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They denied them, in their wickedness and their pride, even though their souls acknowledged them as true. See how those who spread corruption met their end!

We gave knowledge to David and Solomon, and they both said, ‘Praise be to God, who has favoured us over many of His believing servants.’

Solomon succeeded David. He said, ‘People, we have been taught the speech of birds, and we have been given a share of everything: this is a clearly a great favour.’

Solomon’s hosts of jinn, men, and birds were marshalled in ordered ranks before him,

and when they came to the Valley of the Ants, one ant said, ‘Ants! Go into your homes, in case Solomon and his hosts unwittingly crush you.’

Solomon smiled broadly at her words and said, ‘Lord, inspire me to be thankful for the blessings You have granted me and my parents, and to do good deeds that please You; admit me by Your grace into the ranks of Your righteous servants.’

Solomon inspected the birds and said, ‘Why do I not see the hoopoe? Is he absent?

I will punish him severely, or kill him, unless he brings me a convincing excuse for his absence.’

But the hoopoe did not stay away long: he came and said, ‘I have learned something you did not know: I come to you from Sheba with firm news.