(1) 1. Those who disbelieved from among the followers of the (earlier) Scripture (Jews and Nazarenes i.e., Christians) and the polytheists were not to part (from disbelief and paganism) until there had come to them the clear Evidence:
(2) 2. A Messenger from Allah (the prophet Muhammad), reciting purified Pages,
(3) 3. Wherein are all the right Ordinances (as opposed to their mistaken beliefs and superstitions).
(4) 4. And those (Jews and Nazarenes) who were given the Scripture did not become divided (into many sects) except after clear Evidence (from Allah) had come to them (I.e., the prophet, or the Qur’ān which was sent as his miracle).
(5) 5. And they were not enjoined with anything except that they should worship Allah (alone), being sincere to Him in religion (in devotion and obedience, not associating any with Him as partners), being upright, and to perform the prayer perfectly (at their prescribed times) and pay the poor-rate (to its beneficiaries), and that is the right religion.
(6) 6. Surely those who (persist in) disbelief from among the followers of the (earlier) Scripture and the polytheists will be in the Fire of Hell, abiding therein; they are the worst of all creation.
(7) 7. (As for) those who believe (in Allah, His angels, His scriptures, His messengers, the Last Day and Predestination) and do righteous deeds, surely they are the best of all creation.
(8) 8. Their Reward with their Lord (Allah) is Gardens of Eden beneath which rivers flow, abiding therein forever; Allah is well-Pleased with them and they are well-pleased with Him; that is for him who is in Awe (and Reverence) before his (True) Lord (Allah).