“He said, ‘This is a mercy from my Lord. But when my Lord’s promise comes to pass, He will level it to the ground, and my Lord’s promise is ever true.’”

After accomplishing this beautiful deed and magnificent work, he attributed the blessing to its Bestower, saying, “This is a mercy from my Lord”—that is, it came through His grace and kindness toward me. Such is the way of righteous rulers: when Allah bestows great blessings upon them, they increase in gratitude and in their affirmation and acknowledgment of Allah’s favor. Thus, when the throne of the Queen of Sheba was brought before Solomon (peace be upon him) despite the immense distance, he said: ⦗487⦘ “This is by my Lord’s grace, to test me whether I am grateful or ungrateful.” By contrast, those who act tyrannically and arrogantly and seek supremacy on earth are only increased in insolence and exultation by great blessings.

Likewise, when Allah granted Korah such treasures that their keys would weigh down a band of strong men, he said, “I was only given this because of knowledge I possess.”

As for His words, “But when my Lord’s promise comes to pass”—that is, the appointed time for the emergence of Gog and Magog—“He will level it,” meaning the firmly and masterfully constructed barrier: He will demolish it, and it will collapse and become level with the ground. “And my Lord’s promise is ever true.”