TheMostReadBook.org

Suggested translation^1,2:

-------
¹This translation may have been updated from the original suggested translation as a result of the discussions that follow.
²Click on the {verse number} of a translation to see other good translations of the verse.

"Took your covenant" doesn't quite translate أخذنا ميثاقكم which means took a promise or oath from you to uphold the covenant.

While the interjection explains in part what the covenant was, it isn't necessary. Also, "determination" is a good translation, but "firmly" is closer to the Arabic. So, I suggest,

{2:63} And [recall] when We took your [word to uphold the] covenant, and We raised over you the mount, [saying] "Take what We have given you firmly and remember what is in it that perhaps you may watch out [for God]."

I suggest,
{2:64} Then you turned away after that. And if not for the bounty of God upon you and His mercy, you would have been among the losers.


I suggest,
{2:65} And you have certainly known about those who transgressed among you during the sabbath, then We said to them, "Be base apes."


I suggest,
{2:66} And We made it a deterrence for what is before it and what is after it and an admonition for the watchful [of God].