Rowwad Translation Center — 4

2:17 Their likeness is that of someone who kindles a fire. When it illuminates all around him, Allah takes away their light, leaving them in utter darkness, unable to see[1].

2:18 Deaf, dumb, and blind, so they will not return [to the straight path].

2:19 Or like a downpour from the sky accompanied by darkness, thunder, and lightning. They thrust their fingers into their ears against the thunderclaps, for fear of death. But Allah encompasses the disbelievers.

2:20 The lightning almost snatches away their eyesight. Every time lightning[1] strikes, they walk in its light, but when it becomes dark, they stand still. If Allah had willed, He would have taken away their hearing and their sight; for Allah is Most Capable of all things.

2:21 O people, worship your Lord, Who created you and those before you, so that you may become righteous;

2:22 He Who made the earth a resting place for you, and the sky a canopy; and sends down rain from the sky, and brings forth fruits thereby as a provision for you. So do not set up rivals to Allah while you know[1].

2:23 If you are in doubt concerning that which We have sent down upon Our slave[1], then produce a chapter like it and call upon your helpers other than Allah, if you are truthful.

2:24 But if you did not do it – and you can never do it – then beware of the Fire whose fuel will be people and stones, which is prepared for the disbelievers.