when a chapter is revealed stating believe in god and strive with his messenger the prominent among them ask you for exemption. they say allow us to stay with those who stay behind.
وإذا أنزلت سورة أن آمنوا بالله وجاهدوا مع رسوله استأذنك أولو الطول منهم وقالوا ذرنا نكن مع القاعدين