Quran Audio in English: Chapter 2 The Cow

 

Quran Chapter 2 – The Cow

In the name of God, the Kind, the Caring.

A. L. M.

This Book: there is no doubt in it: a guide for the righteous.

Those who believe in the unseen, perform the prayers and spend from what We provide for them.

And those who believe in what was revealed to you, and in what was revealed before you, and are sure of the Hereafter.

These are guided by their Lord. These are the successful.

Those who disbelieve — it's the same for them, whether you warn them or not — they won’t believe.

God has sealed their hearts and hearing, and there is a veil over their vision. They will have a great punishment.

Some people say, “We believe in God and the Last Day,” but they aren’t believers.

They try to deceive God and believers. But they deceive none but themselves, and they don’t know.

There is a sickness in their hearts, and God increased their sickness. They will have a painful punishment for lying.

When they’re told, “Don’t work corruption on earth,” they say, “We are working righteousness.”

In fact, they are the workers of corruption, but they don’t realize it.

And when they’re told, “Believe as people believed,” they say, “Should we believe as fools believed?” In fact, they are the fools, but they don’t know.

And when they meet the believers, they say, “We believe.” But when they're alone with their devils, they say, “We are with you; we were joking.”

God will punish them for making jokes, and He leaves them blind in their rebellion.

They chose misguidance rather than guidance. But their choice wasn’t profitable. They aren't guided.

They are like the person who lights a fire. When it lights up all around him, God takes away their light and leaves them in darkness — unable to see.

Deaf, dumb, blind. They won’t come back.

Or like a rainstorm from the sky. Full of darkness, thunder, and lightning. They press their fingers in their ears against the lightning, fearing death. But God surrounds the unbelievers.

Lightning almost blinds them. Every time it lights up for them, they walk through it. And when it's dark, they stand still. If God wanted, He could take away their hearing and sight. God can do anything.

O, people! Worship your Lord, Who created you and those before you, so that you may protect yourselves.

He made the earth a habitat for you, and the sky a structure. He sends rain from the sky, and He produces fruit for your sustenance. So don’t knowingly set equals to God.

If you doubt what We revealed to Our servant, then produce a similar chapter, and call your witnesses besides God: if you’re truthful.

But if you don’t, and you won’t, then beware of the Fire, whose fuel is people and stones, prepared for unbelievers.

Give good news to the believers who do good deeds: they'll have gardens under which rivers flow. Whenever they receive fruit from them, as sustenance, they will say, “This was given to us before.” And they’ll be given the like of it. They'll have pure spouses. They'll stay there forever.

God doesn’t hesitate to give a parable of a mosquito or something more significant. The believers know that it’s the truth from their Lord. But the unbelievers say, “What does God mean by this parable?” He misleads many with it, and He guides many with it. But He only misleads the wrongdoers.

Those who break their promise to God after their agreement, and who break what God commanded to join, and who work corruption on earth: these are the losers.

How can you deny God, when you were lifeless, and He brought you to life, then He will let you die, then He will bring you back to life, and then you’ll be brought back to Him?

He created for you all that is on earth, then He turned to heaven, and He formed them seven heavens. He knows everything.

Your Lord said to the angels, “I am placing a successor on earth.” They said, “Will You place someone who will work corruption and shed blood, while we declare Your praises and holiness?” He said, “I know what you don’t know.”

He taught Adam the names of all things. Then He presented them to the angels and said, “Tell Me the names of these, if you’re truthful.”

They said, “Glory be to You! We only know what You taught us. You're the Knower and Wise.”

He said, “O Adam, tell them their names.” And when He told them their names, He said, “Didn’t I tell you that I know the secrets of the heavens and the earth, and I know what you show and what you conceal?”

We said to the angels, “Bow down to Adam.” So they bowed down, except Iblees. He refused, behaved arrogantly, and was ungrateful.

We said, “O Adam, live with your wife in Paradise. And eat freely what you like. But don’t approach this tree, lest you be unjust.”

But Satan tempted them, and he drove them out of their place. We said, “Go down: Some of you are enemies of each other. On earth, you’ll have residence and enjoyment for a while.”

Then Adam received words from his Lord, and He accepted his repentance. He's the Forgiver, the Kind.

We said, “Go down from here, all of you. But when guidance from Me comes to you, whoever follows My guidance has nothing to fear and won't be sad.

But the unbelievers who reject Our revelations are the inhabitants of the Fire, where they'll stay forever.”

O Children of Israel: Remember the gifts I gave you, and keep your promise to Me, and I'll keep My promise to you. And revere Me.

And believe what I revealed. It confirms what you have. And don’t be the first to deny it, and don’t sell My revelations cheaply, and be conscious of Me.

And don’t mix the truth with falsehood, and don’t knowingly conceal the truth.

And say your prayers, practice charity, and bow down with those who bow down.

Do you command people to behave well and forget yourselves, even though you read the Scripture? Don’t you understand?

And seek help with patience and prayer. But it's difficult, except for the humble.

Those who believe that they’ll meet their Lord and return to Him.

O Children of Israel: Remember the gifts I gave you; when I favored you over all others.

And fear the Day, when no soul will benefit another in any way, nor will any intercession be accepted on their behalf, nor any ransom will be accepted from it, nor will they be helped.

And remember when We saved you from Pharaoh’s people. They persecuted you terribly: killing your sons while sparing your women. That was a great trial from your Lord.

And remember that We parted the sea for you, so We saved you, and We drowned Pharaoh’s people while you watched.

And remember, when We invited Moses for forty nights, you worshiped the calf in his absence, doing evil.

