This text is a rambling, passionate sermon about the joys of Paradise in Islam. The speaker describes vivid details of heavenly delights, including beautiful women, opulent surroundings, and endless pleasures, frequently referencing Hadith and personal anecdotes. He contrasts this with the perceived emptiness of worldly pursuits, urging listeners to prioritize faith and piety. The speaker also criticizes the rote learning in madrasas, advocating for a deeper understanding of the Quran and a more loving, inclusive approach to religious practice. Finally, he emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, compassion, and avoiding backbiting.

Paradise and Piety: A Study Guide

Quiz

Instructions: Answer each question in 2-3 sentences.

1. According to the text, what is the lowest level angel of Paradise doing, and what posture is he in?
2. Why does the text say that Allah has made prostitution haram?
3. What does the text claim about the number of “farts” in Wuzu and Namaz, and how does this relate to building faith?
4. How does the text describe the fragrance of paradise being spread to the whole universe?
5. What are some of the comparisons made to illustrate the beauty and light of the women of Paradise?
6. What is described about the size and sweetness of the spit from the women of Paradise?
7. What does the text say about the last person to leave hell, and what awaits him in heaven?
8. What are some of the fantastic descriptions given about the animals and plants of paradise?
9. According to the text, why do the poor have a special place in paradise?
10. What is the significance of Arabic and understanding the Quran, according to the text?

Quiz Answer Key

1. The lowest-level angel of Paradise sits leaning back with legs spread, causing onlookers’ eyes to widen; they remain in this position for 40 years.
2. The text states Allah made prostitution haram to ensure people enjoy pleasures in a way that is ordered and according to His will, further promising more enjoyment later in the afterlife.
3. The text mentions that there are 4 farts in Wuzu and 13 farts in Namaz, which are described as mandatory; it suggests faith is not built by just following these rituals, as opposed to the desire for paradise.
4. The text states that if anything from paradise, even as small as a nail, is exposed, its fragrance and light will spread throughout the entire universe, giving a small hint of the immense beauty of paradise.
5. The text compares the beauty and light of the women in Paradise to the sun, saying that even a single pore of their skin could dim the sun and that their smiles illuminate the entire heaven.
6. The spit of the women of Paradise is described as sweet; if a woman spits in the seven seas, it will be sweeter than honey. If a woman spits honey in the world, it would be rejected for its inferior qualities.
7. The last person to leave hell will be welcomed by 8 servants, given food and drink, and will receive a heaven twice the size of this world; his arrival will be celebrated with carpets and a throne.
8. The text describes horses with wings of jumat that fly like planes, camels with red rubies and green manes, and date palms with golden stems and 30-foot-long fruit, all of which are magnificent and beyond imagination.
9. The text suggests that the poor, who have been deprived of worldly pleasures, have a special place in paradise and will be among the first to enter with the Prophet; this is because they remained pure of Shirk and endured their hardships while remaining in God’s path.
10. The text stresses the importance of learning Arabic to truly understand the Quran’s beauty and depth; it argues that relying on dry Fiqa without understanding the language limits one’s access to the true teachings of Islam.

Essay Questions

1. Analyze the ways in which the text uses hyperbole and exaggeration to depict Paradise and its inhabitants. What is the effect of this style of description on the reader?
2. Explore the text’s critique of religious rituals and practices. How does it suggest that one should go beyond the performance of duties to experience a deeper connection with God?
3. Discuss how the text uses imagery and comparisons to convey its notions of heaven and hell, and how it reflects Islamic beliefs.
4. How does the text use storytelling and anecdotes to illustrate its message? Consider the stories of the landlord, the man with the horse, and the discussion about the meaning of the Quran.
5. Based on this text, what can you infer about the speaker’s views on religious education and its potential pitfalls? How does the text advocate for a deeper understanding of faith?

