Tafsir of Ash-Shu`ara' 26:169

That is, from the evil consequences of their deeds, or from what they are performing, and the worldly punishment thereof. It has been said: it is possible that this is a supplication for salvation from becoming involved in the like of their deeds. With regard to his family, it is secondary to him—peace be upon him—for he (himself) does not fear falling into that due to his state of infallibility ('isma).

This has been objected to on the grounds that the punishment is likewise (contingent upon deeds), for one who has not committed a crime is not punished. In this, there is an evident prohibition; how could it be otherwise when the Glorified One said: "And fear a trial which will not strike those who have wronged among you exclusively"?

It has also been said: The infallible one may supplicate for protection from falling into that from which he is already protected, as indicated by the words of the Exalted—recounting from Abraham, peace be upon him: "And keep me and my sons away from worshipping idols." This is accepted, yet the apparent meaning is that the intended purpose is salvation from the worldly punishment that will afflict them on account of their deeds. The apparent sense of the words of the Exalted supports this.