(Source)
Tafsir Jalal al-Din al-Suyuti
Altafsir.com - The Tafsirs -
Tafsir Al-wahidi
Altafsir.com - Quranic Science: Context of Revelation -
Tafsir Ibne Abbas
Altafsir.com - The Tafsirs -
When Christian Priests failed in
"Mubahesa- Dialogue"
As they did not listen to reason,then Holy Prophet(SAWW) invited them for
"Mubahila- Spiritual Contest".
This verse revealed at that time,
[3:61] But whoever disputes with you in this matter after what has come to you of knowledge, then say: Come let us call our sons and your sons and our women and your women and our near people and your near people, then let us be earnest in prayer, and pray for the curse of Allah on the liars.
The Christians agreed to this contest.
Early next morning, the 24th of the month of Dhilhijjah,
A large number of companions(r.a) assembled in the masjid, making themselves available for the selection. On the opposite side of the field, selected for the contest, the Christians, with their selected men, women and children appeared on the scene.
At the appointed hour, a huge crowd, standing in wait, saw the
Holy Prophet(SAWW) coming in, Husayn in his arms, Hasan holding his index finger, walking beside him, Bibi Fatimah Zahra, close to his heels and Ali just behind her-as his sons, women, and selves.
The chief monk looked up and down at the faces of the Pure Five (Panjatan Pak), from whom emanated a radiant and brilliant glow; and this sight filled him with awe and anguish.
He cried out aloud:
"By Jesus! I see the faces that if they turn upward to the heavens and pray, the mountains shall move. Believers in Jesus of Nazareth, I tell you the truth. Should you fail to come to some agreement with Muhammad(SAWW), he, along with the godly souls with him, shall wipe out your existence for ever, should they invoke the curse of God on you."
The Christians saw the wisdom of their chief and readily agreed to arrive at a settlement. As there is no compulsion in religion (Baqarah 256), the Holy Prophet gave them complete freedom to practise their faith. He also agreed to protect their lives and possessions; and for this service the Christians consented to pay a nominal fee (Jizya).Many Christians also accepted Islam. It was an extraordinary manifestation of the glory of Islam; therefore, the followers of Muhammad(SAWW) celebrate this unique blessings of Allah as a "thanksgiving" occasion of great joy and comfort.