Read out to them, O Prophet,]^[1] In the name of Allah, Mercy abundant, Mercy eternal. [This is Surah] Alif Laam Meem.^[2] God is the one besides whom there is no other deity; He is the Living,^[3] the Maintainer [of all that exists].^[4] [He not only provides for the maintenance of your physical existence, but also for your moral existence. Thus, O Prophet] He has revealed upon you this book with the Truth, confirming the prophesies that preceded it - and [for the same purpose] He had revealed the Torah and the Gospels before it,^[5] a guidance to humankind - and He [it is, Who] has [now] revealed this Criterion [to decide between the right and the wrong in the name of His guidance]. [Yet, in the face of this arrangement of the Maintainer some people are bent upon rejecting His guidance.] Those who knowingly reject God's verses, they shall face a severe punishment; And [they must remember that] God [indeed] is Mighty, Avenger [for these arrogant rejecters]. [They must be mindful that] nothing in the earth or in the vast heavens is hidden from God;^[6] It is He, Who fashions you - as He desires - while you are in your mothers' wombs.^[7] [They must remember that] There is no deity besides Him.^[8] And He is the Mighty,^[9] the Wise.^[10]

It is He,^[11] who has revealed upon you this book, which contains precise^[12] verses - which form the foundation of the book - and there are others, which are analogous [in nature],^[13] As for those whose hearts are perverse,^[14] they are after the analogous among these verses, seeking discord and seeking their reality.^[15] However, [the fact is that] except God, no one knows their reality. And [in contrast to these people,] those who are firm in knowledge say, "We believe in these^[16] [verses], all these [verses] are from our Lord." And [the fact is that] only those bestowed with intelligence, understand these things. [Acknowledging their limitations, they pray to their Lord, saying:] "Our Lord, do not let our hearts go astray after You have guided us, and grant us mercy through Your own grace. You indeed are the generous granter. Our Lord, You will most certainly gather all people for a [Great] Day, in the coming of which there is no doubt.^[17] Indeed God does not go against His promises."

As for the rejecters [of this book] their riches and their children will not benefit them in the least, against God.^[18] They are the ones who will be the fuel for the Fire. Their condition^[19] is like that of the people of the Pharaoh and that of those before them [towards whom We had sent Our messengers]: They rejected Our verses and as a result God seized them because of their sins. And God indeed is severe in punishment [of such rejecters].

Say to these rejecters, "You too [like the earlier rejecters of God's messengers], shall soon be overcome and [subsequently] be driven towards Hell - and how terrible a resting place. [If you have any doubts about this fate of yours, then] there is a clear sign for you in the fate of the two armies that faced each other in combat: an army [of the believers] fighting in the way of God and the other of the rejecters [fighting in way of the Satan]. They [i.e. the rejecters] saw them [i.e. the believers], with their very eyes as double^[20] their own numbers [in the battle of Badr].^[21] And [thus] God strengthens with His aid whom He pleases. In this incident there is indeed a great lesson for the insightful.

[In contrast,] for those people [who are devoid of this insight,] the worldly attractions like women, children, loads of gold and silver, branded horses,^[22] cattle and crops^[23] are made extremely luring.^[24] These are all provisions for the [temporary] life of this world^[25] and with God alone is the finest [and the lasting] abode. Say to them, "Should I inform you of what is far better than all this? Those who live in the fear of their Lord, for them, with their Lord, are gardens watered by running streams - to live in forever - and perfected spouses and [most of all] the pleasure of God.^[26] And [undoubtedly,] God is fully observant of His servants.^[27] Those who call upon their Lord saying, "Our Lord, we have believed [in Your revelations], therefore, forgive us our sins and save us from the punishment of Hellfire." These are the steadfast,^[28] the truthful, the obedient, the charitable and the seekers of God's forgiveness in the early hours of the morning.^[29]

God bears witness that there is no deity except Him and so do the angels and the truly knowledgeable^[30] [among people] - He is the maintainer of justice,^[2] [He will, therefore, most certainly bring about a judgment day and separate the obedient from the transgressors, for] there is no deity except Him, the Mighty, the Wise.^[31]

[This is the religion of submission^[33] to God.] Indeed religion, in the eyes of God, has always been only that of submission^[34] [to Him]. [These were the very teachings given through the previous prophets. But their followers created differences in them.] And those who were given the Book differed in it only after clear knowledge had come to them, because of their mutual hatred and enmity. [This was clear rejection of God's teachings.] And those who have rejected the verses of God, [they should not forget that] God is very swift in taking account. Now, [O Prophet,] if they [continue to] debate with you [any further], say [to them]: "I have submitted myself to the One God and those who follow me [have done the same]." And say to those who were given the Book and to the unlettered^[35]: "Do you submit [to the One God]?" If they agree to submit [to the One God], then they have indeed taken to [God's] guidance, and if they turn back [refusing,] then [let them be, for] upon you is only to deliver [this message], [while God will Himself call them to account for their rejection] and God is indeed observing all His servants.

Therefore give glad tidings of a painful punishment to those^[36] who have been rejecting our verses, killing the prophets without a just cause^[37] and killing those among people who enjoined adherence to equity and justice^[38]. These are the people whose deeds are rendered completely wasted in the life of this world as well as in the Hereafter, and they will have no helpers [against God]^[39].

[These people are only deceived by their false hopes^[40].] Have you not seen those who were given a portion of the Book^[41], they are now being called towards this Book of God, so that it may judge between them [regarding their differences], then [recognizing this Book] a group among them^[42] turns away from it. And they [indeed] are a people bent upon disregarding it^[43]. This is because they say: [Whatever our deeds may be,] the fires of Hell will not touch us, except for a few numbered days^[44]. And [these kind of] their forgeries have deceived them in matters of their religion. [They may believe what they will,] but how will it be, when We gather them all for [attendance of] the Day in the coming of which there is no doubt, and [in which] every person will be fully paid for what he has earned and they will not be wronged in the least.

