Tafseer Ibn Kathir of AL AHQAAF [33]

33. Do they not see that Allah, Who created the heavens and the earth, and was not wearied by their creation, is Able to give life to the dead Yes, He surely is Able to do all things. 34. And on the Day when those who disbelieve will be exposed to the Fire (it will be said to them): ”Is this not the truth'' They will say: ”Yes, by our Lord!'' He will say: ”Then taste the torment, because you used to disbelieve!'' 35. Therefore be patient as did those of determination among the Messengers and be in no hurry for them. On the Day when they will see what they are promised, it will be as though they had not remained (in the world) except an hour in a day. (This is) a clear Message. But will any be destroyed except the defiantly rebellious people Allah then commands His Messenger to observe patience with those who rejected him among his people. He says,

(Therefore be patient as did those of determination among the Messengers.) meaning, as they were patient with their people's rejection of them. ”Those of determination'' among the Messengers are Nuh, Ibrahim, Musa, `Isa and the last of all of the Prophets, Muhammad . Allah has specifically mentioned their names in two Ayat: Surat Al-Ahzab (33:7) and Surat Ash-Shura (42:13).

(and be in no hurry for them.) which means, `do not rush the punishment for them.' This is similar to Allah's saying:

(And leave Me alone to deal with the rejectors, those who are in possession of good things of life. And give them respite for a little while.) (73:11)

(So allow time for the disbelievers, and leave them for a while.) (86:17) Then Allah says:

(On the Day when they will see that which they are promised, it will be as though they had not remained (in the world) except an hour in a day.) Which is similar to Allah's saying,

(On the Day they see it (the Hour), it will be as though they had not remained (in the world) except for a day's afternoon or its morning.) (79:46) and as He says,

(And on the Day when He shall gather them together, (it will be) as if they had not stayed but an hour of a day. They will recognize each other.)(10:45) Then Allah says,

(A clear message.) meaning, this Qur'an provides a clear concept.

(But will any be destroyed except the defiantly rebellious people) Which means that Allah does not destroy anyone except those who choose the way of destruction. It is part of Allah's justice that He does not punish anyone except those who deserve the punishment -- and Allah knows best. This concludes the explanation of Surat Al-Ahqaf. And all praise and blessings are due to Allah. Both success and protection from faults are by His help.