of the painstaking (in the right direction). 3|137|Surely, there have been diverse dispensations before you, so travel in the land and see how evil was the fate of those who cried lies (to the Prophets). 3|138|This (Qur'ân) is a clear exposition (of the truth) for mankind (to follow) and a (means of) guidance, and an exhortation to those who guard against evil (and are dutiful to God and mankind). 3|139|Therefore slacken not, nor grieve, and when you are true believers you shall certainly be the triumphant. 3|140|If you have received an outer injury (in the Battle of Uhud), surely, the (disbelieving) people have already received a similar injury (in the same battle) - these days of vicissitudes are those which We cause to alternate among the people, (it is so that you may be admonished) and that (among other things), Allâh may distinguish those who (really) believe and so that He may raise martyrs from among you; and Allâh does not love the unjust. 3|141|And (it is) so that Allâh may purge all the impurities of those who (truly) believe and so that He may wipe off the disbelievers gradually. 3|142|Do you suppose that you would enter Paradise while Allâh has not yet distinguished those of you who strive hard (in the cause of Allâh) and has not yet distinguished the patiently persevering. 3|143|And you used to long for (Jihâd and a martyr's) death before you met it, but now you have seen it and you will see yet (many more wonders happen). 3|144|And Muhammad is but a Messenger. Surely, all Messengers have passed away before him. Would you recant if he dies or be killed. And he who recants shall do no harm at all to Allâh, and Allâh will certainly reward the grateful. 3|145|Nor can a living being die save by the leave of Allâh - a decree with a prescribed term. And he who desires the reward (for his deeds) of this world, We grant him thereof; and he who desires the reward of the Hereafter, We will grant him thereof. And We will certainly reward the grateful. 3|146|There has been many a Prophet beside whom many worshippers of the Lord fought. They were neither unnerved on account of all that befell them in the cause of Allâh, nor did they weaken, nor did they show inconsistency (against their adversary). Allâh certainly loves such patiently-persevering ones. 3|147|Their word (of prayer) was only that they said, `Our Lord! grant us protection against the consequences of our sins and our excesses in our conduct, and make our foothold firm, and grant us victory over the disbelieving people.' 3|148|So Allâh granted them the reward of this world as also an excellent reward of the Hereafter. And Allâh loves the doers of good to others. 3|149|O you who believe! if you obey those who have disbelieved, they will make you turn apostates so that you will become losers. 3|150|Nay, (you do not have to do this for) Allâh is your Patron and Protector and He is the best of the helpers. 3|151|We shall certainly strike terror into the hearts of those who have disbelieved, because they have associated with Allâh that for which He has sent down no authority, their abode is the Fire and how dismal is the lodging of the wrong doers! 3|152|And certainly Allâh had made good His promise to you when you were slaying them to pieces by His leave (in the Battle of Uhud), until, when you became lax and disagreed among yourselves about the (implications of the) order (of the Prophet), and you disobeyed (your leader Abdullah bin Jubair), after He had brought that (victory) which you desired within your sight (He withdrew His help from you). There were some among you who desired the present life and among you were those who desired the life to come. Then He turned you away from (gaining clear victory over) them (- the enemy), that He might reveal your (true) selves. Yet He surely pardoned you. Allâh is Gracious to the believers. 3|153|When you were going hard and far (in pursuit of the enemy in the Battle of Uhud) and you would not cast even a side-glance at and wait for anyone while the Messenger was calling out to you from your rear (to come back). So He gave you greater sorrow (which proved unreal later on) in place of the sorrow (you had already) in order that you should not grieve over what you had missed (of clear victory) nor over what befell you (of the hardships). And Allâh is Well-Aware of what you do. 3|154|Then, after the sorrow He sent down tranquility upon you - a slumber which overwhelmed a party of you, while another party (of the hypocrites) whom their own personal interests had made anxious, entertained unjustly false notions about Allâh like the false notions (they used to bear in the days) of ignorance. They said, `Have we any authority in (the execution of) the matter (of administration)?' Say, `The whole authority rests with Allâh.' They hide in their minds (- thoughts) which they would not disclose to you. They say, `If we had any authority in (the execution of) the matter (of administration) we would not have been killed here.' Say, `Even if you had been confined in your homes, surely those who were ordained to be slain would have, nevertheless, gone forth to the places where they were destined to fall. And (all this that took place in the Battle of Uhud was) that Allâh might reveal what was in your hearts and so that He might purge what was in your minds. And Allâh knows well what is in the minds (of the people). 3|155|Surely, those of you who turned their backs on the day when two armies met (in the battlefield of Uhud) it was satan indeed who sought to seduce them (to do so) without any intention on their part because of certain other doings of theirs, and most certainly Allâh has already pardoned them. Verily, Allâh is Great Protector, Ever Forbearing. 