[And now that you are being appointed as witnesses of God's justice for the world, O Prophet,] Pray [to God, saying], 'O God, the possessor of all rule, You grant rule to whom You will and You take it away from whom You will, You exalt [in honor and dominance] whom You will and You humiliate^[45] whom You will^[46]. All goodness is solely in Your control. You indeed have power over all things. [Just as^[47]] You cause the night to enter into the day and cause the day to enter into the night and [as] You bring out the dead from the living and bring out the living from the dead; and You provide for whom You will, without measure.

[These rejecters from amongst the People of the Book will most certainly be humiliated.] Believers should [therefore] not take these rejecters as friends, preferring them over the believers^[48] and [remember,] whoever does so, God will then have no connection with him, except that you carefully guard yourselves against them. God cautions you against Himself^[49]. And [be very cautious towards God, because one day] most certainly, to Him will be your return. [O Prophet] Say [to these believers]: Whether you hide what is in your hearts^[50] or make it known, God is fully aware of it; And He is [also] fully aware of whatever is in the heavens and the earth, and [with this knowledge,] God [also] has power over all things^[51]. [Therefore, prepare yourself for that Day.] The day when every person will be confronted with [the consequences of] whatever good deeds he has done and [also] with [the consequences of] whatever bad deeds he has done, [that day] he would wish that a long stretch [of time] could come between him and that day. And [before the arrival of that day] God cautions you against Himself, and [He cautions you against the punishment of that day, because] God is most compassionate towards His servants^[52].

[O Prophet,] say [to these believers,]: If you truly love God then follow me, for then will God love you and forgive you your sins^[53]; and [you are aware of the fact that] God is very forgiving, extremely merciful. Say [to them]: Obey God and His Messenger. Then if they turn back [even after all these warnings of God], then [tell them that] God does not like such rejecters^[54].

[These^[55] Nazarenes debate you concerning Jesus, the son of Mary.] Indeed God selected Adam, Noah, the family of Abraham and the family of Imraan^[56] for the guidance of others^[57], preferring them over [all else in] the whole world. They were the progeny, one of the other^[58] and [God is fully aware of whatever guidance they gave to others and whatever they did during their lives, because] God is All-Hearing, All-Knowing.

Remind them of the incident when Imran's wife said [praying]: My Lord, I dedicate whatever is in my womb solely to Your service, freeing it of all worldly responsibilities. Therefore accept this dedication from me, For indeed You hear [my supplications] and know everything. Then, when she delivered [a girl], she said: Lord, I have delivered a girl^[59] – and God was fully aware of what she had delivered^[60], and the male [she had desired] was in no way like the female [she had delivered]^[61] – [but now that you have granted me this girl,] I have named her Mary and I assign her and her progeny to Your refuge from the Condemned Satan. [These were the feelings with which she dedicated Mary in the way of God.] However, her Lord graciously accepted the girl and arranged for her most suitable upbringing and [for this purpose] assigned her to the care of Zachariah^[62]. Whenever Zachariah visited her in the chamber, he found [God's] blessings surrounding her. [It was at one such instance that] he asked: O Mary, from where do you get these [blessings]? She replied: All this is from God. [This was a special favor of God upon that girl, and] indeed, God infinitely blesses, whom He pleases.

It was then that Zachariah called upon his Lord, saying: My Lord, grant me of Your own grace [such] pious progeny^[63]. Indeed, you hear the prayers [of Your servants]. In response, [one day] while he was standing in his chambers praying^[64], the angels^[65] called out to him saying that God gives you glad tidings of John^[66], who will be a witness to [the coming of] a word of God^[67], a leader^[68], one withdrawn from worldly pleasures^[69] and a prophet [of God] from amongst the pious^[70]. He asked [with surprise]: My Lord, from where can I have a son, while I am an old man and my wife is barren?^[71] He said: Thus does God do whatever He pleases^[72]. He said: My Lord, appoint a sign for me [so that I may be certain that this glad tiding comes from God and is not merely my heart voicing its desire]. He replied: Your sign is that you will not be able to speak to people for three days, except by gestures [but you will have no problem in praising and glorifying God] and [therefore, during these three days] remember your Lord much and glorify [Him] night and day.^[73]

And^[74] [similar to the birth of John (pbuh), the birth of Jesus (pbuh) too was by the direct intervention of God,] remind them of the time when the angels said: O Mary, God selected you and cleansed you^[75] and, preferring you over all the women of the world, chose you [for the manifestation of one of His greatest signs in this world.^[76] Therefore,] continue to be obedient to God and prostrate and bow [in surrender to Him], with those who bow [to Him].

This is an account of events unknown [to you, O Prophet], which We reveal to you. You were not present when they drew lots to determine who would take charge of Mary^[77] and nor were you present when they argued with each other [on this matter].

Remind them of the time when the angels said: O Mary, God gives you glad tidings of [a son, that you will conceive through] a Word coming from Him^[78]. His name will be, the Messiah^[79], Jesus son of Mary^[80]. He will be highly respected in this world as well as in the Hereafter and will be from among those who enjoy closeness [to God]. He will address the people [as a prophet of God] while in the cradle^[81] as well as when he reaches a mature age^[82]; and will be from amongst the righteous. She asked: My Lord, from where can I have a child, while no man has ever even touched me? He said: Thus does God create whatever He decides. When He decides on something, He only says to it: 'Be'^[83] and it starts happening. [This is surely going to happen] and God will teach him the Law and the Wisdom – that is, the Torah and the Gospel^[84] – and will appoint him as a messenger to the Banu Israel^[85]. [So it happened and Jesus was born to Mary. And he called the Banu Israel to the path of God, saying:] I have come to you with a clear sign from your Lord: I make from clay the shape of a bird in front of you, then blow into it and, by the command of God, it becomes a real bird; and I heal those who are blind since their birth and the lepers and I raise the dead, by the command of God; and I can inform you about what you eat and what you store in your houses. Indeed, there is a clear sign in these things for you, if you are inclined towards believing. And I have come as one attesting the Torah that precedes me; and have come to make lawful for you some of the things which were forbidden for you^[86]. And [now that] I have come with a clear sign from your Lord, you must fear God and obey me. Indeed, God is my Lord and your Lord, therefore worship Him alone^[87]. This indeed is the straight path [leading to God's pleasure].

