[4:89-4:90] They long that you should disbelieve as they disbelieve, so then you would be equal; therefore do not take friends from among them until they emigrate in the way of God; then, if they turn away, take them and slay them wherever you find them; and do not take any of them as a patron, or as a helper. * Except those who attach themselves to a people between whom and you there is a covenant, or come to you with their breasts constricted about the prospect of fighting you, or fighting their people. Had God willed, He would have given them sway over you, so that assuredly they would have fought you.
And so if they stay away from you and do not fight you, and offer you peace, then God does not allow you any way against them.
The allusion is to the masters of confusion and sickly states who wish that the sincere would be like them. How preposterous would it be for their desire to be actualized! As long as those who are oppositional are not in harmony with you, leave them, oppose them, and do not concur with them in any way. Do not associate with them, and do not take any of them as a friend or helper. Someone who agrees with you in your goal is better for you than associating with someone who opposes with antipathy.
Except those who attach themselves to a people...: The allusion in this verse is that He gives leave, for the excuses given, to associate outwardly in a friendly manner with those who are oppressed.
And so if they stay away from you...: The allusion in it is when someone who is not one of the people of the story associates with you, and they are intent upon remaining in the familiar regions of their worldly share, do not call them to your path but submit your circumstances to them in peace. Verily He has given you the power to regard them with the eye of mercy, as your intentions choose regarding them, so submit your circumstances to them in peace.