129 Preface وَلَولا كَلِمَةٌ سَبَقَت مِن رَبِّكَ لَكانَ لِزامًا وَأَجَلٌ مُسَمًّىYusuf AliHad it not been for a Word that went forth before from thy Lord,1 (their punishment) must necessarily have come; but there is a Term appointed (for respite).Cf. 10:19 and n. 1407: also 11:110. In God’s Holy Plan and Purpose, there is a wise adjustment of all interests, and a merciful chance and respite given to all, the unjust as well as the just, and His decree or word abides. The most wicked have a term appointed for them for respite. Had it not been so, the punishment must necessarily have descended on them immediately for their evil deeds.