The story of the Prophet Sulaiman (A.S.) for kids is a fascinating tale filled with wisdom, miracles, and valuable lessons. It offers a glimpse into the life of one of Allah’s most blessed prophets, who received extraordinary abilities and a kingdom like no other. Through this story, children can learn about the importance of justice, gratitude, and humility.
Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام)
Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام), also known as Solomon in the Judeo-Christian tradition, was one of the 19 sons of Prophet Dawud (عليه السلام), who was a wise king and a noble Prophet and Messenger of Allah (سبحانه و تعالى). When Prophet Dawud (عليه السلام) passed away, Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) succeeded him and continued his father’s legacy of prophethood. Allah (سبحانه و تعالى) blessed him with many special gifts, and he became a just and wise ruler over the Israelite nation.
Inheritance of Knowledge and Dominion
In the Quran, it is mentioned: “And Sulaiman inherited Dawud” (Surah An-Naml, ayah 16). This inheritance was not of wealth or property but rather of his father’s dominion and knowledge. The prophets did not leave behind material possessions to be inherited. Instead, they left behind knowledge and wisdom.
Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said in a narration in Sahih Bukhari: “Our property (meaning the material possessions of the prophets) cannot be inherited, and whatever we leave is to be spent in charity” (Sahih Bukhari 6725).
Additionally, the scholars are considered the heirs of the prophets, inheriting their knowledge rather than wealth: “Indeed the Ulama (scholars) are the heirs of the Prophets, and the Prophets do not leave behind Dinar or Dirham” (Jami at-Tirmidhi 2682).
Prophet Sulaiman’s (عليه السلام) Humility
Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) enjoyed immense success and happiness in this world. He held a unique position among prophets, possessing authority over an entire empire that was unlike any other in history. He ruled not only over humans but also over jinns and various animals. His leadership was admired and beloved by all. Allah (سبحانه و تعالى) bestowed special talents upon him, as mentioned in Surah An-Naml verses 15-17:
English Translation:
“Indeed, We granted knowledge to Dawud and Sulaiman. And they said in acknowledgment, ‘All praise is for Allah Who has privileged us over many of His faithful servants.’ And Dawud was succeeded by Sulaiman, who said, ‘O people! We have been taught the language of birds and been given everything we need. This is indeed a great privilege. Solomon’s forces of jinn, humans, and birds were rallied for him, perfectly organized.” — Surah An-Naml verses 15-17
Despite all the blessings and power Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) received, his response to these gifts was extraordinary. The power and success he achieved could have easily led to arrogance or corruption in most people. However, for Sulaiman (عليه السلام), these gifts only increased his humility. He recognized everything he had as a direct gift from his Creator. His response was to say, “Alhamdulillah” (All praises and thanks be to Allah).
The Importance of Knowledge
While recounting the blessings bestowed upon Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام), the first and foremost mentioned is the gift of knowledge. This emphasis suggests that knowledge is superior even to ruling over people and jinn, or the ability to speak the language of birds and other animals.
The knowledge granted to Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) encompassed both worldly matters and the understanding of prophethood. According to the Tafheem ul-Qur’an, this knowledge includes:
“knowledge of the reality, the knowledge that whatever they have is not theirs but the gift of Allah and whatever rights they have been granted over those things should be used strictly according to Allah’s will. For, they will be held answerable before Allah, the real Owner, for the right and wrong use of those rights. This knowledge is the opposite of the ignorance in which Pharaoh was involved.”
Contrast with Pharaoh
Pharaoh, who received dominion and rule, allowed his ignorance to lead him down a path of arrogance and oppression. In contrast, Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) built his character on correct knowledge, leading to a vastly different and righteous outcome. Sulaiman (عليه السلام) understood that his power and authority were gifts from Allah (سبحانه و تعالى) to use responsibly and with gratitude.
Prophet Sulaiman’s (عليه السلام) Test
When Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was asked which people have been tested most severely, he replied, “They are the prophets, then the next best, then the next best. A man is put to trial according to his religion. If he is firm in his religion, his trials will be more severe. If he is weak in his religion, he is put to trial according to his strength in religion.” (Jami at-Tirmidhi 2398).
