OCCASION OF REVELATION (VERSE NO. 86)

      One of the helpers (MEDINA MUSLIMS) slew a guiltless man without any right, and for fear of retaliation he renounced Islam and escaped to Mecca as an apostate. He then seriously repented and through one of his family in Medina asked the prophet, if there was any door of return opened for him? This verse revealed declaring the acceptance of his repentance on conditions.

COMMENTS

      According to the preceding verse, Islam is the only religion accepted by God. Therefore, a Muslim who renounces his religion and becomes an apostate, cannot easily be forgiven and obtain salvation:

      ``How may Allah guide a people who have disbelieved after they believed and bore witness that the Messenger is truthful, and there came to them clear signs from Allah. Such a people are indeed oppressors and Allah will not guide the oppressing people.''

      Why will not Allah guide them? the answer is evident and obvious: ``They recognized the prophet - they knew him through many clear signs and miracles - they testified his prophethood - they made a covenant with him.''

      And now in their apostasy they break their covenant and all promises! They deny the voice of their heart and conscience and have recanted and joined the enemies! How can such a one be forgiven and then guided to salvation?