The Majestic Quran

God” (74). It goes on to explain that jihad is not about fighting and killing people, but standing up for justice against the persecution of those who pray, “Our Lord, take us out of this town with its tyrannical people and, out of Your kindness, give us protectors and helpers” (75). A portion of the chapter discusses the problem of the hypocrites: people who profess Islam while secretly disbelieving. This was – and remains – the most challenging and troublesome group, sitting on the fence that separates faith from disbelief, and described as “dithering between this and that, they are neither with these believers nor with those disbelievers ” (143). They were a real menace for the Muslims, an enemy within, always plotting, spreading rumours and sowing doubts. Their characteristic traits have already been mentioned in Chapter Al-Baqarah: troublemakers, sick at heart, and spreaders of corruption. More are added: they obstruct people from believing, and engaged in scheming against the Muslims. By describing their traits, the Quran is cautioning Muslims to beware of them. By enumerating these negative qualities, the chapter stresses the need to adopt values opposite to those of the hypocrites: sincerity, loyalty, kindness and generosity towards fellow citizens and the authorities. Obedience to the Messenger r is a source of blessing Good leadership is a powerful glue that holds a society together: “Believers, obey God, the Messenger and those in authority amongst you, if you disagree amongst yourselves over anything, then refer it to God and the Messenger” (59). Those who obey the Messenger are blessed: “Whoever obeys God and the Messenger, such people shall be with those whom God has favoured: the