The Majestic Quran

34. Saba’ The Kingdom of Sheba This chapter was revealed in the middle-Makkan period, and its central theme is the evidence for resurrection. The scenes of Judgement Day are presented in vivid terms, as if they are unfolding before the reader. God’s Glory and Power is emphasised as displayed on Judgement Day, when humanity will be held accountable for its actions. David and Solomon , received many extraordinary gifts from God, which they appreciated. Consequently, God rewarded them even more. In contrast, the people of Saba’ were blessed with a dam and fertile land, and the towns built in the area prospered economically. However, they were ungrateful. The kingdom of Saba was situated in South Western Arabia, Yemen, and at the time of its greatest prosperity (the first millennium BC) comprised Yemen and a large part of Ethiopia. Its capital was Marib. The Sabaeans had built over the centuries an extraordinary system of dams and dykes, and became famous in history, with its astonishing remnants extant to this day (Asad). This invited Divine retribution, the dam burst and the unstoppable flood destroyed everything in its wake. This devastated the agricultural land, and left them impoverished. Since the Makkans were familiar with this story, the Quran doesn’t describe it in too much detail. An outline of the conversation between disbelievers on Judgement Day shows the horrific landscape. At the end, the Messenger r is proclaimed as a prophet for all humanity: “We sent