Prophet Suleiman (Solomon) holds a significant place in the Abrahamic religions: Islam, Judaism, and Christianity. He was a king of Israel, son of Prophet Dawud (David), and is revered for his wisdom, power, and his ability to communicate with animals and control the jinn (genies). His story is full of lessons about faith, humility, and the true meaning of power.
The Gift of Wisdom and Power
Suleiman’s story begins with a remarkable gift from Allah. When he was a young man, Allah asked him to choose between power and wisdom. Suleiman chose wisdom, and because of his selfless choice, God granted him both, along with an unmatched kingdom.
His wisdom was legendary. He was known for his ability to solve complex disputes and make fair judgments. One of the most famous tales of his wisdom involves two women who claimed to be the mother of the same child. Suleiman suggested cutting the child in half, knowing that the true mother would rather give up her child than see him harmed. This simple yet profound act revealed the genuine mother’s love and allowed him to deliver a just verdict.
The Kingdom of Wonders
Suleiman’s kingdom was unlike any other. Allah gave him control over the wind, which he could command to carry his throne wherever he wanted. He also had the unique ability to understand the language of all animals and birds.
The Qur’an tells a fascinating story about Suleiman and a small ant. As his army marched, an ant warned her fellow ants to get out of the way so they wouldn’t be crushed. Suleiman, hearing and understanding her, smiled and was grateful for this small creature’s wisdom and care for her community. This story beautifully illustrates his humility and his recognition that even the smallest of Allah creations have a purpose.
Another amazing part of his kingdom was his control over the jinn. These were supernatural beings that Allah made subject to Suleiman’s command. The jinn helped him with massive construction projects, including the building of the magnificent Temple of Jerusalem, known in Islam as the Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa Mosque.
The Queen of Sheba
Perhaps the most famous story about Prophet Suleiman is his encounter with the Queen of Sheba (Bilqis). Suleiman’s messenger bird, the hoopoe, reported back to him about a rich queen who ruled a kingdom and worshipped the sun instead of God.
Suleiman sent a letter to the Queen of Sheba, inviting her to worship the one true Allah. Initially, she thought it was a challenge and decided to test him with gifts. But Suleiman was not interested in her wealth; he was interested in her faith. When she arrived at his palace, she was amazed by its splendor, particularly a glass floor that looked like a pool of water. It was this encounter and the wisdom and power she witnessed that led her to convert to Islam, believing in the one Allah.
A Legacy of Humility
Despite his immense power and wealth, Prophet Suleiman remained a humble servant of Allah. His life teaches us that true power comes from serving a higher purpose, not from worldly possessions. He constantly prayed and gave thanks to Allah for all his blessings.
His death also carries a powerful lesson. The Qur’an states that Suleiman died while leaning on his staff, and it was only when a termite ate through his staff, causing him to fall, that the jinn realized he had passed away. This story shows that even the greatest of kings and prophets is mortal and that all power ultimately belongs to Allah.
Prophet Suleiman’s life is a beautiful reminder that with great power comes great responsibility and that true wisdom lies in gratitude, humility, and a deep connection to Allah.