Although Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) appeared to have everything, his wealth and kingdom were a test from Allah (سبحانه و تعالى). He had immense responsibilities as both a leader and a prophet. As a servant of Allah (سبحانه و تعالى), he was constantly engaged in dhikr (remembrance of Allah). The Qur’an praises him, saying, “And We blessed Dawud with Sulaiman. He was an excellent servant. Surely, he was great in turning (to Us, in penitence and praise)” (Surah Sad, ayah 30).
The Test of the Horses
One significant test for Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) involved his love for his finest, most well-trained horses. One evening, as the night was approaching, these horses were brought to him for a final inspection. The Qur’an describes this event:
“One evening well-trained and running horses of noble breed were brought to him he said: ‘Lo! I have come to love these good things on account of the remembrance of my Lord.’ until it went behind the veil” (Surah Sad, ayat 30-32).
Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) became momentarily distracted by his love for these horses, causing him to miss the Asr prayer. This distraction was not due to vanity but rather because he saw the beauty of Allah’s (سبحانه و تعالى) creation in them. However, he regretted missing his prayer and called for the horses to be brought back:
“‘Bring them back to me’ – and he started passing his hands over the legs and the necks (of the horses)” (Surah Sad, ayah 33).
Different Interpretations
There are different interpretations of this event. Some commentators suggest that the Arabic word (مَسْحًۢا) mashan means to stroke with a sword, implying that Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) sacrificed the horses as a penalty for his neglect and distributed their meat as charity. Others, like Imam Ibn Jarir, believe that he called the horses back to pat them and further show his love, arguing that it would be out of character for a Prophet to punish animals for his own shortcomings.
The Test of the Throne
Another significant test for Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) is mentioned in the Qur’an:
“And indeed We tested Sulaiman while We threw on his throne a body after which he turned (to Us)” (Surah Sad, ayah 34).
The exact nature of this test remains unclear, and many Israiliyat narrations (stories originating from Hebrew scriptures) often fabricate and show disrespect towards the prophets. Ibn Kathir suggests that it is better to accept the ambiguity of the Qur’an without delving into unfounded details. The important lesson is that this test caused Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) to turn to Allah (سبحانه و تعالى) with even greater devotion.
The Winds and the Jinns
After his trial, Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) made a heartfelt supplication to Allah (سبحانه و تعالى):
رَبِّ ٱغۡفِرۡ لِي وَهَبۡ لِي مُلۡكٗا لَّا يَنۢبَغِي لِأَحَدٖ مِّنۢ بَعۡدِيٓۖ إِنَّكَ أَنتَ ٱلۡوَهَّابُ
Rabbigh fir lee wa hab lee mulkal laa yambaghee li ahadin min ba’dee innaka Antal Wahhaab
English Translation:
“My Lord, forgive me and grant me a kingdom such as will not belong to anyone after me. Indeed, You are the Bestower.”
— (Surah Sad, Ayah 35)
The primary aim of any Prophet is not to seek material wealth or power for its own sake. Prophet Sulaiman’s (عليه السلام) supplication stemmed not from a desire for worldly gain but from a sincere intention to use his resources to spread goodness and serve Allah’s (سبحانه و تعالى) cause. This is evident in how he began his du’a by seeking forgiveness, indicating his concern for the akhirah (the Hereafter) rather than the dunya (the worldly life).
The Blessings of Prophetic Power
Allah (سبحانه و تعالى) responded to Sulaiman’s (عليه السلام) pure intentions by granting him control over the winds and the jinns:
English Translation:
“Then We subjugated the wind for him that blew smoothly on his command to wherever he wished, and (We subjugated to him) the devils (among Jinns), all builders and divers, and many others held in chains. This is Our gift. So, do favor (to someone) or withhold (it), with no (requirement to give) account.”
