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XXXIII,15-23. THE CHAPTER OF THE CONFEDERATES. 141
[15] They had covenanted with God before, that they would not turn their backs; and God's covenant shall be enquired of.
Say, 'Flight shall avail you naught; if ye fly from death or slaughter, even then ye shall be granted enjoyment only for a little!'
Say, 'Who is it that can save you from God, if He wish you evil, or wish you mercy?' but they will not find beside God a patron or a helper.
Say, 'God knows the hinderers amongst you, and those who say to their brethren, "Come along unto us," and show but little valour;-covetous towards you'. When fear comes thou wilt see them looking towards thee, their eyes rolling like one fainting with death; but when the fear has passed away they will assail you with sharp tongues, covetous of the best 2. These have never believed, and God will make vain their works, for that is easy with God.
[20] They reckoned that the confederates would never go away; and if the confederates should come they would fain be in the desert with the Arabs, asking for news of you! and if they were amongst you they would fight but little.
Ye had in the Apostle of God a good example for him who hopes for God and the last day, and who remembers God much.
And when the believers saw the confederates they said, 'This is what God and His Apostle promised us; God and His Apostle are true!' and it only increased them in faith and resignation. Amongst the believers are men who have been
1 I. e. chary of helping you, but greedy of the spoils. 2 I. e. the best share of the spoils.
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