But whoever has done wrong, and then substituted goodness in place of evil. I am Forgiving and Merciful.
Put your hand inside your pocket, and it will come out white, without blemish—among nine miracles to Pharaoh and his people, for they are immoral people."
Yet when Our enlightening signs came to them, they said, "This is obvious witchcraft."
And they rejected them, although their souls were certain of them, out of wickedness and pride. So see how the outcome was for the mischief-makers.
And We gave David and Solomon knowledge. They said, "Praise Allah, who has favored us over many of His believing servants."
And Solomon succeeded David. He said, "O people, we were taught the language of birds, and we were given from everything. This is indeed a real blessing."
To the service of Solomon were mobilized his troops of sprites, and men, and birds—all held in strict order.
Until, when they came upon the Valley of Ants, an ant said, "O ants! Go into your nests, lest Solomon and his troops crush you without noticing."
He smiled and laughed at her words, and said, "My Lord, direct me to be thankful for the blessings you have bestowed upon me and upon my parents, and to do good works that please You. And admit me, by Your grace, into the company of Your virtuous servants."
Then he inspected the birds, and said, "Why do I not see the hoopoe? Or is he among the absentees?
