(1–2) “In the name of Allah, the Most Compassionate, Most Merciful. Alif Lām Rā. These are the verses of the wise Book. Is it astonishing to people that We revealed to a man from among them: ‘Warn mankind and give glad tidings to those who believe that they shall have an honored standing with their Lord’? The disbelievers said, ‘Indeed, this is plainly a sorcerer.’”

Allah Most High says: “Alif Lām Rā. These are the verses of the wise Book.” This is the Quran, which contains wisdom and rulings. Its verses point to the truths of faith and the commands and prohibitions of the Sacred Law. The entire Ummah must receive it with contentment, acceptance, and submission.

Despite this, most of them turned away and thus have no knowledge. They were astonished “that We revealed to a man from among them: ‘Warn mankind’”—of Allah’s punishment, make them fear His retribution, and remind them of His signs.

“And give glad tidings to those who believe” with sincere faith “that they shall have an honored standing with their Lord.” That is, an abundant (1) reward and a recompense stored up with their Lord for the sincere, righteous deeds they sent ahead.

The disbelievers were so astonished by this eminent man that their astonishment led them to disbelieve in him. Thus, “the disbelievers said” of him, “Indeed, this is plainly a sorcerer.” That is, his sorcery was evident and, as they claimed, hidden from no one. This arose from their foolishness and obstinacy. They were astonished by something that neither warrants astonishment nor should be deemed unusual. Rather, what warrants astonishment is their ignorance and their failure to recognize what served their own best interests.

How could they fail to believe in this noble Messenger, whom Allah sent from among themselves and whom they knew so well? Yet they rejected his call and strove to extinguish his religion. But Allah will perfect His light, even though the disbelievers may detest it.