We gave (in the past) knowledge to David and Solomon: And they both said: "Praise be to Allah, Who has favoured us above many of his servants who believe!" 15 And Solomon succeeded David and said: "O people, we have been taught the speech of birds and we have been endowed with all kinds of things. Surely this is a conspicuous favour (from Allah)." 16 And there were gathered together unto Solomon his armies of the jinn and humankind, and of the birds, and they were set in battle order; 17 till, when they came upon a valley [full] of ants, an ant exclaimed: "O you ants! Get into your dwellings, lest Solomon and his hosts crush you without [even] being aware [of you]!" 18 (Solomon) smiled at the ant's remarks and said, "Lord, inspire me to thank you for Your favors to me and my parents and to act righteously so as to please you. Admit me, by your mercy into the company of Your righteous servants". 19 And he reviewed the birds, then said: How is it I see not the hoopoe or is it that he is of the absentees? 20 I will surely punish him with a severe punishment or slaughter him unless he brings me clear authorization." 21 But [the hoopoe] tarried but a short while; and [when it came] it said: "I have encompassed [with my knowledge] something that thou hast never yet encompassed [with thine] - for I have come to thee from Sheba with a tiding sure! 22 "I found a woman ruling over them, and she has been given all things that could be possessed by any ruler of the earth, and she has a great throne. 23 I found her and her people worshipping the sun instead of Allah; and Satan maketh their works fairseeming unto them, and debarreth them from the way (of Truth), so that they go not aright; 24 So that they worship not Allah, Who bringeth forth the hidden in the heavens and the earth, and knoweth what ye hide and what ye proclaim, 25 Allah - none is worthy of worship save He; He is the Lord of the Mighty Throne. ۩ 26 ۞ Solomon said, "We shall soon see whether you have spoken the truth, or whether you are a liar. 27 Take this letter of mine and deliver it to them, then return and see what their reply will be." 28 (The queen) said: "Ye chiefs! here is delivered to me - a letter worthy of respect. 29 It is from Solomon and it is "In the Name of Allah, the Merciful, the Most Merciful. 30 Be not haughty with me but come to me in submission [as Muslims].' " 31