Then, when Jesus sensed [about his people] that they were bent upon rejection^[88], he said: Who will be my helper in the way of God^[89]? His Disciples [answered his call and readily] called out: We are God's helpers^[90]. We have believed in God and [on the Day of Judgment,] bear witness [for us] that we have submitted to Him. Our Lord, [we declare that] we have believed in what you have revealed and [to fulfill its requirements,] we follow the messenger. Therefore register us among those who have [accepted and have] borne witness of the Truth.

And [in contrast to these disciples, the scholars of the Israelites persisted in their rejection. And] they started scheming [against Jesus], and [in response,] God made a plan [against them]; and God, indeed, is the best of planers. The time, when God said: Jesus, I have decided that I will cause you to die and raise you to Myself and will cleanse you of those who have rejected you and will grant dominance to those who have [believed in you and have] followed you over those who have rejected you, till the Day of Resurrection. Then [on that Day,] to Me shall be your return. I will then decide between you in all the matters in which you have been differing. As for those [among them] who rejected, I will punish them severely in this world as well as in the hereafter. And they will find no one to help them [against Me]. And as for those who believe [in God] and do good deeds, He will give them their reward in full. And, indeed, God does not like the unjust.

[Prophet,] These are Our verses^[91] and a reminder full of wisdom that we recite to you. Indeed, Jesus, in the sight of God, is like Adam. He created him with dust and then said to him 'Become [a human being]', and, thus, he became [a human being]^[92]. This is the truth [in this regard] from your Lord, therefore do not be in any doubt [regarding it]^[93]. As for those, who continue to argue the matter with you, even after the true knowledge has come to you [from your Lord], say to them, "Come, we will call our children, and [you call] your children, [we will call] our women, and [you call] your women, and [we present] ourselves and [you present] yourselves and then we pray [to God] calling for His curse on the liars [, in this regards, amongst us]".

Undoubtedly, this is the true narration [regarding Jesus] and the fact is that there is no one worthy of worship besides the one God and God, indeed, is the Mighty, the Wise^[94]. Now, if they turn away [from this truth], then [they will most definitely bear the burden of their rejection, for] God, indeed, is fully aware of the ones bent upon evil.

[Prophet,] say [to these Nazarenes], "O People of the Book, come towards a word that is common between us and you that we shall not worship anything except the One God, we shall neither hold anything equal to Him nor shall anyone of us hold one another as deities^[95] besides the One God^[96]." If they persist in turning away [from your call] then say to them, "Be witnesses that we have submitted [ourselves to the One God only]^[97]."

[The Jews say that Abraham was a Jew and the Nazarenes say that Abraham was a Nazarene. Say to them:] O People of the Book, why do you debate regarding [the path of] Abraham^[98], when, in fact, the Torah and the Gospel were only revealed after him? Do you not even understand this [obvious reality]? It is you who have been debating things that you had some knowledge of, now why are you indulging in debating things of which you have no knowledge at all. And [the fact is that] God is fully aware [of all these matters that you are debating about] whereas you do not know [about them]. [And God informs you on the basis of His absolute knowledge that] Abraham was neither a Jew nor a Nazarene, but was completely devoted in submission [to the One God] and he was not from amongst the polytheists^[99]. Indeed, the people most deserving of being ascribed to Abraham are those who followed him [in devotion and submission] and [these followers are represented by] this Prophet and those who have believed in him [and have put their trust in God]. And God indeed is the guardian of these believers.^[100]

[Believers,] a group among these People of the Book wishes to lead you astray, but [by trying to do so,] they are only leading themselves astray and they do not even realize it. O People of the Book, why do you reject the verses of God [that are being revealed], while you are actually witnesses to their verity?^[101] O People of the Book, why do you embellish the Truth with falsehoods, and hide the Truth, while you are well aware of it?^[102]

And [in their efforts to lead you astray,] a group among these People of the Book says: '[Pretend to] believe in that which has been revealed to these believers in the early part of the day, and reject it at the end of it, so that these believers too should revert back [to their previous beliefs].^[103] And do not listen to anyone except those who follow your religion' - say to them: 'True guidance is only God's guidance – [And they say: "Do not pay heed to anyone except the people of your own faith,] or else another people may be granted the same position^[104] as you have been granted or they may dispute with you in the presence of your Lord [on the Day of Judgment]^[105].' Say to them: All the blessings are in the hands of God and He grants them to whomsoever He pleases [according to His absolute knowledge and wisdom], and God is extremely generous [in granting His blessings] and has complete knowledge [of who is most deserving of these blessings]^[106]. [His decisions are not bound by your preferences, but rather] He selects for His blessings whomsoever He desires. He indeed possesses infinite blessings.

And [how can these People of the Book claim to be the sole beneficiaries of all of God's blessings, when the fact is that many among them do not even abide by the basic moral codes?] Among these People of the Book are those whom if you entrust with a heap of gold, they will promptly return it to you [when you request it back], but among them are also those whom if you entrust with a penny will not return it to you, unless you importunately pursue them for it. That is because they say that we have no obligation whatsoever [of righteous behavior] towards these unlettered [Arabs]. And [this is an example of how] they ascribe falsehood to God, while being fully aware of it. Indeed [the fact is] whoever [among these People of the Book] fulfills his covenant with God and lives his life within the limits prescribed by Him [he surely deserves the blessings of God], for indeed God loves the pious^[107]. [And these claimants of God's blessings must remember that] those who trade away God's covenant and the oaths^[108] that they have made with Him at a meager price [of worldly gains], they will have no share [of God's blessings] in the Hereafter. On the Day of Resurrection, God will neither address them^[109] nor look towards them [with any kindness], nor will He cleanse them [of their misdeeds]^[110]. And [on that day,] they will only have a painful punishment.

