And when he finished the supplication to the essence, which is the belief in the Messenger and the one who sent him, he followed it with the denial of some of what they were upon, which necessitated disbelief. It necessitated engaging in it, remaining steadfast in misguidance, admonishing them with what happened to those before them from destruction. This was a prelude to an increase in emphasis on piety and obedience, for their condition is like that of those who forgot about the flood that destroyed the animals and demolished the buildings. He said: "Are you building on every elevated place?" meaning: a high place. Abu Hayyan said: And Abu Ubaidah said: the elevated place is the path. Mujahid said: it is the gap between the two mountains. It is said: the way is whether it has been traversed or not. Its root in the language is increase.

"A sign" meaning: a mark of your severity, for if it were for guidance or something similar, it would suffice some of the elevated places without all of them.

And when establishing proof of their strength with such a thing is of little benefit upon reflection, he said: "You are playing around." The wise person should preserve his precious moments from the play that will not be the cause of his salvation. And how does this suit one for whom death is behind him.