The Throne of Queen Bilqis: A Sign of Power Revealed in the Time of Hazrat Sulayman (A.S.)
Among the many extraordinary events that unfolded during the era of Hazrat Sulayman (A.S.), the story of Queen Bilqis—also known as the Queen of Sheba—stands out as a powerful demonstration of divine authority, prophetic wisdom, and the truth of monotheism. Her majestic throne, admired for its beauty and craftsmanship, became the center of a remarkable moment that displayed Allah’s power and the knowledge granted to Sulayman (A.S.).
A Queen of Strength and Intelligence
Queen Bilqis was known for her intelligence, remarkable leadership, and a kingdom blessed with wealth and stability. Her throne symbolized her authority, dignity, and the prosperity of her nation. It was crafted with precious materials and skill that reflected her people’s advancement in art and design. But despite these worldly strengths, she—and her entire kingdom—were still upon sun-worship, unaware of the guidance brought by Allah’s prophets.
Hazrat Sulayman (A.S.), being a prophet of immense wisdom, sought not to conquer her land by force, but to awaken her heart and mind to the truth of the One God.
A Throne Chosen as a Test of Insight
When Sulayman (A.S.) learned of her arrival, he chose her throne as the object of a sign — not for arrogance, but to help her recognize the reality of Allah’s power.
His famous question to the assembly was:
“Who among you can bring me her throne before they come to me in submission?”
This question was not asked to show off material strength; it was meant to display the miracle of divine knowledge and illustrate that no earthly power compares to Allah’s might.
The Arrival of the Throne
A powerful jinn responded first, offering to bring the throne swiftly. But before that could happen, a man blessed with special knowledge from Allah—often identified as Asif ibn Barkhiya—brought the throne in an instant, faster than the blink of an eye.
This sudden appearance of the throne was a sign that surpassed all human capability. Sulayman (A.S.), instead of boasting, immediately turned to gratitude, reminding himself and all those present that miracles are from Allah alone.
A Test for the Queen
When Queen Bilqis finally arrived, Sulayman (A.S.) did not simply show her the throne. He presented it to her in a slightly altered form. His goal was not to embarrass her, but to test her intelligence and perception.
Her cautious reply—“It appears to be the same”—showed her wisdom and humility. She did not rush to judgment, nor did she deny what was placed before her.
This moment softened her heart and opened her eyes to the reality that the powers of this world are nothing compared to the knowledge bestowed by Allah.
A Throne That Led to Faith
The miracle of her throne’s relocation was more than a display of power. It was a turning point in her spiritual journey. She saw with her own eyes that the authority Sulayman (A.S.) possessed was not from human sources but from the Lord of all creation.
Later, when she witnessed another sign—being asked to enter a palace whose crystal-clear floor appeared like water—she finally declared:
“My Lord, I have wronged myself, and I submit with Sulayman to Allah, the Lord of the Worlds.”
Her throne, once a symbol of earthly greatness, became a stepping stone toward discovering the truth.
Lessons from the Story of the Throne
The story of the Queen’s throne carries timeless lessons: |
1. True power belongs to Allah aloneMaterial strength, wealth, and position fade before divine authority. |
2. Knowledge is greater than forceSulayman (A.S.) guided hearts through signs, wisdom, and understanding—not through war. |
3. Humility opens the door to truthBilqis did not let pride prevent her from recognizing guidance when it reached her. |
4. Miracles serve as reminders, not entertainmentThe movement of the throne was a sign meant to awaken belief, not to dazzle an audience. |
5. A ruler’s greatness lies in justice and sincerityBoth Sulayman (A.S.) and Bilqīs showed leadership rooted in dignity and fairness. |
Conclusion
The tale of Queen Bilqīs’s throne is more than an extraordinary event—it is a masterpiece of divine wisdom. Through it, Allah demonstrated His limitless power and highlighted the noble character of His prophet, Sulayman (A.S.). A throne that once symbolized worldly rule became the catalyst for spiritual enlightenment, reminding us that no matter how great a person may appear, true greatness is found only in recognizing and submitting to Allah.