Then we forgave you, so that you may be grateful.

Then We gave Moses the Scripture and the discernment, so that you may be guided.

Remember that Moses said to his people, “O my people! You have mistreated yourselves by worshiping the calf. So repent to your Maker and fight your souls. That’s better for you in your Maker's view.” And He accepted your repentance. He's the Relenting, the Kind.

And when you said, “O Moses, we won’t believe you unless we see God plainly.” Then the lightning struck you as you watched.

Then We resurrected you after your death, so that you may be grateful.

And We shaded you with clouds, and We sent you manna and quails. “Eat of the good things We provided for you.” They didn’t wrong Us, but they wronged themselves.

And when We said, “Enter this town. And eat what you like. But pass through the gate with humility. And say, ‘Forgive us.' We will forgive your sins and increase the reward of the righteous.”

But the wrongdoers substituted words other than those given to them, so We sent on the wrongdoers a scourge from heaven, because of their mischief.

And when Moses prayed for water for his people. We said, “Strike the rock with your staff.” And twelve springs gushed out, and each tribe recognized its drinking place. “Eat and drink of God’s provision, and don’t corrupt the earth with disobedience.”

And when you said, “O Moses, we can’t endure one kind of food. So ask your Lord to produce for us herbs, cucumbers, garlic, lentils, and onions.” He replied, “Will you exchange something superior for something inferior? Go back to Egypt, and you’ll get what you want.” Humiliation and misery befell them, and they angered God. It was because they rejected God’s revelations and wrongly killed the prophets. It was because they disobeyed and committed aggression.

The believers, the Jews, the Christians, and the Sabeans — whoever believes in God and the Last Day and acts righteously — will receive their reward from their Lord. They won't fear, and they won’t be sad.

And when We received from you a pledge, and We raised the mountain above you: “Hold firmly what we gave you, and remember what's in it, so that you may become righteous.”

Yet you turned away. But without God’s grace and mercy towards you, you would be losers.

You knew those who violated the Sabbath. We said to them, “Be despicable apes!”

So We made it an example for their generation and future generations, and a lesson for the righteous.

Remember when Moses said to his people, “God commands you to sacrifice a cow.” They said, “Are you kidding us?” He replied, “God forbid that I should be so ignorant.”

They said, “Ask your Lord to show us which one.” He replied: “He says she’s neither old nor young, but in between. So follow the instructions.”

They said, “Ask your Lord to specify what color she is.” He replied: “He says she’s a yellow cow, brightly colored, a delight for the onlookers.”

They said, “Ask your Lord to show us which one; the cows look alike to us; and God willing, we’ll be guided.”

He said, “He says, she’s a cow that wasn’t harnessed for plowing, nor for irrigating fields, sound and without scars.” They said, “Now you brought the truth.” So they slew her, although they almost didn’t.

And when you killed a person and covered it up. But God exposed what you hid.

We said, “Strike him with part of it.” This is how God gives life to the dead. He shows you His signs so that you can understand.

Then your hearts hardened. They were as rocks, even harder. But there are rocks from which streams flow, and others that break and water flows out, and others that tumble down in awe of God. God isn’t unaware of what you do.

Do you expect them to believe you; when some of them heard God’s word, and they deliberately twisted it, even after they understood it?

When they meet believers, they say, “We believe.” But when they're alone, they say, “Will you give them the knowledge that God revealed to you, so that they may use it against you before your Lord?” Don’t you understand?

Don’t they know that God knows what they conceal and declare?

Among them are uneducated people, who know the Scriptures only by hope, and they only guess.

Woe to those who write the Scripture with their own hands and then claim, “This is from God,” to earn some money. Woe to them for what their hands wrote, and woe to them for what they earn.

And they say, “The Fire won’t touch us except for a few days.” Say, “Did you receive a promise from God — God never breaks His promise — or are you saying about God what you don't know?”

Indeed, those who commit sins, and become besieged by their sins, are the inhabitants of the Fire, staying there forever.

But those who believe and do good deeds are the inhabitants of Paradise, staying there forever.

We entered into a contract with the Israelites: “Worship God alone. And take care of parents, relatives, orphans, and the needy. Speak kindly to people, pray regularly, and do charity.” But you turned away, resisted, except for a few of you.

We entered into a contract with you: “Don’t shed each other’s blood, nor expel each other from their homes.” You accepted and testified.

But here you are: Killing each other, expelling each other from their homes, and plotting against them in mischief and hostility. And when you took them captive, you demanded a ransom for them, although you were forbidden to do so. Do you believe in some parts of the Scriptures and reject others? What’s the payback for those who do so, except humiliation in this life? And on Resurrection Day, they’ll be sent to the most severe punishment. God isn't unaware of what you do.

They're the ones who bought this life at the price of the Hereafter. Their punishment won’t be lessened, nor will they be helped.

We gave Moses the Scripture, and We sent messengers after him. We gave Jesus, the son of Mary, miracles, and We supported him with the Holy Spirit. Whenever a messenger comes to you with what you dislike, do you become pushy, calling some liars and killing others?

They said, “Our hearts are covered.” In fact, God cursed them for their ingratitude. They have little faith.

When a book came to them from God, confirming what they already had — although they used to pray against the unbelievers — when what they recognized came to them, they denied it. So God’s curse is on the unbelievers.

What they sold their souls for is wretched: rejecting what God revealed, out of resentment that God should show favor to whomever He wills of His servants. So they incurred anger upon anger. The unbelievers will receive a humiliating punishment.

