He caused them to stumble by asking them for a misstep and calling them to it by some of what they earned from their sins. Its meaning is that those who were defeated on the Day of Uhud, the reason for their turning away was that they obeyed the devil and committed sins. Therefore, they were prevented from support and strengthening of hearts until they turned away. It is said that the devil's causing them to stumble is their turning away, and he called them to it by sins that had preceded for them, because sin leads to sin, just as obedience leads to obedience and is a kindness in it. Al-Hasan, may Allah be pleased with him, said: He caused them to stumble by accepting what was beautified for them of defeat. It is said that (by some of what they earned) refers to their leaving the position that the Messenger of Allah, blessings and peace be upon him, commanded them to remain firm in. This led them to defeat. It is said that he reminded them of those sins, so they disliked meeting Allah with them, and they delayed fighting until they could rectify their affairs and strive in a pleasing state. If you say: Why was it said (by some of what they earned)? I say: It is like His saying, the Exalted, (and He pardons much). And indeed, Allah has pardoned them for their repentance and excuse. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving of sins, Forbearing, and does not hasten punishment.