Beautiful reminders

[ghumbasa]

Al Qadr(Destiny)

The essentials of belief in Fate (Qadaa’ and Qadar) in Islaam
The Meaning of al-Qadaa’ and al-Qadar:
Al-Qadar is “the ability of Allaah ”*where He knew, wrote, willed and created all things in due proportion and according to a precise measure. Allaah knew that all things will happen before bringing them to existence and in accordance with pre-destined proportions and measures which Allaah had written in a Book called al-Laouh ul Mahfoudh (the Preserved Tablet).

Al-Qadaa’ is the perfectly precise execution and accomplishment of all things pre-destined to occur, in accordance with Allaah’s previous Knowledge, Writing and Will.
When mentioned separately, Qadaa' and Qadar are synonymous but when mentioned together, Qadaa' stands for the pre-destination of events, and when the pre-destined matter takes place - it is called Qadar.

Al-Qadar is an Article of faith:

Yahya bin Ya'mur (a famour Tabi'ee and a narrator of Hadeeth) set out on a pilgrimage to Makka along with Humaid b. Abdur Rehman Himyari, and said,
"Should we meet one of the Companions of the Messenger of Allaah, we will ask him about Taqdeer (Qadar)."
Incidentally they met Abdullah ra, the son of Umer ibn Khattab ra and said to him,
"O Abu Abdar-Rehman, there have appeared in our land who recite the Holy Qur'aan and peruse knowledge…. They claim that there is no such thing as Divine Decree and events are not pre-Destined".
He (Abdullah ibn Umer) said, "When you happen to meet such people tell them that I have nothing to do with them and they have nothing to do with me. And verily they are in no way responsible for my (belief)".
Abdullah ibn Umar swore by Him (the Lord) (and said): If any one of them (who does not believe in the Divine Decree) had with him gold equal to the bulk of (the mountain) Uhud and then, it (in the way of Allah), Allah would not accept it unless he affirmed his faith in Divine Decree".

He further said: My father, Umar ibn al-Khattab ra, told me:
"One day we were sitting in the company of Allah's Messenger (salallahu alaihi wa salalam) when there appeared before us a man dressed in pure white clothes, his hair extraordinarily black….. He (the inquirer) said: Inform me about Eeman (faith). He (the Prophet (salallahu alaihi wa salalam)) replied:
That you affirm your faith in Allah, in His angels, in His Books, in His Apostles, in the Day of Judgment, and you affirm your faith in the Divine Decree about good and evil. He (the inquirer) said: You have told the truth." …. After the inquirer left, the Prophet (salallahu alaihi wa salalam) said, "He was Gabriel (the angel). He came to you in order to instruct you in matters of religion."
(Saheeh Muslim (english trans.) vol.1, Hadeeth # 1.)

The Qadar mentioned in the Qur'aan:

“Verily, We have created all things with Qadar.”
[Soorah al-Qamar (54):49]

“Did we not create you with a fluid of no value? Then We placed it in a place of safety (womb), for a known period (determined by gestation)? So We did measure, and We are the best to measure.”
[Soorah al-Mursalat (77):20-23]

“He has created everything, and has measured it exactly according to its due measure.”
[Soorah al-Furqan (25):2]

Al-Qadar mentioned in the Sunnah:

The Messenger of Allaah (salallahu alaihi wa salalam) said: “No slave will (truly) believe until he believes in al-Qadar, its good and bad from Allaah and until he knows that what has befallen him was not going to pass him by, and what has passed him by was not going to befall him.”
(Sunan at-Tirmidhee and authenticated by al-Albaanee in Saheeh Sunan at-Tirmidhee no.1743)

The Hadeeth related by Tawoos (Ibn Kayesaan al-Yamani) who said that: “I found some Companions of Allaah’s Messenger (salallahu alaihi wa salalam) as saying: ‘Everything is by Qadar (measure)’.” And he further said: “I heard Abdullah bin Umer - radiyallahu anhu - as saying: ‘There is a measure for everything - even for incapacity and capability’.”
(Sahih Muslim (english trans.) vol.4, no.6419 and Muwatta Imam Maalik)

Abu Hurairah ra reported that the polytheists of the Quraish came argue with Allaah’s Messenger(salallahu alaihi wa salalam) about Qadar and then this verse was revealed:

“The Day when they will be dragged in the Fire on their faces (it will be said to them) ‘Taste you the touch of Hell’. Certainly, We have created all things with Qadar.
[Soorah al-Qamar (54):48]

The Four Aspects Of Qadar:
In order to correctly understand the issue of Qadar, the following four terms need to studied in detail:-
1.*Al-Ilm (Knowledge)
2.*Kittabah (Writing)
3.*Mash’eeah (Will)
4.*Al-Khalq (Creation)

[Zakiah]

http://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=y...&v=hbHgJdDJPRw

wow this will make such a good research topic.

