⦗13⦘ “How many a town was greater in strength than your town which drove you out! We destroyed them, and they had no helper.”

That is, how many towns whose people denied the truth were greater in strength than your town—in wealth, children, supporters, buildings, and equipment.

“We destroyed them” when they denied Our messengers and admonitions proved of no benefit to them. Thus, We find for them (1) no helper, and their strength availed them nothing against Allah’s punishment.

What, then, will become of these weak people—the people of your town—when they drove you from your homeland, denied you, and opposed you, though you are the finest of the messengers and the best of all people, past and future?!

Are they not more deserving than others of destruction and punishment, were it not that Allah Most High sent His Messenger with mercy and patient forbearance toward every disbeliever and denier?