Glossary of Key Terms

• Jannat/Jannah: The Islamic concept of Paradise; a place of eternal reward and bliss for believers.
• Firdaus: The highest level of Paradise.
• Wuzu (Wudu): The Islamic practice of ritual washing performed before prayer.
• Namaz (Salah): The Islamic practice of formal prayer performed five times a day.
• Sunnah: The practices and traditions of the Prophet Muhammad, considered a model for Muslims.
• Hadith: A collection of traditions containing sayings of the prophet Muhammad.
• Fiqa: Islamic jurisprudence; the human understanding and interpretation of divine law.
• Houri: A beautiful maiden of Paradise promised as a companion to the righteous.
• Shirk: The act of associating partners with Allah; considered the greatest sin in Islam.
• Ulama: Religious scholars or learned people within the Islamic tradition.
• Tabligh: An Islamic practice of conveying the message of Islam and encouraging people to be righteous; often translated as “to convey,” “to propagate,” or “to spread the message.”
• Tarbiyat: This refers to the educational and training activities that are used in teaching the faith.
• Mudas: This refers to the position of Head of a school or institution.

Paradise and Piety: A Sermon on Islamic Eschatology

Okay, here is a briefing document summarizing the key themes and ideas from the provided text:

Briefing Document: Analysis of “Pasted Text”

Introduction:

This document provides an analysis of the provided “Pasted Text,” which appears to be a transcript of a religious sermon or lecture. The speaker focuses heavily on Islamic eschatology, particularly the descriptions of Paradise (Jannah) and its rewards, while also criticizing certain aspects of religious practice and the pursuit of worldly desires. The speaker uses vivid imagery, anecdotes, and interpretations of hadith to convey his points.

Main Themes and Ideas:

1. The Allure of Paradise (Jannah): A significant portion of the lecture is dedicated to describing the pleasures and wonders of Paradise. The speaker uses highly sensory language to depict its beauty and delights. Key aspects include:

• Physical Delights: The speaker describes the beauty of the women in paradise, their smiles lighting up heaven, and their spit making oceans sweeter than honey: “A girl from heaven is smiling in front of her lover, because of her smile her teeth are visible, the light that has emanated from them has illuminated heaven.” He also discusses the luxurious nature of the environment: “Kaaba Noor Talala I swear by the Kaaba that it is a light, it is a shining light, a shining long garland of pomegranates,” and the incredible size and abundance of food: “One grain will be 12 feet long. 12 feet means 30 feet long. One grain is 30 feet.”
• Eternal Pleasure: The speaker emphasizes the unending nature of paradise, with endless enjoyment: “…there is no time there…” He suggests that even the shortest song in paradise will last for 70 years.
• Specific Rewards: The lecture details specific rewards including winged horses and camels made of jewels, date palms with golden stems and giant fruit, and luxurious clothing created from light: “Allah has prepared the clothes of heaven from light, light has been made from thread and light has no weight.”

1. Critique of Worldly Pursuit: The speaker contrasts the allure of Paradise with the perceived futility of chasing worldly possessions. He asserts that those engrossed in earthly desires will miss out on greater blessings: “I swear by Allah, all these people who run after the world are merciful, they will be deprived of a great blessing.” He uses the metaphor of massaging a rabbit instead of a horse, illustrating how time and effort are wasted on worldly matters, in contrast to spiritual endeavors.
2. Emphasis on Desire for Paradise: The speaker repeatedly emphasizes the importance of having a strong desire for Paradise. He seems to suggest that this desire is more crucial for true faith than adhering to rigid rituals. The text shows the phrase: “have a desire for Paradise,” repeated to emphasize this idea.
3. Criticism of Ritualistic Religious Practice: The speaker expresses dissatisfaction with rote religious practice, implying that simply memorizing rules and rituals is insufficient for developing true faith. He criticizes the emphasis on Fiqa (Islamic jurisprudence): “our Madrasas teach dry Fiqa, they do not teach Jannat at all, so that enthusiasm and passion is generated in the boys, will faith be developed by studying Fiqa?” and mocks the memorization of “four farts in Wuzu, there are 13 Sunnahs, there are 13 farts in Namaz” suggesting that true faith should be built on love for the divine rather than rote knowledge.
4. The Beauty of the Quran: The speaker passionately expresses the beauty and limitless nature of the Quran, contrasting it with its surface-level interpretation by some religious scholars. He criticizes those who teach the Quran without focusing on its true message and beauty. He uses a beautiful metaphor: “…our meeting is with that which is in a very beautiful garden But nothing is visible like the blind Quran,” suggesting that a lack of true understanding blinds people to the true beauty of the Quran. The speaker encourages listeners to connect with the Quran and their prophet’s teachings, and emphasizes that the meanings of the Quran are endless.
5. Importance of Love and Forgiveness: Towards the end, the speaker stresses the importance of love and forgiveness, urging listeners to avoid hatred and embrace compassion: “Surat Fatiha is teaching us everyone’s sympathy and love…love everyone, heaven and hell is Allah’s decision, we have to respect everyone…” He encourages the youth to make peace with each other and rid their hearts of ill-will.