— (Surah Sad, Ayat 36-39)
Control Over the Wind
The wind, a natural and powerful force, was made obedient to Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام). He could command it to blow gently or strongly, guiding it to any destination he desired. This extraordinary control over the elements demonstrates the immense power and responsibility entrusted to him by Allah (سبحانه و تعالى).
Control Over the Jinns
Moreover, Allah (سبحانه و تعالى) placed the rebellious and evil jinns under Sulaiman’s (عليه السلام) control. These jinns, known for their strength and abilities, became his servants. They performed various tasks, such as:
- Builders: Constructing massive structures and buildings for his kingdom.
- Divers: Fetching rare and valuable resources from the depths of the sea.
- Others in Chains: Many jinns were restrained and controlled to prevent mischief.
The Purpose Behind the Blessings
Prophet Sulaiman’s (عليه السلام) intention behind requesting such a kingdom was to utilize these extraordinary resources and powers for the benefit of his people and to propagate the message of Allah (سبحانه و تعالى). His control over the natural and supernatural realms was a means to establish justice, spread knowledge, and maintain peace.
The Ants
One day, Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) gathered his army to journey to the country of Askalon. His army consisted of various battalions, including jinn, men, birds, and animals of all kinds, marching in unison. As they passed through a valley, an observant ant noticed the army approaching from a distance. The ant cried out, warning the others, “O ants, enter your dwellings that you not be crushed by Solomon and his soldiers while they perceive not” (Surah An-Naml, ayah 18).
Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) heard the speech of the ant and smiled, filled with joy and love for his Creator. He made a heartfelt supplication, “My Lord, enable me to be grateful for Your favor which You have bestowed upon me and upon my parents and to do righteousness of which You approve. And admit me by Your mercy into [the ranks of] Your righteous servants” (Surah An-Naml, ayah 19).
Prophet Sulaiman’s (عليه السلام) Character
Prophet Sulaiman’s (عليه السلام) response to the ant’s warning demonstrates his exemplary character. He embodies gratitude, always attributing his success to Allah (سبحانه و تعالى) rather than seeking self-glorification. His thankfulness goes beyond mere words; he actively seeks ways to demonstrate his gratitude through service and good deeds. His supplication reflects his desire to be shown or instructed on how to express his thankfulness properly.
Lessons from the Story
- Humility in Power: Despite his immense power and control over both natural and supernatural realms, Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) remained humble. Hearing the ant’s concern, he did not dismiss it but responded with gratitude and joy.
- Gratitude: The Prophet’s supplication highlights the importance of gratitude. He not only thanks Allah (سبحانه و تعالى) for His favors but also asks for the ability to be grateful in a manner that pleases Allah (سبحانه و تعالى).
- Awareness and Responsibility: The incident with the ants illustrates the importance of being aware of and responsible for all of Allah’s (سبحانه و تعالى) creations. Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) was mindful of even the smallest creatures and took their well-being into consideration.
- Exemplary Leadership: Sulaiman’s (عليه السلام) leadership style was compassionate and just. He cared for all living beings, ensuring that his actions did not harm them, even unintentionally.
The Hoopoe Bird
Great leaders often display an acute awareness of the well-being of their companions, a quality exemplified by Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and also evident in the actions of Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام). He showed immense care and attention to his subjects, even down to a single bird.
While inspecting his vast army, Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) noticed that a hoopoe bird was missing. He remarked, “Why do I not see the hoopoe – or is he among the absent?” (Surah An-Naml, ayah 20). His awareness of this seemingly minor detail highlights his exceptional leadership and concern for all under his care.
Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) expressed his disappointment by stating, “I will inflict a severe punishment on him or maybe even slaughter him unless he comes forth with a convincing reason (for his absence)” (Surah An-Naml, ayah 21). This reaction underscores the importance of accountability in his leadership. However, it also demonstrates his fairness, as he was willing to hear the hoopoe’s explanation before passing judgment.
The Hoopoe’s Role and Report
The hoopoe bird had a significant role in Sulaiman’s (عليه السلام) kingdom. Some commentators suggest that the bird helped guide Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) to water sources, while others believe the birds provided shade from the sun. Regardless of its specific duties, the Prophet immediately noticed the bird’s absence, which indicated its importance in the daily operations of the kingdom.
