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 make those who believe and work righteous works like unto the corrupters in the earth; or shall We make the God-fearing like unto the wicked! 28 (Here is) a Book which We have sent down unto thee, full of blessings, that they may mediate on its Signs, and that men of understanding may receive admonition. 29 We bestowed Solomon on David who was an excellent devotee, for he turned to God in penitence. 30 And when one evening well-trained and running horses of noble breed were brought to him 31 Therefore Sulaiman said, “I cherish the love of these horses*, out of remembrance of my Lord”; he then ordered them to be raced until they vanished in a curtain out of sight. (To be used in holy war.) 32 [He said], "Return them to me," and set about striking [their] legs and necks. 33 We tried Solomon by placing upon his throne a [lifeless] body; and thereupon he turned towards 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 We made the wind subservient to him, to blow gently wherever he desired at his command 36 And made the demons subservient to him, all builders and divers. 37 and others that were bound with chains. 38 [And We told him:] "This is Our gift, for thee to bestow freely on others, or to withhold, without [having to render] account!" 39 And he has a place near to Us, and a fine return. 40