And when the path of their mixing with them was completely blocked, unless they described themselves with the repentance indicated by the two witnesses mentioned, it was completely closed. And it was completely opened for them upon describing themselves with it. He then added another middle path that is constrained, saying: "And if any one of the polytheists seeks your protection," meaning: those whom We commanded you to fight, "then grant him protection," meaning: treat him with the honor of a neighbor after the period of the journey has ended. "So grant him protection," meaning: give him safety and defend him from anyone who intends harm against him, "until he hears the words of Allah," meaning: the greatest King, by hearing the recitation that indicates Him. Thus, he will know by that what he is called to from the good and will realize that it is not the words of creation. And when he mentioned his granting protection, and he had after that a repentance and persistence, and the state of the repentant had been mentioned, he clarified what should be done with him if he persists, saying: "Then inform him," meaning: if he intends to depart and has not embraced Islam, "of his place of safety," meaning: the location in which he is safe. Then fight him after he reaches the place of safety if you wish, without treachery or betrayal. Al-Hasan said: It is definitive until the Day of Resurrection. Then he explained that with what clarifies their treachery by saying: "That is because they," meaning: the command to grant protection for the purpose mentioned is due to the fact that they, "are a people who do not know," meaning: they have no knowledge; for they have no covenant with prophethood, nor message, nor scripture. So when they know, knowledge is likely to benefit them.