(On the other hand,) We gave knowledge to David and Solomon,18 and they said, "Praise is for Allah Who exalted us above many of His believing servants."19 And Solomon succeeded David,20 and he said, "O people, we have been taught the speech of the birds,21 and we have been granted all sorts of things.22 This is indeed a great favor (of Allah)." For Solomon were gathered hosts of jinn and men and birds,23 which were kept under strict discipline. (Once he was marching in an expedition with them) until when they came to the valley of the ants, an ant said, "O ants, get into your holes lest Solomon and his hosts should trample you down without even knowing it."24 Hearing its words, Solomon laughed smilingly and said "O My Lord, restrain25 me so that I may render thanks to Thee for Thy favors which Thou hast bestowed upon the and my parents, and (enable me) to do such good works as may please Thee; and admit me, by Thy mercy, among Thy righteous servants."26 (On another occasion) Solomon reviewed his birds27 and said, "How is it that I do not see the hoopoe? Has he disappeared somewhere? I will punish him severely, or even slaughter him, unless he presents before me a reasonable excuse”28 The bird did not take long when it came and said, "I have obtained knowledge of things of which you have no knowledge. I have brought sure information about Saba.29 There I have seen a woman ruling over her people: she has been given all sorts of provisions, and she has a splendid throne. I saw that she and her people prostrate themselves before the sun instead of Allah."30 Satan31 made their deeds seem fair to them,32 and hindered them from the highway: therefore, they do not find the right path that they may prostrate themselves before that God Who brings to light the hidden things of the heavens and the earth33 and knows all that you conceal and reveal.34 Allah: none but He is worthy of worship. He is the Owner of the glorious Throne.35 Solomon said, "We shall just now see whether what you say is true, or that you are a liar. Take this letter of mine and cast it before them; then get aside and see what reaction they show."36 The queen said, "O chiefs, a very important letter has been cast before me. It is from Solomon, and it begins with the name of Allah, the Merciful, the Compassionate. It says, `Do not adopt a rebellious attitude against me and present yourselves as Muslims before me."37