When they're told, “Believe in what God revealed,” they say, “We believe in what was revealed to us,” and they deny what came after it, although it’s the truth, confirming what they already have. Say: “So why did you kill God’s prophets before, if you're believers?”

Moses came to you with clear evidence, but you adopted the calf in his absence and became evildoers.

We made a contract with you and raised the mountain above you: “Hold fast what we gave you, and listen.” They said, “We hear, and we disobey.” And their hearts were filled with the love of the calf because of their unbelief. Say, “Terrible is what your faith tells you to do — if you are believers.”

Say, “If the Final Home with God is yours, to the exclusion of all others, wish for death, if you’re truthful.”

But they’ll never wish for it, because of what their hands have done. God is aware of the wrongdoers.

Of all humankind, you'll find them the most eager for life, even more than the pagans. Each one of them wishes to live a thousand years. But being granted a long life won't nudge him from the punishment. God sees what they do.

Say, “Who is Gabriel's enemy? He sent it down to your heart, by God’s authority, confirming what preceded it, and guidance and good news for believers.”

Whoever is an enemy of God, His angels, His messengers, Gabriel and Michael — God is the enemy of the faithless.

We revealed to you clear verses, and only the wicked reject them.

Whenever they make an agreement, some of them break it. In fact, most of them don’t believe.

When a messenger from God came to them, confirming what they already have, a group of those who received the Scripture threw God’s Scripture behind their backs: as if they didn't know.

And they followed what the devils taught during Solomon's reign. Solomon wasn’t unbelieving, but it was the devils who were unbelieving. They taught the people witchcraft and what was revealed in Babylon to the two angels Harut and Marut. Although they didn’t teach anyone until they warned them: “We’re a test, so don’t lose faith.” But they learned from them how to create conflict between husband and wife. But they can’t harm anyone, except with God's permission. And they studied what hurts them and doesn’t benefit them. Yet, they knew that whoever deals in it, will have no share in the Hereafter. Miserable is what they sold their souls for — if they only knew.

If they had believed and been righteous, God's reward would've been better — if they only knew.

O you who believe! Don’t say ambiguous words, but speak words of respect and listen. The unbelievers will have a painful punishment.

Neither the unbelievers among the Scripture-People nor the associators desire that anything good comes to you from your Lord. God assigns His grace to whom He wills. God is the Possessor of immense grace.

We never undo a verse, nor do We make it forgotten unless We replace it with something similar or better. Don’t you know that God can do anything?

Don’t you know that the kingdom of Heavens and Earth belongs to God? There is no protector or helper for you except God.

Or do you want to ask your Messenger as Moses was asked before? He who exchanges faith for unbelief has abandoned the right path.

Many of the Scripture-People would like to make you unbelievers, after you have believed, out of jealousy, after the truth became clear to them. But forgive and overlook until God fulfills His command. God has control over all things.

Perform the prayer and give the purifying charity. Any good you produce for yourself, you’ll find it with God. God sees everything you do.

They say that only Jews and Christians will enter Paradise. These are their wishes. Say, “Prove it: if you speak the truth.”

Surely, whoever submits to God and is righteous: his reward will be from his Lord — they won’t fear or be sad.

The Jews say, “Christians are based on nothing.” And Christians say, “Jews are based on nothing.” Yet, they all read the Bible. Similarly, the ignorant say the same things. God will decide between their differences on Resurrection Day.

Who can be worse than he who prevents God’s name from being celebrated in His places of worship, and he seeks to ruin them? These aren't allowed in them, except scared. They'll have disgrace in this world and severe punishment in the Hereafter.

East and West belong to God. Wherever you turn, God’s presence is there. God is Vast and All-Knowing.

And they say, “God has adopted a son.” Glory be to Him. In fact, everything in the heavens and on earth belongs to Him — everything obeys Him.

The Creator of the heavens and the earth. When He decides something, He says to it, “Be,” and it becomes.

The ignorant say, “If only God would speak to us, or a sign would come to us.” People before them said similar things. Their hearts are similar. We made the verses clear for those who are sure.

We sent you with the truth — with good news and warnings. You won’t be questioned about the inhabitants of the Blaze.

Jews and Christians won’t approve of you unless you follow their religion. Say, “God’s guidance is the guidance.” If you follow their desires, after the knowledge that has come to you: you’ll have no guardian or helper in God.

Those who received the Scripture recite it, as it should be recited — these believe in it. Those who reject it are the losers.

O Children of Israel! Remember My gifts to you. And I favored you over all other peoples.

Beware of a Day when no soul will benefit another, by any means, and no ransom will be accepted from it, no intercession will benefit it, and they won’t be helped.

When his Lord tested Abraham, and he achieved them. He said, “I will make you a leader of humankind.” He asked, “What about my descendants?” He replied, “My promise won't reach the wrongdoers.”

We made the House a focal point for people — and a sanctuary. Take Abraham’s station as a place of prayer. We said to Abraham and Ishmael: “Purify My House for those who encircle it, those who seclude themselves, and those who bow and prostrate.”

When Abraham prayed, “My Lord, make this land peaceful. And sustain with fruits those who believe in God and in the Last Day.” He said, “Whoever disbelieves, I'll give him a little pleasure, then I'll drive him to the punishment of the Fire. What a terrible destination!”

While Abraham was raising the foundations of the House, along with Ishmael: “Our Lord, accept from us; You're the Listener, the Knower.

Our Lord, keep us submissive to You; and from our descendants a community submissive to You. And teach us our rituals and accept our repentance. You're the Acceptor of Repentance, the Kind.

