Causes of failure and its benefits, as well as distinction between evil and good

How is it that when misfortune befell you, you said: "Where has this come from?" -- even though you had inflicted disaster twice as great on (the enemy). Say: "This has come from your own selves." Surely God has power over all things.

What you suffered on the day the two armies had met was by God's dispensation, so that He may distinguish the faithful,

And may distinguish the hypocrites who were told: "Fight in the way of God, or defend yourselves," and who had replied: "If we knew of the fight we would have followed you." They were nearer unbelief than faith on that day, and they said with their tongues what was not in their hearts; but God is aware of what they hide.

To those who sit at home and say of their brothers: "They would never have been killed had they listened to us, say: "Drive away death from your midst if what you say is true."

Never think that those who are killed in the way of God are dead. They are alive, getting succour from their Lord,

Rejoicing at what God has given them of His grace, and happy for those who are trying to overtake them but have not joined them yet, and who will have no fear or regret.

They rejoice at the kindness and mercy of God; and God does not suffer the wages of the faithful to go waste.

Those who obeyed the call of God and His Messenger, even after they were wounded, and took heed for themselves, shall indeed have an ample reward,

Those who were told: "They have gathered an army, beware," and their faith increased and they said: "God is sufficient for us, and the best of protectors,"

And returned with God's favour and grace without harm, for they attended the pleasure of God; and great is the benevolence of God.

It is no one but Satan who frightens you with his allies. But do not fear him, fear Me, if indeed you are believers.

And do not be grieved by those who rush into disbelief. They do no harm to God; and God will not give them any share in the life to come, and their torment shall be great.

Those who barter unbelief for faith, will not harm God in the least, and the punishment for them will be painful.

The unbelievers must not think that the respite We give them augurs well. We do so that they sink deeper into sin, and suffer an ignominious doom.

God will not leave the believers in the state they are in till He has sifted the evil from the good; nor will God reveal the secrets of the Unknown. He chooses (for this) from His apostles whom He will. So believe in God and the prophets, for if you believe and fear the displeasure of God your reward will be great.