In discussing this passage, the scholars of Tafsir mention a story which is mostly based upon Isra'iliyat narrations. Nothing has been reported about this from the Infallible Prophet that we could accept as true. But Ibn Abi Hatim narrated a Hadith whose chain of narration cannot be regarded as Sahih because it is reported by Yazid Ar-Raqashi from Anas, may Allah be pleased with him. Although Yazid was one of the righteous, his Hadiths are regarded as weak by the Imams. So, it is better to speak briefly of this story and refer knowledge of it to Allah, may He be exalted. For the Qur'an is true and what it contains is also true.

[فَفَزِعَ مِنْهُمْ]

(he was terrified of them.) This was because he was in his Mihrab (private chamber). That was the noblest part of his house, where he commanded that no one should enter upon him that day. So, he did not realize that these two people had climbed the fence surrounding his Mihrab (private chamber) to ask him about their case.

[وَعَزَّنِى فِى الْخِطَابِ]

(and he overpowered me in speech.) means, `he defeated me.'

[وَظَنَّ دَاوُودُ أَنَّمَا فَتَنَّـهُ]

(And Dawud guessed that We have tried him) `Ali bin Abi Talhah reported that Ibn `Abbas said that this means, "We tested him.''

[وَخَرَّ رَاكِعاً وَأَنَابَ]

(and he fell down prostrate and turned (to Allah) in repentance.)

[فَغَفَرْنَا لَهُ ذَلِكَ]

(So, We forgave him that,)