Wahiduddin Khan

In In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

the Beneficent, the Merciful. Merciful;

Guide us to the straight path, path:

those who believe in the revelation sent down to you and in what was sent before you, and firmly believe in the life to come; come --

There are some who say, ‘We "We believe in God and the Last Day,’ Day," yet they are not believers.

When they are told, ‘Do "Do not cause corruption in the land,’ land," they say, ‘We "We are only promoters of peace,’ peace,"

And when they are told, ‘Believe "Believe as other people have believed,’ believed," they say, ‘Are "Are we to believe just as fools believe?’ believe?" Surely they are the fools, even though they do not realize it.

When they meet those who believe, they say, ‘We believe.’ "We believe." But when they are alone with their evil leaders, they say, ‘We "We are really with you; we were only mocking.’ mocking."

They are like those who kindled a fire, and when it lighted up all around them, God took away their sight and left them in utter darkness, unable to see— see --

Give the good news to those who believe and do good works, that they will have Gardens through which rivers flow: whenever they are given fruit to eat they will say, ‘This "This is what we were provided with before,’ before," because they were given similar things. And there will be pure spouses for them, and they will abide there forever.

God does not disdain to give a parable about a gnat or a smaller creature. The faithful know that it is the truth from their Lord, but those who deny the truth ask, ‘What "What could God mean by this parable?’ parable?" He lets many go astray through it, and guides many by it. But He makes only the disobedient go astray:

those who break God’s God's covenant after they have pledged to keep it, and sever whatever God has ordered to be joined, and spread corruption in the land—it land -- it is they who are the losers.

When your Lord said to the angels, ‘I "I am putting a successor on earth,’ earth," they said, ‘Will "Will You place someone there who will cause corruption on it and shed blood, while we glorify You with Your praise and extol Your holiness?’ holiness?" [God] answered, ‘Surely, "Surely, I know that which you do not know.’ know."

He taught Adam all the names, then He set them before the angels and said, ‘Tell "Tell Me the names of these, if what you say be true.’ true."

They said, ‘Glory "Glory be to You; we have no knowledge except whatever You have taught us. You are the All Knowing, the All Wise.’ Wise."

Then He said, ‘O "O Adam, tell them their names.’ names." When Adam had told them the names, God said to the angels, ‘Did "Did I not say to you: I know the secrets of the heavens and of the earth, and I know what you reveal and what you conceal?’ conceal?"

When We said to the angels, ‘Bow "Bow down before Adam,’ Adam," they all bowed except for Iblis [Satan]. He refused and acted proudly and became an unbeliever.

We said, ‘O "O Adam! live with your wife in Paradise and eat freely from it anywhere you may wish. Yet do not approach this tree lest you become wrongdoers.’ wrongdoers."

But Satan caused them both to slip through this and thus brought about the loss of their former state. We said, ‘Go "Go down from here as enemies to each other; and on earth you shall have your abode and your livelihood for a while!’ while!"

We said, ‘Go "Go down, all of you, from here: then when guidance comes to you from Me, anyone who follows My guidance will have no fear, nor will they grieve— grieve --

those who deny and reject Our signs shall be the inhabitants of the Fire; therein shall they abide forever.’ forever."

Remember when We delivered you from Pharaoh’s Pharaoh's people, who subjected you to grievous torment, slaying your sons and sparing only your daughters—surely daughters, surely in that there was a great trial for you from your Lord— Lord,

and when We divided the sea for you and saved you and drowned Pharaoh’s Pharaoh's people, while you looked on.

When Moses said to his people, ‘O "O my people, you have indeed wronged yourselves by worshipping the calf; turn in repentance to your Creator and slay [the culprits] among you. That course is best for you in the sight of your Maker.’ Maker." He relented towards you. He is the Forgiving One, the Merciful.

Remember when you said, ‘Moses, "Moses, we will not believe in you until we see God with our own eyes,’ eyes," a thunderbolt struck you while you were looking on.

Then We caused the clouds to provide shade for you and sent down for you manna and quails, saying, ‘Eat "Eat the good things We have provided for you.’ you." Indeed, they did not wrong Us, but they wronged themselves.

Remember when We said, ‘Enter "Enter this land and eat freely wherever you will. Make your way through the gates, bowing down and saying, “God! "God! Forgive us our sins.” sins." We shall forgive you your sins and We shall give abundance to those who do good.’ good."

When Moses prayed for water for his people, We said to him, ‘Strike "Strike the rock with your staff!’ staff!" And there gushed out from it twelve springs. Each tribe knew its drinking-place. [We said], ‘Eat "Eat and drink what God has provided and do not act wrongfully in the land, spreading corruption.’ corruption."

When you said, ‘Moses, "Moses, we cannot bear to eat only one kind of food, so pray to your Lord to bring forth for us some of the earth’s earth's produce, its herbs and cucumbers, its garlic, lentils, and onions.’ onions." Moses said, ‘Would "Would you take a lesser thing in exchange for what is better? Go to some town and there you will find all that you demand.’ demand." Abasement and destitution were stamped upon them, and they incurred the wrath of God, for having rejected His signs, and they killed His prophets unjustly, because they were rebels and transgressors.

The believers, the Jews, the Christians, and the Sabaeans—all Sabaeans, all those who believe in God and the Last Day and do good deeds—will deeds, will be rewarded by their Lord; they shall have no fear, nor shall they grieve.

[Children of Israel], We made a covenant with you and raised the mountain high above you, saying, ‘Hold "Hold fast to what We have given you and bear its contents in mind, so that you may guard yourselves [against evil].’ evil]."

Yet after that you turned away, and but for God’s God's grace and mercy, you would have surely been among the losers.

You are aware of those who transgressed in the matter of the Sabbath, whereupon We said to them, ‘Be "Be as apes, despised!’ despised!"

When Moses said to his people, ‘God "God commands you to sacrifice a heifer,’ heifer," they said, ‘Are "Are you making a mockery of us?’ us?" He answered, ‘God "God forbid that I should be so ignorant!’ ignorant!"

