Overall meaning : Almighty Allah says, rebuking those who do not benefit from His revelations and clear proofs: Has it not become clear to the Arab idolaters, Muhammad, how many unbelieving nations We destroyed before them, in whose ruined dwellings they now walk and see signs of their destruction due to their unbelief?! Surely in the destruction of these unbelieving nations there are lessons for those endowed with good sense and sound intellect. Had it not been for a decree already issued by Allah to delay their torment to an appointed time, destruction would have been hastened on them.
The Almighty then instructs His Messenger, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, to exercise great patience and to remember Him a lot: Therefore, bear with patience what the unbelievers among your people say and exalt your Lord’s limitless glory and praise Him before the rising of the sun (by performing the dawn (Fajr) prayer) and before its setting (by performing the afternoon (‘Asr) prayer); and exalt His limitless glory during part of the night and at both ends of the day, so that you may be pleased with the great reward your Lord will give you.