Our Lord: Send them a messenger from among their people, who will read your revelations to them, teach them the Book and Wisdom, and purify them. You're the Almighty, the Wise.”

Who turns away from Abraham’s religion except for someone who fools himself? We chose him in this life. And in the Hereafter, he will be among the righteous.

His lord said to him, “Submit.” He replied, “I have submitted to the Lord of the Worlds.”

Abraham advised his children, as well as Jacob: “O my children, God chose your religion for you, so die only in submission.”

Did you witness the approach of Jacob's death, as he asked his children, “What will you worship after me?” They replied, “We will worship your God and the God of your ancestors Abraham, Ishmael, and Isaac. The One God. And we're submissive to Him.”

This community has passed on. They'll reap the rewards for what they did, and you'll reap the rewards for what you did, and you won’t be questioned about what they did.

They say, “Become Jews or Christians, and you’ll be guided.” Say, “In truth, the religion of Abraham, the Monotheist, who wasn’t an associator.”

Say: “We believe in God, and in what was revealed to us, and in what was revealed to Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, and the Tribes, and in what was given to Moses and Jesus, and in what was given to the prophets by their Lord. We make no distinction between any of them. We submit ourselves to Him.”

If they believe the same as you, they’ll be guided. But if they turn away, they’ll be divided. God suffices you against them. He's the Listener, the Knower.

The dye of God. What dye is better than God’s dye for coloring? “We worship Him.”

Say, “Do you dispute with us about God, when He's our Lord and your Lord, and we have our deeds, and you have your deeds, and we’re devoted to Him?”

Or do you claim that Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, and the Tribes were Jews or Christians? Say, “Do you know better or God?” Who's more sinful than he who hides evidence from God? God isn't unaware of what you do.

This community is gone. They'll reap the rewards for what they did, and you'll reap the rewards for what you did, and you won’t be questioned about what they did.

Some foolish people will ask, “What turned them away from the direction in which they were praying?” Say, “East and West belong to God. He guides whom He wills to a straight path.”

We, therefore, made you a moderate nation; to be witnesses over people, and the Messenger be a witness over you. We established your former prayer direction to distinguish the Messenger’s followers from those who turn their backs. Yet it’s difficult, except for those whom God guided. God won't let your faith go to waste. God is Good and Merciful to people.

We saw you turn your face towards the sky. We will steer you in a direction that will please you. So turn your face towards the Holy Mosque. Wherever you may be, turn your faces towards it. Those who received the Scripture know that it’s the truth from their Lord. God isn't unaware of what they do.

Even if you bring the people of the Scripture every verse, they won’t follow your direction, nor will you follow their direction, nor do they follow each other’s direction. If you follow their desires, after the knowledge that came to you, you would be unjust.

Those who received the Scripture recognize it as they recognize their children. But some of them deliberately conceal the truth.

The truth is from your Lord. So don’t be of those who doubt.

Everyone has a direction to which he turns. So compete in doing good deeds. Wherever you may be, God will bring you together. God is capable of everything.

Wherever you come from, turn your face towards the Holy Mosque. This is the truth from your Lord. God isn't unaware of what you do.

Wherever you come from, turn your face towards the Holy Mosque. And wherever you may be, turn your faces towards it. So that people may have no argument against you — except the wrongdoers among them. So don’t fear them, but fear Me, then I'll complete My favors upon you, so that you may be guided.

As We sent you a messenger from among you, he recites Our verses to you, purifies you, teaches you the Book and wisdom, and teaches you what you didn’t know.

So remember Me, and I'll remember you. And thank Me, and don’t reject.

O you who believe: Seek help through patience and prayer — God is with the patient.

And don’t say of those who are killed in God’s path: “dead.” In fact, they’re alive, but you don’t feel it.

We'll test you with some fear, hunger, loss of wealth, lives, and crops. Give the patient good news.

Those who, when struck by misfortune, say, “We belong to God, and we return to Him.”

On these are the blessings and mercy of their Lord. These are the guided.

Safa and Marwa are among God's rituals. Whoever performs the Pilgrimage to the House, or performs the Minor Pilgrimage, must walk between them. And whoever does good voluntarily — God is Appreciative and Knowledgeable.

Those who conceal the evidence and guidance We revealed — after We clearly indicated them to people in the Book. These: God curses them, and the cursers curse them.

Except those who repent, reform, and proclaim. These: I'll accept their repentance. I'm the Acceptor of Repentance, the Merciful.

Those who disbelieve and die unbelieving are cursed by God, by the angels, and by all people.

They'll stay under it forever, and their suffering won't be lessened or postponed.

Your God is one God. There's no other god but Him, the Kind, the Caring.

In the creation of the heavens and the earth, in the cycle of day and night, in the ships that sail the seas for people's benefit, in the rain that God sends from the sky to give life to the dead earth, in the scattering of all kinds of creatures everywhere, in the movements of wind and clouds that float between heaven and earth, are signs for people who understand.

Some people take others as equals to God. They love them as the love of God. But believers love God passionately. If only the evildoers could see the suffering, they would know that all power belongs to God and that God is severe in punishment.

Those who were followed will disown their followers. They'll see the punishment, and their relationships will be broken.

The followers would say, “If we had another chance, we would disown them, as they disowned us.” Thus, God will show them their deeds, which they'll regret. They'll never come out of the Fire.

O, people! Eat what’s lawful and good on earth, and don’t follow in Satan’s footsteps. He's your declared enemy.

He commands you evil, indecency, and to say about God what you don’t know.