3|156|O you who believe! do not be like those who have concealed (the truth) and who say of their brethren when they (- the latter) travel in the land or go forth on any campaign (and fall martyrs), `Had they been with us they would not have died or been killed.' They say it so that Allâh makes this a cause of intense regret in their hearts. (The fact, however, is that) it is Allâh Who gives life and causes death. Allâh sees well all what you do. 3|157|And if you are killed (in the cause of Allâh) or you die, surely (you will find that) the protection from Allâh and (His) mercy (which fall to your lot) are far better than what they (- who have concealed the truth) amass. 3|158|Indeed, whether you die or be killed, verily you shall be gathered together and brought before Allâh. 3|159|So (O Prophet!) it is owing to the great mercy of Allâh that you are gentle towards them. Had you been harsh, hard-hearted, they would have certainly dispersed from around you; hence pardon them and ask protection for them, and consult them in matters (of administration), and when you are determined (after due consultation), put your trust in Allâh. Verily, Allâh loves those who put their trust in Him. 3|160|If Allâh goes on helping you there is none to overcome you and if He forsakes you, then, who is there that will help you besides Him. Let the believers put their trust in Allâh alone. 3|161|It is not possible for a Prophet to be guilty of a breach of trust, but whoever (else) is guilty of a breach of a trust he will have to bring forth that about which he had been guilty, on the Day of Resurrection when every soul shall be paid in full for what it has accomplished, and they shall not be done any injustice. 3|162|Can the person who (always) follows the good pleasure of Allâh be like the person who has incurred the displeasure of Allâh and whose abode is Gehenna? What an evil destined abode it is! 3|163|They (- the believers and the Prophets) have exalted degrees of rank of grace with Allâh. And Allâh sees well of all that they do. 3|164|Verily, Allâh has bestowed a favour on the believers when He has raised amongst them a great Messenger from amongst themselves who recites to them His Messages, and purifies them and teaches them the Book and the wisdom; although before this, they were steeped in flagrant error. 3|165|(So what) when you suffered a loss (at the Battle of Uhud) you had already inflicted a loss (upon your enemy) twice as heavy as that (at the Battle of Badr), you (began to) say, `Whence is this?' Say, `It is of your own making.' Surely, Allâh is the Possessor of full power to do all that He will. 3|166|And that which befell you on the day when the two armies met (at Uhud), was so by the leave of Allâh, and (it happened thus) so that He might distinguish the believers, 3|167|And that He might distinguish those who practise hypocrisy. Indeed, it was said to them (- the hypocrites), `Come forward, fight in the cause of Allâh, or at least help the defences.' They said, `If we but knew that it would be a fight we would surely follow you, (but the Muslims were going to a sure destruction).' On that day, they were nearer to disbelief than to belief. They say with their mouths that which is not in their minds. And Allâh knows best all that they conceal. 3|168|It is these who said of their brethren whilst they (themselves) stayed behind (declining the field), `If they had obeyed us, they would not have been killed.' Say, `Then avert death from yourselves if you are right.' 3|169|And think not of those who have been killed in the cause of Allâh as dead. Nay, they are alive, enjoying the company of their (Ever- Living) Lord and well provided (as they deserve to be for an everlasting life); 3|170|Jubilant because of that which Allâh has given them out of His grace. They are receiving glad tidings also about those (believers similar to themselves) who are still left behind them (in this world) and have not yet joined them, that they shall have no cause of fear, nor shall they grieve, (rather they will be victorious and will see the promises of Allâh fulfilled). 3|171|And they (- the martyrs) are also receiving glad tidings (that those who have been left behind in the world are happy) because of the favours of Allâh and (His) great bounty and that Allâh does not suffer the reward of the believers to be lost. 3|172|Those who responded to the call of Allâh and the Messenger after they had received an injury (at Uhud), for those amongst them who did their duty well and warded off evil (by pursuing the enemy forces the next day upto Hamrâ'al-Asad, a place near Madînah), there awaits a great reward. 3|173|Those to whom (at the time of the expedition of Badr al-Sughrâ) people said, `People have assembled against you, so fear them.' But this (threat of danger) increased their faith and they said, `Allâh is Sufficient for us, and He is an excellent Disposer of affairs'. 3|174|Hence they returned with a mighty blessing from Allâh and a great bounty. They suffered no harm whatsoever, and they followed the good pleasure of Allâh. Indeed, Allâh is the Possessor of great bounty. 3|175|(Now you have come to know that) it is satan, in fact, who merely threatens through his friends, so do not fear them, rather fear Me, if you are (true) believers. 3|176|And do not let those who vie one with another in (following the ways of) disbelief grieve you. Surely, they shall not be able to do the slightest harm to Allâh. It is Allâh's will to assign them no portion in the Hereafter. Rather, there awaits them a great punishment. 