They said, ‘Ask "Ask your Lord to make it clear to us what sort of heifer she should be.’ be." He answered, ‘God "God says she should be neither too old nor too young, but in between, so do as you are commanded.’ commanded."

They said, ‘Call "Call on your Lord for us, to show us what colour she should be.’ be." He answered, ‘God "God says she should be a bright yellow heifer, pleasing to the eye.’ eye."

They said, ‘Ask "Ask your Lord to make it clear to us the exact type of heifer she should be, for to us all heifers look alike. If God wills, we shall be rightly guided.’ guided."

Moses answered, ‘Your "Your Lord says, she should be a heifer which has not been yoked to plough the land or water the fields, a heifer free from any blemish.’ ‘Now blemish." "Now you have told us the truth,’ truth," they answered, and they sacrificed it, though they would rather not have done it.

Then, when you [Israelites] killed someone and started to blame one another—God another, God brought to light what you concealed— concealed,

We said, ‘Strike "Strike [the corpse] with a part of it.’ it." Thus God restores the dead to life and shows you His signs, so that you may understand.

When they meet the faithful, they say, ‘We "We are believers.’ believers." But when alone, they say to each other, ‘Must "Must you tell them what God has revealed to us? They will only use it to argue against you before your Lord! Have you no sense?’ sense?"

Woe to those who write the scripture with their own hands, and then declare, ‘This "This is from God,’ God," in order to sell it for a paltry price. Woe to them because of what their own hands have written, and woe to them for what they have earned.

They say, ‘The "The Fire is not going to touch us, and [even if it does], it will only be for a few days!’ days!" Say [to them], ‘Have "Have you received a promise from God—for God, for God never breaks His promise—or promise, or do you attribute something to God which you do not know?’ know?"

Remember when We made a covenant with the Children of Israel, ‘Worship "Worship none but God and be good to your parents and to relatives and orphans and the needy. And speak kindly to people. Attend to your prayers and pay the zakat [prescribed alms].’ alms]." But with the exception of a few, you turned away [in aversion] and paid no heed.

When We made a covenant with you, We said, ‘You "You shall not shed each other’s other's blood, nor turn your people out of their homes.’ homes." You consented to this and bore witness.

They say, ‘Our "Our hearts are impenetrably wrapped [against whatever you say],’ say]," but God has rejected them for their denial; they have but little faith.

And now that a Book has come to them from God, fulfilling that [predictions about the final prophet in their scriptures] which is with them, they deny it—whereas it, whereas previously they used to pray for victory against the disbelievers—yet disbelievers, yet when there came to them that which they recognized as the truth, they rejected it. God’s God's rejection is the due of all who deny the truth.

What they have sold their souls for is evil: to the denial of God’s God's own revelation, grudging that He should reveal His bounty to whom He chooses from among His servants! They have incurred wrath upon wrath. Humiliating punishment awaits those who deny the truth.

When they are told, ‘Believe "Believe in what God has revealed,’ revealed," they say, ‘We "We believe in what was revealed to us,’ us," while they deny the truth in what has been sent down after that, even though it is the Truth, confirming that which they already have. Say, ‘Why "Why did you kill God’s God's prophets in the past, if you were true believers?

Moses came to you with clear signs, but in his absence you worshipped the calf and became wrongdoers.’ wrongdoers."

When We made a covenant with you and raised the mountain above you saying, ‘Hold "Hold firmly to what We have given you and listen,’ listen," you said, ‘We "We hear, but we disobey,’ disobey," and their hearts were filled with the love of the calf, because of their refusal to acknowledge the truth. Say, ‘Evil "Evil is that to which your faith enjoins you if you are indeed believers.’ believers."

Say, ‘If God’s "If God's abode of the Hereafter is for you alone, to the exclusion of all others, then wish for death, if you are truthful.’ truthful."

Say, ‘Anyone "Anyone who is an enemy of Gabriel—who Gabriel, who by God’s God's leave has brought down to your heart [the Quran] fulfilling that [predictions about the last prophet in the earlier revelations] which precedes it, and is a guidance and good news for the faithful— faithful,

whoever is an enemy of God, His angels, or His messengers, or of Gabriel or Michael, will surely find that God too is the enemy of those who deny the truth.’ truth."

They pursued what the devils falsely attributed to the kingdom of Solomon. Solomon was not an unbeliever: it is the devils who are unbelievers. They taught people witchcraft, and that which was sent down to Harut and Marut, the two angels in Babylon. But these two taught no one until they had said, ‘We "We are but a trial, therefore, do not disbelieve [in God’s guidance].’ God's guidance]." So men learnt from them that by which they caused discord between man and wife; but they harmed no one thereby, except by the command of God; [on the contrary], these people learned that which would harm them and do them no good, knowing full well that whoever acquired [this knowledge] would have no share in the Hereafter. Evil indeed was the [price] for which they sold their souls, if only they had known it.

Believers, do not say to the Prophet, ‘Ra‘ina’ "Ra'ina" but say, ‘Unzurna,’ "Unzurna," and listen to him with attention. For those who deny the truth, there is a painful punishment.

They who deny the truth from among the People of the Book, or from among those who associate partners with God, do not desire that any good should be sent down to you from your Lord. But God singles out for His grace whom He wills—for wills -- for God is limitless in His great bounty.

They declare, ‘None "None shall ever enter Heaven unless he be a Jew or a Christian.’ Christian." This is their own wishful thinking. [Prophet], say, ‘Produce "Produce your evidence if you are telling the truth.’ truth."

The Jews say, ‘The "The Christians have no ground to stand on,’ on," and the Christians say, ‘The "The Jews have no ground to stand on.’ on." Yet they both recite the Book, and those who have no knowledge say the same; God will judge between them on the Day of Resurrection concerning their disputes.

Who could be more wicked than someone who prevents God’s God's name from being mentioned in His places of worship, and seeks to bring about their ruin, while it behoves these men to enter them with fear in their hearts? There is disgrace in store for them in this world and a great punishment in the next.

They say, ‘God "God has taken a son.’ son." Glory be to Him! Everything in the heavens and the earth belongs to Him; all things are obedient to Him.

