2:1  Alif-Lam-Mim.

2:2  This is the book (the Qur’an) in which there is no doubt, a guidance for those who fear Allah

2:3  who believe in the unseen, establish prayers, and spend in charity of what We have provided for them

2:4  and who believe in this revelation (the Qur’an) sent to you (O Muhammad) and in that which was revealed before you (like Torah, Psalms, Gospel), and firmly believe in the Hereafter.

2:5  They are on true guidance from their Lord, and they are the successful.

2:6  Surely, those who disbelieve, it is the same whether you (Muhammad) warn them or don’t warn them, they will not believe.

2:7  Allah has sealed on their hearts, on their hearings, and on their eyes there is a covering. For them there is a severe punishment

2:8  And there are some people who say: “We believe in Allah and the Last Day,” while in fact they don’t believe.

2:9  They (think to) deceive Allah and those who believe, while they deceive only themselves, and they don’t realize it.

2:10  In their hearts there is a disease (of doubt and hypocrisy), and Allah has increased their disease. For them there is a painful punishment because they used to tell lies.

2:11  And when it is said to them: “Don’t make mischief on earth,” they say: “We are only peace-makers.”

2:12  Surely! They are the ones who make mischief but they don’t realize it.

2:13  And when it is said to them: “Believe as the other people believe,” they say: “Shall we believe as the fools believe?” Surely, they themselves are the fools, but they don’t know.

2:14  And when they meet those who believe, they say: “We believe,” but when they are alone with their Satans, they say: “Truly, we are with you, we were only mocking.”

2:15  Allah mocks at them and gives them (increase) in their wrong-doings to wander blindly.

2:16  These are they who have purchased error for guidance, so their business is profitless and they are not guided.

2:17  Their example is like the one who kindled a fire; then when it lighted all around him, Allah took away their light (eyesight) and left them in darkness, so they could not see.

2:18  (They are) deaf, dumb, and blind, so they will not return (to Right Way).

2:19  Or like a rainstorm from the sky with darkness, thunder, and lightning. They press their fingers in their ears from (the sound of) thunderclaps for fear of death. But Allah surrounds the disbelievers.

2:20  The lightning almost snatches away their sight; whenever it flashes for them, they walk in it; and when it darkens against them, they stand still. And if Allah willed, He could have taken away their hearing and their sight. Certainly, Allah has power over all things.

2:21  O mankind! Worship your Lord, Who created you and those who were before you so that you may become pious.

2:22  It is He Who has made for you the earth a resting place, the sky as a canopy, sends down rain from the sky, and brings out with it fruits as a provision for you. So don’t set up rivals to Allah (in worship) while you know

2:23  And if you are in doubt about what We have sent down (the Qur’an) to Our servant (Muhammad), then produce a chapter like this, and call your witnesses besides Allah, if you are truthful.

2:24  But if you can not do it, and you are not able do it, then fear the hellfire, whose fuel is men and stones, prepared for the disbelievers.

2:25  And give glad tidings to those who believe and do good deeds, for them there will be gardens under which rivers flow (Paradise). Whenever they will be provided with fruit from there, they will say: “This is what we were provided with before," and they will be given from there things having resemblance (of earth); and for them therein will be chaste spouses, and they will live therein forever.

2:26  Surely, Allah is not reluctant to set forth an example even of a mosquito or even something more (insignificant) than it. As for those who believe, they know that it is the truth from their Lord; but as for those who disbelieve, they say: “What does Allah mean by this example?” By it He misleads many and guides many. He misleads only the disobedient ones

2:27  those who break the Covenant of Allah after its approval, sever what Allah has ordered to be joined, and do mischief on earth. It is they, who are the losers.

2:28  How can you disbelieve in Allah? While you were lifeless and He gave you life. Then He will give you death, then again will bring you to life (on the Day of Resurrection), and then you will return to Him.

2:29  It is He, Who has created for you all that is on earth. Then He rose over towards the heaven and made them 7 heavens and He is the All- Knower of everything.

2:30  And (remember) when your Lord said to the angels: “Surely, I am going to place a successor on earth.” They said: “Will You place in it those who will make mischief in it and shed blood, while we praise You and glorify Your name?” He (Allah) said: “Indeed I know what you don’t know.”

2:31  And He taught Adam the names of all things, then He showed them to the angels and said: “Tell Me the names of these if you are truthful.”

2:32  They (angels) replied: “Glory to You; we have no knowledge except what You have taught us. Surely, it is You, the All-Knower, the All-Wise.”

2:33  He (Allah) said: “O Adam! Inform them their names.” When he informed them their names, He (Allah) said: “Did I not tell you that I know the unseen of the heavens and the earth, and I know what you reveal and what you conceal?”

2:34  And (remember) when We ordered the angels: “Prostrate before Adam,” they all prostrated except Satan; he refused and was proud and was one of the disbelievers.

2:35  And We said: “O Adam! You and your wife reside in the Paradise and both of you eat freely in it with pleasure from wherever you wish, but don’t come near this tree, or you both will be of the wrongdoers.”

2:36  Then the Satan made them (disobey Allah’s commandment) slip from there (Paradise), and got them out from where they were. We said: “Get down from here, some of you as enemy to others. There is for you in the earth a residing place and provisions for a specific time.”

2:37  Then Adam received Words (after repentance) from his Lord and Allah pardoned him. Surely, He is the Acceptor of repentance, the Merciful

2:38  We said: “Get down all of you from it (Paradise), then whenever guidance comes to you from Me, and whoever follows My guidance, there shall be no fear on them, nor shall they grieve.

2:39  But those who disbelieve and deny Our Verses, they are the inmates of the hellfire. They shall reside in it forever.”

2:40  O children of Israel! Remember My Favor which I bestowed upon you, and fulfill your covenant with Me and I will fulfill My covenant with you, and fear none but Me.

2:41  And believe in what I have sent down (this Qur’an) confirming that which is with your (Scriptures); don’t be first disbeliever in it, and don’t buy a small price (by selling) My Verses, and fear Me alone.

2:42  And don’t mix the truth with the falsehood, or conceal the truth while you know.

2:43  And establish prayers, give obligatory charity (Zakat), and bow down with those who bow down (in worship).

2:44  Do you enjoin piety and righteousness on the people, and forget (to practice) yourselves when you recite the scripture? Don’t you understand?

2:45  And seek the help (of Allah) in patience and prayer. Truly it is very hard except on the humble minded,

2:46  who realize that surely they are going to meet their Lord and that they are going to return to Him (for Judgment).

2:47  O children of Israel! Remember My Favor which I bestowed upon you, and that I preferred you over all the nations.

2:48  And fear a Day (of Judgment) when a person shall not avail another: no intercession shall be accepted, no compensation shall be taken, and no help shall be given.

2:49  And (remember) when We delivered you (people of Moses) from the people of Pharaoh, who were afflicting you with a horrible punishment, killing your sons, sparing your women, and that was a mighty trial from your Lord.

2:50  And (remember) when We separated the sea for you, saved you, and drowned the people of Pharaoh while you were looking (at them covered by water)

2:51  And (remember) when We appointed for Moses 40 nights, and during his absence, you took the calf for worship, and you were wrongdoers.

2:52  Then We forgave you after that, so that you might be grateful.

2:53  And (remember) when We gave Moses the book (Torah) and the criterion (of right and wrong) so that you may be (rightly) guided.

