Surah 32. As-Sajdah, Ayah 21

Lit., "nearer", i.e., in this world: for an explanation, see note [27] on 52:47 .

Lit., "so that they might return [to righteousness]".

The final Penalty is to come in the Hereafter. There is no doubt about it. But before it comes, a minor Penalty comes in this very life. It may be in some kind of misfortune, or it may be in the pangs of a tortured conscience or secret sorrow. But this minor Penalty may be really a mercy, as it gives them a chance of repentance and amendment.