Then there are some who say, "We believe in Allah and the Last Day", whereas they do not believe at all. 8 They seek to deceive Allah and those who believe, but they deceive none except themselves, though they do not sense it. 9 There is a sickness in their hearts which Allah has increased. For them there is a painful punishment because they lie. 10 When they are told not to commit corruption in the land, they reply, "We are only reformers". 11 Of a surety, they are the ones who make mischief, but they realise (it) not. 12 When asked to believe as others do, they say: "Should we believe like fools?" And yet they are the fools, even though they do not know. 13 And when they meet those who have attained to faith, they assert, "We believe [as you believe]"; but when they find themselves alone with their evil impulses, they say: "Verily, we are with you; we were only mocking!" 14 Allah will mock at them and prolong them in sin, blundering blindly. 15 Such are those who barter away guidance for error, their trade did not profit (them), nor are they guided. 16 (Their case) is like that of one who kindles a fire and when it grows bright God takes away its light leaving him in darkness (wherein) he cannot see (anything). 17 They are deaf, dumb, and blind, so they return not (to the Right Path). 18 Or like abundant rain from the cloud in which is utter darkness and thunder and lightning; they put their fingers into their ears because of the thunder peal, for fear of death, and Allah encompasses the unbelievers. 19 The lightning almost snatches away their sight, whenever it flashes upon them they walk on, but as soon as it darkens they stand still. Indeed, if Allah willed, He could take away their sight and hearing. Allah has power over all things. 20