Key Quotes:

• “One should sit in Paradise, leaning back, spreading his legs in such a way, when the eyes will fall on him, his eyes will widen and he will sit like this, for how long 40 years, 40 years…”
• “Alal Mural Janna is someone with a tongue, for paradise, it was not said for the world, Ala Hal Mur Duniya Ala Hal Mural Janna is someone who raises arms for paradise…”
• “A girl from heaven is smiling in front of her lover, because of her smile her teeth are visible, the light that has emanated from them has illuminated heaven.”
• “our Madrasas teach dry Fiqa, they do not teach Jannat at all, so that enthusiasm and passion is generated in the boys, will faith be developed by studying Fiqa?”
• “…if two children are fighting with each other then make peace with each other, ask for forgiveness, ala if you have ill-will towards someone in your heart then faith cannot come in that person, light cannot come, light cannot come…”
• “So, while enduring the troubles, Yamraj, enduring the troubles, their condition became such that they used to die and their desires, needs, their chest would become their graveyard and they used to die with such a desire…”

Analysis:

The speaker employs a charismatic and often exaggerated style to engage his audience. The emphasis on the physical pleasures of Paradise, while common in some interpretations of Islamic texts, may be seen as unconventional or even problematic by others. The critique of rote religious practice suggests a preference for a more experiential and heartfelt approach to faith. The speaker’s use of anecdotes and vivid imagery likely aims to make the concepts more relatable and impactful for his listeners.

Conclusion:

The provided text presents a unique perspective on Islamic eschatology, balancing vivid descriptions of Paradise with a critique of worldly desires and a call for a more heartfelt approach to faith. The speaker’s use of hyperbole and sensory imagery, combined with his criticism of some traditional practices, makes for a compelling and potentially controversial discourse. The lecture overall encourages a focus on the afterlife and spiritual growth rather than the pursuit of fleeting earthly gains.