2:54  And (remember) when Moses said to his people: “O my people! Surely, you have wronged yourselves by your taking (for worship) the calf. So turn in repentance to your Creator and kill (the wrongdoers among you), that is better for you with your Creator.” Then He accepted your repentance. Truly, He is the one Who accepts repentance, the Merciful.

2:55  And (remember) when you said: “O Moses! We shall never believe in you till we see Allah plainly (with our own eyes),” you were seized (fell dead) with a thunderbolt (lightening) while you were looking.

2:56  Then We raised you after your death so that you might be grateful.

2:57  And We even shaded over you with clouds, sent down on you Manna (sweet dish) and Salva (quail’s meat) (saying): “Eat from good things which We have provided for you.” They did not wrong Us but they wronged themselves.

2:58  And (remember) when We said: “Enter this town (Jerusalem), eat there wherever you wish with pleasure, enter the gate in prostration (with humility), and say: ‘Forgive us’, We shall forgive you your sins, and We shall increase provision for the righteous.”

2:59  But they did wrong by changing the word other than that which was told to them. So We sent upon those wrongdoers a punishment from the heaven because of their disobedience

2:60  And (remember) when Moses asked for water for his people, We said: “Strike the stone with your stick.” Then 12 springs gushed out from it. Each tribe knew its drinking place. (They were commanded): “Eat, drink from the provision of Allah, and don’t act corruptly, making mischief in the earth.”

2:61  And (remember) when you (people of Moses) said: “O Moses! We cannot endure on one kind of food. So invoke your Lord for us to bring out for us which the earth grows: its herbs, cucumbers, garlic, lentils, and onions.” He said: “Would you exchange that which is better for that which is worse? You go down to any town and you will find what you have asked for!” And they were stuck upon them with humiliation, misery, and they drew the wrath from Allah. That was because they used to disbelieve in the Verses of Allah and killed the prophets without just cause. That was because they disobeyed and used to transgress.

2:62  Surely! Those who believe and those who are Jews, Christians, and Sabians; whoever believes in Allah, the Last Day, and do good deeds; they will have their reward with their Lord, there will be no fear on them, nor they will grieve.

2:63  And (O children of Israel, remember) when We took your covenant and We raised above you the mount (Toor) (saying): “Hold with strength (firmly) to what We have given you (Torah), and remember what is therein so that you may become pious.”

2:64  Then after that you turned away. Had it not been for the Grace of Allah upon you and Allah’s Mercy, indeed you would have been among the losers.

2:65  Indeed you know those who transgressed amongst you in the matter of the Sabbath (Saturday). We ordered them: “You be monkeys, and rejected.”

2:66  So We made this an example of punishment in front of them (own people) and to those after them (succeeding generations), and a lesson for the pious.

2:67  And (remember) when Moses said to his people:“Surely, Allah commands you that you slaughter a cow,” they said: “Do you make fun of us?” He said: “I take refuge with Allah from being among the ignorant.”

2:68  They said: “Call upon your Lord for us so that He will make clear to us what it is!” He said: “He (Allah) says, surely, it should be a cow neither old nor young but between that (2 conditions), so do what you are commanded.”

2:69  They said: “Call upon your Lord for us to make clear to us what its color is.” He said: “Surely, He (Allah) says, it is a cow yellow bright in its color that pleases the beholders (who look at).”

2:70  They said: “Call upon your Lord for us to make clear to us what it is. Surely, the cows are all alike to us. And surely, if Allah wills, we shall be guided.”

2:71  He said: “He (Allah) indeed says, it is neither a cow trained to till the soil nor waters the fields; a healthy one with no mark in it.” They said: “Now you have brought the truth.” So they slaughtered it and they were near to not doing it.

2:72  And (remember, Moses) when you killed a man and then you disputed it, but Allah brought out what you were concealing.

2:73  So We said: “Strike him (dead body) with a piece of it (slaughtered cow).” Thus Allah brought the dead to life and showed you His Signs so that you may understand.

2:74  Then after (seeing) that your hearts were hardened and became as stones or even worse in hardness. And indeed, there are some stones from which rivers gush out, and indeed, there are of them (stones) which split apart so that the water flows from them, and indeed, there are of them (stones) which fall down for fear of Allah. Allah is not unaware of what you do.

2:75  Do you (believers) still hope that they (people of the book) will believe in you (religion) while indeed a group of them used to hear the Word of Allah, then they used to change knowingly after what they understood it?

2:76  And when they (people of the book) meet those who believe (Muslims), they say: “We (also) believe,” but when they meet privately with one another, they say: “Will you tell those (Muslims) what Allah has revealed to you so that they (Muslims) may argue with you about it before your Lord? Don’t you understand?”

2:77  Don’t they know that Allah knows what they conceal and what they reveal?

2:78  And among them, there are unlettered people who don’t know the book, but they trust false desires and they don’t but guess.

2:79  So woe to those who write the book with their own hands and then they say: “This is from Allah,” so that they may purchase it with a little price! Woe to them for what their hands have written and woe to them for what they have earned.

2:80  They (Jews) say: “The hellfire shall never touch us but for a few numbered days.” Say (O Muhammad to them): “Have you taken a covenant from Allah which Allah will not break? Or do you say of Allah what you don’t know?”

2:81  Yes! Those who earn evil and their sins surround them, they are the inmates of the hellfire; they shall reside therein forever.

2:82  Those who believe and do good deeds, they are residents of Paradise; they will reside in it forever.

2:83  And (remember) when We took a covenant from the children of Israel, (saying): “You shall worship none but Allah; be good to parents, relatives, orphans, poor, speak good to the people, establish the prayer, and give obligatory charity.” Then you turned back, except a few of you, while you were opposed.

2:84  And (remember) when We took your covenant (saying): You shall not shed your people’s blood and you shall not turn out yourself (expel own people) from your homes. You ratified and you bore witness (to this).

2:85  Yet, you are those who kill yourselves, drive out a group of you from their homes, and assist (their enemies) against them in sin and transgression. And if they come to you as captives, you ransom them, though their expulsion was forbidden to you. Then do you believe in a part of the Scripture and reject the rest? Then what is the punishment of those who do so among you, except disgrace in the life of this world, and they would be consigned to the most grievous punishment on the Day of Resurrection? Allah is not unaware of what you do.

2:86  Those are they who have bought the life of this world for the price of the Hereafter. The punishment on them neither shall be lightened nor shall they be helped.

2:87  Indeed, We gave Moses the book (Torah) and followed him up with a succession of prophets. And We gave Jesus, son of Mary, clear signs and supported him with the Holy Spirit (Gabriel). Then whenever a Messenger came to you with what you yourselves did not desire, you grew arrogant, some you disbelieved, and some you killed

2:88  And they said: “Our hearts are wrapped (don’t hear or understand Allah’s Word).” Nay, Allah has cursed them for their disbelief, so little is that which they believe.

2:89  And when there has come to them a book (this Qur’an) from Allah confirming what is with the previous Scriptures, even though previously they were invoking Allah for victory over those who disbelieved, and when what came to them which they recognized, they disbelieved in it. So the curse of Allah is on the disbelievers.

2:90  How bad is that (for which) they have sold their own selves, that they should disbelieve in which Allah has revealed (the Qur’an), grudging that Allah should reveal His Grace on whom He wills of His servants! So they have drawn (on themselves) wrath upon wrath. And for the disbelievers, there is a disgraceful punishment.

