And how many a town to which I gave respite while it was unjust, then I overtook it, and to Me is the return.

And apostles before you were certainly mocked at, but I gave respite to those who disbelieved, then I destroyed them; how then was My requital (of evil)? / Is He then Who watches every soul as to what it earns? And yet they give associates to Allah! Say: Give them a name; nay, do you mean to inform Him of what He does not know in the earth, or (do you affirm this) by an outward saying? Rather, their plans are made to appear fair-seeming to those who disbelieve, and they are kept back from the path; and whom Allah makes err, he shall have no guide.

So how many a town did We destroy while it was unjust, so it was fallen down upon its roofs, and (how many a) deserted well and palace raised high.

And certainly a lasting chastisement overtook them in the morning.

And We did not show them a sign but it was greater than its like, and We overtook them with chastisement that they may turn.

So grant the unbelievers a respite: let them alone for a while.