Paradise Described: A Q&A

Frequently Asked Questions About the Source Material

• Q1: What is the significance of the posture described in Paradise, where one sits leaning back with legs spread?
• A: This posture, described as being assumed by the lowest-level angel in Paradise, is presented as a visually striking image designed to evoke awe and admiration from those who behold it. The speaker emphasizes how one’s eyes will widen in reaction to the grandeur of the sight. This description aims to illustrate the magnificence of even the lowest levels of Paradise. It also contrasts with the strictures of ritualistic practices which the speaker deems insufficient for inspiring true faith.
• Q2: Why does the speaker claim that traditional Islamic rituals and Fiqh are inadequate for building faith?
• A: The speaker critiques the focus on the technicalities of ritual practices like Wudu (ablution) and Namaz (prayer), arguing that listing obligations, sunnahs, and farts does not inspire genuine faith or a deep connection with the divine. He emphasizes that real faith comes from a desire for Paradise and a passionate devotion to pleasing God. He suggests that Madrasas (religious schools) focus too much on dry legalism, neglecting to cultivate love and enthusiasm for Paradise, which he believes are crucial for engaging with religion and building faith.
• Q3: What are the key characteristics and imagery used to describe the women of Paradise (Houris)?
• A: The Houris are depicted as beings of immense beauty whose very presence illuminates Paradise. Their smiles are described as lighting up heaven, and their beauty is said to cause lovers to become even more attractive. A single glance from a Houri can cause hearts to burst from their beauty. Moreover, if a Houri were to spit into the seven seas, the seas would become sweeter than honey. There is also a description of their clothing and adornments as being so expansive that they encompass a three-mile radius. These descriptions highlight the idea that Paradise offers sensory delights surpassing anything on Earth.
• Q4: How does the source describe the physical attributes and experiences of the inhabitants of Paradise?
• A: The text indicates that the inhabitants of Paradise will have heights ranging from 60 feet to 130 feet. It depicts experiences such as riding winged Yakut horses that can travel as far as the eye can see and camel mounts with red rubies and green manes. The source also highlights that date palms in paradise have golden stems and fruit that is 30 feet long. It also indicates that the shortest song in Paradise lasts 70 years. The residents are also described as receiving multiple pairs of clothing that are made of light and constantly change.
• Q5: What does the speaker say about the last person to enter Paradise and his welcome?
• A: The last person to emerge from Hell, described as a member of the Hanna tribe, will receive a heaven twice the size of the world. Upon arrival, they will be welcomed by eight Hajj servants. They will be taken to a throne where they will be fed food and water, reflecting the immense hospitality and abundance in Paradise. This scene emphasizes the idea that even the most belated arrival in Paradise is met with overwhelming joy and generosity.
• Q6: What is the significance of the comparison of a Houri’s spit to honey and why is this contrasted with an earthly woman’s spit?
• A: The speaker uses the metaphor of a Houri’s spit transforming the seven seas into something sweeter than honey to emphasize the purity and perfection of Paradise. Conversely, when contrasting a beautiful woman of the world’s spit to the Houri’s, he uses the example of a Pathan who would rather hit someone with a shoe than consume something from earthly women. This stark contrast is employed to convey that the things in Paradise are incomparable and exponentially superior to things in this world. It accentuates the distance between earthly imperfections and the celestial perfection of Paradise.
• Q7: What are the speaker’s views on worldly pursuits and poverty in relation to the afterlife?
• A: The speaker contends that people who focus on worldly pursuits are “merciful” because they are depriving themselves of immense blessings in the afterlife. He also states that poverty, viewed by some as a hardship, is considered an honor in the afterlife. The poor will be amongst the first to enter Paradise with the Prophet and will be greeted by angels as those who remained pure from idolatry. This highlights the idea that worldly wealth is ultimately insignificant compared to the eternal rewards of the afterlife, where the poor will be elevated and honored.
• Q8: What does the speaker say about the Quran and the importance of its teachings?
• A: The speaker stresses that the Quran should be understood with one’s heart and that merely reading it or teaching it without comprehending its true beauty and meaning is insufficient. He argues that the language and meaning of the Quran are limitless, and the teachings within it never end. He also stresses that it should be internalized and reflected in one’s life, not treated as a book of law, and that one should strive to connect with it in order to comprehend its divine nature. He also encourages one to follow the path of the Prophet and cultivate virtues such as love, forgiveness, and peacefulness. He emphasizes these qualities because the Quran encourages respect for all, and hatred for any person will block light from entering one’s heart.

Paradise: A Description from Islamic Sources

The sources describe Paradise (Jannat) in vivid detail, focusing on its physical beauty, the pleasures it offers, and the spiritual rewards it holds for believers.

Physical descriptions of Paradise:

• Paradise is a place of immense beauty and light.
• Angels in Paradise are described as radiant beings, with some being so beautiful that their smiles can illuminate all of heaven.
• The lowest-level angel in Paradise will sit with legs spread and eyes wide open for 40 years, with the fragrance emanating from them spreading throughout the universe.
• The women of Paradise, also known as houris, possess incredible beauty. If one were to remove her veil and look upon the people of the world, their hearts would burst.
• Even a small glimpse of a houri’s beauty can dim the sun, and the light from their teeth can illuminate heaven.
• The saliva of the women in Paradise is sweeter than honey, and if they were to spit into the seven seas, the waters would become sweet.
• There are trees in Paradise, including date palms with golden stems and fruit that can be 30 feet long. One fruit is described as being 12 feet long, which is then stated to be 30 feet.
• There are also trees like Taba, which provide clothes for the residents of Paradise.
• A tree named Faiz, will sway and play the tunes of heaven when the people of heaven desire music.
• The ground in Paradise is not made of sand, but of musk and amber.
• There are horses with wings that fly like planes and camels with red rubies and green manes in Paradise.
• The clothes in Paradise are made of light.

