Quran

This verse indicates that there is nothing wrong with wishing for martyrdom because Allah approved of their wishes and did not criticize them for that; rather He criticized them for not acting upon their wishes. Al-Saadi: 150.
Question: Is wishing for martyrdom similar to wishing for death? Explain in light of this verse.

This verse also offers the greatest proof of the virtue of the greatest Siddiq (man of truth), Abu Bakr (t), and the Prophet's Companions who fought the apostates after the death of the Messenger of Allah (r). Al-Saadi: 151.
Question: Fighting the apostates indicates a great understanding and wisdom of Abu Bakr (t) and the Companions. Explain.

In this verse, there is guidance from Allah to His servants that they should be in such a state that their faith cannot be shaken and they should not lose their resolve in adhering to some of its requirements because of the loss of a leader, no matter how great he was. That state can only be attained by making preparations in all matters of their religion by having many qualified people who could step in so that if one is lost, another can take his place. Al-Saadi: 151.
Question: This verse provides guidance on an important rule in leadership. Explain

They combined patience and seeking forgiveness, and this is what is commanded in calamities. Patience with them and seeking forgiveness for the sins that caused them. Ibn Taimyah: 2/156.
Question: What is required in times of calamity?

They realized that sins and excessiveness are among the main reasons to be forsaken by Allah, and that ridding themselves of these sins was one of the main means of attaining victory, so they asked for their Lord's forgiveness. Al-Saadi: 151.
Question: Why did the fighters ask forgiveness for their sins and excessiveness?

They sought forgiveness first so that they would be worthy of seeking victory by virtue of their purity from sins over the disbelievers who are surrounded by sins. And in their seeking victory -despite their large numbers- is an indication that they do not look at their numbers, nor do they rely on them, but rather they attribute the firmness of their feet to Allah, and they believe that victory comes from Him, glory be to Him. Al-Alusi: 4/85.
Question: Why did they sought forgiveness before asking for victory? Why did they ask for victory despite their large numbers?

(So Allah gave them), the One who encompasses knowledge and power. (The reward of this world), He answered their supplication for victory. They became rich with war spoils, had a good reputation, their hearts became reassured and cleared of all evil doubts. Since the reward of this world -whatever it may be- must be tinged with sorrow and accompanied by affliction -because it is the abode of affliction- it is not described as (best), which is only used for: (best reward of the Hereafter). Al-Biqai: 2/164.
Question: Why was the reward of the Hereafter described as (best) while this life's reward was not?