2:91  And when it is said to them: “Believe in what Allah has sent down,” they say: “We believe in what was sent down to us (Torah).” And they disbelieve in that what came after it; while it is the truth confirming what is with them. Ask (O Muhammad): “Then why did you kill the prophets of Allah previously, if you were true believers?”

2:92  And indeed Moses came to you with clear proofs, yet you took (for worship) the calf after he left, and you were wrongdoers.

2:93  And (remember) when We took your covenant and raised above you the Mount (Toor) (saying): “Hold firmly to what We have given you and hear (Our Word).” They said: “We have heard and disobeyed.” And their hearts loved (the worship of) the calf because of their disbelief. Say: “Evil is what commands you by your faith if you are believers.”

2:94  Say (O Muhammad): “If the home of the Hereafter with Allah is indeed exclusively for you and not for other people, then wish for death if you are truthful.”

2:95  But they will never ever wish for the death because of what their hands have sent ahead (their deeds). Allah is All-Knower of the wrong-doers.

2:96  Surely, you will find them the greediest of mankind for life and of those who ascribed partners to Allah. Each one of them wishes that a life of 1,000 years could be given. But the grant of such life will not save anyone even a little from the punishment. Allah is All-Seer of what they do.

2:97  Say (O Muhammad): “Whoever is an enemy to Gabriel should know that indeed Gabriel has brought it (this Qur’an) down to your heart by the permission of Allah, confirming what came before it, and is a guidance and glad tidings for the believers

2:98  Whoever is an enemy to Allah, His angels, His Messengers, Gabriel, and Michael; then surely, Allah is the enemy to the disbelievers.”

2:99  And indeed Allah has sent down to you clear Verses (of the Qur’an) and none disbelieve in them but disobedient ones.

2:100  Is it not (the case) that whenever they made a covenant, a group of them threw it away? Nay! Most of them don’t believe.

2:101  And whenever a Messenger from Allah came to them confirming what was with them, a group of those who were given the Scripture threw away the book of Allah behind their backs as if they did not know,

2:102  and they followed what the devils (falsely) recited in the kingdom of Solomon. Solomon did not disbelieve, but the devils disbelieved, teaching people magic and what was revealed at (the city of) Babylon to the 2 angels, Harut and Marut. Neither of these 2 angels taught (magic) anyone till they had said: “We are only for trial, so don’t disbelieve.” (In spite of this warning) people did learn from these 2 angels by which they could separate between husband and wife, but they could not harm anyone with it except by the permission of Allah. And they learned what harms them and not profits them. Indeed they knew that whoever buys it (magic), there is no share in the Hereafter. How bad indeed was what they sold it for their own selves, if they but knew!

2:103  If they would have believed and became pious, indeed for them reward from Allah would be better if they but know!

2:104  O you who believe! Don’t say (to the prophet): “Raina” (pay attention to us) but say “Unzurna” (please look upon us) and listen. And for the disbelievers there is a painful punishment.

2:105  Those who disbelieved among the people of the Scripture or polytheists don’t like that there should be sent down upon you (O Muhammad) any good from your Lord. But Allah chooses for His Mercy whom He wills. Allah is the owner of great Bounty.

2:106  Whatever a Verse do We repeal or cause it to be forgotten, We bring better than it or similar to it. Do you not know that Allah has power over every thing?

2:107  Don’t you know that to Allah belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth? Besides Allah you have neither any guardian nor any helper

2:108  Or do you want to ask your Messenger (Muhammad) as Moses was asked before? Whoever changes faith for disbelief, surely went astray from the Right Way.

2:109  Many people of the Scripture wish that if they could turn you back as disbeliever after you have believed, (out of) envy from their own selves what has become clear to them after the truth. So forgive and overlook, till Allah brings His command. Surely, Allah has power over every thing.

2:110  And establish prayers, give obligatory charity, and whatever good deeds you send ahead for yourselves; you shall find it with Allah. Certainly, Allah is All-Seer of what you do.

2:111  They say: “None shall enter Paradise except who is a Jew or a Christian.” These are their own desires. Say (O Muhammad): “Produce your proof if you are truthful.”

2:112  Yes, whoever submits itself to Allah and is a righteous, then his reward is with his Lord, and will have nothing to fear or to grieve.

2:113  The Jews say: “The Christians are not on anything right” and the Christians say: “The Jews are not on anything (right),” though they both recite the Scripture (Torah or Gospel). Similarly those who have no knowledge (the pagan Arabs) say: they like (both) their words. So Allah will judge between them on the Day of Resurrection about that in which they have been differing.

2:114  Who is more unjust than those who forbid mentioning Allah’s name in Allah’s Masjids and strive for their ruin? It is not proper for them to enter them (Masjids) except in fear. For them there is disgrace in the world and for them there is great punishment in the Hereafter.

2:115  To Allah belongs the east and the west, so wherever you turn (face) there will be the face (presence) of Allah. Surely! Allah is All-Embracing, All-Knowing.

2:116  They say: “Allah has taken a son.” Glory is to Allah! But to Him belongs what is in the heavens and the earth, and all are obedient to Him.

2:117  He is the Originator of the heavens and the earth. When He decrees a matter, He only says to it: “Be” and it becomes.

2:118  Those who don’t know say: “Why does not Allah speak to us (face to face) or a sign come to us?” Those people who were before them have said similar words. Their hearts are alike. We have indeed made clear the signs for people who believe firmly.

2:119  Surely, We have sent you (O Muhammad) with the truth (Islam), a bearer of glad tidings and a Warner. And you will not be asked about the residents of the blazing fire.

2:120  The Jews or the Christians will never be pleased with you (O Muhammad) until you follow their religion. Say: “Surely, the Guidance of Allah is the only Guidance.” If you (Muhammad) follow their desires after what you have received of the knowledge (the Qur’an), there shall be no protector or any helper for you from the wrath of Allah.

2:121  Those whom We gave the book, recite it as it has right to be recited, are those who believe in it. Whoever disbelieves in it, then they are those who are the losers.

2:122  O children of Israel! Remember My Favor which I bestowed upon you, and that I preferred you over all the nations.

2:123  And fear the Day (of Judgment) when neither one shall avail another, nor any ransom (compensation) shall be accepted from anyone, nor intercession shall benefit anyone, nor any help will be given.

2:124  And (remember) when the Lord of Abraham tried him with commands, he fulfilled them. He (Allah) said (to him): “Surely, I will make you a leader for mankind.” Abraham asked: “And of my offspring?” (Allah) said: “My Covenant will not include wrongdoers.”

2:125  And (remember) when We made the House (the Ka’bah at Makkah) a resort for mankind and safety, and took the station of Abraham as a place of prayer. We commanded Abraham and Ishmael that they purify My House (the Ka’bah) for those who walk around it, those who stay (in I’tikaf), and those who bow down and prostrate (in prayers).

2:126  And (remember) when Abraham said: “My Lord, make this city (Makkah) a place of security and provide its people with fruits, those of them who believe in Allah and the Last Day." He (Allah) answered: "Those who disbelieve, I would let them enjoy in contentment for a while, then I will compel them to the punishment of the hellfire, and worst indeed is that destination!"

2:127  And (remember) when Abraham and Ishmael raised the foundations of the House (the Ka’bah) (saying): "Our Lord! Accept from us. Surely! You are the All-Hearer, the All-Knower

2:128  Our Lord! Make us submissive to You and our offspring a nation submissive to You. Show us our rites of worship, and accept our repentance. Surely, You are the Accepter of repentance, the Merciful.

