(The forbidden month) in which you entered to perform the lesser pilgrimage ('umrah) (is for the forbidden month) which they prevented you from performing, (and forbidden things in retaliation) one in retaliation for another. (And one who attacketh you) first, in the Sacred Precinct (attack him in like manner as he attacked you) by killing them. (And observe your duty to Allah) and fear Allah to begin with, (and know that Allah is with those who ward off (evil)) He assists the pious by giving them victory.