Title: Interpretation of Surah Saad 38: 34, 37 Question: Could you please explain the interpretation of the following verses of Surah Saad? And verily We tried Solomon, and set upon his throne a (mere) body. Then did he repent. (Qur'an 38: 34) And also the Shayatin (devils) from the jinns (including) every kind of builder and diver (Qur'an 38: 37) In the second verse above, why did God made Shayatin subservient to Prophet Solomon (pbuh) when God had said Shaytaan is an open enemy for mankind? Regards, Naina Answer: The first verse, with its preceding verse is a part of two examples given by the Qur'an for Solomon's repentance and his turning towards God. As explained by Maulana Amin Ahsen Islahi in his commentary of the Qur'an, "Tadabbur-e-Qur'an", the verse refers to a time of test for Solomon (pbuh), during which he was rendered a powerless king and lost control over a large part of his kingdom - thus the analogy: "a mere body upon his throne". However, as soon as he realized that the times were in fact a test for him from his Lord, he sought forgiveness for his mistakes and repented. The verses following Saad 38: 34 indicate that Solomon's repentance was accepted by the Merciful and not only was his kingdom and control fully restored but his control over his subjects was increased manifolds as well. Saad 38: 37 explains one of the outcomes of Solomon's repentance and seeking forgiveness. In this verse, "Shayateen" is used in its literal meaning implying 'extremely transgressing'. Keeping this clarification in perspective, the verse implies that as a result of Solomon's sincere repentance, God bestowed upon him control over extremely transgressing Jinns and thereby allowed him to utilize their powers in his construction works and in his underwater diving excavations. I hope this clarification will help you understand the verses. Regards, Moiz Amjad July 8, 2002