Tafsir of Al-Baqarah 2:245

"Who is it that would loan Allah a goodly loan..."

Lending to Allah is a metaphor for performing deeds for which one seeks His reward. The "goodly loan" refers either to striving (mujahada) in one's own self or to spending in the way of Allah.

"...so He may multiply it for him many times over?"

It is said that one is multiplied by seven hundred. Al-Suddi said: "Many times over," the extent of which is known to none but Allah.

"And it is Allah who withholds and grants abundance..."

He expands the provision for His servants and restricts it. Therefore, do not be stingy toward Him with what He has expanded for you, lest He replace your abundance with constriction.

"...and to Him you will be returned."

He will recompense you for what you have sent forth.

"Have you not considered the assembly of the Children of Israel after [the time of] Moses when they said to a prophet of theirs, 'Send to us a king, that we may fight in the way of Allah'? He said, 'Would you perhaps refrain from fighting if fighting was prescribed for you?' They said, 'And why should we not fight in the way of Allah when we have been driven out of our homes and from our children?' But when fighting was prescribed for them, they turned away, except for a few of them. And Allah is Knowing of the wrongdoers."