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 This is the Blessed Book that We have revealed to you, (O Muhammad), that people with understanding may reflect over its verses and those with understanding derive a lesson. 29 And to Dawud (David) We gave Sulaiman (Solomon). How excellent (a) slave! Verily, he was ever oft-returning in repentance (to Us)! 30 When in the evening were presented to him the standing steeds, 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 [He said], "Return them to me," and set about striking [their] legs and necks. 33 And verily We tried Solomon, and set upon his throne a (mere) body. Then did he repent. 34 He prayed, "Lord forgive me! Grant me such power as no one after me will have -- You are the Most Generous Provider." 35 So, We subjected to him the wind, it blew gently to his order whithersoever he willed, 36 as well as all the rebellious forces [that We made to work for him] - every kind of builder and diver 37 and others that were bound with chains. 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