When told, “Follow what God has revealed,” they respond, “We follow what we found our ancestors doing.” Even if their ancestors understood nothing and weren’t guided?

The unbelievers are like those who appeal to someone who hears nothing but shouts and screams. Deaf, dumb, blind — they don’t understand.

O you who believe! Eat the good things that we have provided you with. And give thanks to God: if you worship Him.

He forbade you carrion, blood, pork, and animals slaughtered with a name other than that of God. But if someone is forced by necessity — neither by desire nor by excess — he commits no sin. God is Forgiving and Merciful.

Those who hide what God revealed in the Book, and exchange it for a small price, consume nothing but fire in their stomachs. God won't speak to them on Resurrection Day, nor will He purify them. They'll suffer a painful punishment.

They chose error rather than guidance and punishment rather than forgiveness. But how will they withstand the Fire?

That’s because God sent the Book with the truth. But those who disagree with the Book are in foolish heresy.

Purification isn’t about turning one's face east or west. But pure is he who believes in God, the Last Day, the angels, the Book, and the prophets. Who gives money, though dear, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the homeless, beggars, and for the freeing of captives; those who perform the prayers, pay the purifying charity, keep their promises when they promise, and endure in the face of sickness, hardship, and in times of conflict. These are the sincere; these are the righteous.

O you who believe! Retaliation is prescribed for you in case of murder: the free for the free, the slave for the slave, and the female for the female. But if he's forgiven by his sibling, then give any reasonable request, and pay willingly. This is relief and mercy from your Lord. But whoever oversteps the limits will have a painful punishment.

There is life for you in retaliation, O people of understanding, so that you may refrain from it.

It's prescribed for you: when death approaches one of you, and he leaves wealth behind, to make a will in favor of parents and relatives — in all honesty — a duty for the righteous.

If someone changes it after hearing it: the guilt is on those who change it. God is Listener and Knower.

If someone suspects bias or injustice on the part of a testator, then reconciles them, he doesn’t sin. God is Forgiving and Merciful.

O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you, as prescribed for those before you, so that you may become righteous.

For a certain number of days. But anyone who's sick or traveling, then some other days. For those who are capable: a ransom of feeding a needy person. Whoever does good voluntarily benefits from it. Fasting is good for you — if you only knew.

Ramadan is the month in which the Quran was revealed. Guidance for people, clear teachings, and discernment. Whoever among you witnesses the month should fast it. But anyone who's sick or traveling, then other days. God wants for you ease and no difficulties. So that you may complete the number, glorify God for having guided you, and be thankful.

When My servants ask you about Me: I Am near, I answer the prayer of the prayerful when he prays to Me. So let them answer Me, and believe in Me, so that they may be guided.

You're allowed to sleep with your wives on the nights of fasting. They're clothing for you, and you're clothing for them. God knew you were deceiving yourselves, but He relented towards you and forgave you. So now, approach them and desire what God has allowed you, and eat and drink until the white thread of dawn becomes distinct from the black thread. Then complete the fast until nightfall. But don’t approach them while you're in seclusion in mosques. These are God’s boundaries, so stay away from them. This is how God explains His verses to people, so they may protect themselves.

Don’t unjustly consume the wealth of others, and don’t deliberately bribe the authorities to unjustly consume people’s wealth.

They ask you about the crescents. Say, “They are schedules for people and for Hajj.” There's no virtue in entering houses from their backs, but virtue lies in righteousness. Enter houses through their front doors. And be aware of God, so that you may succeed.

Fight in God’s path those who fight you, but don’t commit aggression — God doesn’t like aggressors.

Kill them wherever you overtake them, and expel them from where they expelled you. Persecution is worse than murder. But don’t fight them near the Holy Mosque unless they fight you there. If they fight you, then kill them — that's the payback for unbelievers.

But if they cease: then God is Forgiving and Kind.

Fight them until there's no more persecution, and all worship is dedicated to God. But if they cease: let there be no hostility, except against the wrongdoers.

The Holy Month for the Holy Month and violation calls for retaliation. If someone commits aggression against you, respond equally, and be mindful of God, and know that God is with the righteous.

Spend in God’s way, and don’t contribute to your ruin, and be charitable. God loves the charitable.

Perform Hajj and Umrah for God. But if you're prevented, then any offering is feasible. Don’t shave your heads until the offering has reached its destination. If one of you is sick or has a scalp disease: redemption by fasting, charity, or worship. When you're secure: whoever wants to combine Umrah with Hajj, any offering is feasible. The one who can’t afford it should fast three days during Hajj and seven upon his return, ten in all. This applies to those whose families don’t live near the Holy Mosque. Be mindful of God, and know that God is severe in punishment.

Hajj takes place during specific months. Whoever undertakes the Hajj: There shall be no sexual intimacy, no misconduct, or quarreling during the Hajj. Whatever good you do, God knows it. Prepare, but the best preparation is righteousness. And think of Me, you intelligent people.

You do no wrong by seeking your Lord’s generosity. When you disperse from Mount Arafat, remember God at the Holy Monument. Remember Him because He guided you, and you were misled in the past.

Then disperse from where people dispersed. And ask God to forgive you. God is Forgiving and Merciful.

When you've finished your rituals: remember God, as you remember your parents, or even more. Some people pray, “Our Lord, give us in this world,” but they have no share in the Hereafter.

And some people pray: “Our Lord, give us good in this world, good in the Afterlife, and protect us from the suffering of the Fire.”

These will receive a share of what they earned. God calculates quickly.

Remember God during the appointed days. Anyone in a hurry to leave after two days does no wrong. And whoever stays does no wrong, as long as he keeps righteousness. Obey God and know that you’ll be gathered before Him.