And among them are also those who would twist their tongues while reciting the Book [of God], so that you would reckon that what they are saying is from the Book; whereas it actually is not from the Book. And they say that it is [a directive] from God, whereas it is actually not a directive from God. And [in this way,] they ascribe falsehood to God, while being fully aware of it. [Not only do they ascribe their lies to God, but also to their prophets. Do they not see that] it is in no way befitting for a man that God grants him His Book and [the ability of] judgment [according to the Book] and prophethood and then that man calls people saying: 'Be my worshippers [rather than of God alone].' Instead [he would only call out to them, saying:] 'Become Godly people, because you read God's Book and teach it to others'. And he would never instruct people to hold the angels and the prophets as gods. How, [after all,] can he call you towards such clear rejection of faith, after you have become believers?

And [remind them of the time, O Prophet] when God made with them the covenant relating to His prophets, [saying]: 'Because I have blessed you with the Law and the Wisdom, now when a prophet comes to you, confirming that which is already with you, you shall believe in him and shall support him'. Then He said: 'Do you accept this covenant and do you commit [yourselves] to bearing the burden of this responsibility that I assign you?' They said: 'We accept.' He said: 'Then be witnesses of this [covenant] and I too shall be a witness [of it]. Now, whoever turns away from fulfilling this covenant, they indeed are the disobedient.

[However, now that the Prophet has come to them, they have brushed aside their covenant with God.] Do they desire a religion other than God's, while everything in the heavens and the earth, whether willfully or under compulsion, submits to Him and to Him shall it be returned^[111]. [Let them be averse to God's religion. You should be firm in your submission to God.] Say: 'We believe in the One God and in whatever has been revealed to us as well as in whatever was revealed to Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob and to their descendants; and whatever was given to Moses and to Jesus and to the prophets from their Lord. We do not make distinctions between any of them [believing in some and rejecting others]; [They are all God's prophets] and [we believe in all of them, thus] we submit to Him [completely]^[112].' [This is the religion of submission to God.] And whoever desires for himself a religion other than that of submission to God, it shall not be accepted from him^[113], and in the Hereafter, he will be among the losers.

[You desire that they become believers like you.] How can God bless a people with guidance [towards His religion], who – after having been convinced [of what the truth is] – choose rejection while they are witnesses [to the fact] that the Prophet is true and while manifest signs [about his truthfulness] have also come to them? And [the fact is that] God does not guide a people who are bent upon injustice. Their reward is [only] that upon them be the curse of God, that of the angels and of all the people.^[114] They will abide in this [cursed Hell] forever. Neither will their punishment ever be lessened nor will they be given any respite. Except for those who repent after this [warning] and amend their behavior [they surely shall enjoy the fruits of God's mercy], for God, indeed, is Forgiving, ever Merciful. [On the other hand,] those who rejected God after having been fully convinced and then kept progressing in their rejection, [even if they were to project repentance to save themselves from the punishment at the hands of the believers] their repentance shall never be accepted. These indeed are the ones gone astray. Similarly, those who have rejected [this guidance] and die [naturally] in this state of rejection, even if each one of them were to offer an earth full of gold as their ransom [to escape from God's punishment], it would not be accepted from them. They are the ones for whom there will be a painful punishment. And they will have no one to help them [there].^[115]

[In their rejection, they are only deceived by their belief that their adherence to their rituals makes them pious in the eyes of God. Inform them:] You shall never attain piety, unless you spend [in the way of God] out of that which you hold dear. And remember that whatever you spend [in the way of God, you will be fully rewarded for it], for God is fully aware of it.

[They say that if this Prophet confirms the laws of the Torah, why then does he allow some of the things that were prohibited by the Torah. Tell them:] All eatables were allowed for the Israelites too, except for those that Israel had prohibited upon himself, on his own, before the revelation of the Torah. Say to them: Bring the Torah and recite it, if you are truthful.^[116] Now, whoever ascribes lies in this regard to God even after this [clarification], they indeed are the unjust. Say: God has informed us of the Truth. Therefore, now [rather than remaining engrossed in your prejudices,] follow the path of Abraham, who was fully devoted [to the One God] and was not one of the polytheists.

[They also object against the Ka`bah as the Qiblah. Tell them:] The first house of worship that was set up for people is indeed the one that is in Makkah, as a great blessing and as [a center of] guidance for the humankind. There are clear signs of this fact^[117]: It is the place where Abraham stayed; whoever enters it is granted impunity; and whoever has the capability of traveling to it, upon him is the obligation of the Hajj of this House, for the One God.^[118] [These are all clear signs of the fact that this was the house of worship that God ordained to be made.] And whoever persists in rejecting this fact, then [he will surely bear the burden of his rejection. They must remember that] God indeed is clear of all need of the whole world.

Ask them: O People of the Book, why do you reject these verses of God, while God is a witness of whatever you are doing? Ask them: O People of the Book, why do you hinder those, who have believed, from taking to the path of God? You are bent upon trying to find faults in it, while you are witnesses [of its being the truth]. [You should have been the ones to have preceded all others in believing it] and [remember] God is not ignorant of what you are doing.

Believers^[119], if you accede to what a group^[120] among those who were given the Book say, they will revert you to rejection^[121] after you have accepted faith. [Beware of this fact] and [consider] how can you [have the audacity to] commit rejection while the verses of God are being recited to you and among you is His Messenger?^[122] [Therefore hold on firmly to God] and [remember] whoever adheres firmly to God,^[123] he indeed is guided to the straight path.

