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 Should We equate those who do the right with those who spread corruption in the land? Should We make those who are morally integrated equal to those who seek disintegration? 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 vouchsafed unto Da'ud Sulaiman. How excellent a bondman! verily he was oft-returning. 30 When his dressage steeds were presented to him in the evening, 31 he would say: "Verily, I have come to love the love of all that is good because I bear my Sustainer in mind!" [repeating these words as the steeds raced away,] until they were hidden by the veil [of distance - whereupon he would command,] 32 (Then he said): Bring them back to me, and fell to slashing (with his sword their) legs and necks. 33 But [ere this,] indeed, We had tried Solomon by placing upon his throne a [lifeless] body; and thereupon he turned [towards Us; and] 34 saying, "Lord, forgive me and grant me a kingdom that no one after me can have the like. You are All-munificent". 35 Then We subjected the wind to his power, to flow gently to his order, Whithersoever he willed,- 36 and We also subjected the devils to him -- all kinds of builders and divers; 37 and others that were bound with chains. 38 "This is Our gift," (We said to him), "so bestow freely or withhold without reckoning." 39 And lo! he hath favour with Us, and a happy journey's end. 40