That is a reference to the mentioned nation, which is Abraham, Jacob, and their monotheistic sons. The meaning is: No one’s earning will benefit another, whether it is from the past or the future. Just as those mentioned are not benefited except by what they have earned, so too will you not be benefited except by what you have earned. This is because they boasted of their ancestors. An example of this is the saying of the Messenger of Allah, blessings and peace be upon him: 'O sons of Hashim, do not let people come to me with their deeds while you come to me with your lineage.' You will not be asked about what they used to do, nor will you be held accountable for their misdeeds, just as their good deeds will not benefit you.