Surah Ar Rum Notes (36-37)

Source: Ibn Kathir

 (36) And when We cause mankind to taste of mercy, they rejoice therein, but when some evil afflicts them because of (evil deeds and sins) that their (own) hands have sent forth, lo! They are in despair!

(And when We cause mankind to taste of mercy, they rejoice therein; but when some evil afflicts them because of what their hands have sent forth, behold, they are in despair!) This is a denunciation of man for the way he is, except for those whom Allah protects and helps, for when man is given blessings, he is proud, and says:

("Ills have departed from me.'' Surely, he is exultant, and boastful.) (11:10) 

He rejoices over himself and boasts to others, but when difficulties befall him, He despairs of ever having anything good again. Allah says:

(Except those who show patience and do righteous good deeds). They are patient during times of difficulty and do good deeds at times of ease.

(37) Do they not see that Allah enlarges the provision for whom He wills and straitens (it for whom He wills). Verily, in that are indeed signs for a people who believe.

(Do they not see that Allah expands the provision for whom He wills and straitens (it for whom He wills).) He is the One Who is controlling and doing that, by His wisdom and justice, so He expands the provision for some people and restricts it for some.

(Verily, in that are indeed signs for a people who believe.)