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 But if you held command, you were sure to make mischief in the land and cut off the ties of kinship! 22 It is these whom Allah has cursed, so He made them deaf to the Truth and blinded their eyes. 23 Will they not, then, ponder over this Qur'an? - or are there locks upon their hearts? 24 Surely, those who turn their backs [on this message] after guidance has been shown to them, [do it because] Satan has embellished their fancies and God gives them respite; 25 This, because they said to those who hate what Allah has revealed, "We will obey you in part of (this) matter"; but Allah knows their (inner) secrets. 26 But how will it be when the angels cause them to die smiting their backs. 27 That is because they have followed what angers God, and have been averse to His good pleasure, so He has made their works to fail. 28