He is the Originator of the heavens and the earth, and when He decrees something, He says only, ‘Be!’ "Be!" and it is.

Those who are devoid of knowledge say, ‘Why "Why does God not speak to us or show us a sign?’ sign?" The same demand was made by those before them; their hearts are all alike. We have made the signs clear to those whose faith is firm.

Neither the Christians nor the Jews will be pleased with you until you follow their ways. Say, ‘God’s "God's guidance is the only true guidance.’ guidance." If you followed their desires after the knowledge which has come to you, you would not have any patron or supporter against God.

When his Lord tested Abraham with certain commands and he fulfilled them, He said, ‘I "I will make you a leader of men.’ men." Abraham asked, ‘And "And what of my descendants?’ descendants?" He answered, ‘My "My covenant does not extend to the transgressors.’ transgressors."

And We made the House [the Ka‘bah] Ka'bah] a place of assembly and a sanctuary for mankind, [saying], ‘Make "Make the place where Abraham stood a place of worship.’ worship." We commanded Abraham and Ishmael, ‘Purify "Purify My House for those who walk round it, those who stay there for devotion, and those who bow down and prostrate themselves.’ themselves."

And when Abraham prayed, ‘My "My Lord, make this city a city of peace, and provide its inhabitants with fruits, such of them as believe in God and the Last Day.’ Day." God said, ‘As "As for those who deny the truth, I will grant them benefits for a short while and then subject them to the punishment of the Fire—an Fire -- an evil destination.’ destination."

And when Abraham and Ishmael were laying the foundations of the House, [they prayed], ‘Our "Our Lord, accept this from us; for You are All Hearing, All Knowing.

Our Lord, send forth to them a messenger of their own to recite Your revelations to them, to teach them the Scripture and wisdom, and purify them. You are the Mighty, the Wise One.’ One."

When his Lord said to him, ‘Surrender!’ "Surrender!" he responded, ‘I "I have surrendered to the Lord of the Universe,’ Universe,"

and Abraham enjoined his sons to do the same, as did Jacob, ‘My "My sons, God has chosen this religion for you; so do not let death overtake you, except when you are in a state of submission.’ submission."

Were you present when Jacob faced the hour of death and he asked his sons, ‘Who "Who will you worship after me?’ me?" They answered, ‘We "We will worship your God and the God of your fathers, Abraham and Ishmael and Isaac: the one God; we have submitted ourselves to Him.’ Him."

They say, ‘Be "Be Jews or Christians, and you shall be rightly guided.’ guided." Say, ‘By "By no means! We believe in the faith of Abraham, who was ever inclined [to God]; he was not one of those who set up partners with God.’ God."

Say, ‘We "We believe in God and what was revealed to us; and what was revealed to Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, and their descendants, and what was given to Moses and Jesus and what was given to the [other] prophets by their Lord. We make no distinction between any of them. It is to Him that we surrender ourselves.’ ourselves."

We take on God’s God's own dye. Who has a better dye than God’s? God's? We worship Him alone.

Say, ‘Do "Do you dispute with us about God, while He is our Lord and your Lord? We have our actions and you have your actions. We are devoted to Him alone.

Do you claim that Abraham and Ishmael and Isaac and Jacob and their descendants were all Jews or Christians?’ Christians?" Say, ‘Do "Do you know better or does God? And who could be more unjust than one who conceals a testimony given to him by God? God is not unaware of what you do.’ do."

The foolish will ask, ‘What "What has made them turn away from their direction of prayer which they used to face?’ face?" Say, ‘The "The East and the West belong to God. He guides whom He pleases to the right path.’ path."

Thus We have made you a middle nation, so that you may act as witnesses for mankind, and the Messenger may be a witness for you. We decreed your former prayer direction towards which you used to face only in order that We might make a clear distinction between the Messenger’s Messenger's true followers and those who were to turn their backs on him. This was indeed a hard test for all but those whom God has guided. God will never let your faith go to waste. God is compassionate and merciful to mankind.

But even if you should produce every kind of sign for those who have been given the Book, they would never accept your prayer direction, nor would you accept their prayer direction: nor would any of them accept one another’s another's direction. If, after all the knowledge you have been given, you yield to their desires, then, you shall surely become a transgressor.

Wherever you set out from, turn your face in the direction of the Sacred Mosque—this Mosque -- this is the truth from your Lord: He is not unaware of what you do— do --

Do not say that those who are killed in God’s God's cause are dead; they are alive, but you are not aware of it.

Those who say, when afflicted with a calamity, ‘We "We belong to God and to Him we shall return,’ return,"

Yet there are some who set up equals with God and adore them with the adoration due to God, but those who believe love God most. If only the wrongdoers could see—as see, as they will see when they face the punishment—that punishment, that all power belongs to God, and that God is severe in punishment.

those who followed will say, ‘If "If we could only return to the world, we would disown them as they have disowned us.’ us." God will thus show them their actions as a cause of bitter regret and remorse. They shall never emerge from the Fire.

But when they are told, ‘Follow "Follow what God has sent down,’ down," they answer, ‘We "We will follow the ways of our fathers,’ fathers," even though their fathers did not use their reason, and were devoid of all guidance.

Fast for a specified number of days, but if any one among you is ill or on a journey, let him fast the same number of days later. For those who can fast only with extreme difficulty, there is a way to compensate—the compensate -- the feeding of a needy person. But he who does good of his own accord shall be well rewarded; but to fast is better for you, if you only knew.

Do not consume one another’s another's property by unjust means, nor offer it as a bribe to the authorities, so that you may deliberately and wrongfully devour a part of other people’s people's wealth.

They ask you about the phases of the moon. Say, ‘They "They are a means of determining time for the regulation of people’s people's affairs and for the pilgrimage.’ pilgrimage." Piety does not consist in entering your houses from the rear. Indeed, one who guards himself against evil out of fear of God is the truly righteous one. Enter your houses by their doors and be mindful of God, so that you may prosper.

And fight in God’s God's cause against those who wage war against you, but do not commit aggression—for aggression -- for surely, God does not love aggressors.