3|177|Those who preferred disbelief to belief will not be able to do the least harm to Allâh. A grievous punishment awaits them. 3|178|And do not let those who disbelieve think that the respite We give them is good for them. Surely, We grant them respite but they do not avail it, with the result that they add to their sins. A humiliating punishment awaits them. 3|179|And Allâh is not going to leave (you), the believers, as you are, unless He has distinguished the corrupt from the good. Nor is Allâh going to reveal fully to (everyone of) you, the unseen; but Allâh chooses (for His Messages) such of His Messengers as He will. Believe, therefore in Allâh and His Messengers; and (remember) if you believe (truly) and guard against evil then there is for you a great reward. 3|180|And do not let those, who behave niggardly in (spending) what Allâh has granted them of His bounty, think that it is good for them, nay it is bad for them. They shall certainly have the things they were niggardly about, hung about their necks like halters on the Day of Resurrection. And to Allâh belongs the heritage of the heavens and the earth. Indeed, Allâh is Well-Aware of all that you do. 3|181|Allâh has most certainly heard the words of those who said, `Allâh is poor and we are rich.' Certainly We shall record what they say and their efforts towards seeking to kill the Prophets unjustly. And We shall say (at the time of retribution), `Taste (now) the punishment of burning. 3|182|`This (punishment) is because of that which your own hands have sent forward,' and the fact is that Allâh is not at all unjust to His servants. 3|183|(These are the very Jews) who said, `Surely, Allâh has enjoined us not to believe in any Messenger unless He brings us an offering which is consumed by the fire (in accordance with mosaic law).' Say, `Surely Messengers have come to you before me with clear signs and with that of which you speak. Why, then did you seek to kill them if you have been right (in your demand)?' 3|184|But if they cry lies to you (you need not be disheartened) even so lies were cried to many Messengers before you, who came with clear signs, with the Books full of wisdom and with the glorious Scripture. 3|185|Every living being is destined to taste death. And you shall, verily, be paid in full your rewards on the Day of Resurrection. Then whoso is removed away from the Fire and is admitted to Paradise, he has, of course, successfully attained his goal. And the life of this world is nothing but a vain provision (causing negligence). 3|186|You shall, certainly, be tried in your substance and lives and you shall certainly hear from those who were given the Scripture before you and from those who set up equals (to God) a good deal of hurtful abuse. But if you are patiently persevering and guard against evil, then this (attitude) is worth being followed with constancy and firm determination. 3|187|Recall the time when Allâh took a covenant from those who were given the Scripture that, `You must explain (the teachings of) this (Scripture) to the people and not conceal it.' But they threw it away behind their backs, and accepted a paltry price for it. How evil is that which they have chosen! 3|188|You should not think - indeed you should not think that those who exult in what they have brought about, and love to be praised for what they have not done, are secure from punishment; rather a woeful punishment awaits them. 3|189|The sovereignty of the heavens and the earth belongs to Allâh alone, and Allâh is the Possessor of full power to do all that He will. 3|190|Surely, in the creation of the heavens and the earth and (in) the alternation of the night and the day there are many signs for people of pure and clear understanding. 3|191|These are the persons who remember Allâh standing, and sitting and (lying) on their sides and reflect upon the creation of the heavens and the earth (and say,) `Our Lord! You have not created (all) this in vain. Glory be to You, save us from the punishment of the Fire. 3|192|`Our Lord! whomsoever You cause to enter the Fire, You have truly disgraced him, and there will be none to help these unjust. 3|193|`Our Lord! certainly, we heard a crier calling to the Faith, saying, "Believe in your Lord," and we have believed. Our Lord! protect us against our sins and rid us of our evils and cause us to die (and after death count us) with the virtuous. 3|194|`Our Lord! grant us what You have promised us through Your Messengers and do not disgrace us on the Day of Resurrection. Surely, You do not break Your promise.' 3|195|Their Lord then, accepted their prayer for them (saying), `I will not, most certainly suffer the deed of any doer (of good) from among you, whether male or female, to be lost; the one of you being as the other. Hence those who have emigrated, and have been driven out of their homes, and have been persecuted in My cause, and who have fought and been killed, surely I will absolve them of their evils and will, of course, admit them into Gardens served with running streams, a reward from Allâh. And Allâh, with Him is the fairest reward (to offer). 3|196|Do not let the moving about in the land, of those who have disbelieved, deceive you. 3|197|(It is) a brief provision, then Gehenna shall be their abode. What an evil place of rest! 3|198|But those who took their Lord as a shield shall have Gardens served with running streams, therein shall they live for ever, an entertainment from Allâh Himself; and that which is with Allâh is better still for the virtuous. 