Believers, fear God as He ought to be feared^[124]. And [this fear of God must remain the guiding principle throughout your life; therefore,] do not die, except in a state of submission [to Him]. And hold fast, each one of you, to the string of God^[125] and do not be divided [in differences]. And remember God's favor upon you that you were enemies of one another and He bonded your hearts and, thereafter, through His favor, you became brothers. And remember that you were right on the edge of a pit of fire and He saved you from it.^[126] Thus [in this manner] God clarifies His verses for you, so that you keep to His guidance. And [for the purpose of saving yourselves from disunity] a group among you should be appointed, calling people to piety, enjoining goodness and dissuading from evil.^[127] [You should make this arrangement.] And [remember that whoever makes this arrangement], they indeed shall be the successful.

[You should make this arrangement in your society] and do not be like those, who became divided [into groups] and differed among themselves after manifest guidance had come to them.^[128] They are the ones for whom there is a great punishment, on the day when some faces will be aglow [with glee] while others will be flushed [in dismay]. As for those, whose faces are flushed [it will be asked]: "Did you turn to rejection after being fully convinced? Now taste the punishment of your rejection." And [on the other hand,] as for those, whose faces are aglow, they will be in [the shadows of] God's mercy and in this mercy they will reside forever.

[Prophet,] these are the verses of God that we recite to you with complete accuracy and [these are being recited to you, because] God does not desire to subject humanity to injustice. [Therefore, like these people of the Book, do not let yourself be deceived by false hopes] and [remember that] to God belongs whatever is in the heavens and the earth and to Him will all the matters be returned [in the end].

[Believers, by the grace of your Lord, at this time] you are the best of groups that has been raised [to be witnesses of God's justice] for [all] the people.^[129] You enjoin goodness and discourage from evil and you truly believe in the One God. And had these People of the Book believed [in the Qur'an, as you do], it would have been better for them.^[130] [There is no doubt that] among them are those who truly believe [in God], yet most of them are disobedient. They will not be able to harm you, except they might cause you a little pain. [They fear you in their hearts] and if they fight you, they will flee turning their backs to you, and then they will not find any help [from any of their allies].^[131] Wherever they may be they are drowned in abasement. The only respite they get is on the basis of an agreement with God or an agreement with another nation. They have incurred the wrath of God and they are overcome with feebleness of spirit.^[132] This is because they have been rejecting God's verses and have been killing His prophets unjustly; because they continuously disobeyed and transgressed [against God].^[133]

[However,] they are not all the same. Among these People of the Book is a group that has remained steadfast [in their covenant with God]^[134]; they recite the verses of God during the hours of the night and remain in prostration to Him. They firmly believe in God and in the Hereafter and [as a result] enjoin goodness [to others] and discourage [them] from evil; they try to surpass others in good deeds. These indeed are a pious people. And whatever deeds of goodness they do, they will never be refused of their rewards^[135], for God is well aware of these pious people.

Indeed those who are bent upon rejection [on the other hand], their wealth and their children will be of no avail to them against [the judgment of] God^[136]; they are the people of the fire and in this fire will they reside forever. Whatever they spend [to give the impression of their piety] during the life of this world is [in its affects] only like the freezing breeze that afflicts the plantation of a people, who are unjust upon themselves, and destroys it. [This is what these people deserved;] God was not unjust to them in the least, but they themselves were guilty of injustice upon themselves; [deserving such a punishment]^[137].

Believers^[138] [These people are not your friends. Therefore,] do not confide in others with your secrets. They will be unrelenting in trying to harm you. They desire that afflictions befall you. Their hatred is apparent from [the words of] their mouths; and whatever they conceal in their hearts is far greater [than what they show]. We have clearly stated these signs to you, if you are mindful. It is only you who are so fond of them but they do not [even] like you, even though you believe in all the books of God^[139]. And when they run into you, they say we too are believers [just like you^[140]] and when they are alone, they only gnaw at their fingers in their rage towards you – say [to them]: "Die in your rage [if you will]; God is indeed aware of all the secrets of the hearts" – if any good comes your way, they are distressed by it and if a misfortune befalls you, they are elated by it. [Therefore, do not take them as your friends] and [remember] if you remain steadfast and fear [God, in abiding by His limits], their schemes will not harm you in the least, because God encompasses all that they do.

[Indeed they will not be able to harm you, in the least. The harm that you bore in the Battle of Uhud was not due to their schemes, rather it was because of your own weaknesses, from which you had to be cleansed.] Remind them, [O Prophet,] of the time when you proceeded out of your house to post the [army of the] believers at their stations for the battle. [God was fully aware of what was in their hearts and what they were discussing at the time] for God, indeed, is the Hearing, the Knowing.

At that time, two groups^[141] among you wanted to back out of the fight while God was their protector. And in God alone should the believers put their trust. And [they wanted to back out, even after having witnessed how] God had helped you in the battle of Badr, while you were extremely lacking [in numbers and armament]. [Your victory there was due to your trust in God alone.] Therefore, fear God [abiding by His directives] so that you are grateful [for all the victories that He grants you].

Recall when you said to the believers: "Would it not suffice you if your Lord were to strengthen you with three thousand angels specifically sent down [for this purpose]?" Undoubtedly, if you are steadfast and if you fear God [abiding by His directives]; He would strengthen you with five thousand angels, marked [specifically for this purpose], even if your enemy were to stage an offensive against you right now.

And [even though there was no need to tell you about it,] God made this [information available] only as a glad tiding for you [so that you may rejoice] and so that your hearts are at ease with it – and the fact is that victory comes only from [the help of] God, the Mighty [in power], the Wise [in decisions]. [This indeed will come to by,] so that He may sever a part of those who have rejected, or disgrace them so that they return frustrated [in their purpose].

