He—may Allah have mercy on him—said:

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On the words of the Most High:

“Allah would not punish them while you are among them, nor would Allah punish them while they seek forgiveness.”

This verse is discussed from two perspectives: first, the seeking of forgiveness that averts punishment; and second, the punishment averted by seeking forgiveness.

As for the first: punishment is only inflicted for sins, and seeking forgiveness brings about the forgiveness of sins, which are the cause of punishment. Thus, punishment is averted, as the Most High says:

“Alif Lām Rā. A Book whose verses have been perfected and then explained in detail, from One who is All-Wise, All-Aware: that you worship none but Allah. Indeed, I am a warner and a bearer of good tidings to you from Him. And seek your Lord’s forgiveness, then repent to Him; He will grant you good enjoyment for an appointed term and bestow His bounty upon everyone of merit.”

He, glorified be He, thus explains that if they do this, they will be granted good enjoyment for an appointed term. Then, if they possess merit, they will be granted bounty.