2:129  Our Lord! Send amongst them a Messenger of their own, who shall recite to them Your Verses and teach them the book and the wisdom, and purify them. Surely! You are the All-Mighty, the All-Wise."

2:130  And who turns away from the religion of Abraham except the one who is foolish? Surely, We chose him in this world and surely, in the Hereafter he will be among the righteous.

2:131  When his Lord asked him: "Submit (be a Muslim)!" He said: "I have submitted myself (as a Muslim) to the Lord of the worlds."

2:132  And this submission to Allah was enjoined by Abraham upon his sons and by Jacob, (saying): "O my sons! Surely Allah has chosen for you the true religion, then don’t die unless you are Muslims."

2:133  Or were you witnesses when the death approached to Jacob? When he said to his sons: "What will you worship after me?" They said: "We will worship your Lord, and the Lord of your fathers, Abraham and Ishmael, and Isaac, one Lord, and to Him we submit as Muslims."

2:134  That was a nation which has passed away. For them what they earned and for you what you earn. You will not be asked what they used to do.

2:135  And they said: "Be Jews or Christians, then you will be guided." Say (O Muhammad): "Nay, (we follow) the religion of Abraham, the upright one, and he was not of the polytheists."

2:136  Say (O Muslims): "We believe in Allah and what has been sent down to us; and what was sent down to Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, and their descendents, and what was given to Moses, Jesus, and what was given to the prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between any of them and to Him we have submitted (in Islam)."

2:137  So, if they believe (accept Islam) like what you have believed, then they are rightly guided; but if they turn away, then they are only in opposition. So Allah will be sufficient for you against them. Allah is the All-Hearer, the All-Knower.

2:138  (Our religion is) the religion of Allah, and which religion can be better than Allah’s? And we are His worshippers.

2:139  Say (O Muhammad): "Do you dispute with us about Allah while He is our Lord and your Lord? And we are accountable for our deeds and you for your deeds. We are sincere to Him.

2:140  Or do you say that Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, and their descendants were all Jews or Christians? Say: Do you know better or Allah? Who is more unjust than the one who conceals testimony from Allah? Allah is not unaware of what you do.

2:141  That was a nation which has passed away. For them what they earned (rewarded) and for you what you earn. You will not be asked what they used to do.

2:142  The fools among the people will say: "What has turned those (Muslims) from their Qiblah (prayer direction) which they used to face in prayer?" Say (O Muhammad): "To Allah belongs the east and the west. He guides whom He wills to the Right Way."

2:143  Thus We have made you a just nation so that you are witnesses over mankind and the Messenger be witness over you. And We have made the Qiblah (towards Jerusalem) which you used to face, only to test those who followed the Messenger (Muhammad) from those who would turn on their heels (disobey). Indeed it was hard test except for those whom Allah guided. And Allah does not let your faith (prayers) be lost. Truly, Allah is full of Kindness, the Merciful to mankind.

2:144  Surely! We have seen the turning of your (Muhammad’s) face towards the heaven. Surely, We shall turn you to a Qiblah that shall please you. So turn your face towards the Sacred Masjid (at Makkah). Wherever you people are, turn your faces in prayer towards it. Certainly, those who were given the Scriptures know well that the truth is from their Lord. And Allah is not unaware of what they do.

2:145  And even if you were to bring all proofs to those who were given the Scripture, they would neither follow your Qiblah, nor would you follow their Qiblah. And they will not follow each other’s Qiblah. Surely, if you follow their desires after that which you received of the knowledge (from Allah), then indeed you will be of the wrongdoers.

2:146  Those whom Allah has given the Scripture recognize it as they recognize their children. But surely, a group of them conceal the truth while they know it.

2:147  (This is) the truth from your Lord. So don’t be of those who doubt.

2:148  For every nation there is a direction to which they turn (for prayers). So try to excel (one another) in good deeds. Wherever you may be, Allah will bring you all together (on the Day of Resurrection). Truly, Allah has power over every thing.

2:149  From wherever you come forth, turn your face (in prayer) towards the Sacred Masjid (at Makkah), and indeed this is the truth from your Lord. Allah is not unaware of what you do.

2:150  From wherever you come forth (for prayers), turn your face towards the Sacred Masjid (at Makkah). Wherever you may be, turn your faces towards it so that people may not have an argument against you except those of them who are wrongdoers. Don’t fear them but fear Me, so that I may complete My Favors upon you and that you may be guided,

2:151  as We have sent among you a Messenger (Muhammad) from among you who recites to you Our Verses (the Qur’an), purify you, teaches you the book (the Qur’an) and wisdom, and teaches you what you did not know.

2:152  Therefore remember Me, I will remember you, be grateful to Me, and never be ungrateful to Me.

2:153  O you who believe! Seek help (from Allah) with patience and prayer. Surely! Allah is with the patient ones.

2:154  And don’t say of those who are killed (martyrs) in the way of Allah: "They are dead." Nay, they are alive, but you don’t perceive it.

2:155  Surely, We will test you with something of fear, hunger, loss of wealth, lives, and fruits. But give glad tidings to the patient ones;

2:156  who when afflicted with calamity, say: "Truly! We belong to Allah and indeed to Him we shall return.

2:157  They are those on whom are the blessings and Mercy from their Lord, and they are those who are the guided ones.

2:158  Surely! Safa and Marwah (2 hills in Makkah) are the symbols of Allah. So whoever performs Hajj (obligatory pilgrimage to Makkah) of the House (the Ka’bah at Makkah) or performs Umrah (optional visit to Makkah), there is no sin if one walks between the 2. And whoever does good voluntarily, then surely, Allah is All-Recognizer, the All-Knower.

2:159  Surely, those who conceal the clear proofs and the guidance which We have sent down, after We have made it clear for the mankind in the book; such are those Allah curses them and the cursers curse them;

2:160  except those who repent, reform (their ways), and declare (the truth). For those, I will accept repentance for them, and I am the Receiver of repentance, the Merciful.

2:161  Surely, those who disbelieve, die while they are disbelievers; it is they on them is the curse of Allah, of the angels, and of mankind combined;

2:162  they will abide in it (hell), neither the punishment will be lightened, nor will they be reprieved.

2:163  And your deity is One (Allah); there is no one worthy of worship but Him, the Beneficent, the Merciful.

2:164  Surely! In the creation of the heavens and the earth, and in the alternation of the night and the day, and in the ships which sail through the sea which benefit the mankind, and in the rain which Allah sends down from the sky and makes the earth alive after its death, and in the moving (living) creatures of all kinds that He scatters in it, and in the turning of winds and the clouds which are held between the sky and the earth; are indeed proofs for people of understanding.

2:165  Yet, there are some people who take (for worship) others besides Allah as rivals (to Allah). They love them like the love of Allah. But those who believe are strong in their love for Allah. If only those who do wrong could see (the Day of Judgment), when they will see the punishment, that all power belongs to Allah and that Allah is Severe in punishment.

2:166  (On that Day) those (leaders) who were followed will disown (declare innocent of) those who followed them when they will see the punishment, and then all relations will be cut off between them.

2:167  And those who followed will say: "If we could have a (chance to) return (to the worldly life again), then we would disown (declare innocent from) them (leaders) as they have disowned (declare innocent from) us (today)." Thus Allah will show them their deeds as regrets for them. They will never get out of the hellfire

2:168  O mankind! Eat of that which is lawful and good in the earth, and don’t follow the footsteps of Satan. Surely, Satan is for you an open enemy.

