Commentary
Admiring something means to be pleased with it, with a satisfaction that is astonished by its beauty. The meaning is: do not find pleasure or be tempted by what they have been given of the adornment of this world, as Allah, the Most High, said: "And do not extend your eyes toward that which We have given enjoyment to some of them." Allah, the Most High, has only given them what He has given them for punishment, by exposing them to plunder and captivity, and He has tested them with calamities and misfortunes, and has obligated them to spend from it in the paths of goodness, while they are averse to it despite their reluctance. He has made them taste various burdens and hardships in gathering and acquiring it and in raising their children. If you say: If it is correct to link punishment to the will of Allah, what about the destruction of their souls while they are averse? I say: The intended meaning is the gradual entrapment by blessings, as Allah, the Most High, said: "Indeed, We give them respite so that they may increase in sin." It is as if it is said: And He wants to prolong His blessing upon them until they die while they are disbelievers, engrossed in enjoyment and neglecting to consider the outcome.
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