Page 188 - Learning from the Qur'an

If We had directed them to kill themselves or leave their homes,
they would not have done so, except for a very few. But if they
had done what they were urged to do, it would have been better
for them and far more strengthening. (Qur'an, 4:66)
Allah knows the obstructers among you and those who say to
their brothers, 'Come to us,' and who only come to fight a very
little, (Qur'an, 33:18)
And so that He would know the hypocrites. They were told, 'Come
and fight in the Way of Allah or at least help defend us.' They said,
'If we knew how to fight, we would certainly follow you.' They
were closer to disbelief that day than to faith, saying with their
mouths what was not in their hearts. And Allah knows best what
they are hiding. (Qur'an, 3:167)
And a group of them said, 'People of Yathrib (Madina), Your
position is untenable so return!' some of them asked the Prophet
to excuse them, saying, 'Our houses are exposed,' when they were
not exposed; it was merely that they wanted to run away. (Qur'an,
33:13)
The desert Arabs came with their excuses asking for permission
to stay, and those who lied to Allah and His Messenger stayed
behind. A painful punishment will afflict those among them who
do not believe. (Qur'an, 9:90)
There are only grounds against those who ask you for permission
to stay when they are rich. They were pleased to be among those
who were left behind. Allah has sealed up their hearts so they do
not know. (Qur'an, 9:93)

THEY ARE PLEASED TO BE AMONG
THOSE WHO LAG BEHIND IN THE STRUGGLE
Those who were left behind were glad to stay behind the
Messenger of Allah. They did not want to strive with their wealth
and themselves in the Way of Allah. They said, 'Do not go out to
fight in the heat.' Say: 'The Fire of Hell is much hotter, if they only
understood.' (Qur'an, 9:81)

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