وَوَهَبْنَا لِدَاوُۥدَ سُلَيْمَـٰنَ ۚ نِعْمَ ٱلْعَبْدُ ۖ إِنَّهُۥٓ أَوَّابٌ 30
Translations
And to David We gave Solomon. An excellent servant, indeed he was one repeatedly turning back [to Allāh].
Transliteration
Wa wahabna li-Dawooda Sulaymaan, ni'mal-'abd, innahu awwaab
Tafsir (Explanation)
Allah granted Prophet Dawud (David) the gift of his son Sulayman (Solomon), describing him as an excellent servant who was constantly turning back to Allah in repentance and obedience (awwaab). Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari emphasize that this ayah highlights Allah's favor upon Dawud by blessing him with a righteous son who would inherit both his prophethood and kingdom, and that Sulayman's constant return to Allah was a defining characteristic of his servitude.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in Surah Sad, a Meccan chapter that extensively discusses the stories of the prophets and their trials. It comes within the broader narrative of Surah Sad which emphasizes the patience and steadfastness of prophets, and specifically follows the context of Dawud's judgment and his seeking of forgiveness from Allah, making Sulayman's birth a manifestation of Allah's grace after repentance.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is reported to have said regarding the servants of Allah: 'The best of you are those who are best to their families, and I am the best among you to my family' (Jami' at-Tirmidhi 3895). Additionally, there are traditions emphasizing Sulayman's unique position as a prophet-king blessed with extraordinary gifts (Sahih Bukhari).
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches us that true nobility lies not in worldly status or power, but in constant consciousness of Allah and sincere servitude to Him, regardless of one's position. Parents are reminded that the greatest blessing they can receive is righteous children who embody devotion to Allah, which occurs through their own commitment to faith and guidance.