Surah Al-Isra — Ayah 16 (17:16)

English translation (Saheeh International)

And when We intend to destroy a city, We command its affluent¹ but they defiantly disobey therein; so the word [i.e., deserved decree] comes into effect upon it, and We destroy it with [complete] destruction.

1. - To obey Allāh.

Brief commentary

When I decided to destroy a town because of its wrongdoing, I instructed those who became reckless because of affluence, to obey Allah but they did not comply. And instead they disobeyed Him and transgressed, so the word of the decimating punishment became justified against them and I destroyed them completely.