We have not created the heavens and the earth and all that lies between them, all for nothing. Only those who deny imagine so. So for the unbelievers there is woe from the fire. 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 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 We gave David Solomon. He was an excellent servant who always turned to God. 30 When they brought fleet-footed chargers in the evening to show him, 31 He said: verily I have loved the love of earthly good above the remembrance of my Lord until the sun hath disappeared behind the veil. 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 So We subjected to him the wind, that ran at his commandment, softly, wherever he might light on, 36 And We subjected to him the evil ones: every builder and diver. 37 And others bound in fetters. 38 This is Our free gift, therefore give freely or withhold, without reckoning. 39 He has a high position with Us and an excellent abode. 40