2 Al-Baqarah ▼

The Cow

Quran Chapter 2  Allah

 

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

1. A. L. M.

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

3. Those who believe in the unseen, perform the prayers and

spend from what We provide for them.

4. And those who believe in what was revealed to you, and in

what was revealed before you, and are sure of the Hereafter.

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

6. Those who disbelieve — it's the same for them, whether

you warn them or not — they won’t believe.

7. Allah has sealed their hearts and hearing, and there is a

veil over their vision. They will have a great punishment.

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

9. They try to deceive Allah and believers. But they deceive

none but themselves, and they don’t know.

10. There is a sickness in their hearts, and Allah increased

their sickness. They will have a painful punishment for lying.

11. When they’re told, “Don’t work corruption on earth,” they

say, “We are working righteousness.”

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

13. 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.

14. 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.”

15. Allah will punish them for making jokes, and He leaves

them blind in their rebellion.

16. They chose misguidance rather than guidance. But their

choice wasn’t profitable. They aren't guided.

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

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

19. Or like a rainstorm from the sky. Full of darkness, thunder,

and lightning. They press their fingers in their ears against

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the lightning, fearing death. But Allah surrounds the
unbelievers.

20. Lightning almost blinds them. Every time it lights up for

them, they walk through it. And when it's dark, they stand
still. If Allah wanted, He could take away their hearing and
sight. Allah can do anything.

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

22. 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 Allah.

23. If you doubt what We revealed to Our servant, then

produce a similar chapter, and call your witnesses besides
Allah: if you’re truthful.

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

25. 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.

26. Allah 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
Allah mean by this parable?” He misleads many with it, and
He guides many with it. But He only misleads the
wrongdoers.

27. Those who break their promise to Allah after their

agreement, and who break what Allah commanded to join,
and who work corruption on earth: these are the losers.

28. How can you deny Allah, 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?

29. He created for you all that is on earth, then He turned to

heaven, and He formed them seven heavens. He knows
everything.

30. 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.”

31. 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.”

32. They said, “Glory be to You! We only know what You

taught us. You're the Knower and Wise.”

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33. 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?”

34. We said to the angels, “Bow down to Adam.” So they

bowed down, except Iblees. He refused, behaved arrogantly,
and was ungrateful.

35. 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.”

36. 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.”

37. Then Adam received words from his Lord, and He

accepted his repentance. He's the Forgiver, the Kind.

38. 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.

39. But the unbelievers who reject Our revelations are the

inhabitants of the Fire, where they'll stay forever.”

40. 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.

41. 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.

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

knowingly conceal the truth.

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

44. Do you command people to behave well and forget

yourselves, even though you read the Scripture? Don’t you
understand?

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

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

47. O Children of Israel: Remember the gifts I gave you; when

I favored you over all others.

48. 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.
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49. 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.

50. And remember that We parted the sea for you, so We

saved you, and We drowned Pharaoh’s people while you
watched.

51. And remember, when We invited Moses for forty nights,

you worshiped the calf in his absence, doing evil.

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

53. Then We gave Moses the Scripture and the discernment,

so that you may be guided.

54. 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.

55. And when you said, “O Moses, we won’t believe you

unless we see Allah plainly.” Then the lightning struck you as
you watched.

56. Then We resurrected you after your death, so that you

may be grateful.

57. 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.

58. 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.”

59. 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.

60. 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 Allah’s provision, and don’t corrupt the earth
with disobedience.”

61. 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 Allah. It was because
they rejected Allah’s revelations and wrongly killed the
prophets. It was because they disobeyed and committed
aggression.

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

63. 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.”

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

65. You knew those who violated the Sabbath. We said to

them, “Be despicable apes!”

66. So We made it an example for their generation and future

generations, and a lesson for the righteous.

67. Remember when Moses said to his people, “Allah

commands you to sacrifice a cow.” They said, “Are you
kidding us?” He replied, “Allah forbid that I should be so
ignorant.”