3|199|There are some among the people of the Scripture who believe in Allâh and in that which has been revealed to you and in that which has been revealed to them, humbling themselves before Allâh, they barter not the Messages of Allâh for a paltry price, it is these whose reward is due with their Lord. Indeed, Allâh is Swift in reckoning. 3|200|O you who believe! be patiently persevering and strive to excel (the disbelievers) in being patiently persevering and guard (the frontiers) and ward off evil, keep your duty to Allâh so that you may attain your goal. 4|1|O you people! take as a shield your Lord Who created you from a single being. The same stock from which He created the man He created his spouse, and through them both He caused to spread a large number of men and women. O people! regard Allâh with reverence in Whose name you appeal to one another, and (be regardful to) the ties of relationship (particularly from the female side). Verily, Allâh ever keeps watch over you. 4|2|And give the orphans their property and substitute not (your) worthless things for (their) good ones, nor consume their property mingling it along with your own property, for this indeed is a great sin. 4|3|And if (you wish to marry them and) you fear that you will not be able to do justice to the orphan girls then (marry them not, rather) marry of women (other than these) as may be agreeable to you, (you may marry) two or three or four (provided you do justice to them), but if you fear that you will not be able to deal (with all of them) equitably then (confine yourselves only to) one, or (you may marry) that whom your right hands possess (- your female captives of war). That is the best way to avoid doing injustice. 4|4|And give the women their dowers unasked, willingly and as agreed gift. But if they be pleased to remit you a portion thereof, of their own free will, then take it with grace and pleasure. 4|5|And do not make over to the weak of understanding your property which Allâh has made a means of subsistence for you, but provide for them (their maintenance) and clothe them out of its profits and speak to them words of kind advice. 4|6|And keep on testing the orphans until they attain the (age of) marriage, then if you perceive in them sound judgment deliver to them their property and do not consume it extravagantly and hastily as they grow up (fearing lest they should claim it when they attain majority). And let him (- the guardian) who can afford to do without, let him avoid remuneration, but he who is needy may charge reasonable remuneration with equity. And when you hand over to them (- the orphans) their property let there be some witnesses to attest. And Allâh is enough as a Reckoner (and call you to account). 4|7|(As the basis of law of inheritance,) for men is a share in (the property) that the parents and near relations leave behind and the women shall have a share in (the property) that the parents and the near relations leave behind, whether it (- property) be small or large, a determined share (ordained by Allâh). 4|8|And when there are present at the division (of the heritage other) relatives and the orphans and the needy, then give them something out of it and speak to them kind words. 4|9|And let the persons (who divide the heritage) be afraid of Allâh, for if they leave behind them (their own) weak offspring they would be anxious on their account. Let them, therefore, keep their duty to Allâh and let them say the right thing. 4|10|Verily, those who consume the property of the orphans unjustly, as a matter of fact, feed their bellies with fire; and they shall certainly burn in a blazing fire. 4|11|Allâh prescribes (the following) law (of inheritance) for your children. For male is the equal of the portion of two females; but if they be all females (two or) more than two, for them is two thirds of what he (- the deceased) has left; and if there be only one, for her is the half and for his parents, for each one of the two is a sixth of what he has left, if he (- the deceased) has a child; but if he has no child and his parents only be his heirs, then for the mother is one third (and the rest two thirds is for the father); but if there be (in addition to his parents) his brothers (and sisters) then there is one sixth for the mother after (the payment of) any bequest he may have bequeathed or (still more important) of any debt (- bequests made by the testator and his debts shall however be satisfied first). Your fathers and your children, you do not know which of them deserve better to benefit from you. (This) fixing (of portions) is from Allâh. Surely, Allâh is All-Knowing, All-Wise. 4|12|And for you is half of that which your wives leave behind, if they have no child; but if they have a child, then for you is one fourth of what they leave behind, after (the payment of) any bequest they may have bequeathed or (still more important) of any (of their) debt. And for them (- your wives) is one fourth of what you leave behind if you have no child; but if you leave a child, then, for them is an eighth of what you leave after (the payment of) any bequest you have bequeathed or (still more important) of any debt. And if there be a man or a woman whose heritage is to be divided and he (or she - the deceased) has no child and he (or she) has (left behind) a brother or a sister then for each one of the twain is a sixth; but if they be more than one then they are (equal) sharers in one third after the payment of any bequest bequeathed or (still more important) of any debt (provided such bequest made by the testator and the debt) shall be without (any intent of) being harmful (to the interests of the heirs). This is an injunction from Allâh, and Allâh is All-Knowing, Most Forbearing. 