17] Their example is like that of one who kindled a fire; and when it lit up all that was around it, Allah took away their light and left them in darkness, unable to see anything.

18] Deaf, dumb and blind; and they are not to return.

19] Or like a rainstorm from the sky, in which are darkness, thunder and lightning; they thrust their fingers in their ears due to the thunderclaps, fearing death; and Allah has the disbelievers encompassed.

20] It seems the lightning may snatch away their sight from them; whenever it flashes they walk in it, and when it darkens they stand still; if Allah willed, He could take away their hearing and their sight; indeed Allah is Able to do all things.

 

Section 3

21] O mankind! Worship your Lord, Who has created you and those before you, in the hope of attaining piety.

 

22] The One Who has appointed the earth a base for you, and the sky a canopy - and caused water to pour down from the sky, thereby producing fruits as food for you; and do not knowingly set up rivals to Allah!

23] And if you are in any doubt concerning what We have sent down upon Our distinguished bondman (Prophet Mohammed - peace and blessings be upon him), bring forth a single surah (chapter) equal to it; and call upon all your supporters, other than Allah, if you are truthful.

 

24] And if you are unable to bring forth (one chapter) - and We declare that you can never bring one - then fear the fire (of hell), the fuel of which is men and stones; kept ready for the disbelievers.