As to the matter of the revelations, the chief points of interest are-( I.) The obstinate and violent conduct of the Quraish and others

at Makkah, contrasted with the calm self-confidence of Muhammad, due to the treaty made with the people of Madina and his contemplated retirement from Makkah. The conversion of the Quraish now being considered hopeless, the Muslims are no longer to dispute with them. God will cau~e Islam to triumph, no matter how violent the efforts of the infidels (vera. 14, I 5, 7o-73). The faithful are encouraged by the hope of joy in Paradise. No m<itter how strait-

ened their circumstances here, they will yet wear silken garments and be adornetl. with jewels of gold and pearls (ver. 23).