All the commentators believe that in the above three verses the people of the Book, and in particular the learned Jews are addressed. Before the advent of our prophet, they used to inform the people, of the signs and symptoms of the prophet who was foretold and predicted in their s c r i p tures; but when he appeared and preached his doctrine, they denied him, and concealed their knowledge of him! They did so, because they were afraid of losing their social religious influences and advantages through which they piled wealth and were on the carpet for consultation and judgements, being invited in parties, or leading social and religious ceremonies.