Slay them wherever you find them [those who fight against you]; drive them out of the places from which they drove you, for [religious] persecution is worse than killing. Do not fight them at the Sacred Mosque unless they fight you there. If they do fight you, slay them—such them, such is the reward for those who deny the truth— truth,

Spend for God’s God's cause: do not cast yourselves into destruction by your own hands. Do good, God loves the doers of good.

The pilgrimage is in the appointed months. Whoever intends to perform it during them must abstain from indecent speech, from all wicked conduct, and from quarrelling while on the pilgrimage. Whatever good you may do, God is aware of it. Make provision for yourselves—but yourselves -- but surely, the best of all provision is God-consciousness. Always be mindful of Me, you that are endowed with understanding.

Then press on from where the pilgrims stream forth and ask God’s God's forgiveness. God is ever forgiving and most merciful.

When you have performed the acts of worship prescribed for you, celebrate the praises of God as you celebrated the praises of your fathers, or even more fervently than that. There are some who say, ‘Our "Our Lord, give us abundance in this world.’ world." These shall have no share in the world to come.

But there are others who pray, ‘Our "Our Lord, grant us good in this world as well as good in the world to come, and protect us from the torment of the Fire.’ Fire."

When he is told, ‘Have "Have fear of God,’ God," he is seized by pride which drives him to wrongdoing. Hell shall be enough for him. A dreadful resting place.

Ask the Children of Israel how many clear signs We have given them. Anyone who changes God’s God's blessing once it has come to him will find God is stern in punishment.

Do you think that you will enter Paradise without having suffered like those who passed away before you? Affliction and hardship befell them and so shaken were they that the Messenger and the believers with him would exclaim, ‘When "When will God’s God's help come?’ come?" Surely the help of God is near.

They will ask you what they should spend on others. Say, ‘Whatever "Whatever you give should be for parents, close relatives, orphans, the needy, and travellers. God is well aware of whatever good you do.’ do."

They ask you about fighting in the sacred month. Say, ‘To "To fight [in a sacred month] is a grave matter; but barring people from the path of God, to deny Him, and expelling people from the Sacred Mosque are far graver in His sight; and persecution is worse than killing.’ killing." They will not stop fighting you until they make you renounce your faith, if they can. Whoever of you turns back from his faith and dies as a denier of the truth will have his deeds come to nothing in this world and the Hereafter, and he will be an inhabitant of the Fire, to abide therein forever.

But those who have believed, migrated, and striven for God’s God's cause, can look forward to God’s God's mercy: God is forgiving and merciful.

They ask you [Prophet] about intoxicants and gambling. Say, ‘There "There is great sin in both, although they have some benefit for people: but their harm is greater than their benefit.’ benefit." They ask you what they should spend [in God’s God's cause]. Say, ‘Whatever "Whatever is surplus to your needs.’ needs." Thus God makes His commandments clear to you so that you may reflect

upon this world and the Hereafter. They ask you about orphans. Say, ‘Promotion "Promotion of their welfare is an act of great goodness. There is no harm in your living together with them, for they are your brothers. God knows the mischief-maker from the reformer. If God had so willed, He would have afflicted you with hardship. Surely, God is mighty and wise.’ wise."

They ask you about menstruation. Say, ‘It "It is an impurity, so keep away from women during it and do not approach them until they are cleansed; when they are cleansed you may approach them as God has ordained. God loves those who turn to Him in penitence and He loves those who keep themselves clean.

Your wives are your fields. Go, then, into your fields as you will. Do good deeds, and fear God, and know that you shall meet Him.’ Him." Give good tidings to the believers.

Once you divorce women, and they have reached the end of their waiting period, then either retain them in all decency or part from them decently. Do not retain them in order to harm them or to wrong them. Whoever does this, wrongs his own soul. Do not make a mockery of God’s God's revelations. Remember the favours God has bestowed upon you, and the Book and the wisdom He has revealed to exhort you. Fear God and know that God is aware of everything.

And the [divorced] mothers should nurse their children for two whole years, if they wish to complete the period of nursing; and during that period the father of the child shall be responsible for the maintenance of the mother in a reasonable manner. No soul is charged with more than it can bear. No mother should be made to suffer on account of her child, and no father should be made to suffer on account of his child. The same duties devolve upon the father’s father's heir [in case of the death of the father]. But if, after consultation, they choose by mutual agreement to wean the child, there shall be no blame on them. Nor shall it be any offence for you if you desire to engage a wet-nurse for your children, provided you hand over what you have agreed to pay, in a reasonable manner. Have fear of God and know that God is observant of all your actions.

If any of you die and leave widows, make a bequest for them of a year’s year's maintenance without causing them to leave their homes; but if they leave of their own accord, you will not be blamed for what they may reasonably choose to do with themselves. God is almighty and wise.

Have you not seen those who fled their homes in their thousands for fear of death, whereupon God said to them, ‘Die!’ "Die!" and later brought them back to life? Surely God is bountiful to mankind, but most of them are ungrateful.

Fight [in defence] in God’s God's cause and remember that He is all hearing and all knowing.

Have you not heard of what the chiefs of the Children of Israel demanded of one of their prophets after Moses? They said, ‘Appoint "Appoint for us a king, and we will fight for the cause of God.’ God." He replied, ‘What "What if you refuse to fight, when ordered to do so?’ ‘Why so?" "Why should we not fight for the cause of God,’ God," they replied, ‘when "when we have been driven forth from our homes and our children?’ children?" But when at last they were commanded to fight, they all refused, except a few of them. God knows the wrongdoers.

Their prophet said to them, ‘God "God has now appointed Talut to be your king.’ king." But they replied, ‘How "How can he be king over us when we are worthier of kingship than he and he has not even been granted an abundance of wealth?’ wealth?" He said, ‘God "God has chosen him over you, and has given him great knowledge and physique. God grants kingship to whoever He pleases: God is magnanimous and all knowing.’ knowing."

Their prophet also said to them, ‘The "The sign of his kingship is that the Ark [of the Covenant] shall come to you. Therein shall be tranquillity from your Lord, and the relics which the House of Moses and the House of Aaron left behind. It will be borne by the angels. There is a sign in this for you, if you believe.’ believe."

