“Then they were unable even to rise”: after the punishment descended upon them, they could neither stand nor get up. Qatadah said: They did not rise from that downfall. “Nor could they defend themselves,” that is, they could not protect themselves from Us. Qatadah said: They had no strength by which they could defend themselves against Allah.

“And the people of Noah before them: indeed, they were a defiantly disobedient people. And the heaven We built with strength, and indeed, We are its expander. And the earth We spread out—how excellent are We in preparing it! And of everything We created pairs, so that you may take heed. So flee to Allah. Indeed, I am to you from Him a clear warner. And do not set up another god alongside Allah. Indeed, I am to you from Him a clear warner.” (46–51)