68. 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.”

69. 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.”

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

71. 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.

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

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

74. 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 Allah. Allah isn’t unaware of what you
do.

75. Do you expect them to believe you; when some of them

heard Allah’s word, and they deliberately twisted it, even after
they understood it?

76. When they meet believers, they say, “We believe.” But

when they're alone, they say, “Will you give them the

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knowledge that Allah revealed to you, so that they may use it
against you before your Lord?” Don’t you understand?

77. Don’t they know that Allah knows what they conceal and
declare?

78. Among them are uneducated people, who know the

Scriptures only by hope, and they only guess.

79. Woe to those who write the Scripture with their own

hands and then claim, “This is from Allah,” to earn some
money. Woe to them for what their hands wrote, and woe to
them for what they earn.

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

81. Indeed, those who commit sins, and become besieged by

their sins, are the inhabitants of the Fire, staying there
forever.

82. But those who believe and do good deeds are the

inhabitants of Paradise, staying there forever.

83. We entered into a contract with the Israelites: “Worship

Allah 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.

84. 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.

85. 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. Allah isn't unaware of
what you do.

86. 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.

87. 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?

88. They said, “Our hearts are covered.” In fact, Allah cursed

them for their ingratitude. They have little faith.
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89. When a book came to them from Allah, confirming what
they already had — although they used to pray against the
unbelievers — when what they recognized came to them,
they denied it. So Allah’s curse is on the unbelievers.

90. What they sold their souls for is wretched: rejecting what

Allah revealed, out of resentment that Allah should show
favor to whomever He wills of His servants. So they incurred
anger upon anger. The unbelievers will receive a humiliating
punishment.

91. When they're told, “Believe in what Allah 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 Allah’s prophets
before, if you're believers?”

92. Moses came to you with clear evidence, but you adopted

the calf in his absence and became evildoers.

93. 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.”

94. Say, “If the Final Home with Allah is yours, to the

exclusion of all others, wish for death, if you’re truthful.”

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

96. 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. Allah sees what they do.

97. Say, “Who is Gabriel's enemy? He sent it down to your

heart, by Allah’s authority, confirming what preceded it, and
guidance and good news for believers.”

98. Whoever is an enemy of Allah, His angels, His

messengers, Gabriel and Michael — Allah is the enemy of the
faithless.

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

reject them.

100. Whenever they make an agreement, some of them break

it. In fact, most of them don’t believe.

101. When a messenger from Allah came to them, confirming

what they already have, a group of those who received the
Scripture threw Allah’s Scripture behind their backs: as if
they didn't know.

102. 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
Allah'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.

103. If they had believed and been righteous, Allah's reward

would've been better — if they only knew.

104. O you who believe! Don’t say ambiguous words, but

speak words of respect and listen. The unbelievers will have
a painful punishment.

105. Neither the unbelievers among the Scripture-People nor

the associators desire that anything good comes to you
from your Lord. Allah assigns His grace to whom He wills.
Allah is the Possessor of immense grace.

106. 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 Allah can do anything?

107. Don’t you know that the kingdom of Heavens and Earth

belongs to Allah? There is no protector or helper for you
except Allah.

108. Or do you want to ask your Messenger as Moses was

asked before? He who exchanges faith for unbelief has
abandoned the right path.

109. 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
Allah fulfills His command. Allah has control over all things.

110. Perform the prayer and give the purifying charity. Any

good you produce for yourself, you’ll find it with Allah. Allah
sees everything you do.

111. They say that only Jews and Christians will enter

Paradise. These are their wishes. Say, “Prove it: if you speak
the truth.”

112. Surely, whoever submits to Allah and is righteous: his

reward will be from his Lord — they won’t fear or be sad.

113. 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.
Allah will decide between their differences on Resurrection
Day.

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114. Who can be worse than he who prevents Allah’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.