[Zakiah]

2. THE HOLY PROPHET (peace be upon Him)* AND THE SOUR GRAPES


One day a poor man brought a bunch of grapes to the holy prophet Muhammad*(peace be upon Him) as a gift.*
The holy prophet (pbuhf) ate one, two, three and then the whole bunch of grapes by himself. He did not offer grapes to anyone present. The poor man who brought those grapes was very pleased and left. One of the companions asked, "O prophet of Allah*(peace be upon Him) ! How come you ate all the grapes by yourself and did not offer to any one of us present?*

The holy Prophet*(peace be upon Him) smiled and said, "I ate all the grapes by myself because the grapes were sour. If I would have offered you, you might have made funny faces and that would have hurt the feelings of that poor man. I thought to myself that it's better that I eat all of them cheerfully and please the poor man. I did not want to hurt the feelings of that poor man."*
Such were the manners of this most noble prophet of Allah.*

[/SIZE][/COLOR]

Please provide exact Hadith number/ type/ book?

[ghumbasa]

Please provide exact Hadith number/ type/ book?

Hadeeth is the saying of prophet saww.While sunnah is what He saww did or said.So above is sunnah.Its taken from life of the prophet Mohammad saww...by ibn katheer (vol 2) ...Al Sira'al Nabawiyya...translated by Professor Le Gassick...Reviewed by Dr Muneer Farid.


Easy way is to go to site of children stories by ibn katheer where you ll findit.The story was narrated by Anas bin malik ra.

[ghumbasa]

wow this will make such a good research topic.

Thanks...yup in old days not only muslims but non muslims too used to have beards.

[Zakiah]

Hadeeth is the saying of prophet saww.While sunnah is what He saww did or said.So above is sunnah.Its taken from life of the prophet Mohammad saww...by ibn katheer (vol 2) ...Al Sira'al Nabawiyya...translated by Professor Le Gassick...Reviewed by Dr Muneer Farid.


Easy way is to go to site of children stories by ibn katheer where you ll findit.The story was narrated by Anas bin malik ra.

JazakAllahu khair! Will check it out. I always want to know the exact reference of hadiths/ sunnah when's hear it first time as we all should.

[ghumbasa]

JazakAllahu khair! Will check it out. I always want to know the exact reference of hadiths/ sunnah when's hear it first time as we all should.

No problem sister...its my pleasure to provide the hadeeths and quran s views regarding various issues...Dont forget to check the signs of end times thread too... You can add hadeeths and ayahs too if you know of any topic in here that can be benrficial to users...

[ghumbasa]

Description of paradise:


Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu anhu) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
"When Allah created Paradise and Hellfire, He sent Gabriel to Paradise, saying, ‘look at it and at what I have prepared therein for its inhabitants.’ So Gabriel went to it and looked at it and at what Allah had prepared therein for its inhabitants. Then Gabriel returned it Allah and said, ‘By Your glory, no one hears of it without entering it.’
So Allah ordered that it be encompassed by forms of hardship, and He said, ‘Return to it and look at what I have prepared therein for its inhabitants! So, Gabriel returned to it and found that it was encompassed by forms of hardship. Then he returned to Allah and said, ‘By Your glory, I fear that no one will enter it, Allah said, ‘Go to Hellfire and look at it and at what I have prepared therein for its inhabitants.’ Gabriel found that it was in layers, one above the other. Then Gabriel returned to Allah and said, ‘By Your glory, no one who hears of it will enter it.’ So Allah ordered that it be encompassed by lusts. Then He said, ‘Return to it and Gabriel returned to it and said, ‘By Your glory, I am frightened that no one will escape from entering it.’*
[at-Tirmidhi, abu Dawud and An-Nasa'i]

Masruuq (radiAllahu anhu) said: "We asked Abdullah Ibn Mas'ud about this verse: “And do not regard those who have been killed in the cause of Allah as dead, rather, they are alive with their Lord and being provided for."*
[Surah ali' Imran, 3: 169]

He said, ‘We asked about that and the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said, “Their souls are in the insides of green birds, having lanterns suspended from the Throne, roaming freely in Paradise where they please, then taking shelter in those lanterns. Their Lord cast a glance at them and said, ‘Do you wish for anything?’ They said, ‘What shall we wish for when we roam freely in Paradise where we please?’ And He did that with them three times- when they saw that they would not be spared from being asked again, they said, ‘Oh Lord! We would like for You to put our souls back into our bodies so that we might fight for Your sake once again.’ When Allah saw that they were not in need of anything, they were let be.’*
[Muslim, at-Tirmidhi, an-Naa'i and Ibn Majah]

The Gates of Paradise

"Gardens of perpetual bliss – they shall enter them as well as the righteous among their fathers, their spouses and their offspring. And angels shall enter upon them from every gate.”*
[Surah al-Rad, 13: 23]

“This is a reminder. Verily, for the righteous is a beautiful place of final return – garden of eternity, whose doors will always be open to them.”*
[Surah Saad, 38: 49-50]

