(100) “Say, ‘The evil and the good are not equal, even though the abundance of evil may impress you. So be mindful of Allah, O people of understanding, that you may succeed.’”

That is, say to the people, warning them against evil and encouraging them toward good: “The evil and the good are not equal” in anything. Faith and disbelief are not equal; nor are obedience and disobedience, the people of Paradise and the people of the Fire, evil deeds and good deeds, or unlawful wealth and lawful wealth.

“Even though the abundance of evil may impress you,” it does not benefit its possessor in the least; rather, it harms him in both his religion and his worldly life.

“So be mindful of Allah, O people of understanding, that you may succeed.” He thus commands people of understanding—that is, those of sound intellect and mature judgment—for it is to them that Allah Most High directs His address. They are worthy of regard, and it is hoped that good will be found in them.

He then informs us that success depends upon mindfulness of Allah, which means acting in accordance with what Allah commands and forbids. Whoever is mindful of Him will attain complete success, while whoever abandons mindfulness of Him will suffer loss and forfeit all gain.