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 like the mischief-makers in the earth? Or shall We make those who guard (against evil) like the wicked? 28 [This is] a blessed Book which We have revealed to you, [O Muhammad], that they might reflect upon its verses and that those of understanding would be reminded. 29 We bestowed upon David (an illustrious son), Solomon. How excellent a servant (of Ours he was)! Indeed he constantly turned to Us in devotion. 30 [Mention] when there were exhibited before him in the afternoon the poised [standing] racehorses. 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 Then he said "Bring them (horses) back to me." Then he began to pass his hand over their legs and their necks (till the end of the display). 33 Surely We put Solomon to the test and cast upon his throne a mere body. Thereupon he penitently turned (to Us). 34 He said: "My Lord! Forgive me, and bestow upon me a kingdom such as shall not belong to any other after me: Verily, You are the Bestower." 35 Then We made the wind subservient to him; it made his command to run gently wherever he desired, 36 And the unruly, every builder and diver (made We subservient), 37 And others linked together in chains, 38 'This is Our gift, give 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