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 A Book We have sent down to thee, Blessed, that men possessed of minds may ponder its signs and so remember. 29 And We vouchsafed unto Da'ud Sulaiman. How excellent a bondman! verily he was oft-returning. 30 Behold, there were brought before him, at eventide coursers of the highest breeding, and swift of foot; 31 And he said: Lo! I have preferred the good things (of the world) to the remembrance of my Lord; till they were taken out of sight behind the curtain. 32 Bring them back to me' And he hacked their legs and necks (slaughtering them for Allah). 33 We tried Solomon by placing upon his throne a [lifeless] body; and thereupon he turned towards Us]. 34 he prayed: "O my Sustainer! Forgive me my sins, and bestow upon me the gift of a kingdom which may not suit anyone after me: verily, Thou alone art a giver of gifts!" 35 Then We subjected the wind to his power, to flow gently to his order, Whithersoever he willed,- 36 and also the jinn, every kind of builder and diver 37 and others chained in fetters. 38 We told him, "This is Our gift to you so give them away free or keep them as you like". 39 And indeed for him in Our presence are, surely, proximity and an excellent abode. 40