Unlike some leaders who might react with immediate anger or punishment, Sulaiman (عليه السلام) remained calm and sought to understand the reason for the bird’s absence. This approach highlights his balanced and just leadership style.
The Hoopoe’s Return
The hoopoe soon returned and offered a valid and important reason for its absence. It had discovered the Queen of Sheba and her people, who were worshiping the sun instead of Allah (سبحانه و تعالى). The hoopoe conveyed this information to Sulaiman (عليه السلام), saying, “I have grasped (the knowledge of a thing) which you have not grasped and I have come to you from Saba’ with true news” (Surah An-Naml, ayah 22).
The hoopoe’s report led to a significant series of events, demonstrating the profound impact even a small creature can have within a just and observant leadership. Prophet Sulaiman’s (عليه السلام) subsequent actions, including sending a letter to the Queen of Sheba inviting her to Islam, further illustrate his wisdom and diplomacy.
To see if what the hoopoe bird said was true, he told the bird,
“Take this letter of mine and deliver it to them. Then leave them and see what [answer] they will return.”
— (Surah An-Naml, ayah 28)
Lessons from the Hoopoe Bird Story
- Attention to Detail: Great leaders are attentive to the smallest details and aware of the well-being of all their subjects.
- Accountability and Fairness: Holding others accountable while being open to their explanations reflects a just and balanced leadership approach.
- Valuing Every Role: Recognizing the importance of every individual’s contribution, no matter how small, is crucial for effective leadership.
- Wisdom in Decision-Making: Gathering all necessary information before making decisions ensures fairness and justice.
The Queen of Sheba
The Queen of Sheba, believed to be named Bilqis, ruled over the region now known as Yemen, which the Qur’an refers to as Saba (Sheba). Her kingdom was notable for its power, authority, and her magnificent throne, although it did not rival the grandeur of Prophet Sulaiman’s (عليه السلام) empire.
The Letter from Prophet Sulaiman
Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) sent a letter to the Queen of Sheba, which she received with great concern. The letter read: “With the name of Allah, the All-Merciful, the Very-Merciful. Do not rebel against me, and come to me in submission” (Surah An-Naml, ayat 29-31). The Queen perceived this as a possible threat of war and sought counsel from her trusted advisors.
She addressed her officials: “O chieftains, there has been delivered to me an esteemed letter. It is from Sulaiman, and it reads ‘With the name of Allah, the All-Merciful, the Very-Merciful. Do not rebel against me, and come to me in submission.’ O chieftains, let me have your counsel in this matter, for I make no firm decision without you.” (Surah An-Naml, ayah 32).
Her advisors, confident in their strength, responded: “We are a people of strength and great military might, but the decision is yours, so decide what you will command” (Surah An-Naml, ayah 33).
The Queen’s Decision
The Queen of Sheba wisely chose peace and diplomacy over war, recognizing the destructive nature of conflict. She decided to send a gift to Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام), hoping to appease him and learn more about his kingdom and strength. She said: “Peace and friendship are better and wiser; war only brings humiliation, enslaves people, and destroys the good things. I have decided to send gifts to Sulaiman, selected from our most precious treasure. The courtiers who will deliver the gifts will also have an opportunity to learn about Sulaiman and his military might.”
Prophet Sulaiman’s Response
Upon receiving news of the Queen’s envoys and their gifts, Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) demonstrated his strategic acumen. He mobilized his army to showcase his strength and impress upon the envoys the might of his command. His army, including domesticated lions, tigers, birds, and soldiers, presented a formidable sight, conveying the power and organization of his kingdom.
When the envoys presented the gifts, Sulaiman (عليه السلام) was not swayed. His integrity and commitment to spreading the belief in Tawheed, the oneness of Allah (سُبْحَٰنَهُۥ وَتَعَٰلَىٰ), could not be bought with material wealth. He said: “Do you provide me with wealth? But what Allah has given me is better than what He has given you. Rather, it is you who rejoice in your gift. Return to them, for we will surely come to them with soldiers that they will be powerless to encounter, and we will surely expel them therefrom in humiliation, and they will be debased.” (Surah An-Naml, ayah 36-37).
