Section: Selected lessons derived from the story of David and Solomon (peace be upon them)

• First: Allah recounts to His Prophet Muhammad (blessings and peace be upon him) the histories of those who came before him so as to strengthen his heart and calm his soul. He sets before him their acts of worship, their immense patience, and their constant penitence, thereby stirring a longing to compete with them, to draw nearer to the Lord to Whom they strove to draw near, and to endure the harm of one’s own people. Thus, at the opening of Sūrah Ṣād, after quoting what the deniers said to Muhammad and the hurt they caused him, the Almighty says: “Be patient over what they say and remember Our servant David, the man of strength; indeed, he continually turned to Allah” (Ṣād 38:17), and the verses that follow.

• Second: His words, “the man of strength; indeed, he continually turned to Allah” (Ṣād 38:17), are an exalted commendation of two traits: strength in both heart and body for obeying Allah, and an inward and outward return to Him—a return that necessarily entails love of Him and perfect knowledge of Him. These two qualities are present in the prophets in their most complete form, and in their followers in proportion to the degree of their adherence.

Allah’s praise of these qualities urges believers to pursue every means that fosters strength and constant turning to Him, and to remain ever repentant to Allah in times of ease and hardship, in all situations.

• Third: Among the honors Allah bestowed upon His prophet David (peace be upon him) is a beautiful, resonant voice, such that the mountains and birds would glorify Allah with him and echo his praises. This is part of his elevated rank and lofty station.

• Fourth: One of the greatest favors Allah grants a servant is to endow him with beneficial knowledge and the ability to discern proper judgment among people—whether regarding doctrines and schools of thought or in disputes and contentions—as He says: “We granted him wisdom and decisive speech” (Ṣād 38:20).