“And those who feared their Lord will be led to the Garden in crowds until behold, they arrive there. Its gates will be opened, and its keepers will say, ‘Peace be upon you! Well have you done, so enter it, abiding in it eternally.’”*
[Surah Al Zumar, 39: 73]

Sahl bin Sa’d (radiAllahu anhu) reported that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:
“Paradise has eight gates, and one of them is called ar-Rayyaan, through which none will enter but those who observe fasting.”*
[Sahih al-Bukhari]

Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu anhu) narrated that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:
“Whoever spends two things in the way of Allah will be called from the agates of Paradise and will be addressed, ‘O slave of Allah, here is prosperity!’ So whoever was among the people who used to offer their prayers will be called from the gate of the prayer; and whoever was among the people who used to participate in jihad will be called from the gates of jihad; and whoever was among those who used to observe fasts will be called from the gate of ar-Rayyaan; and whoever was among those who used to give in charity will be called from the gate of charity.” Abu Bakr said, ‘Let my parents be sacrificed for you, Oh Allah’s Apostle! No distress or need will befall him who will be called from those gates Will there by anyone who will be called from these gates?” The Prophet (SAW) replied, “Yes. And I hope you will be one of them.”*
[Sahih al-Bukhari]

Uqba bin Amir (radiAllahu anhu) said: “We were entrusted with the task of tending the camels – On my turn, when I came back in the evening after grazing them in the pastures, I found Allah’s Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) stand and address the people. I heard these words of his,*
‘If any Muslim performs ablution well, then stands and prays two rak’ahs, setting about them with his heart as well as his face, Paradise will be guaranteed to him.’ I said, ‘What a fine thing this is!’ A narrator who was before me said, ‘The first was even better than this.’ When I cast a glance, I saw that it was Umar who said, ‘I see that you have just come and observed. If anyone among you performs the ablution, completes the ablution well and says, “I testify that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is the servant of Allah and His Messenger,” then the eight gates of Paradise will be opened for him and he may enter by whichever of them he wishes.’”*
[Muslim]

“The gates of Paradise will be opened on Mondays and on Thursdays, and every servant of Allah who associates noting with Allah will be forgiven, except for the man who has a grudge against his brother. About them it will be said, ‘Delay these two until they are reconciled. Delay these two until they are reconciled. Delay these two until they are reconciled.’”*
[Muslim, Malik and abu Dawud]

Paradise - Never imagined by a Human-being

“Be foremost (in seeking) forgiveness from your Lord. And a garden of bliss, the width of the heavens and the earth prepared for those who believe in Allah and His messengers - that is the grace of Allah which He bestows on whom He pleases, and Allah is the Lord of abounding grace.”*
[Al Hadid, 57:21]

Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu anhu) reported that the Messenger of Allah (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said that Allah (subhanahu wa Ta'ala) said:*
“I have prepared for My righteous servants what no eye has seen and no ear has heard, nor has it occurred to the human heart. Thus, recite if you wish, ‘And no soul knows what joy has been kept hidden for them.”’*
[Sahih al-Bukhari, Muslim, at-Tirmidhi, and ibn Majah, Surah Al Sajdah, 32: 17]

Sahl bin Sa’d (radiAllahu anhu) narrated Allah’s Apostle (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: “A place in Paradise equal to the size of a lash is better than the whole world and whatever is in it.”*
[Sahih al-Bukhari]

The Rivers of Paradise

“(Here is)A parable of the Garden which the righteous are promised. In it are rivers of water, incorruptible; rivers of milk of which the taste never changes; rivers of wine, delicious to those who drink; and rivers of honey, pure and clear. In it there are for them all kinds of fruits and forgiveness from their Lord. Can those in such bliss be compared to such as shall dwell forever in the Fire? Those whom shall be given boiling water to drink, it will be so hot that it cuts up their bowels to pieces.”*
[Surah Muhammad, 47:15]

“As for the righteous, they will be in the midst of gardens and rivers, in and assembly of truth, in the presence of a Sovereign Omnipotent.”*
[Surah al-Qamar, 54: 54-55]

“Verily, Allah will admit those who believe and do righteous deeds to gardens beneath which rivers flow. While those who reject Allah will enjoy (this world) and eat as cattle eat. The Fire will be their abode.”*
[Surah Muhammad, 47: 12]

Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu anhu) reported that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: “The Saihaan, Jaihaan, Euphrates and Nile are all among the rivers of Paradise.”*
[Muslim]

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Continue...Paradise.
The Fountains of Paradise

“The righteous will be amid gardens and springs. (They will be greeted), ‘Enter here in peace and security.’ And We shall remove from their hearts any lurking sense of injury. (They will be) brothers facing each other on thrones.”*
[Surah al-Hijr, 15: 45-47]

“Their thirst will be slaked with pure wine, sealed. The seal will be of musk. For This, let the competitors compete. With it (will be given) a mixture of Tasneem, (highest spring in Paradise), a spring from which those nearest to Allah drink.”*
[Surah al-Mutaffifeen, 83: 25-28]

