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 No true understanding of God have they [who err in this way]: for, verily, God is most powerful, almighty! 74 Allah chooseth from the angels messengers, and (also) from mankind. Lo! Allah is Hearer, Seer. 75 [whereas their knowledge is limited,] He knows all that lies open before them and all that is hidden from them for all things go back to God [as their source]. 76 O you who believe! bow down and prostrate yourselves and serve your Lord, and do good that you may succeed. ۩ 77 Strive for the cause of God as it behoves you to strive for it. He has chosen you and laid on you no burden in the matter of your religion, the faith of Abraham your forefather. In this, as in former scriptures He has given you the name of Muslims, so that the Messenger may be a witness over you, and so that you may be witnesses over mankind. Therefore, say your prayers regularly and pay the zakat and hold fast to God. He is your master. An excellent master and an excellent helper! 78