CAUSE OF THE REVELATION

VERSES NO. 106-108

      A Muslim named, IBN- ABIMARIAH, accompained by two Christian colleagues; who were two brothers, and named TAMIM and ODAY; went on a trading journey, and the Muslim died abroad. He wrote a bequest before his death and hid it among his stuff, and made over his goods to the two Christian colleagues, to be delivered to his legal heirs in Medina.

      The two Christian brothers opened the sacks, and took out of it a valuable silver cup, and then gave the rest of the goods to the designated heirs. When they opened the bags and searched the goods, they found the hidden bequest and asked for the silver cup, but they denied saying: `We have already handed over to you all that was given us.' They complained to the prophet, but of no use, because there was not enough evidence to prove the charge; and the two Christians were acquitted of the theft.

      Later on, the said silver cup was discovered in their hand and the charge was proved and the prophet was informed of it, and to this effect, the above three verses were sent down.