abu huraira reported that abu jahl asked some of the polytheists whether muhammad prays in front of all people. they told him: yes. so abu jahl swore by their idols (allat and aluzza) that if he would see him praying, he would trample his neck, or cast dust on his face. he came to allah's messenger (may peace be upon him) when he was praying and tried to trample his neck. he came near the prophet, but turned upon his heels and tried to repulse something with his hands. it was said to him: what is the matter with you? abu jahl said: there is between me and him a ditch of fire and terror and wings. thereupon allah's messenger (may peace he upon him) said: if he were to come near me the angels would have torn him to pieces. then allah, the exalted and glorious, revealed this verse:

“6 -nay! verily, man does transgress all bounds (in disbelief and evil deed, etc.).
7 -because he considers himself self-sufficient.
8-surely! unto your lord is the return.
9-have you (o muhammad ) seen him (i.e. abu jahl) who prevents,
10 -a slave (muhammad) when he prays?
11-tell me, if he (muhammad) is on the guidance (of allah)?
12-or enjoins piety?
13-tell me if he (the disbeliever, abu jahl) denies (the truth, i.e. this qur'an), and turns away?
14-knows he not that allah does see (what he does)?
15-nay! if he (abu jahl) ceases not, we will catch him by the forelock,
16-a lying, sinful forelock!
17-then, let him call upon his council (of helpers),
18-we will call the guards of hell (to deal with him)!
19-nay! (o muhammad)! do not obey him (abu jahl). fall prostrate and draw near to allah! “

(al-alaq :  6-19)