3 Preface كَم أَهلَكنا مِن قَبلِهِم مِن قَرنٍ فَنادَوا وَلاتَ حينَ مَناصٍYusuf AliHow many generations before them did We destroy? In the end they cried1 (for mercy)- when there was no longer time for being saved!Teaching, Warning, Signs have been given by God to all nations and at all times, and yet nations have rebelled and gone wrong and suffered destruction. If only later generations could learn that wrongdoing results in self-destruction! For the justice of God merely carries out the result of their own choice and actions. At any time during their probation they could repent and obtain mercy, but their “Self-glory and Separatism” stand in the way. Ultimately they do cry for a way of escape, but it is then too late.