115. East and West belong to Allah. Wherever you turn, Allah’s

presence is there. Allah is Vast and All-Knowing.

116. And they say, “Allah has adopted a son.” Glory be to Him.

In fact, everything in the heavens and on earth belongs to
Him — everything obeys Him.

117. The Creator of the heavens and the earth. When He

decides something, He says to it, “Be,” and it becomes.

118. The ignorant say, “If only Allah 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.

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

120. Jews and Christians won’t approve of you unless you

follow their religion. Say, “Allah’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 Allah.

121. Those who received the Scripture recite it, as it should

be recited — these believe in it. Those who reject it are the
losers.

122. O Children of Israel! Remember My gifts to you. And I

favored you over all other peoples.

123. 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.

124. 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.”

125. 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.”

126. When Abraham prayed, “My Lord, make this land

peaceful. And sustain with fruits those who believe in Allah
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!”

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

128. 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.

129. 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.”

130. 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.

131. His lord said to him, “Submit.” He replied, “I have

submitted to the Lord of the Worlds.”

132. Abraham advised his children, as well as Jacob: “O my

children, Allah chose your religion for you, so die only in
submission.”

133. 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.”

134. 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.

135. 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.”

136. Say: “We believe in Allah, 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.”

137. If they believe the same as you, they’ll be guided. But if

they turn away, they’ll be divided. Allah suffices you against
them. He's the Listener, the Knower.

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

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

140. Or do you claim that Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob,

and the Tribes were Jews or Christians? Say, “Do you know /
better or Allah?” Who's more sinful than he who hides
evidence from Allah? Allah isn't unaware of what you do.

141. 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.

142. Some foolish people will ask, “What turned them away

from the direction in which they were praying?” Say, “East
and West belong to Allah. He guides whom He wills to a
straight path.”

143. 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 Allah
guided. Allah won't let your faith go to waste. Allah is Good
and Merciful to people.

144. 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. Allah isn't unaware of what
they do.

145. 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.

146. Those who received the Scripture recognize it as they

recognize their children. But some of them deliberately
conceal the truth.

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

doubt.

148. Everyone has a direction to which he turns. So compete

in doing good deeds. Wherever you may be, Allah will bring
you together. Allah is capable of everything.

149. Wherever you come from, turn your face towards the

Holy Mosque. This is the truth from your Lord. Allah isn't
unaware of what you do.

150. 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.

151. 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.
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152. So remember Me, and I'll remember you. And thank Me,
and don’t reject.

153. O you who believe: Seek help through patience and

prayer — Allah is with the patient.

154. And don’t say of those who are killed in Allah’s path:

“dead.” In fact, they’re alive, but you don’t feel it.

155. We'll test you with some fear, hunger, loss of wealth,

lives, and crops. Give the patient good news.

156. Those who, when struck by misfortune, say, “We belong

to Allah, and we return to Him.”

157. On these are the blessings and mercy of their Lord.

These are the guided.

158. Safa and Marwa are among Allah's rituals. Whoever

performs the Pilgrimage to the House, or performs the Minor
Pilgrimage, must walk between them. And whoever does
good voluntarily — Allah is Appreciative and Knowledgeable.

159. Those who conceal the evidence and guidance We

revealed — after We clearly indicated them to people in the
Book. These: Allah curses them, and the cursers curse them.

160. Except those who repent, reform, and proclaim. These:

I'll accept their repentance. I'm the Acceptor of Repentance,
the Merciful.

161. Those who disbelieve and die unbelieving are cursed by

Allah, by the angels, and by all people.

162. They'll stay under it forever, and their suffering won't be

lessened or postponed.

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

164. 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 Allah 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.

165. Some people take others as equals to Allah. They love

them as the love of Allah. But believers love Allah
passionately. If only the evildoers could see the suffering,
they would know that all power belongs to Allah and that
Allah is severe in punishment.

