Mealler

That is when those who acknowledge were truly tested; they were severely shaken up.

The hypocrites and those who have a sickness in their hearts said, "God and His messenger promised us nothing but illusions!"

A group of them said, "O people of Yathrib, you cannot make a stand; therefore, retreat." A small party of them sought permission from the prophet, saying: "Our homes are exposed," while they were not exposed. They just wanted to flee.

If the enemy had entered at them from all sides, and then they were asked to betray, they would do so with very little hesitation.

Indeed they had pledged to God before this that they would not turn around and flee. Making a pledge to God brings great responsibility.

Say, "It will not benefit you to flee away from death or from being killed, for you will only have the enjoyment for a short while."

Say, "Who can protect you from God if He intends to harm you, or He intends any blessing for you?" They will never find besides God any ally or victor.

God already knows which of you are the hinderers, and those who say to their brothers: "Come and stay with us." Rarely do they mobilize for battle.

They are miserable towards you. Then, when fear comes, you see their eyes rolling, as if death had already come to them. But once the fear is gone, they lash out at you with sharp tongues. They are miserable towards doing any good. These have not acknowledged, so God nullifies their works. This is easy for God to do.

They thought that the opponents had not yet mobilized. If the opponents do appear, they wish that they were out in the desert, seeking out news for you. Even if they were among you, they would not have fought except very little.