There is a person whose speech about this life impresses you, and he calls on God to witness what’s in his heart, but he’s the fiercest opponent.

When he comes to power, he strives to spread corruption on earth, destroying properties and lives. God doesn’t like corruption.

When he is told, “Beware of God,” his pride leads him to sin. Hell is enough for him — a terrible place.

Yet, there is a person who gives his life to obtain God’s pleasure. God is Kind to the servants.

O you who believe: enter into submission, with all your heart, and don’t follow in Satan’s footsteps. He's your declared enemy.

But if you stumble after clear evidence has reached you, know that God is Powerful and Wise.

What are they waiting for? For God and the angels to descend in the shades of the clouds? By then, fate would be sealed. All matters return to God.

Ask the Israelites how many clear signs We gave them. Anyone who exchanges a gift he received from God: God is severe in punishment.

The worldly life was made attractive to unbelievers, and they ridicule believers. But the righteous will be above them on Resurrection Day. God provides abundantly to whom He wills.

Humanity was one community. Then God sent the prophets with good news and warnings. And He sent with them the Scripture, which contains the truth, to judge people’s differences. Only those who received it differed about it — after clear evidence had reached them — out of mutual jealousy. Then God led the believers to the truth they disputed, by His will. God guides whom He wills in a straight path.

Or do you expect to enter Paradise without experiencing what befell those before you? Misfortunes and trials stuck them, and they were so shaken: that the Messenger and those who believed with him said, “When will God’s help come?” Certainly, the help of God is near.

They ask you what they should spend. Say, “Whatever you give in charity is for parents, relatives, orphans, the poor, and the person on the path. Whatever good you do, God knows it.

The fight is ordered for you, although you hate it. But sometimes you hate something that's good for you, and sometimes you like something that's bad for you. God knows, and you don’t know.

They ask you about fighting during the Holy Month. Say, “Fighting during this month is a major sin. But preventing others from following God’s path, rejecting it, preventing access to the Holy Mosque, and expelling its residents, are more severe offenses before God. Persecution is worse than murder. They won’t stop fighting you until they've turned you away from your faith — if they can. Whoever turns away from his faith and dies in disbelief — the deeds of these people will be of no use in this life and in the Hereafter. These are the inhabitants of the Fire, who will stay there forever.

Believers who emigrate and struggle in God’s path hope for God’s Kindness. God is Forgiving and Good.

They ask you about alcohol and gambling. Say, “There is a major sin in them, and some benefits to people, but their sinfulness outweighs their benefits.” They ask you: what should their contribution be? Say, “Whatever you can spare.” This is how God explains the verses to you, so that you may think.

About this world and in the next. They ask you about orphans. Say, “Improvement for them is best. When you mingle with them, then they're your siblings.” God knows the corruptor from the reformer. If God had willed, He could have overburdened you. God is Strong and Wise.

Don’t marry idolatrous women until they have believed. A believing maid is better than an idolatress, even if you like her. And don’t marry idolatrous men until they have believed. A believing servant is better than an idolater, even if you like him. These invite to the Fire. But by His grace, God invites to Paradise and forgiveness. He explains His communications to people to remind them.

They ask you about menstruation: Say, “It’s hurtful, so stay away from women during menstruation. And don’t approach them until they're pure. Once they're pure, approach them as God instructed you.” God loves the repentant, and He loves the pure.

Your women are your culture. So approach your culture as you please. And prepare for yourselves. And fear God, and know that you’ll meet Him. And give good news to the believers.

Don’t let your oaths in God's name prevent you from practicing virtue, righteousness, and from making peace among people. God is Listener and Knower.

God doesn’t hold you accountable for your unintended oaths, but He holds you accountable for your intentions. God is Forgiving and Gentle.

Those who swear to abstain from their wives must wait four months. But if they go back — God is Forgiving and Kind.

But if they're determined to divorce — God is Hearing and Knowing.

Divorced women should wait three periods alone. It’s not permissible for them to hide what God created in their wombs — if they believe in God and the Last Day. Their husbands have the right to take them back — if they want to reconcile. Women also have rights and duties, according to what's right. But men have a degree over them. God is Powerful and Wise.

Divorce is twice. Keep them honorably or release them honorably. It’s not permissible to take back what you've given them — unless both sides fear they can’t keep God's boundaries. If you fear they can’t keep God’s boundaries, then there’s no blame on them for what she can give in a settlement. These are God’s boundaries, so don’t cross them. Those who cross God’s boundaries are the wrongdoers.

If he divorces her, she’s no longer legal for him, until she marries another husband. If he divorces her, their reunion can't be called into question, provided they believe they’re within God's boundaries. These are God's boundaries; He explains them to people who understand.

When you divorce women, and they come to their terms: keep them honorably or let them leave honorably. But don’t keep them to hurt them and commit aggression. Whoever does so has mistreated himself. Don’t take God’s revelations as a joke. Remember God's blessing upon you, and that He revealed to you the Book and Wisdom — to instruct you. And beware of God, and know that God knows all things.

When you divorce women and they reach their terms: don’t prevent them from marrying their husbands, provided they agree on fair terms. Whoever believes in God and the Last Day is instructed to do so. This is purer for you and more decent. God knows, and you don’t.

Mothers may nurse their children for two whole years — if she wishes to complete it. The father must support them and clothe them properly. No one should be burdened beyond their ability. No mother should be harmed because of her child, and no father should be harmed because of his child. The same applies to the heir. If they want separation by mutual consent and consultation, they do no wrong. You do no wrong by hiring nursing mothers, provided you pay them fairly. Be mindful of God, and know that God sees what you do.

