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 Do We consider the righteously striving believers equal to the evil-doers in the land? Are the pious ones equal to those who openly commit sin? 28 This is a Book which We have sent down upon you, a blessed Book, for them to ponder upon its verses, and for men of intellect to accept advice. 29 We gave Solomon to David; and he was an excellent worshiper, he was penitent. 30 And when one evening well-trained and running horses of noble breed were brought to him 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 Bring them back to me; so he began to slash (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 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 all the devils who built and dived for him. 37 And also others bound in fetters. 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