“A fountain there, called Salsabeel.”*
[Surah al-Insan, 76: 18]

“Therein will be a flowing spring.”*
[Surah al-Ghashiyah, 88: 12]

“In them (each garden) will be two springs, flowing freely.”*
[Surah al-Rahman, 55: 50]

“As for the righteous, they shall drink from a cup in which is a mixture of kaafoor (cool and refreshing drink), a fountain from which the righteous servants of Allah drink, causing it to burst forth simply by their will.”*
[Surah al-Insan, 76: 5-6]

The Gardens and Trees of Paradise

“Verily, for the righteous there will be attainment of security – gardens enclosed and grapevines.”*
[Naba, 78: 31-32]

“In them will be two pairs of every fruit.”*
[Rahman, 55: 52]

“They will recline on carpets whose linings will be rich brocade. The fruit of the gardens will be hanging near. Then which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?”*
[Rahman, 55: 54-55]

“In them will be fruits and dates and pomegrantes.”*
[Rahman, 55: 68]

“The companions of the right hand – what are the companions of the right hand? (They will be) among lot trees without thorns, among talh (bananas) trees with flowers (or fruits) piled one above another, and in shade long –extend by water flowing (constantly) and fruit abundance whose season is not limited not (supply) forbidden.”*
[Waqiah, 56: 27-33]

“And its shades will come low over them, and the bunches (of fruit will hang low in compliance).” [al-Insan, 76: 14]

Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu anhu) narrated that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“In Paradise there is a tree under the shadow of which a rider can travel for a hundred years.” (Through another chain of transmitters the following words were added), “He will not be able to cover this distance.”*
[Muslim]

Sahl bin Sa’d (radiAllahu anhu) reported that Allah’s Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“In Paradise there is a tree under the shadow of which a rider can travel for a hundred years. Without covering the distance completely.”*
[Muslim]

Abu Sa'eed al-Khudri (radiAllahu anhu) narrated that Allah’s Apostle (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“In Paradise there is a tree under the shadow of which a rider of a fine and swift – footed horse can travel for a hundred years without covering the distance completely. There will be the pleasure of Allah for the inhabitants of Paradise, and he will never be annoyed with them.”*
[Muslim]

Anas bin Malik (radiAllahu anhu) reported that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“There is a tree in Paradise (which is so large that) if a rider traveled in its shade for one hundred years, he would not be able to cross it.”*
[Sahih al-Bukhari]

Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu anhu) narrated that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“There is a tree in Paradise (which is so large that) a rider could travel in its shade for a hundred years. And if you wish, you can recite: “In shade long – extended [Waqi'ah, 56: 30]. A place in Paradise equal to an arrow bow of one of you is better than (the whole earth) on which the sun rises and sets.”*
[Sahih al-Bukhari]

The Shade of Paradise

“The parable of the Garden which the righteous are promised – beneath it flow rivers. Perpetual is the enjoyment thereof and shade therein. Such is the end of the righteous. The end of the disbelievers is the Fire.”*
[Ra’d, 13: 35]

“As for the righteous, they shall be amid shades and springs of water and fruits, all they desire. ‘Eat and drink to your heart’s content because of what you used to do’. Thus do We certainly reward the doers of good.”*
[Mursalat, 77: 41-44]

“And its shades will come low over them, and the bunches of fruit will hang low in compliance.”*
[Insan, 76: 14]

“They will be among lot trees with thorns talh (bananas) trees with flowers or fruits piled one above another, and in shade long and extended, by water flowing (constantly) and fruit in abundance whose season is not limited nor (supply) forbidden.” (
[Waqi'ah, 56: 28-33]

“They and their spouses will be in (cool) shade, reclining on thrones. (Every) fruit (i.e. enjoyment) will be there for them and they shall have whatever they call for. ‘Peace!’ – a word (of salutation) from a Lord most merciful.’*
[Ya-Sin, 36: 56-58]

“But those who believe and do deeds of righteousness, We shall soon admit to gardens with rivers flowing beneath – abiding there forever. Therein they shall have pure companions. We shall admit them to shades, cool and ever deep.”*
[Nisa, 4: 57]

The Atmosphere of Paradise

“Reclining on raised thrones, they will see therein neither (burning) sun nor (freezing) cold.”*
[Al Insan, 76: 13]

“Faces that day will be joyful – pleased with their striving – in a garden on high, where they shall hear no bad speech.”*
[al-Ghashiyah 88: 8-11] (bad speech equals insult falsehood, harm, immorality, pointless talk, etc.)