The Queen’s Journey to Jerusalem
Impressed by the reports of Prophet Sulaiman’s (عليه السلام) kingdom and recognizing the futility of resisting his power, the Queen of Sheba decided to visit him personally. She prepared for the journey to Jerusalem, eager to meet him and discuss the matters directly.
Lessons from the Story
- Diplomacy Over Conflict: The Queen of Sheba’s decision to seek peace and understanding rather than immediate conflict underscores the importance of diplomacy in leadership.
- Integrity and Purpose: Prophet Sulaiman’s (عليه السلام) unwavering commitment to his mission of spreading Tawheed, despite the allure of material wealth, exemplifies the integrity and higher purpose that should guide leaders.
- Awareness and Care: Both Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) and the Queen of Sheba demonstrate a keen awareness of their subjects and the importance of considering their well-being in decision-making processes.
- Wisdom in Leadership: The story highlights the value of wisdom, consultation, and strategic thinking in leadership. Both leaders made decisions that were not solely based on immediate power or gain but on long-term peace and stability.
The Throne of Bilqis
Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) sought to demonstrate his power to the Queen of Sheba (Bilqis) in a strategic manner that would facilitate her understanding of Allah’s unlimited power. Recognizing her inclination towards embracing Islam, he decided on a miraculous event that would strengthen her faith.
The Challenge to the Jinns
Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) posed a challenge to his jinns: “O assembly [of jinn], which of you will bring me her throne before they come to me in submission?” (Surah An-Naml, ayah 38). This task required entering her palace unnoticed, securing the throne, and transporting it before her arrival. This would showcase Allah’s enablement, emphasizing that such miracles were possible through divine power, not human might.
The Jinn’s Responses
A powerful jinn responded, “I will bring it to you before you rise from your place, and indeed, I am for this [task] strong and trustworthy” (Surah An-Naml, ayah 39). However, Sulaiman (عليه السلام) did not respond to this offer. Then, another jinn, who had knowledge of the Book, claimed he could bring the throne even faster. Before Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) could blink, the magnificent throne was placed before him.
Sulaiman’s Reaction
Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) was once again amazed at the blessing of Allah (سُبْحَٰنَهُۥ وَتَعَٰلَىٰ) and immediately turned to supplication, acknowledging the divine grace: “This is by the grace of my Lord, so that He may test me whether I am grateful or ungrateful. Whoever is grateful is grateful for his own benefit, and whoever is ungrateful, then my Lord is Need-Free, Bountiful” (Surah An-Naml, ayah 40).
Lessons from the Story
- Faith and Miracles: The miraculous transportation of the throne was intended to strengthen Bilqis’ faith, demonstrating that true power and control lie with Allah (سُبْحَٰنَهُۥ وَتَعَٰلَىٰ).
- Divine Power over Human Ability: The event highlighted the superiority of divine power over human and even supernatural abilities, as Sulaiman (عليه السلام) attributed the miracle to Allah rather than his own power.
- Gratitude and Humility: Sulaiman’s (عليه السلام) immediate reaction of gratitude underscores the importance of acknowledging Allah’s blessings and remaining humble, recognizing that success and achievements are tests of one’s faith and gratitude.
- Leadership and Wisdom: Sulaiman’s (عليه السلام) strategic thinking and leadership are evident in his approach to demonstrating power through miracles rather than force, aiming to guide Bilqis towards faith in a peaceful and insightful manner.
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The Queen Arrives
When Bilqis arrived at Prophet Sulaiman’s (عليه السلام) palace, he greeted her with a grand ceremony. Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) had previously arranged to slightly disguise the throne as part of a test to gauge her reaction.