When Talut set out with his forces, he said to them, ‘God "God will test you with a river: whoever drinks from it is not with me and whoever does not drink is with me. There will, however, be no blame upon one who sips only a handful from it.’ it." But, except for a few of them, they all drank from it. When he and those who believed along with him had crossed the river, they said, ‘We "We have no strength today against Goliath and his warriors.’ warriors." But those of them who believed that they would meet God replied, ‘Many "Many a small group, by God’s God's command has prevailed against a large group. God is indeed with the steadfast.’ steadfast."

When they met Goliath and his warriors, they said, ‘Our "Our Lord, bestow patience upon us, make us stand firm, and help us against those who deny the truth.’ truth."

And so by the command of God they defeated them. David killed Goliath, and God gave him kingship and wisdom, and imparted to him the knowledge of whatever He willed. Had it not been for God’s God's repelling some people by means of others, the earth would have been filled with corruption. But God is bountiful to His creatures.

Have you not heard of him who argued with Abraham about his Lord because God had bestowed the kingdom upon him? Abraham said, ‘My "My Lord is the one who gives life and brings death.’ death." He answered, ‘I "I [too] give life and bring death!’ death!" Abraham said, ‘God "God brings up the sun from the east, so bring it up yourself from the west.’ west." Then the disbeliever was confounded. God does not guide the wrongdoers.

Or of him who, when passing by a town the roofs of which had caved in, exclaimed, ‘How "How will God restore it to life after its destruction?’ destruction?" Thereupon God caused him to die, and after a hundred years, brought him back to life. God asked, ‘How "How long have you remained in this state?’ state?" He answered, ‘I "I have remained a day or part of a day.’ day." God said, ‘No, "No, you have remained in this state for a hundred years. Now look at your food and your drink; they have not rotted. Look at your ass. We will make you a sign to mankind. Look at the bones—how bones -- how We set them together, then clothe them with flesh!’ flesh!" When it had all become clear to him, he said, ‘Now "Now I know that God has power over all things.’ things."

When Abraham said, ‘Show "Show me, my Lord, how You revive the dead!’ dead!" God said, ‘Do "Do you not believe?’ believe?" Abraham answered, ‘Yes, "Yes, indeed I do believe, but just to reassure my heart.’ heart." Then God said, ‘Take "Take four birds, and train them to come back to you. Then place them separately on each hilltop, and call them: they will come flying to you. Know that God is almighty and wise.’ wise."

Those who spend their wealth for God’s God's cause may be compared to a grain of corn which sprouts into seven ears, with a hundred grains in each ear: for God grants manifold increase to whom He wills; God is infinite and all knowing.

Those who spend their wealth for God’s God's cause and do not follow their almsgiving with taunts and insults shall be rewarded by their Lord; they shall have no fear, nor shall they grieve.

But those who spend their wealth in order to gain God’s God's approval, and to strengthen their souls are like a garden on elevated ground. When heavy rain falls on it, it doubles its produce; and if heavy rain does not fall, then light rain suffices. God sees what you do.

It is not your responsibility to make them follow the right path; God guides whomever He pleases. Whatever wealth you spend is to your own benefit, provided that you spend only to seek the favour of God. Whatever wealth you spend [for God’s God's cause] shall be repaid to you in full and you shall not be wronged.

The needy, who are too engrossed in God’s God's cause to be able to travel about the land in search of a livelihood, are considered by those who are unaware of their condition to be free from want, because they refrain from begging. But they can be known from their appearance. They do not make insistent demands upon people. Whatever wealth you spend, God knows it.

Those who live on usury shall rise up before God like men whom Satan has demented by his touch; for they say, ‘Buying "Buying and selling is only a kind of usury.’ usury." But God has made trade lawful and made usury unlawful. Therefore, he who desists because of the admonition that has come to him from his Lord may retain what he has received in the past; and it will be for God to judge him. Those who revert to it shall be the inmates of the Fire; they shall abide therein forever.

The Messenger believes in what has been sent down to him from his Lord, and [so do] believers. They all believe in God and His angels, His scriptures, and His messengers. They say, ‘We "We do not differentiate between any of His messengers. We hear and obey. Grant us Your forgiveness, Lord, to You we shall all return!’ return!"

God does not charge a soul with more than it can bear. It shall be requited for whatever good and whatever evil it has done. [They pray], ‘Our "Our Lord, do not take us to task if we forget or make a mistake! Our Lord, do not place on us a burden like the one You placed on those before us! Our Lord, do not place on us a burden we have not the strength to bear! Pardon us; and forgive us; and have mercy on us. You are our Lord and Sustainer, so help us against those who deny the truth.’ truth."

in the past as guidance for mankind; He has [also] sent down the Standard by which to discern the true from the false. Surely those who deny God’s God's signs will suffer severe punishment. God is mighty and capable of retribution.

It is He who has sent down the Book to you. Some of its verses are clear and precise in meaning—they meaning, they are the basis of the Book—while Book, while others are allegorical. Those with deviation in their hearts pursue the allegorical, so as to create dissension by seeking to explain it: but no one knows its meaning except God. Those who are firmly grounded in knowledge say, ‘We "We believe in it: it is all from our Lord.’ Lord." But only the wise take heed.

‘Our "Our Lord, do not let our hearts deviate after You have guided us. Bestow upon us Your mercy. Surely You are a Munificent Giver.

Our Lord, You will surely gather all mankind on the Day of whose coming there is no doubt. God never fails to fulfill His promise.’ promise."

Their end will be like Pharaoh’s Pharaoh's people and those before them; they denied Our signs, so God seized them in their sinfulness: God is stern in punishment.

Say to those who deny the truth, ‘You "You shall be overcome and driven into Hell—an Hell -- an evil resting place!’ place!"

Say, ‘Shall "Shall I tell you of something better than all of these? For the God-fearing, there are Gardens in nearness to their God with rivers flowing through them where they shall live forever with pure spouses and the goodwill of God. God is watching His servants — --

those who say, “Lord, "Lord, we believe in You, forgive us our sins and keep us from the punishment of the Fire,” Fire,"

those who are steadfast, truthful, obedient, and those who spend [for God’s God's cause] and who pray before dawn for forgiveness.’ forgiveness."