[O Prophet,] you have no say in this matter;^[142] whether [God disgraces them in this manner or] He accepts their repentance [if they repent], or He punishes them severely for they, indeed, are unjust. [All authority is in the hands of God alone.] And whatever is in the heavens and the earth is God's alone. [No one can influence Him in His decisions.] He will forgive whom He pleases and He will punish whom He pleases [according to His absolute justice.] And [whoever turns to God in repentance would surely find His mercy, for] God, indeed is extremely forgiving, His mercy extends forever.

Believers, [if you want God's support to continue for you, then] do not devour interest, increasing it manifolds,^[143] and fear God [abiding by His prescribed limits] so that you may be successful and [thereby] save yourselves from the fire that has been prepared for these rejecters; and [in contrast to them,] remain obedient to God and His messenger, so that you may deserve [God's] mercy. And [rather than trying to excel in accumulating wealth unjustly try to] race towards God's forgiveness and [towards earning] paradise, the expanse of which is like that of the heavens and the earth, which has especially been prepared for the God fearing: those who spend [their wealth in the way of God, under all circumstances] – be it prosperity or stringency – and those who keep their anger in check [at any misbehavior of those whom they have helped financially] and forgive these people. [It is such people who do good deeds in the most appropriate manner] and God holds those dear who do good deeds in the best of manners. And those, who seek God's forgiveness for their sins, when they indulge in any form of lewdness or when they wrong themselves [in any way] – and who else can forgive sins except God – and [those who] do not stubbornly persist in what they have done [of what is wrong], knowing [that it is evil]. They are the ones whose reward is the forgiveness of their Lord and gardens [that are abundantly watered,] with rivers flowing beneath them, abiding in these [gardens] forever. And what a beautiful reward for those who labor [for good deeds]!

[Believers, if you are steadfast and if you fear God abiding by His directives then most certainly you will ultimately be the victors]. Many an example of this has passed by before you. Go around in this land [of yours] and see how was the end of the rejecters [of Our messengers]. This is a clear warning for these people [who are bent upon rejecting the Messenger of God] and [it is a] guidance and admonition for the God fearing. [Therefore be at peace,] and do not lose heart and do not fret [over this defeat at Uhud, for] you indeed will dominate, if you are truly believers^[144]. If a blow has afflicted you [at this time], the enemy too has been afflicted by a similar blow [earlier at Badr]. We alternate these days [of victory and defeat] among people [to test them] and so that God knows the true believers [and distinguishes them from the hypocrites] and so that God selects from among you who are [honored to be] the witnesses [of the Truth by giving their lives in its cause] – [You are afflicted with this blow for such reasons only, not because God is siding with the rejecters.] And [remember] God does not love these unjust people – and [it is so done] so that God sieves out the true believers [from the hypocrites] and [then to] annihilate these rejecters – and did you think that you would enter Paradise, while God has not yet determined those who fight [in His way] from among you [and those who turn away from it]^[145] – and so that God determines the steadfast [from among you]. Before coming face to face with death, you were desirous of facing it [in the way of God]^[146]. So [your desire has come true, and] you have come in contact with death, staring it in the face.

And [you became completely hopeless at the rumor of the Prophet's death in the battlefield. Remember,] Muhammad [is not God, he] is only a messenger of God; many a messenger have passed before him^[147]. Then if he dies or is killed, would you turn back on your heels [from the guidance of God]? And [remember,] whoever turns back on his heels would not harm God in the least. And God will soon reward these thankful [servants].^[148]

[You lost heart at this rumor] and [forgot that] no person can die except with the will of God, only at a prescribed time and [also of the fact that] whoever desires the fruits of the world, we will give him of that; and whoever desires the fruits of the hereafter, we will give him of that. And we will surely reward those who are thankful.^[149]

And [bear in mind that] many a prophet has gone by in the company of whom many Godly people have fought [God's enemies]. And when they were afflicted by an injury in the way of God, they did not lose heart, neither were they weakened nor did they surrender [to the enemy; but, on the contrary, they remained standing steadfastly in the way of God] and indeed God loves the steadfast [in His ways]. And in these testing circumstances, they only prayed [to God], saying: Our Lord forgive us our sins and our transgressions in our affairs; strengthen us and help us against these rejecters. In response, God granted them their reward in this world and the most beautiful reward in the hereafter. [These are the Muhsins^[150] in the eyes of God] and surely God loves such Muhsins.

Believers, if you listen to what these rejecters say, they will surely turn you back [from your faith]^[151] and render you losers. [It is not these people], rather God is your helper and He is the best of helpers. [You will see that] We will instill fear in their hearts [towards you] because they ascribe equals to God, for which God has sent no authority; and [in the hereafter] the Fire will be their abode. How despicable is the destiny of these unjust!

God fulfilled His promise with you, when you were bringing them down, by His permission,^[152] till you yourselves projected weakness and differed in carrying out the directive and you disobeyed the Prophet, after God had shown you that which you desired. Indeed, among you were some who were desirous of the [possessions of the] world and among you were those who desired the [kingdom of the] hereafter. Thus, after that [initial victory], God turned you away from them, to test you [to separate those who are desirous only of the worldly possessions among you]. And God still forgave you [this grave mistake]. Indeed God is extremely kind for the believers.

Recall, when you were fleeing away [from the battle field] and would not even care for anyone, while the Messenger was calling you, from behind you; [at that time] God afflicted you with one grief following another^[153], so that [you realize that this life is a test and that] you are not to lose heart at any loss nor at any affliction.^[154] [On the contrary, you are only to do what is right, under all circumstances,] and [remember that] God is fully aware of what you do.