2:169  Only he (Satan) commands you of the evil, the obscenity, and that you say against Allah what you don’t know.

2:170  When it is said to them: "Follow what Allah has sent down." They say: "Nay! We will follow what we found our fathers on it (practiced)." (Would they follow) even if their fathers did not understand anything nor were they guided?

2:171  And the example of those who disbelieve is like the one who shouts to a group of sheep that does not hear except shouts and cries. (They are) deaf, dumb, and blind. So they don’t understand.

2:172  O you who believe! Eat of the lawful things that We have provided you with, and be grateful to Allah, if you worship Him only.

2:173  Surely! Allah has forbidden on you the dead (flesh), blood, flesh of swine, and that which is slaughtered in any other name than Allah. But if one is forced by necessity without willful disobedience or transgression, then there is no sin on him. Surely, Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.

2:174  Surely, those who conceal what Allah has sent down of the book (the Qur’an), and purchase therewith a small gain (worldly), they eat into their bellies nothing but fire. Allah will neither speak to them on the Day of Resurrection nor purify them, for them will be a painful punishment.

2:175  Those are they who have purchased error at the price of guidance, and punishment at the price of forgiveness. So how bold are they to face the hellfire!

2:176  That is because Allah has sent down the book (the Qur’an) with the truth. And surely, those who differed in the book (the Qur’an) are far away in opposition.

2:177  It is not piety that you turn your faces towards the east and (or) the west (in prayers); but piety is to believe in Allah, the Last Day, the angels, the books, the prophets; give wealth in spite of love for it to relatives, orphans, poor, travelers, and to those who ask (for help); in ransom (to set free) of captives; establish prayer, pay obligatory charity, fulfill their promises when they make it, remain patient in adversity, affliction (disease), and at the time of fighting (war). Such are they who are truthful and they are pious.

2:178  O you who believe! Retribution is prescribed for you in cases of murder: the free for the free, and the captive for the captive, and the female for the female. But if the killer is forgiven by (victim’s) brother (or relatives), then something (of blood money for killing should be decided) according to usage (with fairness) and payment be made to the heir (of the victim) in a good manner. This is less painful and a Mercy from your Lord. Whoever transgresses after this shall have a painful punishment

2:179  And there is (a saving of) life for you in retribution, O people of understanding, so that you may become pious.

2:180  It is prescribed for you when death approaches any of you, if you leave wealth, that you make a bequest (the will) for parents and next of kin according to reasonable manners. It is an obligation on the pious.

2:181  Whoever changes it (the will) after hearing it, then its sin shall be on those who change it. Truly, Allah is All-Hearer, All-Knower.

2:182  But he who fears from a testator (who legally make will valid before death) some unjust act or wrongdoing, and then makes peace between the parties, there is no sin. Surely, Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.

2:183  O you who believe! The fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may become pious.

2:184  Fasting days are numbered, but if any of you are sick or on a journey, the same number of days (should be made up) from other days. And for those who can fast with difficulty (such as old man), (can either fast or) feed a poor (for every missed day). But whoever does good voluntarily, it is better. Your fasting is better for you if only you know.

2:185  It is the month of Ramadan in which the Qur’an was revealed, a guidance for mankind with clear proofs, and the criterion (between right and wrong). So whoever of you witnesses the crescent on the first night of the month, should fast therein, and whoever is sick or on a journey, fast the same number of days (make up from) other (later) days. Allah wants for you ease, and does not want hardship for you so that you complete the (same) number (of days), and that you should glorify Allah for guiding you so that you may be grateful to Him

2:186  And when My servants ask you (Muhammad) about Me, then (answer them), indeed I am near (to them). I respond to the call of the caller when calls on Me (without any mediator). So let them respond to Me and believe in Me so that they may be rightly guided.

2:187  It is made lawful for you on the night of the fasts to approach your wives; they are garments for you, and you are garment for them. Allah knows that you were deceiving yourselves, so He accepted your repentance and forgave you. So now you can approach your wives and seek what Allah has ordained for you (offspring). Eat and drink until the white thread (light of dawn) becomes distinct to you from the black thread (darkness of night), then complete fasts till the nightfall. And don’t approach them (your wives) while you are confining yourselves in the Masjids (I’tikaf during the last 10 days of Ramadan). These are the limits of Allah, so don’t approach them. Allah makes clear His Verses to mankind so that they may become pious.

2:188  Don’t seize one another’s property unjustly, nor bribe the rulers so that you may seize a portion of the property of others sinfully and knowingly.

2:189  They ask you (Muhammad) of the new moons. Say: They are (to determine) the periods for mankind and for pilgrimage. It is not piety that you enter the houses from the back doors, but the pious is the one who fears Allah. So enter the houses through their (proper) doors and fear Allah so that you may be successful.

2:190  And fight in the way of Allah (against) those who fight you, but don’t exceed (limit). Surely, Allah does not like the transgressors.

2:191  And kill them wherever you find them, and turn them out from where they have turned you out. (Though killing is bad) creating mischief is worse than killing. Don’t fight them at the sacred Masjid (at Makkah), unless they (first) fight you there. But if they attack you, then kill them. Such is the punishment of the disbelievers.

2:192  But if they cease, then surely Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.

2:193  And fight them until no oppression exists and worship is for Allah (alone). But if they cease, (there should be) no hostility except against the wrongdoers.

2:194  The sacred month is for the prohibited month, and for the prohibited things, (that is) the law of equality (subject to retaliation). Whoever transgresses against you, you transgress likewise. And fear Allah, and know that Allah is with the pious.

2:195  And spend in the cause of Allah and don’t throw yourselves into destruction (by not spending for Allah), and do good. Surely, Allah loves the righteous.

2:196  And complete the Hajj (obligatory pilgrimage to Makkah) and Umrah (optional visit to Makkah) for Allah. But if you are prevented (from completing them), then send sacrifice whatever you can afford, and don’t shave your head until the offering reaches its appointed place. And whoever among you is sick or has an ailment in the scalp (needs shaving), then he must pay ransom either by fasting (for 3 days) or feeding the poor (6 people) or offering a sacrifice (one sheep). If you are safe (during peacetime) and whoever performs Umrah before the Hajj, then sacrifice whatever you can easily afford, but whoever cannot afford, then fast for 3 days during the pilgrimage and 7 days after return (to home), making 10 days in all. That is for those whose family is not present (non-resident) at the Sacred Masjid. Fear Allah and know that Allah is severe in punishment.

2:197  The pilgrimage is in the well-known months. Whoever intends to perform Hajj in these months, then (there should be) no obscenity (sexual relations), nor wickedness (obscene language), nor wrangling (dispute unjustly) during the Hajj. Whatever good you do, Allah knows it. Take provision with you for the journey, but surely the best provision is piety. So fear Me, O people of understanding

2:198  There is no sin on you if you seek Bounty of your Lord during pilgrimage. Then when you return from Arafat, remember Allah at the Mash’ar-al-Haram (at Muzdalifah). Remember Him as He has guided you, for before this you were of those who had lost the Right Way.

2:199  Then depart from where the people depart and ask forgiveness of Allah. Surely, Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.

2:200  So when you have accomplished your Hajj rites, remember Allah as you used to remember your forefathers or with far more remembrance. But there are people who say: "Our Lord! Give us (Your Bounties) in this world!" Such people will have nothing in the Hereafter.

