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 Or should we treat those who believe and do righteous deeds like corrupters in the land? Or should We treat those who fear Allah like the wicked? 28 A Book We have sent down to thee, Blessed, that men possessed of minds may ponder its signs and so remember. 29 And We gave to Dawood Sulaiman, most excellent the servant! Surely he was frequent in returning (to Allah). 30 Behold, there were brought before him, at eventide coursers of the highest breeding, and swift of foot; 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 [He said], "Return them to me," and set about striking [their] legs and necks. 33 And assuredly We tried Sulaiman, and set upon his throne a mere body. Thereafter he was penitent. 34 He said, “My Lord! Forgive me and bestow upon me a kingdom, which shall not befit anyone after me; indeed only You are the Great Bestower.” 35 So, We subjected to him the wind, it blew gently to his order whithersoever he willed, 36 And We subjected to him the evil ones: every builder and diver. 37 The rest of the devils were bound in chains. 38 This is Our free gift, therefore give 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