Tafsir of Al-Hashr 59:4

Al-Hashr (The Gathering): Verse 4

{That is because they opposed Allah and His Messenger.}

This verse indicates that the reason for that destruction (mentioned previously) is their opposition (mushāqqa) to Allah and His Messenger.

If one were to object, saying: If opposition were the cause of this destruction, then destruction should occur wherever this opposition is found. However, it is known that this is not always the case.

We reply: This is one piece of evidence demonstrating that specifying a particular cause (in the text) does not invalidate the general applicability of that cause.

{And whoever opposes Allah—indeed, Allah is severe in penalty.}

The purpose of this statement is deterrence.

{What you (did cut down of [their] palm trees or left standing on their roots was by permission of Allah and so that He would disgrace the defiantly disobedient.}