2:201  And of them there are those who say: "Our Lord! Give us good in the world and good in the Hereafter, and save us from the punishment of the fire!"

2:202  Such people will have a portion from (both worlds) what they earned. And Allah is Swift in reckoning.

2:203  And remember Allah during the appointed days. But whoever hastens (to leave Mina) in 2 days, there is no sin and whoever delays, there is no sin, if the aim is to do good and obey Allah. Fear Allah, and know that you will be gathered before Him.

2:204  Among the mankind, there is one whose speech fascinates you in the worldly life, and even calls Allah to witness on what is in his heart, yet he is most quarrelsome of the opponents.

2:205  And when he turns away (from you O Muhammad); he strives in the land to spread mischief, destroy the crops, and the living being (cattle). Allah does not like the mischief.

2:206  And when it is said to him: "Fear Allah", arrogance takes him to sin. So hell is enough for him, and worst indeed is that resting place!

2:207  And of mankind there is one who would sell (give away) life seeking the pleasure of Allah. Allah is full of Kindness to (His) devotees.

2:208  O you who believe! Enter into Islam completely and don’t follow footsteps of Satan. Indeed he is your open enemy

2:209  Then if you slide back after the clear signs have came to you, then know that Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise.

2:210  Do they wait for (anything else) except that Allah should come to them in shadows of the clouds along with the angels? (Then) the case would be already judged. To Allah all matters are returned (for decision).

2:211  Ask the children of Israel, how many clear signs We gave them. And whoever changes the Favor (revelations) of Allah after it has come, then indeed Allah is Severe in punishment.

2:212  The worldly life is beautified for those who disbelieve, and they mock at those who believe. But those who are pious and keep away from forbidden, will be above them on the Day of Resurrection. Allah grants (Bounty) to whom He wills without limit.

2:213  Mankind was one community (with one religion). Allah sent the prophets with glad tidings and warnings, and with them sent the Scripture with the truth to judge between people in which they differed. Only those to whom the book (Scripture) was given differed in it after clear proofs came to them through hatred of one to another. Then Allah guided those who believed to the truth of that wherein they differed. Allah guides whom He wills to Right Way.

2:214  Or do you think that you will enter Paradise while trials have not yet come to you like those who passed away before you? Adversity and affliction befall them and were so shaken that even the Messenger and those who believed with the Messenger said: "When will help of Allah come?" (They were told) Yes! Certainly, the help of Allah is near!

2:215  They ask you (Muhammad) what they should spend (in charity). Say: “Whatever you spend of good must be for parents, kindred, orphans, the poor, the travelers, and whatever good deeds you do. Indeed Allah is Well-informed of it.”

2:216  Fighting (in Allah’s cause) is ordained for you (Muslims) though you dislike it. It may be that you dislike a thing and it is good for you, and you like a thing and it is bad for you. Allah knows but you don’t know.

2:217  They ask you (Muhammad) about fighting in the sacred month (1st, 7th, 11th, and 12th months of Islamic calendar). Say: "Fighting in it is a great (offence). But preventing from the way of Allah, disbelieving in Allah, and expelling its inhabitants from the Sacred Masjid (at Makkah) are greater (offences) in the sight of Allah. Persecution is (more terrible) than killing. They (disbelievers) will not cease fighting you till they turn you back from your religion if they can. And whoever of you turns away from its religion and dies as a disbeliever, their (deeds are) rendered void in this world and in the Hereafter, and they will be the inmates of the fire. They will abide in it forever.

2:218  Surely, those who have believed, and those who have emigrated (for Allah) and have striven hard in the way of Allah, all these hope for the Mercy of Allah. And Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.”

2:219  They ask you (Muhammad) about alcoholic drink and gambling. Say: “There is great evil in both and (some) benefits for mankind, but their evil is greater than their benefit.” They ask you how much they should spend. Say: "The surplus (beyond your needs)." Thus Allah makes clear to you His revelations so that you may think

2:220  in this world and the Hereafter. They ask you about orphans. Say: "Seeking good for them is best and if you intermix (your affairs) with theirs, then they are your brothers. Allah knows the mischievous (misuse property) from the well-wisher (protect property). If Allah wished, He could have put you into difficulties. Indeed Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise.

2:221  And don’t marry idolatresses (women worship idol) until they believe (in Allah alone). Indeed a believing captive woman is better than a free idolatress even though she pleases you. Don’t give (your daughters) in marriage to idolaters (men worship idol) until they believe in (Allah alone) and indeed a believing captive (man) is better than a free idolater even though he pleases you. Those (idolaters) invite you to the fire, and Allah invites you to Paradise and to forgiveness by His Grace. Allah makes His Verses clear to mankind so that they may remember.

2:222  They ask you about menstruation. Say: It is a harmful (illness), so keep away from women during menses and don’t approach (sexual intercourse) them till they are cleansed. When they are cleansed, then go to them as Allah has commanded you. Surely, Allah loves those who repent and loves those who purify themselves.

2:223  Your wives are a tilth (place of cultivation) for you, so go to your tilth as you wish. Send (good deeds) for yourselves before (leave the world). And fear Allah, and know that you will meet Him (in the Hereafter), and (O Muhammad) give good news to the believers.

2:224  And don’t make Allah’s (Name) an excuse in your oaths against your doing good, acting piously, and making peace among people. Allah is All-Hearer, All-Knower.

2:225  Allah will not blame you for your vain utterances (unintentional) in your oaths, but He will call you to account for what your hearts have earned. And Allah is Forgiving, Forbearing.

2:226  For those who swear for abstinence (sexual relation) from their wives, must wait 4 months. Then if they reconcile, surely, Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.

2:227  And if they decide upon divorce, then surely, Allah is All-Hearer, All-Knower.

2:228  And divorced women shall wait concerning themselves for 3 menstrual periods. It is not allowed for them that they conceal what Allah has created in their wombs, if they believe in Allah and the Last Day. Their husbands have better right to take them back in that period, if they wish reconciliation. They (women) have rights similar to those (of men) over them in a just manner, but men have a degree (of responsibility) over them. Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise.

2:229  (If) the divorce is (pronounced) twice, then either you retain her with honor or release her with kindness (after 3rd pronouncement). It is not lawful for you (men) to take back (from your wives) what you have given them (wives) anything, except that both fear that you will not be able to keep the limits of Allah. Then if you fear that you will not be able to keep the limits of Allah, then there is no sin on both of you if she gives back for her divorce. These are the limits of Allah, so don’t transgress them. And whoever transgresses the limits of Allah, then those are the wrongdoers.

2:230  And if he divorces her (after 3rd pronouncement), then she is not lawful for him until she marries a husband other than him. Then, if he (new husband) divorces her, there is no sin on both of them that they reunite (marry again) if both of them think that they will be able to keep the limits of Allah. These are the limits of Allah; He makes them clear to people who know.

2:231  When you divorce women and they reach their prescribed (waiting) period, then either take them back with honor or let them go with kindness. But don’t take them back to hurt them, and whoever does that, surely, he wrongs himself. And don’t take the Verses of Allah as a joke. But remember the Favors of Allah upon you, and that which He has sent down upon you of the book (the Qur’an) and of the Wisdom (by which) He instructs you. And Fear Allah, and know that Allah is All-Aware of everything.

