Those who believe say: "How is it no Surah was revealed?" But when a categorical Surah is revealed that mentions war, you should see those who are sceptical staring at you like a man in the swoon of death. Alas the woe for them! 20 Since they have (pledged) Us obedience and to speak reasonably, it would be more proper for them, when it is decided (that everyone must take part in the battle), to remain true (in their pledge to God). 21 Then, belike ye are, if ye turn, to cause corruption in the earth and to sever your kinship. 22 Those are they whom Allah hath cursed, and then hath deafened them and blinded their sights. 23 Do they not then earnestly seek to understand the Qur'an, or are their hearts locked up by them? 24 As for those who turn back in their footsteps after the guidance of Allah has become clear to them, it was satan who tempted them, and Allah has respited them. 25 That is because they say to those averse to what Allah has sent down 'We shall obey you in some of the matters' Allah knows their secrets. 26 Then how (will it be with them) when the angels gather them, smiting their faces and their backs! 27 That is because they have followed a way that angered Allah, and have been averse to His good pleasure. So He reduced all their works to nought. 28