(5:97) Allah has made the Ka`bah, the Sacred House, standing for the people and [has sanctified] the sacred months and the sacrificial animals and the garlands [by which they are identified]. That is so you may know that Allah knows what is in the heavens and what is in the earth and that Allah is Knowing of all things. (5:98) Know that Allah is severe in penalty and that Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.