2:232  When you divorce women and they reach their prescribed (waiting) period, then don’t prevent them from marrying their (former) husbands, if they mutually agree in a just manner. This is enjoyed on every one of you who believes in Allah and the Last Day. That is more virtuous and purer for you. Allah knows and you don’t know.

2:233  The mothers shall breast-feed their children for 2 whole years for those (parents) who desire to complete the breast-feeding. But the father of the child shall bear the cost of the mother’s food and clothing in a reasonable manner. No one should be charged more than they can afford. Neither a mother should be made to suffer for her child, nor a father to whom the child is born. On the (father’s) heir is incumbent the like of that (on the father). If both decide on weaning (withhold mother’s milk and use other nourishment) by mutual consent and after due consultation, then there is no sin on them. If you decide to give out to nurse (foster mother) for your children, then there is no sin on you when you pay (the mother) what is due from you in an honorable manner. Fear Allah and know well that Allah is All-Seer of what you do.

2:234  Those who die and leave wives behind them, they (wives) shall wait (to marry again) for 4 months and 10 days. When they reach their waiting term, then there is no sin on you what they (wives) do concerning themselves in a just manner. Allah is Well-acquainted with what you do.

2:235  There is no sin on you if you offer marriage proposal to (such) woman (during their waiting period) or you conceal it in yourselves. Allah knows that you will remember them (in your hearts), but don’t make a promise with them secretly except that you say (if you wish to marry) in an honorable manner. Don’t confirm on the tie of marriage till the prescribed term reaches its end. Know that Allah knows what is in your minds, so beware of Him. Know that Allah is Forgiving, Forbearing.

2:236  There is no sin on you, if you divorce women while you have not yet touched (sexual relation) them, or fixed for them a settled portion (dower). Provide for them, the wealth according to his (person’s) means and the poor according to his means, a reasonable provision, and a duty upon the righteous people.

2:237  And if you divorce them before you touch (sexual relation with) them, and indeed you have fixed for them a settled portion (dower), then pay ½ of what you have fixed unless they (women) agree to give up, or he (the husband) agrees to give up (pay full dowry) in whose hand is the knot of marriage. If you agree to give up (full dowry) that is closer to piety. You don’t forget to show kindness among yourselves. Surely, Allah is All-Seer of what you do.

2:238  Guard your (obligatory) prayers especially the middle prayer. Stand before Allah with true devotion.

2:239  And if you fear (an enemy), then pray on foot or riding. And when you are safe, offer prayer in the manner He has taught you, which you did not know (before).

2:240  Those of you who die and leave behind wives (should make) a bequest (will) for their wives a year’s maintenance and residence without turning them out. But if they leave, then there is no sin on you if they do themselves in an honorable manner. Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise.

2:241  For divorced women, a reasonable provision is a duty on the pious.

2:242  Thus Allah makes clear for you His Verse so that you may understand.

2:243  Have you (O Muhammad) not looked at those (people of Israel) who went from their homes in thousands for fear of death? Allah said to them: "Die". And then He revived them (to life). Surely, Allah is Bountiful to mankind, but most people don’t give thanks.

2:244  Fight in the way of Allah and know that Allah is All-Hearer, All-Knower.

2:245  Who will lend Allah a beautiful loan so that He will multiply it to him many times? Allah decreases or increases (your provisions), and to Him you shall return.

2:246  Have you not thought about the group of the children of Israel after Moses? When they said to a prophet of theirs: "Appoint for us a king and we will fight in the way of Allah." He said: "Would you then refrain from fighting, if fighting is prescribed for you?” They said: "Why should we not fight in the way of Allah while we along with our children have been driven out from our homes?" But when fighting was prescribed for them, they turned back except a few of them. Allah is All-Aware of the wrongdoers.

2:247  Their Prophet (Samuel) said to them: "Indeed Allah has appointed Saul as a king over you." They said: "How can he be a king over us when we are more deserving for the kingdom than he, and he has not been given plenty of wealth?" He said: "Surely, Allah has chosen him over you and has increased him abundantly in knowledge and stature. And Allah grants kingdom to whom He wills. Allah is All-Sufficient for His creature’s needs, All-Knower."

2:248  And their Prophet (Samuel) said to them: “Surely, the sign of his kingdom is that there shall come to you the ark (a wooden box), in which there is peace from your Lord and a remnant of what is left by the family of Moses and family of Aaron, it will be carried by the angels. Surely, in that is a sign for you if you are indeed believers.”

2:249  Then when Saul set out with the army, he said: "Surely! Allah will test you with a river. Whoever drinks from it, he is not of me, and whoever not taste it, indeed he is of me, except him who takes in the hollow of his hand." Yet, they all drank from it, except a few of them. So when he had crossed the river and those who believed with him, they said: "There is no strength (left) for us today against Goliath and his forces." But those who knew that they were to meet Allah, said: "How often a small group overcame a large group by the Grace of Allah? Allah is with the patient ones.

2:250  And when they went forth for Goliath and his forces, they said: "Our Lord! Pour on us patience, make our steps firm, and grant us victory over the disbelievers."

2:251  They routed those (disbelievers) by the Permission of Allah, David killed Goliath, Allah gave David the kingdom and wisdom, and taught him what He willed. And if Allah had not been repelling some people by some others, the earth surely would be filled with mischief. But Allah is Gracious to the worlds.

2:252  These are the Verses of Allah; We recite them to you (O Muhammad) with truth. Surely, you are one of the Messengers (of Allah).

2:253  Those Messengers! We preferred some of them over others. To some of them, Allah spoke (directly), and He raised some of them in degrees (of honor). We gave Jesus, the son of Mary, clear signs and supported him with Holy Spirit (angel Gabriel). If Allah willed, the people who received the clear Verses (of Allah) would not have fought against each other. But they differed, some of them believed, and some of them disbelieved. If Allah willed, they would not have fought one another, but Allah does what He wills.

2:254  O you who believe! Spend of that which We have provided for you before a Day comes when there will be no bargaining, no friendship, and no intercession. It is the disbelievers who are the wrongdoers.

2:255  Allah! There is no one worthy of worship except He, the Ever-Living, the Sustainer and Protector. Neither slumber, nor sleep overtakes Him. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. Who can intercede with Him except with His permission? He knows what happens to them (creations) in this world, and what will happen to them in the Hereafter. And they cannot gain access to anything out of His knowledge except what He wills. His Chair (Throne) extends over the heavens and the earth, and He does not feel fatigue in guarding them. He is the Exalted, the Great.

2:256  There is no compulsion in religion. Surely, the Right Way has become distinct from the wrong (way). Whoever disbelieves in false deities and believes in Allah, indeed has grasped the firm handle that will never break. And Allah is All-Hearer, All-Knower.

2:257  Allah is the Guardian of those who believe. He brings them out from darkness into light. Those who disbelieve, their supporters are false deities; they bring them out from light to darkness. They are the inmates of the fire; they will abide in it forever.

2:258  Have you not looked at him (Namrud) who disputed with Abraham about his Lord, because Allah had given him the kingdom? When Abraham said to him: "My Lord gives life and causes death." He said: "I give life and cause death." Abraham said, "Surely! Allah brings out the sun from the east; then you bring it from the west." So he who disbelieved was completely defeated. Allah does not guide the wrongdoers.