Those of you who die and leave behind widows must wait four months and ten days alone. When they've reached their term, you won't be blamed for what they honorably do with themselves. God knows what you do.

You make no mistake in announcing your commitment to women, or in keeping it to yourself. God knows you intend to propose to them. But don’t meet in secret, unless you have something right to say. And don’t confirm the marriage bond, until the writing is fulfilled. And know that God knows what’s in your hearts, so beware of Him. And know that God is Forgiving and Gentle.

You make no mistake in divorcing women before you have touched them or set the gift for them. Support them: the wealthy according to his means, and the poor according to his means: an honorable provision — a duty for the good-doers.

If you divorce them before you've touched them, but after you've fixed the gift for them, give them half of what you specified — unless they waive it, or the person contracting the marriage tie waives it. But to waive it is nearer to righteousness. And don’t forget to be kind to one another. God sees all that you do.

Keep your prayers, and the middle prayer, and stand devoutly before God.

If you’re afraid: then standing or driving. When you're safe: remember God, as He taught you what you didn’t know.

Those who die and leave behind widows: must make a will for their maintenance for one year, provided they don’t leave. If they leave, you’re not blamed for what they do with themselves, provided it’s reasonable. God is Mighty and Wise.

Divorced women must be supported fairly — this is a duty for the righteous.

This is how God explains His verses to you, so you may understand.

Haven’t you seen those who fled their homes, by the thousands, for fear of death? God said to them, “Die.” Then He brought them back to life. God is Gracious to people, but most people are ungrateful.

Fight for God's cause, and know that God is Hearing and Knowing.

Who will give God a generous loan; so that He may multiply it for him many times? God withholds, or He provides abundantly. You’ll be returned to Him.

Didn’t you think of the leaders of the Israelites after Moses? When they said to their prophet, “Appoint for us a king, and we’ll fight in God’s way.” He said, “If you're ordered to fight, will you fight?” They said, “Why wouldn't we fight in God’s way; when we were expelled from our homes with our children?” But when they were ordered to fight, they turned away, except for a few. God knows the disobedient.

Their prophet said to them, “God appointed Saul to be your king.” They said, “How can he have authority over us: when we have more right to authority than he, and he wasn't given plenty of wealth?” He replied, “God chose him over you, and He gave him vast knowledge and physical strength.” God gives authority to whomever he wants. God is Infinite and All-Knowing.

Their prophet said to them, “The proof of his authority is the Ark that will be brought to you, a source of tranquility from your Lord, containing relics left behind by the families of Moses and Aaron. The angels will carry it. In this, there is a sign for you — if you're believers.”

When Saul left with the troops, he said, “God will test you with a river. Anyone who drinks from it doesn’t belong with me. But whoever doesn’t drink from it, belongs with me, except the one who scoops a little of it with his hand.” So they drank from it, except for a few of them. Then, when he crossed it, along with those who believed with him, they said, “We have no strength today to confront Goliath and his army.” But those who thought they would meet God said, “How many times have small forces defeated large forces with God’s help? God is with the patient.”

When they confronted Goliath and his army, they prayed, “Our Lord, fill us with patience, strengthen our footing, and help us against the unbelievers.”

And by the will of God, they defeated them. And David killed Goliath. And God gave him sovereignty and wisdom, and He taught him what He wanted. If God hadn't repelled some people by others, the earth would've gone to ruin. But God is Gracious to humankind.

These are God’s revelations. We recite them to you in truth. You're one of the messengers.

These messengers: We gave some advantages over others. And God spoke to some. And others, He elevated in rank. We gave Jesus, son of Mary, the apparent miracles, and We supported him with the Holy Spirit. If God had so willed, those who succeeded them wouldn’t have fought each other — after the clear signs had come to them — but they disputed; some of them believed, and others disbelieved. If God had so willed, they wouldn’t have fought; but God does what He wills.

O you who believe: Spend of what We provided for you; before the Day comes when there's no buying or selling, no friendship, and no intercession. The unbelievers are the unjust.

God! There's no god but He, the Living, the Eternal. Neither drowsiness nor sleep overtakes Him. Everything in the heavens and on earth belongs to Him. Who can intercede with Him without His permission? He knows what they achieved and what they didn’t do. They can only understand from His knowledge what He wants. His throne extends over heavens and earth, and He’s not burdened by their preservation. He's the Exalted, the Great.

There shall be no pressure in religion. The right way is distinct from the wrong way. Whoever rejects false gods and believes in God has grasped the most reliable handle — which never breaks. God is the Listener, the Knower.

God is the friend of believers. He brings them out of darkness into the light. As for unbelievers, their friends are false gods. They bring them out of light into darkness — these are the people of the Fire, where they'll stay forever.

Haven’t you thought of him who argued with Abraham about his Lord? God made him king. Abraham said, “My Lord gives life and causes death.” He replied, “I give life and cause death.” Abraham said, “God makes the sun come from the east, so make it come from the west,” and the blasphemer was puzzled. God doesn’t guide the wicked people.

Or like the person who passed a village that collapsed on its foundations. He thought, “How can God revive it after its demise?” So God made him die for a hundred years, and then He brought him back to life. He asked, “How long did you stay?” He replied, “I stayed a day or part of a day.” He said, “Actually, you stayed one hundred years. Now look at your food and drink — they didn’t spoil. And look at your donkey. We will make you a sign for people. And look at the bones, how We arrange them, and then We cover them with flesh.” When this became clear to him, he said, “I know that God is capable of anything.”