4|13|These are the limits (of the law imposed) by Allâh, and who obeys Allâh and His Messenger He will admit them into Gardens served with running streams; therein they shall abide for ever; and that is a great achievement. 4|14|But whoso disobeys Allâh and His Messenger and transgresses the limits imposed by Him He will make him enter Fire where he shall abide long, and for him is a humiliating punishment. 4|15|As to those of your women who commit sexual perversity, call in four of you to witness against them, and if they bear witness then confine them to their houses, until death overtakes them or Allâh makes for them a way out. 4|16|And if two of your males commit the same (act of indecency), then punish them both, so if they repent and amend (keeping their conduct good) then turn aside from them, verily Allâh is Oft-Returning (with compassion), Ever Merciful. 4|17|Verily, Allâh undertakes to accept the repentance of only those who do evil through lack of knowledge, then repent soon after. Such are the person towards whom Allâh turns with mercy. And Allâh is All-Knowing, All-Wise. 4|18|But repentance is of no avail to those who go on doing evil deeds until, when death visits one of them, he says, `I do repent now,' nor it is of any use to those who die whilst they are disbelievers. It is for such people that We have prepared a woeful punishment. 4|19|O you who believe! it is not lawful for you to treat women (of your deceased relatives) as inherited property by force, nor should you detain them that you may take away part of that which you have given them, except that they commit flagrant indecency. But consort with them in peace. Then if you have a dislike for them, it may be that you dislike a thing but Allâh has placed a good deal of good in it. 4|20|And if you desire to take one wife in place of (another) wife and you have given one of them a huge treasure, then take nothing from that which you have given. Would you take it by false accusation and by committing an open sin? 4|21|And how can you take it when you have already lain with one another and they (- your wives) have bound you down to a firm and solemn covenant (by marriage)? 4|22|And marry not those women whom your fathers had married, except what had already passed (- you shall not be called to account for what you did in the past, only you have to divorce them now); for it is a thing highly indecent and repugnant and an evil practice. 4|23|Forbidden to you (for marriage) are your mothers, your daughters, your sisters, your paternal aunts, and your maternal aunts, and the daughters of a brother, and the daughters of a sisters, and your (foster) mothers who have given suck to you, and your foster sisters, and the mothers of your wives, and your step-daughters who are being brought up under your care and have been born of your wives (by their former husbands,) unto whom you have gone in, but if you have not gone in unto them (- their mothers), then there is no blame on you (in marrying their daughters), and the wives of your sons who are from your own loins; and (it is forbidden to you) to keep in wedlock two sisters (at one and the same time), except what has already passed, (you have to divorce one of them). Surely, Allâh is Most Protector (against faults), Ever Merciful. 4|24|And (you are also forbidden to marry) already married women who are in a wed-lock. Yet those (captives in war) whom your right hands possess (are permitted to you for marriage even if not formally divorced by their former husbands, since their captivity is equivalent to divorce). This is the law prescribed to you by Allâh. All (women) beyond those (mentioned above) are lawful to you, provided you seek (their hands) by means of your wealth (- by granting dowers), marrying them properly and not (committing fornication) to pursue your lust. You shall, for the benefits you draw from them (by regular marriage), pay them (- your wives) such of their dowers as have been fixed. There is, however, no blame on you (in increasing or decreasing the amount of dower) which you (- husband and wife) mutually agree upon, after it has been (once) fixed. Surely, Allâh is All-Knowing, All-Wise. 4|25|And those of you who have not the means (- social or financial) to marry free believing women (may marry) such of your believing bonds women as your right hands own (by being captives in war). Allâh knows very well (the state of) your faith, you are all (sprung) one from another, so marry them with the permission of their guardians and give them their dowers with equity, they being properly married, not (committing fornication), to pursue their lust nor taking secret paramours. And if after they are married they commit adultery then they incur (the punishment of fifty strips which is) half of that (punishment prescribed) for free women. This (permission to marry a bonds woman) is for him among you who fears (that otherwise he will fall into) sin. But it is better for you to exercise restraint. Allâh is, indeed, Great Protector, Ever Merciful. 4|26|Allâh desires to make clear (His commandments) to you, and guide you to the (righteous) ways of your predecessors, and to turn to you with mercy. Verily, Allâh is All-Knowing, All-Wise. 4|27|Whereas Allâh desires to turn to you with mercy, those who follow (the dictates of their) lusts want you to drift far away (from the right path). 