'And when' means remember this and remember when 'We said' by virtue of Our greatness. That is, remember Our saying at that time 'to the angels.' That is, those who are created to persist in determination and resolve without any hindrance of hesitation or obstacle of laziness 'Prostrate to Adam' whom I created with My hand. We did not command them to do that except after We had chosen him, and We are aware of what will occur from him. And that it does not detract from the rank of his selection. For indeed, forbearance and generosity are among Our attributes, and mercy is part of Our nature. So do not despair of Our return with grace and mercy upon those of your people who have been described by Us as obstinate. 'So they prostrated' [that is, the angels] 'except Iblis' who attributed injustice and disruption of wisdom to Allah, so he disbelieved and despaired of mercy, and goodness was taken from him. He insisted on misleading creation through deception. It is as if it was said: What was his state in not prostrating? It was said: 'He refused' that is, he was arrogant towards Adam and disobeyed Allah's command.