And they belied them (those Ayât) wrongfully and arrogantly,
though their ownselves were convinced thereof [i.e. those (Ayât) are from
Allâh, and Mûsa (Moses) is the Messenger of Allâh in truth, but they disliked
to obey Mûsa (Moses), and hated to believe in his Message of Monotheism]. So
see what was the end of the Mufsidûn (disbelievers,
disobedient to Allâh, evil-doers, liars.). (14) And indeed We gave knowledge to Dawûd (David) and Sulaimân (Solomon),
and they both said: "All the praises and thanks are to Allâh, Who has
preferred us above many of His believing slaves!" (15) And Sulaimân
(Solomon) inherited (the knowledge of) Dawûd (David). He said: "O mankind!
We have been taught the language of birds, and on us have been bestowed all things.
This, verily, is an evident grace (from Allâh)." (16) And there were
gathered before Sulaimân (Solomon) his hosts of jinn and men, and birds, and
they all were set in battle order (marching forward). (17) Till, when they came
to the valley of the ants, one of the ants said: "O ants! Enter your
dwellings, lest Sulaimân (Solomon) and his hosts should crush you, while they
perceive not." (18) So he [Sulaimân (Solomon)] smiled, amused at her speech[1] and said: "My Lord! Grant me the power
and ability that I may be grateful for Your Favours which You have bestowed on
me and on my parents, and that I may do righteous good deeds that will please
You, and admit me by Your Mercy among Your righteous slaves." (19) He inspected the
birds, and said: "What is the matter that I see not the hoopoe? Or is he
among the absentees? (20) "I will surely punish him with a severe torment, or
slaughter him, unless he brings me a clear reason." (21) But the hoopoe stayed
not long, he (came up and) said: "I have grasped (the knowledge of a
thing) which you have not grasped and I have come to you from Saba' (