Pleasures and rewards in Paradise:

• The inhabitants of Paradise will enjoy food and drink, and the taste of each bite and sip will be better than the last.
• Lovers will become more beautiful in each other’s eyes: when a woman looks at her lover, he becomes 70 times more handsome, and when the lover looks at her, she becomes 70,000 times more beautiful.
• Embraces can last for 70 years.
• The residents of Paradise will be welcomed by servants and offered food and drink.
• They will have beautiful spouses waiting for them.
• The shortest songs will be 70 years long.
• Residents of paradise will have 100 pairs of clothes that can be easily put on and taken off and will be constantly changing so the residents can enjoy them

Spiritual and symbolic aspects of Paradise:

• The ultimate goal for believers should be to please God, and this is connected to gaining entrance to Paradise.
• The descriptions emphasize that Paradise is a reward for those who please their Lord.
• Paradise is a place where desires are fulfilled.
• The beauty and pleasures of Paradise are beyond worldly comprehension and cannot be bought or compared to worldly things.
• The Quran is seen as a book of heaven, and those who connect with it will have their hearts settle in heaven.
• A gathering will be held in heaven where the Quran will be revealed to the Ulama, and the meanings of the Quran will never end.
• Poverty in this world can be a sign that Allah intends to elevate someone in the next world.

The sources emphasize that the descriptions are meant to evoke a sense of awe and inspire a desire for Paradise, offering a stark contrast to the temporary pleasures of the world.

Paradise Described

The sources provide detailed descriptions of Heaven (also referred to as Paradise or Jannat), emphasizing its splendor, the pleasures it offers, and its spiritual significance.

Physical Attributes of Heaven:

• Light and Radiance: Heaven is characterized by its immense light and beauty. Angels and houris (the women of Paradise) are described as radiant beings, and their smiles and beauty can illuminate all of Heaven.
• Angels and Houris: The lowest-level angel will sit in a specific pose for 40 years, exuding a fragrance that fills the universe. The houris possess such beauty that a glimpse of them can dim the sun. Their saliva is sweeter than honey, and if they spat into the seven seas, it would make them sweet.
• Trees and Vegetation: There are various trees in Heaven, including date palms with golden stems and fruit that can be 30 feet long. The tree Taba provides clothing for the inhabitants, and the tree Faiz will play music.
• Ground Composition: The ground of Heaven is made of musk and amber, not sand.
• Animals: Heaven includes winged horses that fly like planes and camels with red rubies and green manes.
• Clothing: The clothes in Heaven are made of light and are easily worn and changed.

Pleasures and Rewards in Heaven:

• Sensory Delights: Residents will enjoy food and drink where each taste will be better than the last.
• Relationships: Lovers will find each other more beautiful; when a houri looks at her lover, he becomes 70 times more handsome, and when the lover looks at her, she becomes 70,000 times more beautiful. Embraces can last 70 years.
• Receptions: The residents of Heaven are welcomed by servants and offered food and drink and will have beautiful spouses waiting for them.
• Music: The shortest songs in Heaven will last 70 years, and the tree Faiz will play the tunes of Heaven.

Spiritual and Symbolic Aspects of Heaven:

• Goal of Pleasing God: The ultimate goal for believers is to please God, which is connected to gaining entry into Heaven.
• Reward for the Righteous: Heaven is a reward for those who have pleased their Lord.
• Fulfillment of Desires: Heaven is a place where all desires are fulfilled.
• Incomparable Beauty: The beauty and pleasures of Heaven are beyond worldly comprehension and cannot be bought or compared to worldly things.
• Connection to the Quran: The Quran is considered the book of Heaven, and those who connect with it will have their hearts settle in Heaven.
• Gatherings of the Learned: A gathering will occur in Heaven where the Quran will be revealed to the Ulama, and the meanings of the Quran will be endless.
• Elevation through Poverty: Poverty in this world may be a sign that Allah intends to elevate someone in the next world.

The descriptions in the sources aim to create a sense of awe and inspire a desire for Heaven, contrasting with the temporary nature of worldly pleasures.

Paradise, Faith, and Conduct in Islam

The sources touch upon several Islamic teachings, primarily focusing on the concepts of Paradise (Jannat), the importance of faith, and the proper conduct of believers.

Paradise and its Significance:

• A major teaching is the existence of Paradise as a reward for those who please Allah. The descriptions of Paradise, including its physical beauty, pleasures, and spiritual rewards, serve to motivate believers to seek a connection with God.
• The sources present a detailed image of Paradise, including radiant angels and houris. These descriptions serve to inspire a desire for Paradise and to emphasize the contrast between the temporary pleasures of the world and the eternal joys of the afterlife.
• The ultimate goal of a believer is to please God, and this is connected to gaining entrance to Paradise. The sources emphasize that Paradise is a place where all desires are fulfilled and where the beauty and pleasures are beyond worldly comprehension.