166. Those who were followed will disown their followers.

They'll see the punishment, and their relationships will be
broken.

167. The followers would say, “If we had another chance, we

would disown them, as they disowned us.” Thus, Allah will /
show them their deeds, which they'll regret. They'll never
come out of the Fire.

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

169. He commands you evil, indecency, and to say about

Allah what you don’t know.

170. When told, “Follow what Allah has revealed,” they

respond, “We follow what we found our ancestors doing.”
Even if their ancestors understood nothing and weren’t
guided?

171. The unbelievers are like those who appeal to someone

who hears nothing but shouts and screams. Deaf, dumb,
blind — they don’t understand.

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

173. He forbade you carrion, blood, pork, and animals

slaughtered with a name other than that of Allah. But if
someone is forced by necessity — neither by desire nor by
excess — he commits no sin. Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.

174. Those who hide what Allah revealed in the Book, and

exchange it for a small price, consume nothing but fire in
their stomachs. Allah won't speak to them on Resurrection
Day, nor will He purify them. They'll suffer a painful
punishment.

175. They chose error rather than guidance and punishment

rather than forgiveness. But how will they withstand the Fire?

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

177. Purification isn’t about turning one's face east or west.

But pure is he who believes in Allah, 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.

178. 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.

179. There is life for you in retaliation, O people of

understanding, so that you may refrain from it.
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180. 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.

181. If someone changes it after hearing it: the guilt is on

those who change it. Allah is Listener and Knower.

182. If someone suspects bias or injustice on the part of a

testator, then reconciles them, he doesn’t sin. Allah is
Forgiving and Merciful.

183. O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you, as

prescribed for those before you, so that you may become
righteous.

184. 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.

185. 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. Allah wants
for you ease and no difficulties. So that you may complete
the number, glorify Allah for having guided you, and be
thankful.

186. 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.

187. You're allowed to sleep with your wives on the nights of

fasting. They're clothing for you, and you're clothing for
them. Allah knew you were deceiving yourselves, but He
relented towards you and forgave you. So now, approach
them and desire what Allah 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 Allah’s boundaries, so stay away from them. This
is how Allah explains His verses to people, so they may
protect themselves.

188. Don’t unjustly consume the wealth of others, and don’t

deliberately bribe the authorities to unjustly consume
people’s wealth.

189. 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 Allah, so that you may succeed.
/
190. Fight in Allah’s path those who fight you, but don’t
commit aggression — Allah doesn’t like aggressors.

191. 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.

192. But if they cease: then Allah is Forgiving and Kind.

193. Fight them until there's no more persecution, and all

worship is dedicated to Allah. But if they cease: let there be
no hostility, except against the wrongdoers.

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

195. Spend in Allah’s way, and don’t contribute to your ruin,

and be charitable. Allah loves the charitable.

196. Perform Hajj and Umrah for Allah. 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 Allah,
and know that Allah is severe in punishment.

197. 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, Allah knows it. Prepare, but the best preparation is
righteousness. And think of Me, you intelligent people.

198. You do no wrong by seeking your Lord’s generosity.

When you disperse from Mount Arafat, remember Allah at
the Holy Monument. Remember Him because He guided you,
and you were misled in the past.

199. Then disperse from where people dispersed. And ask

Allah to forgive you. Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.

200. When you've finished your rituals: remember Allah, 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.

201. 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.”

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

203. Remember Allah 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 Allah and know that you’ll be gathered before Him.

204. There is a person whose speech about this life

impresses you, and he calls on Allah to witness what’s in his
heart, but he’s the fiercest opponent.

205. When he comes to power, he strives to spread

corruption on earth, destroying properties and lives. Allah
doesn’t like corruption.

206. When he is told, “Beware of Allah,” his pride leads him to

sin. Hell is enough for him — a terrible place.

207. Yet, there is a person who gives his life to obtain Allah’s

pleasure. Allah is Kind to the servants.