“They will say, ‘Praise be to Allah who has removed from us (all) sorrow, for our Lord is indeed oft – forgiving, appreciative, who has settled us in the house of lasting residence out of His bounty. No toil nor sense of weariness shall touch us therein.’”*
[Fatir, 35: 34-35]

The Market of Paradise

Anas bin Malik (radiAllahu anhu) reported that Allah’s Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:
“In Paradise there is a street to which they (the inhabitants of Paradise) will come every Friday. The north wind will blow and will scatter fragrance on their faces and on their clothes. This will add to their beauty and loveliness. Then they will go back to their family after having an added luster to their beauty and loveliness, and their family will say to them, ‘By Allah, you have been increased in beauty and loveliness after leaving us.’ They (the ones who have been scattered with fragrance) will say, ‘By Allah, you have also increased in beauty and loveliness after us.”*
[Muslim]

The Bounty of the People of Paradise

“But after them (i.e. prophets and righteous believers) there followed a posterity who neglected prayer and followed after lusts. Soon, then, will they face destruction, except those who repent, believe and work righteousness. These will enter the Garden and will not be wronged in the least - gardens of eternity, those which (Allah), Most Merciful, has promised to His servants in the Unseen. His promise must come to pass. They will not hear therein any vain discourse, but only salutation of peace. They will have therein their sustenance, morning and evening. Such is the Garden which We give as an inheritance for those of Our servants who are God fearing.”*
[Maryam, 19: 59-63]

“He that works evil will not be requited but by the like thereof. And he that works a righteous deed – whether male or female, and is a believer – such will enter the Garden. Therein they will have provision without measure.”*
[Ghafir, 40: 40]

“But give glad tidings to those who believe and work righteousness, that they will have gardens beneath which rivers flow. Every time they are provided with fruits there from, they say, ‘Why? This is what we were provided with before,’ for they are given things in resemblance. They have therein pure companions, and they abide therein forever.”*
[al-Baqarah, 2: 25]

“But the sincere (and devoted) servants of Allah, for them is a sustenance determined fruits (delights) and, they shall be honored in gardens of felicity.”*
[Safat, 37: 40-43]

“That is what you are promised for the Day of Account! Truly, such will be Our bounty (to you). It will never cease.”*
[Saad, 38: 53-54]

The Food and Drink of Paradise

“Such will be the Garden which you have inherited because of what you used to do. You shall have therein abundance of fruit from which you shall eat.”*
[Zukhruf, 43: 72-73]

“And We shall provide them with fruit and meat, anything they shall desire. They shall exchange with one another a cup free of frivolity, free of sin.”*
[Tur, 52: 22-23]

“As for the righteous, (they will be) in a position of security among gardens and springs, dressed in fine silk and in rich brocade, facing each other. And We shall join them to companions with beautiful, big, lustrous eyes. There they can call for every kind of fruit, in peace and security.”*
[Dukhan, 44: 51-55]

“Every fruit (enjoyment) will be there for them, and they shall have whatever they call for.”*
[Ya-Sin, 36: 57]

“As for him who will be given his record in his right hand, he will say, ‘Ah here! Read my record! I certainly knew that I would be meeting my account!’ so he will be in a life of bliss, in a garden on high, the fruits hanging in bunches (low and near). ‘Eat and drink with full satisfaction because of the good that you sent before you in the days past!”*
[Haqqah, 69: 19-24]

“And among them will be circulated vessels of silver and glasses of crystal, - crystal- clear, made of silver which they will determine the measure thereof (according to their wishes). They will be given a cup in which a mixture of Zanjabeet (ginger) from a fountain called Salsabeel. Around them, youths of perpetual (freshness) will serve. If you see them, you will think they are scattered pearls. When you look there (Paradise), you will see bliss and a magnificent realm. Upon them (people of Paradise) will be green garments of fine silk and heavy brocade. They will be adorned with bracelets of silver, and their Lord will give them a pure drink. ‘Verily this is a reward for you and your endeavor has been appreciated.”*
[Insan, 76: 15-22]

“The companions of the right hand – what are the companions of the right hand? (They shall be) among lot trees without thorns, among talh (bananas) trees with flowers (or fruits) piled one above another, and in shade long – extended, by water flowing (constantly) and fruit in abundance whose season is not limited nor (supply) forbidden. And (they will be) on thrones (of dignity) raised high.”*
[Waqi'ah, 56: 27-34]

“As for the righteous, they shall be amid (cool) shades and springs (of water) and fruits, all they desire. ‘Eat and drink to your heart’s content because of what you used to do.’ Thus do We certainly reward the doers of good.”*
[Mursalat, 77: 41-44]

“As for the righteous they shall drink from a scup in which is a mixture of kaafoor.”*
[Insaan, 76: 5]

“Therein will they recline (at ease). Therein they can call (at pleasure) for fruit in abundance and (delicious) drink.”*
[Saad, 38: 51]

“As for the righteous, they will be gardens and feel happiness, enjoying what their Lord has given them. And their Lord had (already) prevented them from the penalty of the Fire. (to them it will be said), ‘Eat and drink with satisfaction because of what you used to do.”*
[Tur, 52: 17-19]

