Had the benefit (booty) been a near gain and the journey (of fighting) easy and moderate then they (i.e. the hypocrites) would certainly have followed you. But (that) arduous journey appeared to them far too long. And they would (now) swear by Allah soon: ‘Had we been able to go, we would certainly have marched forth with you.’ They are drawing upon themselves (added) destruction (by these lies), and Allah knows that they are liars beyond doubt.