Surah An Naml Tafseer

How the Throne of Bilqis was brought in an Instant

Muhammad bin Ishaq reported from Yazid bin Ruman:

"When the messengers returned with word of what Suleiman said, she said:`By Allah, I knew he was more than a king, and that we have no power to match him, and that we can gain nothing by being stubborn with him. So, she sent word to him saying:

"I am coming to you with the leaders of my people to see what you will instruct us to do and what you are calling us to of your religion."

Then she issued commands that her throne, which was made of gold and inlaid with rubies, chrysolite and pearls, should be placed in the innermost of seven rooms, one within the other, and all the doors should be locked.

Then she told her deputy whom she was leaving in charge, "Take care of my people and my throne, and do not let anyone approach it or see it until I come back to you."

Then she set off to meet Suleiman with twelve thousand of her commanders from the leaders of Yemen, under each of whose command were many thousands of men.

Suleiman sent the Jinn to bring him news of her progress and route every day and night, then when she drew near, he gathered together the Jinns and humans who were under his control and,

قَالَ يَا أَيُّهَا المَلَاُ أَيُّكُمْ يَأْتِينِي بِعَرْشِهَا قَبْلَ أَن يَأْتُونِي مُسْلِمِينَ

He said:O chiefs! Which of you can bring me her throne before they come to me surrendering themselves in obedience (as Muslims).