The context at the time of revelation was infanticide — the pre-Islamic custom of killing children, specifically daughters, out of fear that they would become a burden, cause poverty, or dishonor the family. That said, the Qur’an is the eternal speech of Allah, a truly timeless text, so we can apply it to today’s world. Modern-day jurists have used this verse to argue against abortion, as a fetus developing in the womb is considered a child, especially after the first 100 days or so. Aborting would go against God’s command, and is only permissible in rare circumstances (e.g. to save the life of the mother). And Allah knows best.