Tafsir of Al-`Alaq 96:6

"Nay" (Kalla): This is a deterrent for whoever among the genus of man disbelieves in the blessings of Allah Almighty upon him through his transgression. Even if it is not explicitly mentioned, the speech indicates it; this is because the opening of the Surah up to this passage points to the great favor of the Almighty upon man. Thus, when it is said, "Nay," it serves as a deterrent to the human who met those sublime blessings with disbelief and transgression.

Likewise is the causal justification in His saying, the Almighty: "that man surely transgresses"—that is, he exceeds the limit in disobedience and following the desires of the self, and he acts arrogantly toward his Lord, the Exalted and Majestic. Al-Kalbi said: It means he ascends from one status to another in clothing, food, and other things—but that interpretation is weak.

Some have estimated [the meaning] after His saying, "what he knew not," to be: that he should have been grateful for those glorious blessings, yet he transgressed and disbelieved—"Nay."

It is also said that "Nay" (Kalla) bears the meaning of "truly" (Haqqan), due to the absence of anything apparent to be deterred or rebuked. Thus, His saying, the Glorified, "Indeed, man..." is an explanation of what is intended to be affirmed.

This passage, until the end of the Surah, is said to have been revealed concerning Abu Jahl after some time had passed since the revelation of the preceding verses, which is the most apparent view. Yet, despite its revelation concerning that accursed one, what is intended by "man" is the [entire] genus.