(Those of the wandering Arabs) from Banu Ghifar, Aslam, Ashja', Dayl and some people from Muzaynah and Juhaynah (who were left behind) at the conquest of al-Hudaybiyyah (will tell thee: Our possessions and our households occupied us) we were afraid that our households would be ruined if we went out with you, and this is why we stayed behind, (so ask forgiveness for us) O Messenger of Allah, for failing to accompany you to al-Hudaybiyyah! (They speak with their tongues) they ask with their tongue-i.e. forgiveness-(that which is not in their hearts) without really feeling the need for it, whether you ask forgiveness for them or not. (Say) to them, O Muhammad: (Who can avail you aught against Allah) who can do anything about Allah's torment, (if he intend you hurt) killing and defeat (or intend you profit) victory, booty and well-being? (Nay, but Allah is ever Aware of what ye do) Allah is aware of your failure to join the conquest of al-Hudaybiyyah.
- 48:1111
سَيَقُولُ لَكَ الْمُخَلَّفُونَ مِنَ الْأَعْرَابِ شَغَلَتْنَا أَمْوَالُنَا وَأَهْلُونَا فَاسْتَغْفِرْ لَنَا ۚ يَقُولُونَ بِأَلْسِنَتِهِمْ مَا لَيْسَ فِي قُلُوبِهِمْ ۚ قُلْ فَمَنْ يَمْلِكُ لَكُمْ مِنَ اللَّهِ شَيْئًا إِنْ أَرَادَ بِكُمْ ضَرًّا أَوْ أَرَادَ بِكُمْ نَفْعًا ۚ بَلْ كَانَ اللَّهُ بِمَا تَعْمَلُونَ خَبِيرًا
The Arabs of the desert who had stayed behind will now say to you: "We were occupied with our flocks and herds and families, so ask forgiveness for us. They say with their tongues what is not in their hearts. Tell them: "Who can prevail with God for you if He wish you harm or benefit? Surely God is well aware of what you do.
- common.revelation-Medinan
- common.hizb : 204