After this grief, God granted peace of heart to a group among you, in the shape of slumber that overcame them, while the others were only scared for their own lives.^[155] They were only entertaining false opinions, opinions of ignorance^[156] about God; Saying: 'Do we have any say in this matter^[157] [or is the Prophet going to decide everything on his own]?' Tell them: 'All matters are decided only by God.' They hide in their hearts what they do not manifest in front of you. They say: 'If we had any say in this matter, we would not have been killed here'. Tell them: 'Even if you were [comfortably placed] in your homes, those who were destined to be killed here would have come out to their places of death [to meet their destiny]. [Therefore, do not forget that this was only a test to separate the true believers from the others, among you] and to test what you hide in your bosoms and to sieve the impurities in your hearts. God indeed is fully aware of what lies hidden in the hearts.

Those who turned their backs on the day when the two troops came face to face [in the battle of Uhud]^[158], they were only tripped by Satan, because of their own actions [in the past]. [However,] God has forgiven them. Indeed God is extremely forgiving, His mercy extends forever.

Believers, do not be like those rejecters who, when their brethren go out on a journey or for a battle [and are killed], say about them: Had they been with us, they would neither have died nor would have been killed. [God only makes them think that way] to make it a cause of anguish in their hearts. While, [the fact is that] it is only God that keeps [you] alive and causes [you] to die. And [remember,] God is indeed fully aware of what you do and [therefore,] if you are killed or you die in God's way then the forgiveness of God and the blessings that you will receive are much better than what they are accumulating for themselves. Moreover, whether you die or are killed, you are, under all circumstances, to return only to God.^[159]

Thus it is a special blessing of God [upon these people] that you, [O Prophet,] are extremely gentle with them. Had you been stern and fierce hearted towards them, they would then have broken away from you. Therefore, pardon them [their faults], seek forgiveness for them and [continue to] take their counsel in the matters [of the collectivity]^[160]; then when you arrive at any decision, put your trust in God.^[161] Indeed God holds those dear who put their trust in Him. [Remember,] if God were to help you, then no one can overpower you; and if God were to leave your side then who would it be who can help you, after Him? And, therefore, surely the believers should put their trust solely in God.^[162]

[They say that opting to fight the enemy outside the boundaries of Medina was a malicious decision. This is lie that they have forged.] It is not befitting for any prophet of God to hold malice [against anyone]^[163]. [The fact is that] whoever holds malice against anyone will come [in God’s court] with his malice on the Day of Resurrection. Then everyone shall be fully rewarded for his deeds and he shall not be wronged [in the least]. [This would surely come by. After all,] would he, who desires God’s pleasure and those, who deserve His wrath, be alike? [Absolutely not. The good and the evil will most surely be separated. The good will enjoy the bliss of paradise] and [as for the evil,] their abode shall be Hellfire – an extremely abominable abode. They shall all have separate grades with God. And God is watching over whatever you are doing.

[They accuse the Prophet of malice, while the fact is that] It is indeed a great favor of God upon the believers that he raised in them a messenger, from among themselves, who recites the verses of God to them and who cleanses them and, for this purpose, educates them of the [Divine] Law and the [Divine] Wisdom^[164], while, before this, they were in manifest error.

And [forgetting this great favor of God,] when a catastrophe struck you – though you served [your enemy] double the affliction [in the battle of Badr] – you said: “Where has this [defeat] come from?” ^[165] Tell them [O Prophet]: “You have brought it upon yourselves.” [If God grants you victory He would also allow you to be defeated if His knowledge so requires.] Indeed, God has power over all things. Whatever befell you – the day the two armies came face to face – was with God’s permission. [It befell you so that your weaknesses are removed]^[166] and so that He distinguishes the true believers from those who had hypocrisy in their hearts. And they were asked: “Come, fight in God’s way or [at least, come] defend [your homes from the enemy].” They replied: “Had we known of any fighting [taking place] we would surely have accompanied you.” That day, they were closer to rejection than having faith in God. They uttered with their mouths what was not in their hearts. And God was fully aware of what they were hiding. The ones who sat [back in the comfort of their homes, and] said about their brothers [who fought the enemy]: “Had they but listened to us, they would not have been killed [in the way they were].”^[167] Say to them: “Save yourselves from your own deaths [on the day that you are faced with it,] if you are true in your claim.”

Do not [pay heed to their propaganda, O Prophet, and remember do not] consider those who lost their lives in God’s way [during the battle of Uhud] as dead. On the contrary, they are alive being provisioned in the presence of God, joyful in whatever God has bestowed upon them of His grace; and receiving good news about [their companions] behind them [in the world] who have not joined them yet, that [soon they too will reach the Kingdom of God where] they will neither have any regret [of the past] nor any fear [of the future]; joyful of the bounties and grace of God and [of the fact] that God will not allow the reward of the believers to go to waste.^[168] Those [true believers] who, even after they suffered injury, responded [with resolve] to the call of God and His Messenger; [surely] for those among them who did their deeds in the best of manners^[169] and who feared God, will have a great reward. They are the ones to whom people said: “The people [of Arabia] have gathered against you, so fear them.” This only increased their faith, and they replied: “God is sufficient for us, He [indeed] is the best Guardian. Therefore, they returned [from the expedition] with God’s favors and blessings without any harm; and they were only seeking God’s pleasure and [in return, God will grant them what pleases them, for indeed] God is extremely bountiful. It was only Satan trying to instill fear of his allies. So, do not be afraid of them, fear Me, if you truly are believers.

Do not let [the actions] of these people who excel in rejection aggrieve you [O Prophet]. They will not be able to harm [the plans of] God, in the least. God intends that He grants them no part of the [bounties in the] Hereafter. [They are indeed the guilty ones.] And for them shall [therefore] be a great punishment. Indeed those who have bartered their faith with rejection, they will not be able to harm [the plans of] God in the least and for them will [most definitely] be a torturous punishment. Those who have rejected [are only deceived by the respite that God has granted them in the test of this life, they] should not consider Our giving them respite to be in their favor. [It is not in their favor.] We are only giving them a temporary reprieve so that they can add to their sins. [Then to Us will they return.] And for them shall be an extremely abasing punishment.