The only true religion in God’s God's sight is complete submission to God. And those who were given the Book disagreed only out of rivalry, after knowledge had been given to them—he them -- he who denies God’s God's signs should know that God is swift in His reckoning.

If they dispute with you, say, ‘I "I have submitted my whole being to God and so have those who follow me.’ me." And ask those who have been given the Book, as well as the unlettered, ‘Do "Do you submit yourselves to God in the same way?’ way?" If they submit themselves to Him, they are on the right path; but if they turn away, your duty is only to convey the message. God is observant of all His servants.

Those who deny God’s God's signs and kill the prophets unjustly and kill those who enjoin justice—give justice, give them warning of a woeful punishment— punishment,

Have you not seen those who received a portion of the Book? When they are invited to accept the judgement of God’s God's Book, a group of them turns away in aversion.

That is because they say, ‘The "The Fire will touch us only for a limited number of days.’ days." Thus the false beliefs which they have invented have deluded them in the matter of their religion.

Say, ‘Lord, "Lord, sovereign of all sovereignty. You bestow sovereignty on whom you will and take it away from whom You please; You exalt whoever You will and abase whoever You will. All that is good lies in Your hands. You have the power to will anything.

You cause the night to pass into the day, and the day into the night; You bring forth the living from the lifeless and the lifeless from the living. You give without measure to whom You will.’ will."

Let not the believers take those who deny the truth for their allies in preference to the believers—anyone believers, anyone who does that will isolate himself completely from God—unless God, unless it be to protect yourselves against them in this way. God admonishes you to fear Him: for, to God shall all return.

Say, ‘God "God knows everything that is in your heart, whether you conceal it or reveal it; He knows everything that the heavens and earth contain; God has power over all things.’ things."

Say, ‘If "If you love God, follow me and God will love you and forgive you your sins. God is most forgiving, and most merciful.’ merciful."

Say, ‘Obey "Obey God and the Messenger,’ Messenger," and if they turn away, God does not love those who deny the truth.

God chose Adam and Noah and the family of Abraham and the family of ‘Imran 'Imran above all His creatures.

Remember when the wife of ‘Imran 'Imran said, ‘My "My Lord, I have dedicated what is in my womb entirely to Your service. So accept this from me. You are the One who hears and knows all.’ all."

When she gave birth, she said, ‘My "My Lord, I have given birth to a girl’—God girl," God knew very well what she had given birth to: a male is not like a female—‘I female, "I have named her Mary and placed her and her children in Your protection from the rejected Satan.’ Satan."

Her Lord graciously accepted her and made her grow in goodness and entrusted her to the care of Zachariah. Every time Zachariah visited her in her chamber he found some provision with her. He asked, ‘Mary, "Mary, where did this provision come from?’ from?" She replied, ‘This "This is from God. God provides for whoever He wills without measure.’ measure."

Thereupon Zachariah prayed to his Lord, saying, ‘Lord, "Lord, grant me by Your own grace virtuous offspring. You are the hearer of all prayers.’ prayers."

As he stood praying in the chamber, the angels called out to him, saying, ‘God "God gives you the good news of John, who shall confirm the Word from God, and [shall be] outstanding among men, and utterly chaste, and a prophet from among the righteous.’

‘Lord,’ righteous."

"Lord," said Zachariah, ‘how "how shall I have a son when I am now overtaken by old age and my wife is barren?’ ‘Such barren?" "Such is the will of God,’ God," replied [the angel], ‘He "He does what He pleases.’ pleases."

He said, ‘My "My Lord, grant me a sign.’ sign." [The angel] said, ‘Your "Your sign is that you will not be able to speak to people for three days except by signs. Remember your Lord much and glorify Him morning and evening.’ evening."

The angels said, ‘Mary, "Mary, God has selected you and purified you. He has selected you over [all] the women of your time.

O Mary! Remain truly devout to your Sustainer, and prostrate yourself in worship, and bow down with those who bow down [before Him].’ Him]."

This is an account of the unseen, which We reveal to you. You were not with them when they drew lots as to which of them should be Mary’s Mary's guardian and you were not with them when they disputed with one another.

When the angels said, ‘O "O Mary, your Lord gives you good news of a Word from Him. His name is the Messiah, Jesus, son of Mary, honoured in this world and in the next and one of those who are granted nearness to God.

And he shall speak to men in his cradle, and as a grown man, and shall be one of the righteous.’

‘Lord,’ righteous."

"Lord," she said, ‘how "how can I have a child when no man has touched me?’ me?" [The angel] replied, ‘Thus "Thus it is: God creates what He wills: when He wills a thing He need only say, “Be,” "Be," and it is.

He will make him a messenger to the Children of Israel. He will say: “I "I have come to you with a sign from your Lord. I will make the shape of a bird out of clay for you and then breathe into it and, by God’s God's leave, it will become a living bird. And by God’s God's leave I will heal the blind and the leper and bring the dead to life. I will tell you what you eat and what you store up in your homes. Surely in this there is a sign for you, if you are believers.

God is my Lord and your Lord, so worship Him. That is the straight path.”’ path."

When Jesus perceived their denial, he said, ‘Who "Who will be my helpers in God’s cause?’ God's cause?" The disciples said, ‘We "We are God’s God's helpers, we believe in God. Bear witness that we have surrendered ourselves.

Our Lord, we believe in what You have sent down and we follow the messenger, so count us among those who bear witness.’ witness."

God said, ‘O "O Jesus, I shall take you to Me and will raise you up to Me and shall clear you [of the calumnies] of the disbelievers, and shall place those who follow you above those who deny the truth, until the Day of Judgement; then to Me shall all return and I will judge between you regarding your disputes.

Those who deny the truth shall be sternly punished in this world and in the world to come: there shall be none to help them.’ them."

Jesus in the sight of God is like Adam. He created him from dust; then said to him, ‘Be!’ "Be!" and he was.