Faith and Devotion:

• The sources discuss the importance of faith (iman) and suggest that true faith comes from a desire for Paradise, rather than simply following rituals or memorizing rules.
• There is a critique of focusing solely on the rituals of worship (like Wuzu and Namaz), suggesting that true faith is not built on these alone.
• The teachings highlight that the Quran is the word of Allah and that connecting with it is essential for understanding the beauty of faith.
• The sources emphasize the importance of understanding the Quran through the Arabic language to fully grasp its beauty and teachings.
• The sources teach that one should seek guidance in everyone’s sympathy and love as expressed in the Surat Fatiha.

Conduct and Morality:

• Prohibition of Prostitution: The sources state that Allah has forbidden prostitution. Marriage is prescribed as a means to enjoy and fulfill desires in a way that is pleasing to God.
• The sources teach that one should avoid hatred and animosity towards others, even those with different beliefs. Love and respect should be given to everyone, and people should not backbite, lie, or speak ill of others.
• The teachings emphasize the importance of making peace with others and seeking forgiveness. It is taught that if there is ill-will in one’s heart, light and faith cannot enter.
• The sources advise believers to spend time in the company of pious individuals and engage in Tabligh (conveying the message of Islam).

Other Key Concepts:

• The concept of divine justice is mentioned, as Allah elevates those who have endured poverty and hardships in this world. This suggests that worldly suffering can be a means of attaining a higher status in the afterlife.
• The sources discuss a gathering in heaven where the Quran is revealed to the Ulama, highlighting the importance of knowledge and understanding of the Quran.
• The source indicates that there are different levels of Heaven, such as Jannatul Firdaus, and that each has unique attributes and rewards.

In summary, the Islamic teachings conveyed in the sources center around the pursuit of Paradise through faith, good conduct, and a deep connection with the Quran. These teachings emphasize that the rewards of the afterlife are far greater than any worldly pleasure and that believers should strive to please God in all aspects of their lives.

The Quran’s Limitless Beauty

The sources discuss the beauty of the Quran in several ways, emphasizing its profound nature and the importance of understanding it. Here’s a breakdown of how the sources describe Quranic beauty:

• The Quran as the Word of Allah: The sources state that the Quran is the word of Allah, which is considered to be of limitless scope. It is not a limited text and the teachings of the Quran do not end even if 30 crore volumes are written, as the words have come directly from the tongue of Allah.
• Limitless Meanings: The meanings of the Quran are described as never-ending. The sources mention that even if countless volumes are written, the teachings will never be exhausted because the Quran is the word of Allah. A gathering in heaven will reveal the Quran to the Ulama, and the meanings will continue to be explored.
• Importance of Understanding Arabic: The sources emphasize the importance of understanding the Arabic language to fully appreciate the beauty of the Quran. It is not enough to simply read the Quran without understanding the language; the beauty of the Quran is only revealed when one understands the language. The source argues that Madrasas do an injustice by teaching the Quran without a focus on the Arabic language.
• Connection to Heaven: The Quran is described as “the book of heaven,” and connecting with it will cause hearts to settle in heaven. This connection implies that understanding and internalizing the Quran leads to a spiritual state that aligns with the rewards of Paradise.
• Beauty Beyond Worldly Comprehension: The beauty of the Quran is such that it is not visible to those who are like the “blind”. This suggests that a spiritual understanding is needed to perceive its beauty.
• Unique Interpretations: The sources claim that Allah has given unique interpretations of the Quran that cannot be found anywhere else. This implies that the Quran’s beauty is not just in its literal meaning but also in its deeper, divinely inspired interpretations. The unique interpretation and combination of Arabic words are considered a source of enjoyment.
• Source of Glory and Guidance: The Quran is presented as a source of glory that remains intact even at the time of death. It is also described as providing guidance, emphasizing the need to seek guidance through the Quran. The Surat Fatiha is used to teach guidance and compassion for everyone.

