Surah Sad — Verse 37

Key Words and Phrases:

• Ash-Shayāṭīn (الشياطين): The devils or jinn who were rebellious and powerful.
• Kulla bannā’ (كُلَّ بَنَّاءٍ): Every skilled builder—those who constructed magnificent structures and edifices.
• Wa ghawwāṣ (وَغَوَّاصٍ): And every diver—those who plunged into the depths of the seas to extract pearls and precious treasures.

Explanation of the Verse:

In this verse, Allah reminds us of the extraordinary favour He bestowed upon His Prophet and servant, Sulaymān (peace be upon him). Among the many blessings granted to him was the complete subjugation of the jinn and devils, who were made obedient to his command. They worked tirelessly under his authority, carrying out tasks that no ordinary human could accomplish. Some of them were master builders, erecting magnificent palaces, fortresses, and places of worship with astonishing skill and precision. Others were skilled divers, plunging into the deep waters of the oceans to retrieve pearls, gems, and other treasures from the seabed, presenting them to Sulaymān. This was a unique and mighty kingdom, a sign of Allah’s power and a testament to the honour He bestowed upon His righteous servant.

This verse also carries a profound lesson for us: when a servant of Allah is sincere, obedient, and grateful, Allah grants him authority and resources beyond imagination. Sulaymān did not achieve this through his own might, but through his unwavering faith and submission to Allah. The devils, despite their rebellion and arrogance, were humbled and forced to serve a righteous human being—a clear demonstration that Allah’s power prevails over all creation, and that obedience to Him elevates a person above even the most powerful of His creatures.

A Call to Reflection and Faith:

Dear reader, ponder upon this magnificent scene: the mighty Sulaymān, with a vast army of jinn, humans, and birds, commanding the winds and the seas, while the rebellious devils bow to his will. This is not a myth or a fairy tale—it is the truth revealed by Allah in His Glorious Book. It reminds us that nothing is impossible for Allah, and that He grants His sincere servants honour and authority beyond measure. Let this verse inspire you to strengthen your relationship with Allah, to trust in His wisdom, and to seek His pleasure in all that you do. For when you submit to Allah wholeheartedly, He opens doors for you that no one else can open, and He grants you a life of purpose, dignity, and blessing. Embrace Islam with a sincere heart, for it is the path to true success in this world and the Hereafter.