Abu Sa'eed (radiAllahu anhu) narrated that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“The first meal which the people of Paradise will take will be the caudate (extra) lobe of the liver of a fish.”*
[Sahih al-Bukhari]

The Vessels and Plates of Paradise

“Around them will circulate eternal youths with goblets, beakers and cups (filled) from clear – flowing fountains –no one will ache will they receive nor will they suffer intoxication.”*
[Waqi'ah, 56: 17-19]

“To them will be passed dishes and goblets of gold. There will be all that the soul could desire and all that the eyes could delight in, and you shall abide therein eternally.”*
[al-Zukhruf, 43: 71]

“And among them will be circulated vessels of silver and glasses of crystal – crystal, clear, and made of silver which they will determine the measure thereof (according to their wishes).”*
[al-Insan, 76: 15-16]

“Verily for the righteous there will be attainment of security, gardens enclosed and grape vines, companions of equal age and a cup full to the brim.”*
[Naba, 78: 31-34]

[ghumbasa]

Continue...Paradise

The Vessels and Plates of Paradise

“Around them will circulate eternal youths with goblets, beakers and cups (filled) from clear – flowing fountains –no one will ache will they receive nor will they suffer intoxication.”*
[Waqi'ah, 56: 17-19]

“To them will be passed dishes and goblets of gold. There will be all that the soul could desire and all that the eyes could delight in, and you shall abide therein eternally.”*
[al-Zukhruf, 43: 71]

“And among them will be circulated vessels of silver and glasses of crystal – crystal, clear, and made of silver which they will determine the measure thereof (according to their wishes).”*
[al-Insan, 76: 15-16]

“Verily for the righteous there will be attainment of security, gardens enclosed and grape vines, companions of equal age and a cup full to the brim.”*
[Naba, 78: 31-34]

The Dwellings of the People of Paradise

“Allah has promised to believers, men and women, gardens under which rivers flow to dwell therein eternally and good homes in gardens of everlasting bliss. But the pleasure of Allah is greatest. That is the supreme triumph.”*
[Tawbah, 9: 72]

“Companions restrained (as to their glances) in pavilions.”*
[Rahman, 55: 72]

Abu Sa’eed Al-Khudri (radiAllahu anhu) reported that Allah’s Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“The believers, after being saved from the Hellfire, will be stopped at a bridge between Paradise and Hell, and mutual retaliation will be established among them regarding wrongs they have committed in the world against one another. After they are cleansed and purified (through the retaliation), they will be admitted into Paradise. By Him in whose hand Muhammad’s soul is, everyone of them will know his dwelling in Paradise better than he knew his dwelling in this world.”*
[Sahih al-Bukhari]

Abdullah ibin Qais Al-Ash'ari (radiAllahu anhu) narrated that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“A tent (in Paradise) is like a hollow pearl which is thirty miles in height. On every corner of the tent the believers will have a family that cannot be seen by the others.” (Narrated abu Imran in another narration,” (The tent is) sixty miles (in height).”*
[Sahih al-Bukhari]

It is reported that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“While I was asleep, I saw myself in Paradise, and there I beheld a woman making ablution beside a palace. I asked, ‘To whom does this palace belong?’ somebody said, ‘To Umar bin AL-Khattab.’ Then I remembered Umar’s jealousy (concerning women), and so I quickly went away from that palace.” (When Umar heard this from the Prophet (SAW), he wept and said, ‘Do you think it is likely that I feel jealousy because of you, Oh Allah’s Apostle?”*
[Sahih al-Bukhari]

On the authority of his father, Abu Bakr ibin abu Musa bin Qais (radiAllahu anhu) narrated that Allah’s Apostle (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“There will be a tent made of a pearl whose height towards the sky will be sixty miles. In each corner, there will be a family of the believer, out of sight of the others.”*
[Muslim]

Abu Bakr ibin Abdullah bin Qais (radiAllahu anhu) reported on the authority of his father that Allah’s Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“In Paradise there will be a tent of a single hollowed pearl, the width of which will be sixty miles from all sides. There will live a family in each corner, and the other will not be able to see the believer who goes around to them.”*
[Muslim]

The Thrones of the People of Paradise

“Therein will be thrones raise don high, goblets placed ready, cushions set in rows and rich carpets spread out.”*
[Ghashiyah, 88: 31-36]

“Truly, the righteous will be in bliss. On thrones they will command a sight of things. You will recognize in their faces the beaming brightness of bliss.”*
[Mutaffifeen, 83: 22-24]

“They will recline with ease on thrones arranged in ranks. We shall join them with companions with beautiful, big, and lustrous eyes.”*
[Tur, 52: 20]

“Reclining on raised thrones, they will see therein neither (burning) sun nor (freezing) cold.”*
[Insaan, 76: 13]

“They and their spouses will be in cool shade, reclining on thrones.”*
Ya-Sin, 36: 56]