The Test of the Throne
Upon arrival, Sulaiman (عليه السلام) asked, “Is your throne like this one?” (Surah An-Naml, ayah 42). Bilqis, demonstrating her wisdom and patience, did not rush to reject the claim. Instead, she carefully examined the throne and noticed its striking resemblance to her own. She replied, “It seems to be the same.”
Sulaiman (عليه السلام) admired her diplomatic and thoughtful response. Bilqis then acknowledged the truth of Sulaiman’s (عليه السلام) message, saying, ‘We have recognized the truth even before this, and we have already submitted.
The Glass Floor
As Sulaiman (عليه السلام) led Bilqis through his palace, he brought her into a grand hall with a transparent glass floor over flowing water. Mistaking the glass for water, Bilqis lifted her garment to avoid getting it wet. Sulaiman (عليه السلام) clarified, “Indeed, it is a palace [whose floor is] made smooth with glass” (Surah An-Naml, ayah 44).
The Epiphany and Embrace of Islam
This experience had a profound impact on Bilqis. It revealed to her that outward appearances can be deceiving, and she began to understand the futility of worshipping celestial bodies like the sun and moon for their prominence. She recognized that only Allah (سُبْحَٰنَهُۥ وَتَعَٰلَىٰ) can make such appearances significant.
Realizing the truth, Bilqis renounced her previous religion of polytheism and embraced Islam. She declared, “My Lord, I had surely wronged myself, and now I submit, along with Sulaiman, to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds” (Surah An-Naml, ayah 44).
Lessons from the Encounter
- Wisdom and Patience: Bilqis’ response to the throne test highlighted her wisdom and patience. Instead of reacting impulsively, she took time to assess the situation.
- Deception of Appearances: The transparent glass floor symbolized how appearances can be misleading. Bilqis’ realization underscores the importance of looking beyond surface appearances to understand deeper truths.
- Acceptance of Truth: The encounter with Sulaiman (عليه السلام) led Bilqis to recognize the oneness of Allah (سُبْحَٰنَهُۥ وَتَعَٰلَىٰ) and embrace Islam. Her change of heart reflects the transformative power of witnessing divine miracles and truth.
- Leadership and Integrity: Sulaiman (عليه السلام) demonstrated wisdom in how he handled the situation, using it as an opportunity to guide Bilqis towards the truth without coercion.
Jinns and Their Magic
Before Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) gained dominion over the jinn, some of these supernatural beings had strayed from their intended path. They engaged in deceitful practices, using their knowledge to mislead people with false claims of magic. They pretended to have the ability to predict the future and reveal the unseen, thus leading many away from the truth and towards misguided beliefs.
The Reformation of Jinns
Under the divine support of Allah (سُبْحَٰنَهُۥ وَتَعَٰلَىٰ), Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) took decisive action to put an end to these corrupt practices. He subdued the jinn, bringing them under his control. This not only protected people from false worship but also ensured that the jinn were used in service to righteous purposes.
The Qur’an describes this in Surah Saba (Surah 34), verses 12-13:
English Translation:
“And to Solomon [We subjected] the wind – its morning [journey was that of] a month – and its afternoon [journey was that of] a month, and We made flow for him a spring of [liquid] copper. Among the jinn were those who worked for him by the permission of his Lord. Whoever deviated among them from Our command – We will make him taste of the punishment of the Blaze. They made for him what he willed of elevated chambers, statues, bowls like reservoirs, and stationary kettles. [We said], ‘Work, O family of David, in gratitude.’ And few of My servants are grateful.” — (Surah Saba, ayat 12-13)
Details of the Divine Control
- Control Over the Wind: Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) was given control over the wind, which could travel vast distances in short periods. This power allowed him to facilitate his journey and accomplish tasks efficiently.
- Spring of Copper: A spring of liquid copper was made to flow for him, showcasing divine provision and the abundance of resources at his command.
- Jinn as Workers: The jinn were put to work under Sulaiman’s (عليه السلام) command, constructing elevated chambers, statues, and other impressive artifacts. They also managed large-scale projects, such as creating large reservoirs and stationary kettles.
