Surah 9. Al-Tawba, Ayah 67

I.e., their behaviour is - in its effect, at least - the exact opposite of that expected of the believers (cf. 3:104 , {110} and {114}; 9:71 and {112}; and 22:41 ).

It is to be borne in mind that this and the following verses refer to the conscious hypocrites spoken of in the last sentence of the preceding verse, and not to the waverers, whose hypocrisy is an outcome of inner fears and uncertainties.

Literally, "the Hypocrites... are of each other". The forms of hypocrisy may vary, but they are all alike, and they understand each other's hypocrisy. They hold together.

The English phrase "close-fisted" would cover only a part of the meaning. The hand is the symbol of power, help, and assistance. This may be financial, or it may be in other ways. The Hypocrites pretend a great deal, but are of no use or real help to any one.

Cf. vii. 51. and n. 1029. They ignore Allah: and Allah will ignore them.