4|28|Allâh desires that He should lighten (the burden of bindings on) you, for a human being has been created weak. 4|29|O you who believe! do not consume your (- one another's) property amongst yourselves by unlawful means, rather it be a trade based on free mutual consent. And do not kill your people. Surely, Allâh has been Ever Merciful to you. 4|30|But whoever does any such thing aggressively and unjustly, We shall certainly cast him into Fire. And this is ever easy for Allâh. 4|31|If you keep away from major prohibitions (to you), We will wipe off your preliminary evil (inclinations) and We will admit you to a place and state of great honour. 4|32|And do not covet the favours which Allâh has bestowed on some of you to excel others. Men shall have the share of the fruit of their labour, and for women is the share of the fruit of their labour. You had better seek from Allâh His bounty. Verily, Allâh has perfect knowledge of all things. 4|33|We have appointed heirs to everyone respecting that which the parents and the near relatives leave behind. And those with whom you have entered into a solemn covenant (- the husband and wife), so give them their due. Surely, Allâh is ever a Witness over everything. 4|34|Men are the full maintainers of women, because Allâh has made one of them excel the other, and because men spend out of their wealth on them. So virtuous women are those who are obedient (to Allâh) and guard (their own chastity as well as the rights and secrets of their husbands even) in (their) absence, as Allâh has guarded (the women's rights). As for those women (on whose part) you apprehend disobedience and bad behavior, you may admonish them (first lovingly) and (then) refuse to share their beds with them and (as a last resort) punish them (mildly). If they, then, obey you, you shall seek no other way against them. Indeed, Allâh alone is High, (and) Great. 4|35|But if you apprehend a breach between the two (- a man and his wife) then appoint one arbiter from his people and one arbiter from her people; if the two have a mind to effect reconciliation, Allâh will bring it about between them. Verily, Allâh is All-Knowing, All-Aware. 4|36|And worship Allâh and associate naught with Him, and be good to parents and near of kin and orphans and the needy and to the neighbour who is related to you and the neighbour who is an alien and to the companion by (your) side and the wayfarer and those whom your right hands possess. Surely, Allâh does not love those who are arrogant, (and) boastful. 4|37|Regarding those who practise niggardliness and advocate to be niggardly and conceal that which Allâh has given them out of His bounty and grace, We have in store a humiliating punishment for such thankless people; 4|38|As well as for those who spend their wealth for public show and do not believe in Allâh and the Last Day. And whoso has satan for his companion (let him bear in mind that) an evil companion he is. 4|39|Why, what (harm) could come to them if they believed in Allâh and in the Last Day and spent from that which Allâh had provided them? Indeed, Allâh knows them full well. 4|40|Verily, Allâh does not do injustice not (even) so much as the weight of an atom; and if there be a single good deed He multiplies it and gives from Himself a great reward. 4|41|How then (shall these wrongdoers fare) when We call a witness from every nation and when We call you (O Prophet!) to stand witness over these (followers of yours)? 4|42|On that day those who disbelieved and disobeyed the Messenger would wish that the earth were made level with them. They shall not be able to conceal anything from Allâh. 4|43|O you who believe! do not go near Prayer when you are not in full possession of your senses, until you understand all that you say (in your Prayers); nor (occupy yourselves in Prayer) when you are unclean (and under an obligation to have a bath) until you have bathed yourselves. But (you can do without a bath) when you are travelling a long way. If you are taken ill or (are) on a journey, or if one of you comes from the privy, or you have had (sexual) contact with women and you find no water (for bathing or ablution) then have recourse to pure and clean dust and wipe your faces and your hands (therewith). Indeed, Allâh is Most Benign, Great Protector. 4|44|Have you not considered (the case of) those who were given a portion of the Scripture? They prefer to go astray and desire that you too should go astray from the right path. 4|45|And Allâh knows your enemies full well. And Allâh suffices as a Patron, and Allâh suffices as a Helper. 4|46|(These enemies of yours are) of those who are judaised. They tear the words from their context and say, `We hear and we disobey,' and (say), `Lend us an ear, O you to whom no one would lend an ear!' and (say,) `Râ`inâ', giving a slight twist to their tongues (while pronouncing the word and thereby) slandering the true meanings (and thus making a play with the word) and seeking to injure the Faith. It would have been better and more upright on their part to have said, `We hear and we obey;' and `Lend us an ear;' and `Unzurnâ' (we beg your attention)'. Allâh has disapproved of them because of their disbelief so that they will not believe, excepting a few (of them). 4|47|O you who have been given the Scripture! believe in (the Qur'ân) which We have now revealed fulfilling such (prophecies) as you have, before We make extinct and destroy some of your leaders and deprive them of their glory or We condemn them as We condemned the people of the Sabbath (breakers); and (remember) the decree of Allâh is bound to be executed. 