(Is it a wonder for mankind that We have inspired a man among them, saying: Warn mankind and bring unto those who believe the good tidings…) [10:2]. Said Ibn ‘Abbas: “When Allah, exalted is He, sent Muhammad, Allah bless him and give him peace, as a messenger, the unbelievers criticised him, saying: ‘Allah is too great to have a human like Muhammad as His messenger’, and so Allah, exalted is He, revealed this verse”.

(And when Our clear revelations are recited unto them, they who look not for the meeting with Us say…) [10:15]. Mujahid said: “This verse was revealed about the idolaters of Mecca”. Muqatil said: “It is a question of five people: ‘Abd Allah ibn Umayyah al-Makhzumi, al-Walid ibn al-Mughirah, Mukraz ibn Hafs, ‘Amr ibn ‘Abd Allah ibn Abi Qays al-‘Amiri and al-‘Asi ibn ‘Amir. These people said to the Prophet, Allah bless him and give him peace: ‘Bring a Qur’an which does not enjoin leaving the worship of al-Lat and al-‘Uzza’ ”. Al-Kalbi said: “This verse was revealed about the scoffers who said: ‘O Muhammad, bring another Qur’an which contains the questions we will put to you’ ”.