Tafsir of Al-Ma'aarij 70:39

Surah Al-Ma'arij: (39) Nay! We have created them...

Then He said: {Nay!} (Kallā) – This is a rejection of their corrupt hope.

Then He said: {We have created them from what they know} (Inna khalaqnāhum mimmā yaʿlamūn). In this verse, there are two issues:

The First Issue: The purpose of this statement is to provide evidence for the validity of Resurrection (Baʿth). It is as if He is saying: Since I was capable of creating you from semen (nuṭfah), it is obligatory that I am capable of resurrecting you.

The Second Issue: Scholars have mentioned several interpretations regarding the connection of this verse to what precedes it:

1. Since proof was presented for the validity of Resurrection, it indicates that they were denying the Resurrection. Thus, it is as if they were told: "Nay! You deny the Resurrection, so how do you hope to enter Paradise?"
2. The mockers used to belittle the believers. Therefore, the Almighty said: These mockers are created from what they themselves are created from. So, how is this belittling appropriate for them?
3. They were created from these repulsive things. If they were not characterized by faith (Iman) and knowledge (Maʿrifah), how would it be appropriate for the Wise (Al-Ḥakīm) to admit them into Paradise?

Then He said:

{But I swear by the Lord of the easts and the wests, that We are able * to substitute [them] with others better than them, and We are not to be outrun. * So leave them to plunge into vain talk and play until they meet their Day which they are promised.}