And if anyone should argue with you about this [truth] after the knowledge you have received, say to them, ‘Come! "Come! Let us gather our sons and your sons, our women and your women, and ourselves and yourselves; and then let us pray earnestly and invoke the curse of God upon the liars.

This is the true account. There is no deity save Him. God is Mighty and Wise.’ Wise."

Say, ‘People "People of the Book, let us come to a word common to us that we shall worship none but God and that we shall associate no partner with Him and that none of us shall take others, besides God, for lords.’ lords." And if they turn away, say, ‘Bear "Bear witness that we have submitted to God.’ God."

People of the Book! Why do you deny God’s God's signs, having been witnesses thereof?

Some of the People of the Book say to one another, ‘Believe "Believe in what is revealed to the faithful in the morning and deny it in the evening, so that they [the Muslims] may themselves abandon their faith [in confusion].

Believe only in those who follow your own religion.’ religion." Say to them, ‘Surely, "Surely, the true guidance is the guidance from God.’ God." [But you think it is impossible that] someone else may be granted [revelation] such as you were granted—or granted -- or else that they should contend against you before your Lord. Say, ‘All "All grace is in the hands of God; He grants it to whom He wills: for God is boundless, and all knowing,

He singles out for His mercy whoever He pleases. God is the Lord of exceeding bounty.’ bounty."

Among the people of the Book there are some who, if you entrust them with a heap of gold, will return it to you. But there are others of them who, if you entrust them with a single dinar, will not return it to you, unless you keep demanding it from them. That is because they say, ‘We "We are under no obligation towards the gentiles.’ gentiles." They deliberately tell lies about God.

Those who sell out God’s God's covenant and their oaths for a paltry price will have no share in the life to come on the Day of Resurrection. God will neither speak to them nor cast a look upon them on the Day of Judgement, nor will He purify them. For them there shall be a grievous punishment.

No one to whom God has given the Scriptures and on whom He has bestowed wisdom and prophethood would say to men, ‘Worship "Worship me instead of God.’ God." [He would say rather], ‘Be "Be devoted servants of God, for you have taught and studied the Scriptures.’ Scriptures."

When God made a covenant with the prophets, He said, ‘Here "Here is the Book and the wisdom which I have given you. When there comes to you a messenger fulfilling that [predictions about him in their Scripture] which is with you, you must believe in him and help him. Do you then affirm this and accept the responsibility I have laid upon you in these terms?’ terms?" They said, ‘We "We will affirm it.’ it." God said, ‘Then "Then bear witness, and I will bear witness with you.’ you."

Say, ‘We "We believe in God and in what has been sent down to us and to Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob and the Tribes. We believe in what has been given to Moses, Jesus and the prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between any of them. It is to Him that we have surrendered ourselves.’ ourselves."

All food was lawful for the Children of Israel, except whatever Israel had made unlawful for himself before the Torah was sent down. Say to them, ‘Bring "Bring the Torah then and read it, if you are truthful.

Those who, after this, persist in making up lies and attributing them to God are transgressors.’ transgressors."

Say, ‘God "God speaks the Truth, so follow the faith of Abraham. He was an upright man and he was not one of the polytheists.’ polytheists."

Say, ‘People "People of the Book, why do you reject God’s God's revelations when God is witness to all that you do?’ do?"

Say, ‘People "People of the Book, why do you turn the believers away from the path of God, seeking to make it crooked, while you are witnesses thereof? God is not unaware of what you do.’ do."

But how can you deny the truth when God’s God's revelations are being conveyed to you and His own Messenger is in your midst? He who holds fast to God is indeed guided to the straight path.

On the Day when some faces are bright and some faces are dark, it will be said to those with darkened faces, ‘Did "Did you reject faith after accepting it? Taste, then, this punishment for having denied the truth!’ truth!"

But as for those with shining faces, they shall abide forever in God’s God's grace.

These are God’s God's revelations; We recite them to you in all truth. God desires no injustice to mankind.

They can do you very little harm; if they come out to fight you, they will show you their backs; then they shall not be helped— helped --

abasement shall attend them wherever they are found, unless they make a covenant with God or with man. They have incurred God’s God's wrath and have been utterly humbled, because they have persistently disbelieved in God’s God's signs and killed prophets unjustly. This resulted from their disobedience and their habit of transgression.

It is you who love them, but they do not love you; you believe in all the revealed Books. When they meet you, they say, ‘We believe,’ "We believe," but when they are alone, they bite their fingertips with rage. Say, ‘Die "Die of rage!’ rage!" God is aware of what your hearts contain.

When you set out at dawn from your home to assign battle positions to the believers—God believers -- God hears all and knows all.

[And remember] when you said to the believers, ‘Does "Does it not suffice that your Lord helps you by sending down three thousand angels?

If you remain patient and God-fearing, and the enemy should fall upon you all of a sudden, Your Lord will reinforce you with five thousand angels clearly marked!’ marked!"

and God ordained this only as good news for you so that your hearts might be comforted—help comforted, help comes only from God, the Powerful, the Wise One— One,

Believers, do not devour usury multiplied many times over. Fear God, so that you may prosper— prosper,

guard yourself against the Fire prepared for those who deny the truth— truth,

And vie with one another for your Lord’s Lord's forgiveness and for a Paradise as vast as the heavens and the earth, which has been prepared for the God-fearing,

for those who spend, both in prosperity and adversity, who restrain their anger and are forgiving towards their fellow men—God men -- God loves those who do good works.

And who, when they have committed an indecency or have wronged their souls, remember God and pray that their sins be forgiven—for forgiven, for who but God can forgive sins?—and sins?, and do not knowingly persist in their misdeeds,

And do not become faint of heart, nor grieve—you grieve, you will have the upper hand, if you are believers— believers,

No soul shall die except with God’s God's permission and at an appointed time. And if one desires the rewards of this world, We shall grant it to him; and if one desires the rewards of the life to come, We shall grant it to him. We will reward the grateful.

How many a prophet has fought with many devout men alongside him! They did not lose heart, despite all that they had to suffer in God’s God's path. They neither weakened nor yielded. God loves the patient!