4|48|Surely, Allâh does not forgive (unless the sinner turns to Him with repentance) that a partner be associated with Him but He forgives everything short of it to whomsoever He will. And whoso associates a partner with Allâh has indeed committed a very great sin. 4|49|Have you not considered those who assert themselves to be pure? Nay, only Allâh purifies whom He will; and they shall not be treated unjustly, not even a whit. 4|50|Behold! how they forge lies against Allâh, and sufficient is that as a very flagrant sin (to prove their sinfulness). 4|51|Have you not considered the case of those who were given a portion of the Scripture? They believe in nonsense things devoid of good and follow those who transgress, and they say of those who disbelieve, `These are better guided in the (right) way than those who believe (in Islam).' 4|52|It is these whom Allâh has deprived of His blessings, and he whom Allâh deprives of His blessings, you will never find for him any helper. 4|53|They have no share in the kingdom. If they had they would not give the people (even so much as) the little groove in a date-stone. 4|54|Or do they feel jealous of the people for which Allâh has granted them out of His bounty and grace? (Let them remember) We surely gave the Children of Abraham the Scripture and the Wisdom, and We also gave them a grand kingdom. 4|55|There are some among them who believe in it (- the Qur'ân) and there are others among them who turn away from it, and Gehenna shall suffice for burning (those who turn away). 4|56|We shall soon cast into Fire all those who deny Our Messages. As often as their skins are burnt up We will replace them with other (new) skins that they may (continually) taste (agony of) punishment. Surely, Allâh is All-Mighty, All-Wise. 4|57|And those who believe and do righteous deeds We shall certainly admit them to Gardens served with running streams. They shall abide therein for ever. There shall be for them (to keep their company) therein, (spiritually and physically) purified companions, and We shall admit them to (a place of) thick and pleasant shades (of Our mercy and protection). 4|58|Surely, Allâh commands you to make over the trusts (such as the affairs of the state) to those who are competent to it, and that when you judge between the people you should judge with justice. That which Allâh exhorts you to do is best indeed. Allâh is All-Hearing, All-Seeing. 4|59|O you who believe! obey Allâh and obey (His) Messenger and those who are in authority among you (to decide your affairs). And should you differ among yourselves in anything, refer it to Allâh and His Messenger (and judge according to their teachings), if indeed you believe in Allâh and the Last Day. That is (in your) best (interests) and most commendable in the long run. 4|60|Have you not considered the case of those who assert that they believe in what has been revealed to you and what has been revealed before you? On the contrary they desire to refer (their disputes) for judgment to the transgressor, whereas they were commanded to reject him, and satan desires to lead them astray to a far off straying. 4|61|And when it is said to them, `Come to (follow) that which Allâh has revealed and to the perfect Messenger;' you can see the hypocrites turn away from you with aversion. 4|62|Then how is it that when a calamity befalls them because of their own misdoings they come to you swearing by Allâh (saying), `We meant nothing but to do good and (to effect) concord and reconciliation?' 4|63|It is they of whom Allâh knows what is in their hearts. So turn aside from them, and admonish them and speak to them with regard to their ownselves an effective word. 4|64|And We have sent no Messenger but that he should be obeyed by the leave of Allâh. Had they, when they had acted contrary to their own interests, come to you and sought the protection of Allâh, and had this perfect Messenger (also) sought protection for them they would have surely found Allâh Oft-Returning with compassion, Ever Merciful. 4|65|But no, (not so as they have asserted,) by your Lord! they are no believers at all unless they refer all their disputes (that arise between them) to you for judgment, then they do not find any demur in their minds about the propriety of your judgment, and they submit (to your decisions) with entire submission. 4|66|If We had made it binding on them, `Lay down your lives or go out of your homes,' they would not have done it, excepting a few of them. And if they had done what they are exhorted to do, it would surely have been better for them and conducive to a greater strength (in their faith); 4|67|And in that case We could certainly have bestowed upon them from Ourself a great reward; 4|68|And We would have surely guided them in the exact right path. 4|69|And those who obey Allâh and this perfect Messenger, it is these who are with those upon whom Allâh has bestowed His blessings (in this life and the Hereafter) - the Prophets, the Truthful (in their belief, words and deeds), and the Bearers of Testimony (to the truth of the religion of Allâh by their words and deeds), as well as the Martyrs, and the Righteous (who stick to the right course under all circumstances), and how excellent companions they are! 4|70|This is the grace from Allâh (if such companions are available). And Allâh suffices as One Who is All Knowing. 4|71|O you who believe! take your precautions always by way of security, then either march forward in separate companies or march forward in a body (according to the requirement of the war situation). 4|72|And indeed there is among you who tarries behind (and does not leave to fight in the cause of Allâh). Then, if a calamity befalls you, he says, `Allâh has been gracious to me, indeed, since I was not present with them.' 4|73|And if some good fortune comes to you from Allâh he would cry, as if there were no friendship between you and him, `Would that I had been with them, had it been so I should have indeed achieved a great success.' 