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

209. But if you stumble after clear evidence has reached you,

know that Allah is Powerful and Wise.

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

211. Ask the Israelites how many clear signs We gave them.

Anyone who exchanges a gift he received from Allah: Allah is
severe in punishment.

212. The worldly life was made attractive to unbelievers, and

they ridicule believers. But the righteous will be above them
on Resurrection Day. Allah provides abundantly to whom He
wills.

213. Humanity was one community. Then Allah 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 Allah led the believers to the truth they
disputed, by His will. Allah guides whom He wills in a straight
path.

214. 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 Allah’s help
come?” Certainly, the help of Allah is near.

215. 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, Allah
knows it.

216. 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. Allah
knows, and you don’t know.

217. They ask you about fighting during the Holy Month. Say,
“Fighting during this month is a major sin. But preventing
others from following Allah’s path, rejecting it, preventing
access to the Holy Mosque, and expelling its residents, are
more severe offenses before Allah. 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.

218. Believers who emigrate and struggle in Allah’s path hope

for Allah’s Kindness. Allah is Forgiving and Good.

219. 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 Allah explains the verses to you, so that you may
think.

220. 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.” Allah knows the
corruptor from the reformer. If Allah had willed, He could
have overburdened you. Allah is Strong and Wise.

221. 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, Allah invites to
Paradise and forgiveness. He explains His communications
to people to remind them.

222. 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 Allah instructed you.” Allah loves the
repentant, and He loves the pure.

223. Your women are your culture. So approach your culture

as you please. And prepare for yourselves. And fear Allah,
and know that you’ll meet Him. And give good news to the
believers.

224. Don’t let your oaths in Allah's name prevent you from

practicing virtue, righteousness, and from making peace
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among people. Allah is Listener and Knower.

225. Allah doesn’t hold you accountable for your unintended

oaths, but He holds you accountable for your intentions.
Allah is Forgiving and Gentle.

226. Those who swear to abstain from their wives must wait

four months. But if they go back — Allah is Forgiving and
Kind.

227. But if they're determined to divorce — Allah is Hearing

and Knowing.

228. Divorced women should wait three periods alone. It’s not

permissible for them to hide what Allah created in their
wombs — if they believe in Allah 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. Allah is
Powerful and Wise.

229. 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 Allah's
boundaries. If you fear they can’t keep Allah’s boundaries,
then there’s no blame on them for what she can give in a
settlement. These are Allah’s boundaries, so don’t cross
them. Those who cross Allah’s boundaries are the
wrongdoers.

230. 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 Allah's boundaries. These are Allah's boundaries; He
explains them to people who understand.

231. 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 Allah’s
revelations as a joke. Remember Allah's blessing upon you,
and that He revealed to you the Book and Wisdom — to
instruct you. And beware of Allah, and know that Allah
knows all things.

232. 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 Allah and the
Last Day is instructed to do so. This is purer for you and
more decent. Allah knows, and you don’t.

233. 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 Allah, and know that Allah sees
what you do.

234. 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. Allah knows what you do.

235. You make no mistake in announcing your commitment

to women, or in keeping it to yourself. Allah 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
Allah knows what’s in your hearts, so beware of Him. And
know that Allah is Forgiving and Gentle.

236. 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.

237. 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. Allah sees all that you do.

238. Keep your prayers, and the middle prayer, and stand

devoutly before Allah.

239. If you’re afraid: then standing or driving. When you're

safe: remember Allah, as He taught you what you didn’t
know.

240. 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. Allah is Mighty and
Wise.

241. Divorced women must be supported fairly — this is a

duty for the righteous.

242. This is how Allah explains His verses to you, so you may

understand.

243. Haven’t you seen those who fled their homes, by the

thousands, for fear of death? Allah said to them, “Die.” Then
He brought them back to life. Allah is Gracious to people, but
most people are ungrateful.