2:259  Or like the one (Ezra) who passed by a town and it had tumbled upon its roofs. He said: "How will Allah ever bring life to this town after its death?" So Allah caused him to die for 100 years, and then raised him to life (again). He asked: "How long did you remain (dead)?" Ezra said: "I remained dead for a day or part of a day." He said: "Nay, you have remained dead for 100 years: look at your food and your drink, they did not show change (not rotten); and look at your donkey (even its bones decayed)! And thus We have made you a sign for mankind. Look at the bones (of the donkey), how We put them together and then clothe them with flesh (and bring back to life)?" When it was clearly shown to him, he said, "I know (now) that Allah has power over every thing."

2:260  And (remember) when Abraham said: "My Lord! Show me how You give life to the dead." He (Allah) said: "Do you not believe?" He (Abraham) said: "Yes! But to satisfy my heart (faith)." He (Allah) said: "Take 4 birds, and tame them to incline to yourself (slaughter them, cut them into pieces), and then put a portion of them on every hill, then call them, they will come to you in haste (flying). And know that Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise."

2:261  The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like that of a grain, it sprouts into 7 ears, and each ear has 100 grains. Allah multiplies for whom He wills. And Allah is All-Sufficient, All-Knower

2:262  Those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah, and they don’t follow up what they spent with reminder of generosity or injure them (feeling of the recipients), their reward is with their Lord. There is no fear on them, nor shall they grieve.

2:263  Kind words and forgiving (of faults) are better than charity which is followed by injury. And Allah is Rich (free from all needs), Forbearing.

2:264  O you who believe! Don’t render in vain your charity by reminder of generosity or by injury (feelings of recipients), like those who spend their wealth to be seen by people, and don’t believe in Allah, nor the Last Day. Their example is like a smooth rock with dust over it; and when heavy rain falls on it, leaves it bare. They have no control over anything (reward) which they have earned. Allah does not guide the disbelievers.

2:265  The example of those who spend their wealth seeking the pleasure of Allah while they in their souls are sure that Allah will reward them, is like the example of a garden on a height. When heavy rain falls on it and it yields double its harvest. If heavy rain does not fall on it, then even light rain is sufficient. Allah is All-Seer of what you do.

2:266  Would any of you wish to have a garden of date-palms and grapes with rivers flowing underneath it, and all kinds of fruits are in it for him; while old age has taken over him, and he has weak children (can not look after themselves); then it is struck and burnt down by a fiery whirlwind? Thus Allah makes clear His Verses to you that you may give thought.

2:267  O you who believe! Spend good things which you have (legally) earned, and that which We have produced for you from the earth, and don’t aim at bad (or worthless) things to spend (in charity though) you would not take it for yourself except you overlook (defects) in it. Know that Allah is Self-Sufficient, Praiseworthy.

2:268  Satan threatens you with poverty and orders you to commit indecency; whereas Allah promises you forgiveness from Him and Bounty. Allah is Self-Sufficient, All-Knower.

2:269  He grants wisdom to whom He wills, and whoever is granted wisdom, is indeed granted good abundantly. But none remembers except people of understanding.

2:270  And whatever you spend for spending (charity) or whatever vow you make, indeed Allah knows it all. The wrongdoers shall have no helpers.

2:271  If you disclose your charity, it is well, and if you conceal it and give it to the poor, that is better for you. (Allah) will remove some of your bad deeds. Allah is All-Aware of what you do.

2:272  Not upon you (O Muhammad) is their guidance, but Allah guides whom He wills. Whatever good you spend, it is for yourselves, you don’t spend except seeking the pleasure of Allah. Whatever good you spend, it will be repaid back to you in full, and you will not be wronged.

2:273  Charity is for the poor who are restricted (from travel) for the cause of Allah, they are not able to move about to work in the earth. The ignorant people think them as wealthy because of their modesty. You may know them by their mark; they don’t beg people with repeated demands. Whatever good you spend, surely Allah knows about that well.

2:274  Those who spend their wealth (in Allah’s cause) by night, by day, secretly, and openly, their rewards are with their Lord. There is no fear on them, nor shall they grieve.

2:275  Those who eat interest (usury), they will not stand (before Allah) except like those who are confused (insane) by the touch of Satan. That is because they say: "Indeed trade is like usury,” while Allah has made the trade lawful and the usury unlawful. So those who receive admonition from their Lord and they refrain, stop eating usury, shall not be punished for the past. Their case is left to Allah (to judge). But those who repeats (to usury), they are inmates of the fire; they will abide in it forever.

2:276  The usury deprives the blessings of Allah and increases by the charity. Allah does not like all ungrateful sinners.

2:277  Indeed those who believe, do righteous deeds, establish prayer, and give obligatory charity; for them their rewards are with their Lord. There is no fear on them, nor shall they grieve.

2:278  O you who believe! Fear Allah and give up what remains (due to you) from usury if you are believers.

2:279  But if you don’t do it, then be warned of war from Allah and His Messenger. If you repent, you may retain your capital sums. You don’t wrong (by asking more than your capital), you will not be wronged (by receiving less than your capital).

2:280  And if the debtor is in difficulty to pay (has no money), then delay until it is easy to repay. But if you remit it by way of charity that is better for you if you know.

2:281  And fear the Day when you shall be brought back to Allah. Then everyone will be paid what he earned and none shall be dealt unjustly.

2:282  O you who believe! When you contract a debt from one another for a fixed period, write it down. Let a scribe write it down between you in justice. A scribe shall not refuse to write it down as Allah has taught, so let the scribe write. Let him (debtor) dictate on whom is the liability fearing Allah, the Lord, and not diminish anything of what he owes. But if the debtor is of poor understanding, or weak, or is not capable to dictate for itself, then let its guardian dictate in justice. Call for 2 witnesses out of your own men. If 2 men are not available, then a man and 2 women, such as you agree as witnesses, so that if one of the 2 women errs, one of them (2 women) reminds other. The witnesses should not refuse when they are called (for evidence). Don’t become weary to write down your contract, small or large for its period. That is more just with Allah, more reliable for evidence, and more convenient to prevent doubts among yourselves, except when it is a present trade which you carry out among yourselves, and then there is no sin on you if you don’t write it down. But take witnesses when you trade with one another. Let neither scribe nor witness suffer any harm, and if you do (such harm), then it is wickedness on your part. So fear Allah and Allah teaches you. Allah is All-Knower of every thing.

2:283  If you are on a journey and you cannot find a scribe, then take a pledge in hand. But if any of you trusts another, then let one who is trusted fulfill its trust (faithfully), and let him fear Allah, his Lord. You don’t conceal the evidence, and whoever conceals it, surely its heart is sinful. Allah is All-Knower of what you do.

2:284  To Allah belongs what is in the heavens and what is in the earth. If you declare what is in your own selves or you conceal it, Allah will call you to account for it. He will forgive whom He wills and will punish whom He wills. Allah has power over everything.

2:285  The Messenger (Muhammad) believes in what has been sent down to him from his Lord and (so do) the believers. All believe in Allah, His angels, His books, and His Messengers. (They say): "We don’t make distinction between any one of His Messengers." (They say): "We hear, and we obey. We seek Your forgiveness, our Lord, and to You is the return (of all)."

2:286  Allah does not burden any one but beyond his capacity. He will get reward for what he has earned (good) and be punished against what he earned (evil). (The believers say): "Our Lord! Punish us not if we forget or fall into error. Our Lord! Don’t lay on us a burden like that which You laid on those who were before us. Our Lord! Don’t lay on us burdens of which we don’t have power (to bear). Pardon us, forgive us, have mercy on us. You are our Protector, so grant us victory over the disbelievers."