AND [thus it is:] We have not created heaven and earth and all that is between them without meaning and purpose, as is the surmise of those who are bent on denying the truth: but then, woe from the fire [of hell] unto all who are bent on denying the truth! 27 Should We equate those who do the right with those who spread corruption in the land? Should We make those who are morally integrated equal to those who seek disintegration? 28 [All this have We expounded in this] blessed divine writ which We have revealed unto thee, [O Muhammad,] so that men may ponder over its messages, and that those who are endowed with insight may take them to heart. 29 We gave Solomon to David; and he was an excellent worshiper, he was penitent. 30 When in the evening were presented to him the standing steeds, 31 he said, "I have put the love of good things above the remembrance of my Lord," until [the sun] disappeared behind its veil and the horses disappeared from sight, 32 "Bring them back to me!" -- [he said] and began to stroke their legs and their necks. 33 Certainly We tried Solomon, and We cast upon his throne a mere body; then he repented. 34 He prayed, "Lord forgive me! Grant me such power as no one after me will have -- You are the Most Generous Provider." 35 Then We subjected the wind to his power, so that it blew gently, at his behest, wherever he willed, 36 and We also subjected the devils to him -- all kinds of builders and divers; 37 And also others bound in fetters. 38 "This is Our gift," (We said to him), "so bestow freely or withhold without reckoning." 39 And verily, nearness to Us awaits him [in the life to come,] and the most beauteous of all goals! 40