What they awaited
- His downfall, demise or death.
“Go ahead and wait for my downfall...”
“Say: ‘Wait, because I am with you from those who are waiting’”.
This verse answers what was said in the previous verse: an assured reply that meets their challenge with a composed invitation—wait, and witness.
History itself bears witness to whose “waiting” prevailed.
They are remembered because of the spread and consolidation of Islam and the connection to the language of the Qur’an.
Those who led propaganda against the Messenger ﷺ would not be remembered had it not been for the consolidation and spread of Islam.
At that time there were kings, Caesars and emperors in surrounding lands whilst he was in the desert of Arabia—yet today no one knows their names, and everyone knows the name of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
They were awaiting his demise, but Allah will reveal who has the best outcome.
“Go ahead and wait for my downfall, demise or death. I, like you, am also waiting, but for your demise, retribution or true results to be revealed.”
A concise answer to who will outlast whom.