Tafsir of Al Imran 3:138

"This is a clear statement for the people" An elucidation of the evil consequences of the denial they are upon. It means urging them to reflect on the evil ends of those who denied before them, and to take heed from the traces of their destruction that they witness.

"And a guidance and an admonition for the God-fearing" It means that while it is a clarification and a warning for the deniers, it is also an increase in steadfastness and an admonition for those among the believers who fear God.

It is possible that the statement "Indeed, there have passed" is a parenthetical sentence intended to incite faith and the merit by which the reward of the workers is deserved. In this case, the statement "This is a clear statement" refers to what has been summarized and clarified regarding the affairs of the God-fearing, the repentant, and the persistent.

"So do not weaken and do not grieve" A consolation from Allah—Glory be to Him—to His Messenger (peace be upon him) and the believers regarding what befell them on the day of Uhud, and a strengthening of their hearts. It means: Do not weaken in Jihad because of what has afflicted you—that is, do not let this result in weakness or cowardice, and do not be concerned by it, nor grieve for those among you who were killed or wounded.

"While you are the superior" Your state is that you are superior to them and more dominant, because you inflicted upon them on the day of Badr more than they inflicted upon you on the day of Uhud.

Or: You are superior in status, because your fighting is for the sake of Allah and to elevate His word, while their fighting is for the sake of Satan to elevate the word of disbelief; and because your dead are in Paradise, while their dead are in the Fire.

Or: It is a glad tiding to them of superiority and victory; meaning, you will be the superior in the final outcome.

"If you are believers" This is connected to the prohibition. It means: Do not weaken if your faith is sound, for the soundness of faith necessitates strength of heart, trust in Allah’s handiwork, and lack of concern for His enemies.

Alternatively, it is connected to "the superior": If you are those who believe in what Allah promises you and gives you glad tidings of regarding victory.