Why didn’t he accept the gifts?

Why Didn't He Accept the Gifts?

When Prophet Sulaiman (peace be upon him) sends a letter to the Queen of Sheba, to Bilqis, inviting her to Islam, inviting her to submit to Allah, the One and Only God, she tries to bribe him with gifts. This Queen sends a huge amount of gifts to Sulaiman (peace be upon him).

What is Sulaiman's (peace be upon him) response?

"Are you trying to tempt me with money? What Allah gave me is better than what He gave you. Rather, it is you who rejoice in your gift."

Two Interpretations from the Scholars of Tafsir

Some scholars of tafsir interpreted this to mean: he says, what Allah gave me from Islam and revelation is better than these gifts.

But other scholars interpret it this way: Allah gave me more wealth than you. What you gave me is nothing. You sent me pennies. You think this is going to impress or sway me? I cannot be swayed by your wealth. I am superior to you in wealth.

Don't get too excited because of these trinkets that you sent me. I'm not impressed. Sulaiman (peace be upon him) cannot be bought.

The Lesson: Wealth as Independence

You know how they say everybody has a price? He cannot be bought. Why? He has wealth enough to make him independent. Nobody can own him.

This is such an important reason to build wealth.