44:31 [inflicted on them] by Pharaoh, seeing that he was truly outstanding among those who waste their own selves.
Explanation
Cf. 43:73.
44:32 And, Indeed, we chose them knowingly above all other people.
Explanation
Lit., “except [or “beyond”] the first [i.e., erstwhile] death” (cf. 37:58-59).
44:33 And gave them such signs [of Our grace] as would clearly presage a test.
Explanation
i.e., by His having offered them guidance, of which they availed themselves: thus, the attainment of ultimate felicity is the result of an interaction between God and man, and of man’s communion with Him.
44:34 [Now] Behold, these [people] say indeed.
Explanation
See note 81 on 19:97.
44:35 That [which is ahead of us] is but our first [and only] death, and we shall not be raised to life again.
Explanation
i.e., whether they know it or not, God’s will shall be done.
44:36 So then, bring forth our forefathers [as witnesses], if what you claim is true!
44:37 Are they, then, better than the people of Tubba’, and those before them, whom We destroyed because they were truly lost in [the same) sin?
44:38 For [thus it is] We have not created the heavens and the earth and all that is between them in mere idle play.
44:39 None of this have We created without [an inner] truth: but most of them understand it not.
44:40 Verily, the Day of Distinction [between the true and the false] is the term appointed for all of them.
