Such neglect leads to the hardening of heart which in turn...

Such neglect leads to the hardening of heart which in turn ends in disobedience to God Almighty. Would it be consistent with their claim to having faith to simply ignore such significant issues, be submitted to comfortable life, and being immersed in the pleasures of the flesh?

"The term was prolonged for them" may reflect the temporal distance between them and their Prophets, long life and endless desires, Divine torment not being sent down for a long time, or all of them, since each of which may lead to neglect and hardening of heart that in turn leads to disobedience to Divine Command. It is narrated from Imam ‘Ali (as): "Do not hasten as to anything before its term arrives unless you will regret your haste.

Know that Allah gives life to the earth after its death! Indeed, We have made clear the Signs to you, if you but reflect [upon them].

Since giving life to dead hearts through remembrance of God Almighty and attainment to spiritual life in the light of humbleness and obedience to the Holy Qur’an to a great extent resembles the life giving rain drops rejuvenating dead lands, the blessed Verse in question says: "Know that Allah gives life to the earth after its death." The blessed Verse is saying that We elucidated Our Sings in the world of creation as well as Our Verses such that you may reflect upon them.

The blessed Verse actually makes a reference to rain giving life to dead lands and to giving of life to dead hearts through remembrance of God Almighty and the Holy Qur’an revealed to the pure heart of Muhammad (S). Both of them deserve reflection. Thus, reference has been made to the twain in Islamic traditions.