وَإِنَّ كُلًّا لَّمَّا لَيُوَفِّيَنَّهُمْ رَبُّكَ أَعْمَٰلَهُمْ ۚ إِنَّهُۥ بِمَا يَعْمَلُونَ خَبِيرٌ
3:58; 16:97; 39:11.
Commentary:
There is no difference of opinion as to the meaning of the verse, but grammarians have differed as to the significance of the particle لـما (not yet). Different authorities have expressed different opinions as to the use of this particle here, but the correct opinion seems to be the one expressed by Ibn Hajib and supported by such eminent authorities as Ibn Hisham, and Abu Hayyan. According to these authorities لـما as used here is the particle known as Jazimah in Arabic grammar, meaning "not yet" with a verb understood after it. This verb may be deduced from the context. According to Ibn Hisham, the verb understood is یوفوا اعمالھم (i.e. their works have not yet been requited), and this appears to be the most suitable interpretation. With this interpretation of the particle لـما the verse would mean that although the evil works of disbelievers have not yet been requited and God is granting them respite, the day will surely come when He will repay them in full.
3:58; 16:97; 39:11.