فَانتَقَمنا مِنهُم ۖ فَانظُر كَيفَ كانَ عاقِبَةُ المُكَذِّبينَ

Thereupon We took vengeance on them; so observe how was the fate of the deniers.

EXEGESIS

The connective particle fa in fantaqmnā (Thereupon We took vengeance) establishes a cause-and-effect relationship between the polytheists’ actions described in the previous verses and the consequences detailed in the subsequent text. This particle emphasises that the events that follow are a direct outcome of the polytheists’ practices, highlighting the notion that their choices and behaviour have consequences that ultimately shape their fate.

Intaqamnā derives from the root verb naqama, which encompasses the idea of chastisement accompanied by a sense of internal aversion or distaste. The form of this chastisement can vary, encompassing a range of actions from verbal reprimands and reproach to more severe forms of punishment.[1] In the Quran, this is used as an indication that the specific instance dictated a punishment, due to the justice of God who maintains perfect order in the cosmos (see, for example, 7:136 and 32:22).[2] Some exegetes have suggested that form eight, intiqām, connotes hyperbole.[3] This nuance can be seen in the translation of Ṣaffārzādeh: ‘So [through the Divine Chastisement] We took a severe revenge on them; so See what was the doom of those who Denied the Truth!’

Given the context of the verse, the vengeance referred to here likely alludes to the complete destruction of previous communities through devastating chastisements, often described as ʿadhāb al-istiʾṣāl in Islamic tradition. These calamities may have taken the form of cataclysmic events such as lightning strikes, floods, or earthquakes, serving as tangible manifestations of divine retribution for the misdeeds and transgressions of those communities.[4]

EXPOSITION

As the preceding verse made clear, the polytheists were characterised by their unwavering and irrational refusal to accept the truth as presented by the prophets. Lacking any valid justification for their rejection, they persisted in their denial despite being confronted with compelling arguments and evidence. This verse then underscores the dire consequences of their obstinacy, revealing that their persistent denial ultimately led to severe punishment and the destruction of their community. In this way, the verse serves as a cautionary tale, emphasising the importance of openness to truth and the potential dangers of stubbornly clinging to ignorance and falsehood.

So observe how was the fate of the deniers: although the words are addressed to the Holy Prophet, the true target audience is the Meccan polytheists. By referencing the punishment meted out to previous communities, the verse serves as a potent warning to those who would reject the message of the Prophet, urging them to consider the severe consequences that may befall them if they persist in their denial. Additionally, some scholars have interpreted this verse as offering solace to the Prophet himself, reminding him that the opposition he faces is not unprecedented and that, in the end, justice will prevail.[5]

When considering the last two verses together, a key principle emerges: divine punishment is meted out only after people have received guidance and are left without any valid reason for disbelief.[6] This notion is not unique to these verses, as it is echoed throughout the Quran, such as, We have not destroyed any town without its having warners, for the sake of admonition, and We were not unjust (26:208-209), and, We do not punish [any community] until We have sent [it] an apostle (17:15).

Such verses emphasise the importance of providing fair opportunity for acceptance of divine guidance before any consequences are imposed.

[1] Tahqiq, 12/227.
[2] Tahqiq, 12/227.
[3] Ibn Ashur, 25/236.
[4] Amthal, 16/36.
[5] Maraghi, 25/81.
[6] Qaraati, 8/446.