[Tell them, O Prophet, God allowed the believers to be afflicted to cleanse their collectivity, for] it was not befitting for God to have left you in the state you were without separating the pure [of heart] from the impure;^[170] nor did God like to inform you about the secrets [of what they hide in their hearts to allow you to separate the impure from your group.] On the contrary, God selects from His messengers, whom He pleases [and by putting their followers through various tests during the messengers’ lives, He separates the pure from the impure]. Therefore, believe in God and His Messenger and remember that if you truly believe and fear God, [abiding by His directives,] then you shall surely earn a magnificent reward.

[They not only avoid striving in the way of God with their lives, they also discourage others from spending their money in the way of God.] Those who are being miserly with what God has granted them of His blessings should not consider this [behavior] beneficial for themselves; on the contrary, this will be extremely harmful for them. [They should be warned that], on the Day of Judgment they shall surely be collared by the very things that they were miserly with [and which they held back from spending in God’s way at such a critical time]. And [remember,] the possession of the heavens and the earth is solely God’s. [He has entrusted you with these blessings in this life to test you in how you use them.] And God is fully aware of what you are doing. [When We called for people to spend in God’s way, these People of the Book derided it.] God has heard those who [sarcastically] said: ‘God is in need [of people’s help]; we [on the other hand,] are self sufficient.’ We will most surely record what they say, and [We have also recorded] their killing of the prophets [of God] unjustly; and [on the Day of Judgment We shall hand them their records and] We shall say: ‘Now taste the punishment of Fire. This [punishment] is all the earnings of your own hands. God does not do the least bit of injustice upon people.'

[There are] those who have said that God has made it binding upon us that we should not believe in a messenger unless he brings us [the sign of] a sacrifice that is devoured by [a heavenly] fire. Say [to them, O Prophet]: ‘Many a messenger has come to you before me with manifest signs and even with the sign that you demand [now] why, then, did you kill them, if you are truthful?’ If they continue to reject you [as a true messenger of God, remember that] many messengers before you who came with clear signs^[171], scriptures^[172] and the enlightening book^[173] have also been rejected. [Ultimately, both the rejected and rejecters have completed their term of life on earth and were brought before the court of God. So will they who reject you today.] Each soul shall soon taste death. You shall all be given your reward in full, on the Day of Resurrection. Whoever [on that day,] is saved from the Fire and is granted entry to Paradise, he is the one truly successful. The life of this world is merely a stage of deception.

[Believers,] you will most certainly be put through tests with regards to your lives and your wealth and you will hear many grievous things from those who were given the Book before you and also from those who ascribe to polytheism.^[174] [Be prepared for this.] And [remember that] if you remain steadfast [in God’s way] and be mindful of God [abiding by His limits, then you will certainly be the victors] for, indeed, this is an exceptional quality. And [these trustees of God’s Book have forgotten their oath with God;] remind them [O Prophet,] when God took an oath from those who were given the Book [saying] that you shall clearly present this [book] before all people and you will not conceal any part of it. But [now] they have turned away from this oath, tossing it over their backs^[175] and have given it up for a measly gain^[176]. How despicable is that which they have bartered it for. And do not think that these people who are rejoicing in their deeds^[177] and who want to be praised for things they have not done; do not think that they will escape the punishment. For them will surely be an excruciating punishment. And [where will they run to escape this punishment?] Only God’s is the whole dominion of the heavens and the earth and God has power over all things.

[These rejecters refuse to see the signs of God all around them and insist on miracles.^[178]] The fact is that in the design of the heavens and the earth and in the coming of the night and the day, one after the other, there are [innumerable] signs [of the approaching Day of Judgment] for the intelligent; [they are] those who remember God standing, sitting and laying on their sides and deliberate over the creation of the heavens and the earth. [As a result of this deliberation, they pray:] “Our Lord, You have not created this [existence] in vain^[179], You are absolutely clear of doing anything in vain. [There will most certainly be a just end to this creation].^[180] Therefore, save us from the punishment of the Fire. Our Lord, whomsoever You condemn to Hell – [a place solely for the unjust] – You condemn to utter disgrace, and the unjust will have no helpers [there]. Our Lord, We have heard a caller heralding towards faith that ‘People, believe in your Lord’. So we have believed.^[181] Therefore, forgive us our sins, Lord, absolve us from our evil deeds and allow us to die with the faithful. And grant us, Lord, all that you have promised us through Your messengers and do not disgrace us on the Day of Resurrection. Indeed, You never break Your promise.”

So their Lord accepted their prayer [and has said]: “I will not allow any deeds of a person among you – whether man or woman – to go to waste, as you are all no different than the other. Therefore, those who have migrated and were forced to leave their homes and were persecuted in My way, those who fought and were killed [in My way], I will surely remove their evil deeds from them and will surely enter them in Gardens beneath which rivers flow, as a reward from God. And most certainly, with God is the most beautiful reward.

[Prophet,] do not be deceived by the moving about^[182] of the rejecters in the land. This is a just a small provision [for them during the life of this world], after which Hell will be their abode. How terrible a dwelling! But for those who remained mindful of their Lord, [on the other hand,] will be gardens beneath which rivers flow. They shall abide in these [blessings] forever, as a welcome from God. And [surely] whatever is with God is much better for the faithful.

And [there are also such faithful among the People of the Book;] indeed there are those among the People of the Book who truly believe in God, fearing Him, and who believe in that which has been revealed upon you and also in that which was revealed to them [earlier]. They do not exchange the directives of God for a paltry gain [of worldly benefits]. The reward of these people is secured with their Lord, for indeed God is swift in reckoning.

Believers, [you will surely be the victors in these wars against the rejecters, but it is essential that you] remain steadfast, stand strong [against your enemies], be fully prepared for [fighting] them and be mindful of God [in all your matters], so that you are successful.