"So why," meaning: why then, "were there not among the generations before you, those possessing remnant [of wisdom and righteousness]," meaning: obedience.

"forbidding corruption upon the earth, except for a few of those We saved from among them?" He says: That did not happen except by a few of those believers whom We saved.

"And those who wronged pursued the luxury in which they were given," meaning: the polytheists pursued the worldly life, and that which Allah (glorified and exalted is He) had expanded for them within it.

Muhammad said: The root of al-taraffuh (luxuriousness) is abundance in living and excess in enjoyment.

The meaning: They pursued what they were given of wealth and became prosperous; thus, they were tempted by it.

Surah Hud from verse (117) to verse (120).