Tafsir of Al-Baqarah 2:52

(Then We pardoned you after that, so that you might give thanks)

The word "then" (thumma) is used to indicate the disparity between their hideous act and the Almighty’s gentleness regarding them; thus, "after that" does not constitute a repetition. The verb "to pardon" (‘afa) can be used intransitively—meaning to vanish or become effaced, as in "the house became effaced"—or transitively, as in "the wind effaced it." The intended meaning of "pardon" here is the erasure of the crime through repentance.

This phrase is placed in the position of "that" (dhalikum), and the reference points to the act of taking [the calf], as is apparent. The preference for the distal demonstrative ("that") is for the sake of complete attention to distinguishing it, as if to make their wrongdoing witnessed by them. The use of the distal form—despite the nearness of the event—is to magnify it, thereby serving as a means to reach the majesty of the status of "the pardon."

The intended meaning of the hope (la‘alla) is what you have already learned. It is well-known here that it is a metaphor for requesting gratitude for the pardon. Those among the Sunnis who interpret it as "will" (iradah) mean the absolute request, and this is not part of Mu‘tazilism, for there is no dispute that Allah, the Exalted, may demand of His servants what does not [necessarily] occur.

Regarding "gratitude" (shukr), Al-Junayd said: "It is the inability to give thanks." Al-Shibli said: "It is humility under the vision of the [Divine] favor." Dhu al-Nun said: "Gratitude is through obedience toward one who is above you, through reciprocation toward your equal, and through benevolence toward those below you."