“Know that Allah revives the earth (even) after it has died…”
Imam Baqir (as) explained the verse saying, Allah will “[revive] the earth” through the Qaem (as) after it will die through the disbelief of its inhabitants, and the disbelievers are the dead ones. (Kamaluddin volume 2 page 668)
Imam Baqir (as) said, “The death of the earth refers to the disbelief of its inhabitants, and the disbelievers are the dead ones. However, Allah will [revive] the earth’ through the Qaem (as) who will (rule) the earth with justice. Therefore, earth and its people will be revived after being dead (by their disbelief).” (Taweel Al Ayat Al Zahirah page 638)
Imam Kazim (as) said, This verse does not mean that Allah will “[revive] the earth” through rain. Rather, it means that Allah will send some men on earth who will restore justice, and the earth will be revived through the restoration of justice. Establishment (of justice) and the penalties on earth are more beneficial for the earth than forty days of rain. (Al Kafi volume 7 page 174)
Imam Sadiq (as) was asked about the verse, “Know that Allah revives the earth (even) after it has died.” Imam (as) replied, “(This refers to) justice (on earth) after oppression.” (Al Kafi volume 8 page 267)