We bestowed knowledge on David and Solomon and they both said, "Praise be to God who has exalted us above many of His believing servants." 15 And Sulaiman (Solomon) inherited (the knowledge of) Dawud (David). He said: "O mankind! We have been taught the language of birds, and on us have been bestowed all things. This, verily, is an evident grace (from Allah)." 16 His armies of jinns and men and Tair assembled, formed into ranks, (and marched) 17 Until when they came unto the valley of the ants, an ant said: O ants! enter your habitations lest Sulaiman and his hosts crush you while they perceive not. 18 (Solomon) smiled at the ant's remarks and said, "Lord, inspire me to thank you for Your favors to me and my parents and to act righteously so as to please you. Admit me, by your mercy into the company of Your righteous servants". 19 He inspected the birds, and said: "What is the matter that I see not the hoopoe? Or is he among the absentees? 20 I shall certainly punish him severely or slaughter him unless he has a good reason for his absence." 21 So Hudhud did not stay absent for long, and presenting himself submitted, “I have witnessed a matter that your majesty has not seen, and I have brought definite information to you from the city of Saba.” 22 “I have seen a woman who rules over them, and she has been given from all things, and she has a mighty throne.” 23 I found her and her people adoring the sun instead of Allah, and the Shaitan has made their deeds fair-seeming to them and thus turned them from the way, so they do not go aright 24 (Satan has done this) so that they will not worship God who brings forth whatever is hidden in the heavens and the earth and knows whatever you conceal or reveal. 25 God, save whom there is no deity - the Sustainer, in awesome almightiness enthroned!" ۩ 26 ۞ Solomon said, "We shall soon see whether you have spoken the truth, or whether you are a liar. 27 Take my letter, and drop it to them. Then turn aside and see what they shall return' 28 She said: "O chiefs! Verily! Here is delivered to me a noble letter, 29 “Indeed it is from Sulaiman, and it is (begins) with ‘Allah – beginning with the name of – the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.’” 30 (It says): "Do not act towards me with defiance, but come to me in submission." 31