When Abraham said, “My Lord, show me how You give life to the dead.” He said, “Didn’t you believe?” He said, “Yes, but to reassure my heart.” He said, “Take four birds, then draw them to you, then put some on each hill, then call them, and they'll come running back to you. And know that God is Mighty and Wise.”

The parable of those who spend their wealth in God’s way is that of a grain that produces seven clusters; in each cluster, there are a hundred grains. God multiplies for whom He wills. God is Generous and Knowledgeable.

Those who spend their wealth in God’s way, and don’t follow up their charities with reminders of generosity or insults — will have their reward with their Lord — they have nothing to fear, and they won't grieve.

Kind words and forgiveness are better than charity followed by insults. God is Rich and Gentle.

O you who believe: Don’t nullify your charity with reminders or hurtful words, like someone who spends his money to show off and doesn’t believe in God and the Last Day. He's like a smooth rock covered with soil. When heavy rain falls, it stays barren — they gain nothing from their efforts. God doesn’t guide the unbelievers.

Those who spend their wealth to please God and secure themselves are like a garden on a hill: when it rains, it yields double. And if there's no rain, the dew is sufficient. God sees what you do.

Would any of you like to have a garden of date palms and vines, under which streams flow, producing all kinds of fruit, and old age strikes him, and he has weak children, and then a tornado of fire strikes it, and it burns down? This is how God makes His signs clear, so that you may think.

O you who believe, spend of the good things you earned, and of what We produce for you from the earth. And don’t choose the inferior things to give in charity, when you yourself wouldn’t receive it, except with closed eyes. And know that God is Self-sufficient and Praiseworthy.

Satan frightens you with poverty, and he urges you to immorality. But God promises you His forgiveness and mercy. God is Unlimited and Knowing.

He gives wisdom to whom He wills. He who is given wisdom has received much good. But only those who understand know.

Whatever charity you give or pledge you make, God knows it. The wrongdoers will have no helpers.

If you give charity openly, it’s wonderful. But if you keep it secret and give it to the needy in private, it's better for you. It will compensate for some of your sins. God is aware of what you do.

Their guidance isn't your responsibility, but God guides whom He wills. Whatever good things you give in charity will benefit you. Any charity you do must be out of love for God. Everything you give in charity will be fully refunded to you, and you won’t be mistreated.

To the poor, those who are absorbed in God’s way and can’t travel in the land. Because of their modest behavior, the unaware consider them self-sufficient. You can recognize them by their facial expressions. They make no demands on people. Whatever good you give in charity, God knows it.

Those who spend their wealth day and night, privately and publicly, will receive their reward from their Lord. They'll have no fear or sadness.

Those who practice usury won’t stand, except as someone driven mad by Satan's touch. This is because they claim, “Commerce is like usury.” But God permitted commerce, and He prohibited usury. Upon receiving notice from his Lord, he who abstains may keep his past earnings, and his case rests with God. But the one who persists: these are the inhabitants of the Fire, who stay there eternally.

God condemns exploitation, and He blesses works of charity. God doesn’t love the ungrateful sinner.

Those who believe, do good works, pray regularly, and give charity regularly, will receive their reward from their Lord. They'll have no anxiety or sadness.

O you who believe: be aware of God and give up all outstanding usury: if you're believers.

If you don’t, then take notice of war by God and His Messenger. But if you repent, you may keep your capital; without harming or being harmed.

If someone is in a difficult situation, postpone it until a convenient time. But to remit it as charity is better for you — if you only knew.

Guard against a day when you're returned to God, and every soul will receive what it has gained, and no one will be mistreated.

O you who believe: when you enter into a fixed-term loan agreement, put it in writing. And have a writer write it down accurately. A writer must not refuse to write, as God has taught him. So let him write, and let the debtor dictate, and let him fear God, his Lord, and not diminish it. But if the debtor is incompetent, weak, or unable to dictate, then let his guardian dictate accurately. And let two men among you witness it. If two men aren’t available, then one man and two women whom you approve can witness. If one of them makes a mistake, the other can remind her. Witnesses may not refuse to attend when called. And don’t consider it unimportant to write down, however small or large, including the time of repayment. This is fairer before God, stronger as evidence, and more likely to prevent doubt — except in the case of a spot transaction between you, then there's no fault on you if you don't write it down. And let there be witnesses when you enter into a contract. And let neither writer nor witness be harmed. If you do, it’s a mistake on your part. And fear God. God teaches you. God knows everything.

If you're traveling and can't find a writer, pledge something as a deposit. But if you trust one another, let the trustee fulfill his trust, and let him fear God, his Lord. Let no one hide the truth. Whoever conceals it is a sinner at heart. God is aware of what you do.

God owns everything in the heavens and on earth. Whether you reveal your deepest thoughts or hide them, God will hold you accountable. He forgives whom He wills, and He punishes whom He wills. God is capable of everything.

The Messenger believed what was revealed to him from his Lord, as did the believers. They all believed in God, His angels, His books, and His messengers: “We make no distinction between any of His messengers.” And they say, “We listen and obey. Your forgiveness, our Lord. To You is the comeback.”

God doesn’t burden any soul beyond its ability. To its credit is what it earns, and against it is what it commits. “Our Lord: don’t condemn us if we forget or make a mistake. Our Lord: don’t burden us as You burdened those before us. Our Lord: don’t impose on us more than we have the strength to bear, pardon us, forgive us, and have mercy on us. You are our Protector, so help us against unbelievers.”