Surah An-Naml — Verse 31

Word Meanings:

• "An lā taʿlū ʿalayya" – "That you do not exalt yourselves over me" – meaning: do not be arrogant or haughty toward me.
• "Wa'tūnī muslimīn" – "And come to me as Muslims" – meaning: come in submission and obedience, having surrendered to Allah alone.

Tafsir (Explanation):

This verse is a portion of the letter sent by Prophet Sulayman (peace be upon him) to the Queen of Sheba (Bilqis). In it, he delivers a direct and powerful message: "Do not raise yourselves in pride against me, and come to me as Muslims." The command carries two essential elements: first, the abandonment of arrogance and self-importance, and second, the sincere submission to Allah through faith and obedience. The call is not merely political or worldly—it is a call to tawḥīd (the oneness of Allah), urging the queen and her people to leave the worship of the sun and turn to the Creator of all things. Sulayman, despite being a mighty prophet and king, did not seek personal glory or dominion; rather, his message was rooted in the truth of Islam—complete surrender to Allah alone. The verse beautifully demonstrates how true leadership in Islam is intertwined with calling others to the path of righteousness, free from pride and filled with mercy.

Da'wah Reflection:

This noble verse teaches us a timeless lesson: the path to Allah begins with humility. Arrogance is a barrier that prevents the heart from accepting guidance, while submission opens the door to peace and success. Notice how Sulayman, endowed with immense power and wealth, did not use his authority to intimidate or oppress—he used it to invite toward the truth. This is the character of a true believer: strength combined with gentleness, authority combined with wisdom. For every Muslim today, this verse is a reminder to check our hearts—are we free from pride? Do we respond to the call of truth with humility and sincerity? And when we invite others to Islam, do we do so with the same spirit of compassion and clarity that Sulayman exemplified? Let us strive to be among those who come to Allah as Muslims—submissive, sincere, and humble—for that is the key to true honor in this life and the next.