O MEN! A parable is set forth [herewith]; hearken, then, to it! Behold, those beings whom you invoke instead of God cannot create [as much as] a fly, even were they to join all their forces to that end! And if a fly robs them of anything, they cannot [even] rescue it from him! Weak indeed is the seeker, and [weak] the sought! 73 They have not estimated Allah His Rightful Estimate; Verily, Allah is All-Strong, All-Mighty. 74 Allah chooses messengers from angels and from men for Allah is He Who hears and sees (all things). 75 He knows whatsoever is before them and behind them, and unto God all matters are returned.' 76 O men, bow you down and prostrate yourselves, and serve your Lord, and do good; haply so you shall prosper; ۩ 77 And strive hard for Allah as is due unto Him hard striving. He hath distinguished you, and hath not placed upon you any narrowness in the religion: the faith of your father Ibrahim. He hath named you Muslim aforetime and in this, that the apostle may be a witness for you, and that ye may be witnesses against mankind. Wherefore establish the prayer and give the poor-rate, and hold fast by Allah; He is your Patron: an Excellent Patron and Excellent helper! 78