4|74|Let those, who would prefer the Hereafter to the present life, fight in the cause of Allâh. And whoso fights in the cause of Allâh and is killed or conquers, We shall soon grant him a great reward. 4|75|What (excuse) have you (to offer) that you would not fight in the cause of Allâh and for (the rescue of) the weak and the down-trodden men and women and the children who all say, `Our Lord! take us out of this town of which the people are tyrants, and grant us a defender who comes from You and a helper by Your Own grace.' 4|76|Those who believe fight in the cause of Allâh, and those who choose disbelief fight in the cause of the transgressor; fight you, therefore, against the friends of satan, surely, the stratagem of satan is ever weak. 4|77|Have you not considered those to whom it was said, `Withhold your hands (from fighting) and keep up Prayer and go on presenting Zakât?' But now when fighting has been made binding upon them, a section of them (- the hypocrites) begin to fear the people as they should fear Allâh or with a still stronger fear and they say, `Our Lord! why have You made fighting binding upon us? Would You not defer us to a near term (and grant us a little respite).' Say, `The enjoyment of this world is short (and negligible its pleasures) and the Hereafter is better for him who guards against evil and keeps his duty to Allâh, and you shall not be done injustice to, not even a whit.' 4|78|Death will overtake you wherever you may be, even if you be in strongly built castles. And if any good occurs to them (- to the hypocrites) they say, `This is from Allâh' and if evil befalls them they say, `This is from you.' Say, `Everything is from Allâh.' What is the matter with these people that they hardly understand (anything)? 4|79|Whatever of good comes to you (O people!) is from Allâh and whatever of evil befalls you is from your ownselves. And We have sent you (O Muhammad!) as a great Messenger for the good of all mankind, and Allâh suffices as a witness. 4|80|He that obeys this perfect Messenger, surely, has obeyed Allâh. As for those who turn away, then, We have not sent you as a guardian over them (so as to be held accountable for their actions). 4|81|And they (- the hypocrites) say (in your presence), `(We stand for) obedience,' but when they sally forth from your presence, a party of them spend the night scheming contrary to what you say, and Allâh is keeping a record of whatever they scheme by night. So turn away from them and put (your) trust in Allâh, and Allâh suffices as a Disposer of affairs. 4|82|Why do they not ponder over the Qur'ân? Had it been from anyone other than Allâh, they would surely have found a good deal of inconsistency therein. 4|83|And when there comes to them news (a mere rumour), be it a matter of peace or of fear, they spread it around. But had they referred it to the perfect Messenger and to those in authority among them, surely those of them who can elicit (the truth) from it would have understood it (and could make correct deductions). And had it not been for the grace of Allâh upon you and His mercy you would all have followed satan, excepting a few. 4|84|(Prophet!) fight, therefore, in the cause of Allâh, you are made responsible only for your ownself, and urge on the faithful (to fight a war in self-defence). It may be, Allâh will restrain the fury of those who have chosen disbelief. Allâh is mightier in prowess and stronger in inflicting exemplary punishment. 4|85|And he who participates with others in doing good (to others, and intercedes for a righteous cause) there shall be for him a share in its credit, and he who participates with anyone in doing evil (and intercedes for a wrongful cause), has a like portion in its evil consequences. And Allâh controls the distribution of all things. 4|86|And whenever you are greeted with a prayer greet you with a better prayer or (at least) return the same. Verily, Allâh takes account of everything. 4|87|Allâh is He, there is no other, cannot be and will never be One worthy of worship but He. He will most certainly (continue to) assemble you till the Day of Resurrection, there is no doubt about (the advent of) it; and there is none more truthful to his word than Allâh. 4|88|How is it then with you, that you are divided into two parties regarding the hypocrites, while Allâh has overthrown them for (the sins) which they committed knowingly? Do you desire to guide him whom Allâh has forsaken? And he whom Allâh forsakes you shall not find for him a way (of his deliverance). 4|89|They would like you to reject the faith as they have done themselves, that you may be all alike; therefore, make no friends with them until they emigrate in the cause of Allâh. But if they turn back (to hostility), then capture them and kill them wherever you find them, and do not take anyone of them as a friend or as a helper. 4|90|Different, however, is the case of those who join a people with whom you have a pact, or of those who come over to you whilst their hearts are constricted from fighting against you or fighting against their (own) people. If Allâh had so willed He would have given them power over you, then they certainly would have fought against you. Hence if they leave you alone and do not fight against you but make you an offer of peace then Allâh allows you no way (of fighting) against them. 4|91|You will find others (among these hypocrites) who desire to be secure from you as well as safe from t