Commentary
It was read: the appointed time of the Day. And the appointed time of the Day. And the appointed time of a day. And the appointed time: it is the place or time of the promise, and here it is the time. The evidence for this is the reading of one who read: the appointed time of the Day, and he replaced it with the day. If you say: what is the interpretation of one who added it to the Day, or who made it a day? I say: as for the addition, it is an addition of clarification, just as you say: the cloth is crushed, and a she-camel is milking. And as for making it a day, it is for glorification by implying an action, the meaning of which is: for you is an appointed time, I mean a day, or I want a day described as such and such. And it is permissible for it to be in the nominative on this, meaning glorification. If you say: how does this answer their question? I say: they did not ask about that while they were denying it except out of obstinacy, not seeking guidance, so the answer came in the manner of a threat corresponding to the manner of the question coming as denial and obstinacy, and that they are on the lookout for a day that will surprise them. So they will not be able to delay it nor advance upon it.
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