the full presentation of the proofs and signs. For this is something witnessed in this world: its effects have been seen, and reports of it have been transmitted through numerous independent sources. It is not among the events after death that remain unseen by Allah’s servants.

For this reason, He—glory be to Him—mentions such accounts as evidence and proof, alongside the admonition they contain, as in His words:

“Certainly, in their stories there is a lesson for people of understanding.”

“There was certainly a sign for you in the two armies that met: one fighting in the cause of Allah and the other disbelieving. They saw them with their own eyes as twice their number. Allah strengthens with His victory whom He wills. Indeed, in that is a lesson for those with insight.”

And His words:

“It is He who expelled those who disbelieved among the People of the Scripture from their homes at the first gathering. You did not think they would leave, and they thought their fortresses would protect them against Allah. But Allah came upon them from where they had not expected and cast terror into their hearts. They destroyed their houses with their own hands and the hands of the believers. So take heed, O people of insight.”

And His words:

“Say: Travel through the land, then see what was the fate of those who denied the truth.”

And His words:

“How many a town We destroyed while it was doing wrong! It lies collapsed upon its roofs; how many an abandoned well and lofty palace!”

“Have they not travelled through the land so that they may have hearts with which to understand or ears with which to hear? For it is not the eyes that become blind, but the hearts within the breasts.”

And His words:

“Have they not travelled through the land and seen what was the fate of those before them? They were greater than them in strength, and they tilled the land and developed it more than these have developed it. Their messengers came to them with clear proofs”—and the following verses.