244. Fight for Allah's cause, and know that Allah is Hearing

and Knowing.

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

246. 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 Allah’s way.” He said, “If you're ordered
to fight, will you fight?” They said, “Why wouldn't we fight in
Allah’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. Allah knows the disobedient.

247. Their prophet said to them, “Allah 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, “Allah chose him over
you, and He gave him vast knowledge and physical strength.”
Allah gives authority to whomever he wants. Allah is Infinite
and All-Knowing.

248. 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.”

249. When Saul left with the troops, he said, “Allah 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 Allah said,
“How many times have small forces defeated large forces
with Allah’s help? Allah is with the patient.”

250. When they confronted Goliath and his army, they prayed,

“Our Lord, fill us with patience, strengthen our footing, and
help us against the unbelievers.”

251. And by the will of Allah, they defeated them. And David

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

252. These are Allah’s revelations. We recite them to you in

truth. You're one of the messengers.

253. These messengers: We gave some advantages over

others. And Allah 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 Allah 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 Allah had so willed, they wouldn’t have fought;
but Allah does what He wills.

254. 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.

255. Allah! 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.

256. There shall be no pressure in religion. The right way is

distinct from the wrong way. Whoever rejects false gods and
believes in Allah has grasped the most reliable handle —
which never breaks. Allah is the Listener, the Knower.

257. Allah 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.

258. Haven’t you thought of him who argued with Abraham

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

259. Or like the person who passed a village that collapsed

on its foundations. He thought, “How can Allah revive it after
its demise?” So Allah 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
Allah is capable of anything.”

260. 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 Allah is
Mighty and Wise.”

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

262. Those who spend their wealth in Allah’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.

263. Kind words and forgiveness are better than charity

followed by insults. Allah is Rich and Gentle.

264. 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 Allah 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. Allah doesn’t guide the unbelievers.

265. Those who spend their wealth to please Allah 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.
Allah sees what you do.

266. 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 Allah makes His signs clear, so that you may think.

267. 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 Allah is Self-sufficient and Praiseworthy.

268. Satan frightens you with poverty, and he urges you to

immorality. But Allah promises you His forgiveness and
mercy. Allah is Unlimited and Knowing.

269. He gives wisdom to whom He wills. He who is given

wisdom has received much good. But only those who
understand know.

270. Whatever charity you give or pledge you make, Allah

knows it. The wrongdoers will have no helpers.

271. 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. Allah is aware of
what you do.

272. Their guidance isn't your responsibility, but Allah guides

whom He wills. Whatever good things you give in charity will
benefit you. Any charity you do must be out of love for Allah.
Everything you give in charity will be fully refunded to you,
and you won’t be mistreated. /
273. To the poor, those who are absorbed in Allah’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, Allah knows it.

274. 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.

275. 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 Allah 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 Allah. But the one who persists:
these are the inhabitants of the Fire, who stay there eternally.

276. Allah condemns exploitation, and He blesses works of

charity. Allah doesn’t love the ungrateful sinner.

277. 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.

278. O you who believe: be aware of Allah and give up all

outstanding usury: if you're believers.

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

280. 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.

281. Guard against a day when you're returned to Allah, and

every soul will receive what it has gained, and no one will be
mistreated.

282. 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 Allah has
taught him. So let him write, and let the debtor dictate, and
let him fear Allah, 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 Allah, 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 Allah. Allah teaches you. Allah knows everything.

283. 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 Allah, his Lord. Let no
one hide the truth. Whoever conceals it is a sinner at heart.
Allah is aware of what you do.

284. Allah owns everything in the heavens and on earth.

Whether you reveal your deepest thoughts or hide them,
Allah will hold you accountable. He forgives whom He wills,
and He punishes whom He wills. Allah is capable of
everything.

285. The Messenger believed what was revealed to him from

his Lord, as did the believers. They all believed in Allah, 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.”

286. Allah 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.”

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