We did not create heaven and earth and all that is between them in vain. That is the opinion of those who deny the truth. Woe betide those who deny the truth, when they are cast into the Fire -- 27 Shall We then treat alike those that believe and act righteously and those that create mischief on earth? Or treat alike the God-fearing and 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 bestowed on David, Solomon. How excellent a slave! Lo! he was ever turning in repentance (toward Allah). 30 When fast footed steeds were presented to him at evening. 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 (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 He said: my Lord! forgive me, and bestow on me a dominion which no one may obtain beside me: verily Thou! Thou art the Bestower. 35 We made the wind subservient to him, to blow gently wherever he desired at his command 36 and all the devils who built and dived for him. 37 As also others bound together in fetters. 38 [And We told him:] "This is Our gift, for thee to bestow freely on others, or to withhold, without [having to render] account!" 39 And indeed for him in Our presence are, surely, proximity and an excellent abode. 40