2.141 - That is a nation which has passed on; for it is what it earned, and for you is what you have earned. And you will not be questioned about what they used to do. 2.142 - The fools among the people say: What has turned them from their direction of prayer which they faced in the past? Say: To Allah belongs the east and the west; He guides whom He wills to a straight path. 2.143 - And thus We have made you a moderate nation that you may be witnesses over the people, and the messenger may be a witness over you; and We did not make the direction of prayer which you faced in the past except that We make evident one who follows the messenger from one who turns back upon his heels. And indeed, it is difficult except for those whom Allah has guided; and Allah will never waste your faith. Indeed, Allah is, to the people, Kind and Merciful. 2.144 - We have certainly seen the turning of your face to the sky, and We will turn you to a direction of prayer by which you will be pleased. So turn your face toward the sacred mosque, and wherever you are, turn your face toward its direction. And indeed, those who were given the book know that it is the truth from their Lord; and Allah is not unaware of what they do. 2.145 - And if you came to those who were given the book with every sign, they would not follow your direction of prayer, nor will you be a follower of their direction of prayer, nor would they be followers of one another's direction of prayer. And if you follow their desires after what has come to you of the knowledge, indeed, you would then be among the unjust. 2.146 - Those to whom We have given the book recognize him (Muhammed) as they recognize their sons, and indeed a party of them conceal the truth while they know. 2.147 - The truth is from your Lord; so never be among the skeptics. 2.148 - And for every direction (of prayer), He is the One Who sanctions it, so keep the good wherever you are, Allah will bring you all together; indeed, Allah is over everything Capable. 2.149 - And from wherever you go out, turn your face toward the sacred mosque; and indeed, it is the truth from your Lord; and Allah is not unaware of what you do. 2.150 - And from wherever you go out, turn your face toward the sacred mosque direction; and wherever you are turn your faces toward its direction in order that the people will not have any argument against you except the unjust from among them. And do not fear them, and fear Me. And so I may complete My favour upon you and that you may be guided.
