The people of Sheba: Valuing abundance

It is recounted that in the place where the people of Sheba lived, there were two gardens, one on the right and one on the left. These are presented as a sign of the opportunity given to them. They were asked to eat from the provision of their Lord and to give thanks to Him. A good settlement and a forgiving Lord are mentioned together.

However, it is reported that they turned away. Following this, a great flood was sent upon them, and their gardens were replaced by other gardens containing bitter fruit, tamarisk, and a few cedar trees. The transformation of the environment, once known for its abundance, is conveyed as a consequence related to the attitude of the community.

Furthermore, it is told that there were visible, closely situated settlements between the place where they lived and the places blessed with abundance, and that travel was divided into measured stages. They were told to travel safely by night and by day. Thus, the blessing given was not only products but also transportation and a secure way of life.

It is told that they wronged themselves by asking for the distances of their journeys to be lengthened. In the end, they were scattered, and only the accounts told about them remained. It is stated that this event holds signs for those who are patient and grateful. The narrative places a reminder of responsibility against the view of abundance as a right that will continue automatically and unconditionally.