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 Are We to make those who believe and do good works the same as those who corrupt the earth? Are We to make the righteous as the wicked? 28 This is a blessed Book which We sent down to you [Muhammad], for people to ponder over its messages, and for those with understanding to take heed. 29 And We gave to Dawood Sulaiman, most excellent the servant! Surely he was frequent in returning (to Allah). 30 When there were shown to him at eventide lightfooted coursers 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 "Bring them back to me!" -- [he said] and began to stroke their legs and their necks. 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, "O my Lord! Forgive me, and grant me a kingdom which, (it may be), suits not another after me: for Thou art the Grantor of Bounties (without measure). 35 We subjected the wind to him, so that it blew gently at his bidding, wherever he directed it, 36 And the devils -- the builders and divers of all kinds, 37 And others fettered in chains. 38 This is Our free gift, therefore give freely or withhold, without reckoning. 39 And indeed, for him is nearness to Us and a good place of return. 40