They did not split ˹into sects˺ out of mutual envy until knowledge came to them.¹ Had it not been for a prior decree from your Lord for an appointed term,² the matter would have certainly been settled between them ˹at once˺. And surely those who were made to inherit the Scripture³ after them are truly in alarming doubt about this ˹Quran˺.

And they divided not till after knowledge had come to them, through (selfish) transgression between themselves. And had it not been for a Word that went forth before from your Lord for an appointed term, the matter would have been settled between them. And verily, those who were made to inherit the Scripture [i.e. the Taurâh (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel)] after them (i.e. Jews and Christians) are in grave doubt concerning it (i.e. Allâh’s true religion - Islâm or the Qur’ân).