All they said was, ‘Our "Our Lord, forgive us our sins and our excesses. Make our feet firm, and help us against those who deny the truth,’ truth,"

And God made good His promise to you when by His leave you were about to destroy your foes, but then your courage failed you and you disagreed among yourselves [concerning the Prophet’s Prophet's direction] and disobeyed it, after He had brought you within sight of what you wished for—some for, some of you desired the goods of this world and some of you desired the Hereafter—then Hereafter, then in order that He might put you to the test, He prevented you from defeating your foes. But now He has pardoned you: God is most gracious to the believers.

Then, after sorrow He sent down peace [of mind] upon you in the shape of drowsiness that overcame some of you, but there were others who were anxious only about themselves. They entertained false notions about God, like the notions of the days of ignorance. ‘Have "Have we any say in the matter?’ matter?" they asked. Say to them, ‘All "All is in the hands of God.’ God." They conceal in their hearts what they would not reveal to you. They say, ‘Had "Had we had any say in the matter, none of us would have been killed here.’ here." Say to them, ‘Had "Had you stayed in your homes, those whose death had been decreed would nevertheless have gone forth to the places where they were destined to die.’ die." And all this befell you so that God might test what is in your minds. And in order to purify what was in your hearts. For God is aware of your innermost thoughts.

Believers, do not be like those who are bent on denying the truth and who say of their brothers, when they travel about the land or go forth to war, ‘Had "Had they but remained with us, they would not have died, or been slain’—for slain" -- for God will cause such thoughts to become a source of bitter regret in their hearts, since it is God who gives life and causes death. And God sees all that you do.

If you are killed or die in God’s God's cause, then surely forgiveness from God and His grace are better than all that one could amass.

It is by God’s God's grace that you were gentle with them—for them -- for if you had been harsh and hard-hearted, they would surely have deserted you—so you -- so bear with them and pray for forgiveness for them. Take counsel with them in the conduct of affairs; then, when you have decided upon a course of action, place your trust in God: for God loves those who place their trust in Him.

Can one who seeks the pleasure of God, be like one who incurs the wrath of God and whose abode shall be Hell—an Hell -- an evil destination?

What! When a misfortune befalls you, after you had yourself inflicted twice as heavy losses, you say, ‘How "How has this come about?’ about?" Say, ‘It "It was your own fault.’ fault." Truly, God has the power to will anything:

the misfortune which befell you on the day when the two armies met happened by God’s God's leave, so that He might mark out the [true] believers

and know those who acted hypocritically.’ hypocritically." When they were told, ‘Come, "Come, fight in God’s God's cause and defend yourselves,’ yourselves," they replied, ‘If "If we knew that fighting would take place, we would surely follow you.’ you." They were that day nearer to unbelief than to belief. The words they utter bear no relation to what is in their hearts. God knows well what they conceal.

Those who stayed behind, said of their brothers, ‘Had "Had they listened to us, they would not have been killed.’ killed." Say to them, ‘Ward "Ward off death from yourselves, then, if what you say be true!’ true!"

Do not think of those who have been killed in God’s God's cause as dead. They are alive, and well provided for by their Lord;

rejoicing in God’s God's grace and bounty. [They know that] God will not fail to requite the believers.

Those who, on being told that, ‘the "the enemy has gathered against you a great force, so fear them,’ them," only grew stronger in their faith and replied, ‘God "God is sufficient for us. He is the best guardian.’ guardian."

They returned home with God’s God's favour and blessings, without having been touched by evil; for they pursued God’s God's pleasure. And God’s God's bounty is infinite.

And let not those grieve you who vie with one another in denying the truth: they cannot harm God in the least; it is God’s God's will that they will have no share in the life to come—a come -- a severe punishment awaits them.

Let not those who deny the truth think that Our granting them respite is good for them: Our granting them respite will only cause them to increase in disobedience—shameful disobedience -- shameful punishment awaits them.

God has indeed heard the words of those who said, ‘Behold, "Behold, God is poor while we are rich!’ rich!" We shall record what they have said—and said, and their slaying of the prophets unjustly—and unjustly, and We shall say, ‘Taste "Taste the torment of burning.

In return for what your own hands have wrought—for wrought -- for never does God do the least wrong to His creatures!’ creatures!"

To those who say, ‘God "God has commanded us not to believe in any messenger unless he brings down to us an offering to be consumed by fire,’ fire," say, ‘Messengers "Messengers before me have come to you with clear signs, including the one you demand. Why did you kill them, if you are telling the truth?’ truth?"

who remember God while standing, sitting and [lying] on their sides, and who ponder over the creation of the heavens and the earth, saying, ‘Lord, "Lord, You have not created all this without purpose. Glory be to You! Save us from the torment of the Fire.

Lord, we have heard a caller calling to the true faith saying, “Believe "Believe in your Lord,” Lord," and we believed. Lord, forgive us our sins and remove from us our bad deeds and make us die with the virtuous.

Our Lord! Grant us what You have promised to us through Your messengers, and do not humiliate us on the Day of Resurrection. Surely, You never fail to fulfill Your promise.’ promise."

Their Lord accepted their prayer, saying, ‘I "I will deny no man or woman among you the reward of their labours. You are members one of another. I will certainly forgive the sins of those who emigrated and were expelled from their homes, who suffered persecution in My cause, who fought and were killed. I will certainly admit them to Gardens through which rivers flow, as a reward from God: with God is the best reward.’ reward."

this is only a brief enjoyment, after which Hell shall be their abode—what abode -- what an evil resting place!

Those who fear their Lord shall have gardens through which rivers flow, wherein they will abide forever: and a goodly welcome from their Lord. God’s God's recompense is best for the virtuous.

Some of the People of the Book believe in God, and in what has been revealed to you and what was revealed to them. They humble themselves before God and do not sell God’s God's revelations for a trifling price. These shall be rewarded by their Lord: God is swift in reckoning!

If you fear that you cannot deal fairly with orphan girls, you may marry women of your choice, two or three or four; but if you fear that you might not be able to treat them with equal fairness, then only one—or one -- or [from among] those whom you rightfully possess. That is more likely to keep you from committing an injustice.