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 Shall We treat those who believe and do good works as those who spread corruption in the earth; or shall We treat the pious as the wicked? 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 David Solomon. He was an excellent servant who always turned to God. 30 [and even] when, towards the close of day, nobly-bred, swift-footed steeds were brought before him, 31 And he said, "Indeed, I gave preference to the love of good [things] over the remembrance of my Lord until the sun disappeared into the curtain [of darkness]." 32 Return them to me!' And he began to stroke their shanks and necks. 33 And We did try Solomon: We placed on his throne a body (without life); but he did turn (to Us in true devotion): 34 He said: my Lord! forgive me, and bestow on me a dominion which no one may obtain beside me: verily Thou! Thou art the Bestower. 35 So We made the wind subservient unto him, setting fair by his command whithersoever he intended. 36 and We also subjected the devils to him -- all kinds of builders and divers; 37 and others linked together in fetters. 38 "Such are Our Bounties: whether thou bestow them (on others) or withhold them, no account will be asked." 39 And he had a near place in Our presence and a fair resort. 40