In summary, the beauty of the Quran, as portrayed in the sources, is multifaceted. It includes its divine origin, limitless meanings, the necessity of understanding the Arabic language to appreciate its depths, its connection to heaven, and the unique interpretations it provides. The sources emphasize that true appreciation of the Quran requires more than just reading; it requires a deep spiritual connection and understanding of the language to unlock its true beauty.

Paradise: An Afterlife Described

The sources provide extensive details about the afterlife, particularly focusing on Heaven (Jannat or Paradise) and its characteristics. Here’s a breakdown of the afterlife details as described in the sources:

Heaven (Jannat/Paradise):

• Physical Description: Heaven is a place of immense light and beauty. It features radiant angels and houris. The ground is made of musk and amber, not sand. There are trees such as date palms with golden stems and fruit that are 30 feet long. The tree Taba provides clothing. The tree Faiz plays music. There are also winged horses that fly like planes and camels with red rubies and green manes.
• Inhabitants: The lowest-level angel in Paradise will sit in a specific pose for 40 years, and their presence will exude a fragrance that fills the universe. The houris are incredibly beautiful, and a glimpse of them can dim the sun. Their saliva is sweeter than honey, and if they spat into the seven seas, it would sweeten them.
• Pleasures and Rewards:Sensory Delights: Residents will enjoy food and drink where each taste will be more delightful than the last.
• Relationships: Lovers will find each other more beautiful. When a houri looks at her lover, he becomes 70 times more handsome, and when the lover looks at her, she becomes 70,000 times more beautiful. Embraces can last 70 years.
• Receptions: The residents of Heaven are welcomed by servants and offered food and drink, and will have beautiful spouses waiting for them.
• Music: The shortest songs in Heaven will last 70 years, and the tree Faiz will play the tunes of Heaven.
• Clothing: Clothing in Heaven is made of light and is easy to wear and change.
• Levels of Heaven: There are different levels of Heaven, including Jannatul Firdaus.
• Eternal Nature: Heaven is presented as an eternal abode, and the meanings of the Quran will never end there.

Entrance to Heaven:

• Reward for the Righteous: Heaven is presented as a reward for those who have pleased their Lord.
• Connection with the Quran: Those who connect with the Quran will have their hearts settle in Heaven.
• Elevation Through Poverty: Those who experienced poverty in this world may be elevated in the afterlife. This is because they endured worldly troubles and remained pure from shirk (associating partners with God).

Specific Events and Experiences in the Afterlife:

• Welcoming by Servants: The last person to leave hell and enter heaven will be greeted by eight Hajj servants who will welcome him and offer him food and drink.
• Meeting Spouses: Upon entering Heaven, residents will meet their spouses who have been waiting for them.
• Gatherings of the Learned: There will be a gathering in Heaven where the Quran will be revealed to the Ulama, and the meanings of the Quran will never end.

Other Notable Aspects:

• No Negative Aspects: Heaven is devoid of negative aspects such as toilets, urination, and the need for washing machines.
• Divine Justice: Allah will address the poor in a manner as if apologizing for their poverty, stating that it was not because they were small in His eyes, but to make them big in the afterlife.
• Clothes of Light: The clothes of heaven are made of light and do not have weight, and when they are changed the new garments will be even more beautiful.
• Scale of Heaven: The size of Heaven is immense. The last person to enter Heaven will receive a Heaven twice the size of this world. The clothing of the houris rotates within a radius of three miles.

Contrast with Worldly Life:

• The descriptions of Heaven aim to create a sense of awe and inspire a desire for the afterlife, contrasting with the temporary nature of worldly pleasures.
• The sources emphasize that the pleasures of Heaven are far greater than any worldly pleasure and that believers should strive to please God to attain this reward.

In summary, the afterlife, as described in the sources, is a realm of immense beauty, pleasure, and spiritual fulfillment, specifically in Heaven. It is presented as a reward for the righteous and a place where all desires are satisfied, contrasting with the temporary and limited nature of worldly life. The descriptions are designed to inspire a desire for the afterlife and to motivate believers to seek a deeper connection with God and the Quran.

By Amjad Izhar
Contact: amjad.izhar@gmail.com
https://amjadizhar.blog

Affiliate Disclosure: This blog may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you click on the link and make a purchase. This comes at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps keep this blog running and allows me to continue providing you with quality content. Thank you for your support!