- Punishment for Disobedience: Any jinn who deviated from Allah’s command faced the punishment of the Blaze, highlighting the seriousness of adhering to divine instructions.
The Message to the Family of David
The divine command to “Work, O family of David, in gratitude” emphasized the importance of using their blessings and abilities in service to Allah and acknowledging His gifts with thankfulness. Despite the immense power and resources at their disposal, true fulfillment and success lay in gratitude and righteousness.
Key Takeaways
- Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) ended deceptive magic by stopping jinn misuse, restoring truth and righteousness.
- The jinn, repurposed under divine guidance, show that even those who erred can be reformed and used for good.
- Gratitude and Responsibility: The story underscores the importance of gratitude and responsibility. Despite their significant power, the family of David was reminded to work with thankfulness and in accordance with divine instructions.
- The account shows Allah’s vast control over creation and His power to direct the supernatural for His purpose.
Prophet Sulaiman’s (عليه السلام) Death
The death of Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) is a poignant and instructive event in Islamic tradition, marked by a powerful demonstration of the limitations of the jinn and the nature of divine control.
The Final Moments
As the time approached for Allah (سُبْحَٰنَهُۥ وَتَعَٰلَىٰ) to call His faithful servant, Prophet Sulaiman (عليه السلام) made a unique request: he asked to have his soul taken while he remained seated, upright, and supported by his staff. Allah (سُبْحَٰنَهُۥ وَتَعَٰلَىٰ) granted this request, allowing the Prophet’s final moments to unfold as he watched the jinn laboring.
The Angel of Death came quietly and took Sulaiman’s (عليه السلام) soul, leaving his body propped up in a way that showed no immediate sign of his departure. The jinn, oblivious to the Prophet’s passing, continued their work tirelessly.
The Revelation of His Passing
Termites ate through Sulaiman’s (عليه السلام) staff, causing his body to fall and revealing the true nature of the situation. This sudden collapse alerted those around and made it clear that the Prophet had been deceased for some time. This moment served as a powerful lesson:
“So, when We decided (that) death (should come) upon him, nothing gave them any indication of his death, except a creature of the earth that had eaten up his sceptre. So, when he fell down, the Jinns came to know that if they had the knowledge of the Unseen, they would not have stayed (so long) in the humiliating punishment.” — (Surah Saba, ayah 14)
Lessons from the Event
- The Limitations of the Jinn: The event highlighted the inability of the jinn to possess knowledge of the unseen or the future. Despite their supernatural abilities, they were unaware of Prophet Sulaiman’s (عليه السلام) death until the physical sign of his collapse was visible. This emphasized that their powers were limited and that only Allah (سُبْحَٰنَهُۥ وَتَعَٰلَىٰ) possesses true knowledge of the unseen.
- Divine Control and Testing: The manner of Prophet Sulaiman’s (عليه السلام) passing was a manifestation of Allah’s control over life and death. It also served as a test for the jinn, showing that even those with great power are subject to divine will and limitation.
- Human Realization and Humility: The event was a stark reminder to people about the limitations of knowledge and the importance of recognizing divine authority. It underscored that reliance on Allah (سُبْحَٰنَهُۥ وَتَعَٰلَىٰ) is paramount and that humans and jinn alike are ultimately subject to His will.
The Legacy of Prophet Sulaiman (A.S.)
The story of the Prophet Sulaiman (A.S.) for kids leaves behind a legacy of wisdom, justice, and humility. His life serves as an example for children and adults alike, teaching the values of gratitude, fairness, and faith. Sulaiman’s story is a testament to the blessings that come with true devotion to Allah and the positive impact one can have on
Conclusion
Prophet Sulaiman’s (عليه السلام) death, marked by the unexpected and symbolic collapse of his body, was a powerful lesson in recognizing the limits of supernatural knowledge and the omnipotence of Allah (سُبْحَٰنَهُۥ وَتَعَٰلَىٰ). It demonstrated the fallibility of relying on anything other than the divine truth and served as a testament to the ultimate power and control of Allah over all creation.