Surah An-Naml — Verse 32

Key Words and Phrases:

• Al-Mala' (الْمَلَأُ): The chiefs, nobles, and dignitaries of the court—those whose counsel was valued.
• Aftuni (أَفْتُونِي): Give me your verdict, opinion, or counsel; guide me to the right course of action.
• Qati'ah (قَاطِعَةً): One who decisively settles or executes a matter.
• Tashhadun (تَشْهَدُونِ): You are present with me; you witness and participate in the deliberation.

Explanation of the Verse:

When the Queen of Sheba received the profound and awe-inspiring letter from Prophet Sulayman (peace be upon him)—a letter that began with the sacred name of Allah, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful, and called her people to submit to the One True God—she did not act impulsively or out of pride. Instead, she gathered her court and sought their collective wisdom. She addressed the nobles and chiefs of her kingdom with humility and respect, saying: "O my esteemed leaders and advisors, give me your counsel in this grave matter. I have never decided any significant affair on my own without your presence and consultation."

This statement reveals her remarkable leadership qualities: she was not a tyrant who imposed her will, but a wise ruler who valued the unity and participation of her people. She understood that a decision of such magnitude—whether to respond to a prophet of Allah with submission or to prepare for confrontation—required the collective insight of her council. By consulting them, she also tested their loyalty and readiness, while keeping their hearts united and engaged in the affairs of the state.

Her words also reflect a deep sense of responsibility. She did not wish to bear the burden of a unilateral decision that could lead her nation to ruin. Instead, she opened the floor for discussion, inviting her advisors to share their perspectives, knowing that their combined wisdom would guide her to the best course of action.

A Da'wah Reflection:

This noble example from the Qur'an teaches us a beautiful lesson in humility, consultation, and collective decision-making—values that Islam holds dear. The Queen, despite her power and wealth, recognized that wisdom lies in seeking counsel and that no leader is self-sufficient. In our own lives, how often do we rush into decisions—whether personal, familial, or communal—without consulting those who care for us and those who have knowledge? Islam encourages us to practice *Shura* (mutual consultation), as Allah says: "And their affairs are [conducted] by mutual consultation" (Ash-Shura 42:38).

Moreover, this verse invites us to reflect on the Queen's open heart. When the truth reached her, she did not cling to her throne or her pride. She listened, she consulted, and ultimately she submitted to the truth with sincerity. This is the hallmark of a seeker of guidance: one who is willing to set aside ego and status to follow what is right. May Allah grant us the same humility and wisdom to seek counsel, to listen to the truth, and to act upon it with courage and sincerity.