“They will be on thrones encrusted with gold and precious stones, reclining on them, facing each other.”*
[Waqi'ah, 56: 15-16]

“They will recline on carpets whose linings will be of rich brocade. The fruit of the gardens will be hanging near (and in easy reach).”*
[Rahman, 55: 54]

“But on this day the believers will laugh at the unbelievers. On thrones they will command a sight of all things. Are the unbelievers not rewarded finally for what they used to do?”*
[Mutaffifeen, 83: 34-36]

The Reception of the People of Paradise

“And those who feared their Lord will be led to the Garden in crowds, until behold, they arrive there. Its gates will be opened, and its keepers will say, ‘Peace be upon you! Well have you done, so enter it, abiding in it eternally.”*
[Zumar, 39: 73]

“Gardens of perpetual bliss – they shall enter them as well as the righteous among their fathers, their spouses, and their offspring. Angels shall enter unto them from every gate (with the salutation), ‘Peace unto you for what you endured in patience! Now, how excellent is the final home!”*
[Ra'd, 13: 23-24]

“But those who believed and worked righteousness will be admitted to gardens beneath which rivers flow to dwell therein forever by permission of their Lord. Their greeting therein will be, ‘Peace!”*
[Ibrahim, 14: 23]

“Their salutation on the day they met Him will be ‘Peace!’; and He has prepared for them a generous reward.”*
[Ahzaab, 33: 44]

“No frivolity will they hear therein nor anything sinful – only the saying, ‘Peace! Peace!”*
[Waqi'ah, 56: 25-26]

“Every fruit (enjoyment) will be there for them, and they shall have whatever they call for. ‘Peace!’ a word (of salutation) from a Lord most Merciful!”*
[Ya-Sin, 36: 57-58]

“Certainly, those who believe and work righteousness – their Lord will guide them because of their faith. Beneath them will flow rivers in gardens of bliss. Their prayer therein will be, ‘Subhaanak Allahumma’ (Glory be to You Oh Allah!’), and their greeting therein will be, ‘Salam’ (Peace). And the last day of their prayers will be, ‘Praise be to Allah, Lord of the worlds.”*
[Yunus, 10: 9-10]

[ghumbasa]

Continue...paradise

The People of Paradise

“You will recognize in their faces the beaming brightness of bliss.”*
Mutaffifeen, 83: 24]

“Some faces, that day, will beam (in happiness), looking at their Lord!”*
[Qiyamah, 75: 22-23]

“The righteous will be amid gardens and springs. (They will be greeted), ‘Enter here in peace and security.’ And We shall remove from their hearts any lurking sense of injury. (They will be) brothers facing each other on thrones. There no sense of fatigue shall touch them, nor shall they (ever) be evicted.”*
[Hijr, 15: 45-48]

“Faces that day will be joyful – pleased with their striving – in a garden on high, where they shall hear no bad speech.”*
[Ghashiyah, 88: 8-11]

Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu anhu) reported that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“Allah, the Exalted and Glorious, created Adam in His own image with his length being sixty cubits. As He created him, He told him to greet that group (a party of angels sitting there) and listen to the response that they gave him, for it would form his greeting and that of his offspring. He then went away and said, ‘Peace be upon you!’ They (the angels) said, “May there be peace upon you and the mercy of Allah.” So all those who enter Paradise will be in the form of Adam, his length being sixty cubits. Then the people who followed him continued to diminish in size up to now.”*
[Muslim]

Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu anhu) reported that the Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“There will enter Paradise people whose hearts will be like those of the hearts of the birds.”
[Muslim]*
(This hadith beautifully sums up the qualities of the people of Paradise, just as the hearts of birds are free from every tint of jealousy, in the same way the hearts of the people of Paradise will e free from jealousy, rancor, deceit, and hatred. Secondly, just as birds are always alert and cautious of any danger, in the same way the hearts of the people of Paradise will also be wakeful. Thirdly, trust as the birds trust in Allah for their food, in the same way the people of Paradise will have complete trust in Allah regarding their sustenance, rather, their very existence.)*
[Commentary of Abdul Hamid Siddiqi]

Sahl bin Sa’d (radiAllahu anhu) narrated that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“Seventy thousand or seven hundred thousand of my followers (the narrator is in doubt as to the correct number) will enter Paradise holding each other till the first and the last of them enter Paradise at the same time. Their faces will have a glitter like that of the moon at night when it is full.”*
[Sahih al-Bukhari]

Sahl bin Sa’d (radiAllahu anhu) reported that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“Verily, 70,000 or 700,000 of my followers will enter Paradise altogether so that the first and the last of them will enter at the same time. Their faces will be a glittering like the bright full moon.”*
[Sahih al-Bukhari]

Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu anhu) narrated that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“The first batch (of people) who will enter Paradise will be (glittering like the full moon, and the batch next to them will be (glittering) like the most brilliant star in the sky. Their hearts will be as the heart of a single man, for they will have neither enmity nor jealousy among themselves. Everyone will have two wives from the hooris (who will be so beautiful, pure and transparent that) the marrow of the bones of their legs will be seen through the bones and the flesh.”*
[Sahih al-Bukhari]

Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu anhu) reported that Allah’s Apostle (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“The first group (of people) who will enter Paradise will be glittering like the moon when it is full. They will not spit or blow their noses or relieve nature. Their utensils will be of gold and their cups of gold and silver. In their censors, the aloe wood will be used, and their sweat will smell like musk. Everyone of them will have no enmity among themselves. Everyone of them shall have two wives. The marrow of the bones of the wives ‘legs will be seen through the flesh because of excessive beauty. They (the people of Paradise) will be neither have differences nor hatred among themselves. HTier hearts will be as one heart, and they will be glorifying Allah in the morning and in the evening.”*
[Sahih al-Bukhari]

Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu anhu) narrated that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“The first batch (of people) who will enter Paradise will be (glittering) like a full moon, and those who will enter next will be glittering like the brightest star. Their hearts will be like the heart of a single man, for they will have two wives, each of whom will be so beautiful, pure and transparent that the marrow of the bones of their legs will be see through the flesh, they will be glorifying Allah in the morning and evening. They will never fall ill, blow their noses or spit. Their utensils will be of gold and silver and their cups will be of gold. The matte used in their censors will be the aloe wood, and their sweat will smell like musk.”*
[Sahih al-Bukhari]

Abu Sa’eed Al-Khudri (radiAllahu anhu) reported that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“Paradise and Hellfire disputed together and Hellfire said, ‘In me are the mighty and haughty.’ Paradise said, ‘In me are the weak and the poor.’ So Allah judged between them (saying), ‘You are Paradise, My mercy. Through you and I show mercy to those I wish. And you are Hellfire, My punishment. Through you I punish those I wish, and it is incumbent upon Me that each of you shall have its full.’”*
[Sahih al-Bukhari, Muslim and at-Tirmidhi]

Harithah ibin Wahb (radiAllahu anhu) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“May I tell you who the dwellers of Paradise are? (They are) every person who is considered weak and is despised, and who if he takes an oath of reliance upon Allah, will fulfill it. Now may I tell you who the people destined for Hell are? (they are) everyone who is ignorant, impertinent, proud and arrogant.”*
[Sahih al-Bukhari and Muslim]

The Women of Paradise

“But give glad tidings to those who believe and work righteousness, that they will have gardens beneath which rivers flow, Every time they are provided with fruits there from they say, ‘Why, this is what we were provided with before,’ for they are given things in resemblance. They have therein pure companions, and they abide therein forever.”*
[Baqarah, 2: 25]

“And (there will be) companions with beautiful, big, and lustrous eyes, likened to well – guarded pearls, a reward for what they used to do.”*
[Waqi'ah, 56: 22-24]

“And beside them will be chaste women restraining their glances (companions) of equal age.”*
[Saad, 38: 52]

“In them will be chaste (Maidens) restraining their glances, whom no man or jinn before them has touched.”*
[Rahman, 55: 56]

“In them will be fair companions, good and beautiful.”*
[Rahman, 55: 70]

“We have created their companions of special creation and made them virgins, loving by nature and equal in age for the companions of the right hand.”*
[Waqi'ah, 56: 35-38]

“Companions restrained as to their glances in pavilions.”*
[Rahman, 55: 72

“Verily, for the righteous there will be attainment of security gardens enclosed and grapevines, companions of equal age and a cup full (to the brim).”*
[Naba, 78: 31-34]

Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu anhu) reported that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“The members if the first group to enter Paradise will have faces as bright as the full moon during the night. The next group will have faces as bright as the shining stars in the sky. Every person will have two wives, and the marrow of their shanks will glimmer beneath the flesh. There will be non without a wife in Paradise.”*
[Muslim]

After Harithah (radiAllahu anhu) had been martyred by an arrow thrown by an unknown person on the Day (of the battle) of Badr, his mother came to the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) she said:*
“O Allah’s Apostle, you know the position of Harithah in my heart. (how dear he was to her). So if he is in Paradise, I will not weep for him. Otherwise, you will see what I will do.”*
The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said, “Are you mad? Is there only one Paradise? There are many Paradises and he is in the highest Paradise of Firdaus”*
The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) added, “A forenoon journey or an afternoon journey in Allah’s cause is better than the whole world and whatever is in it. A place equal to an arrow bow of anyone of you or a place equal to a foot in Paradise is better than the whole world and what ever is in it. If one of the women of Paradise looked at the earth, she would fill whatever is in between them with perfume. The veil of her face is better than the whole world and whatever is in it.”*
[Sahih al-Bukhari]

The Garments of Paradise

“Allah will admit those who believe and work righteous deeds to gardens beneath which rivers flow, they shall be adorned with bracelets of gold and pearls, and their garments therein will be silk. They have been guided in this life to good speech, and they have been guided to the path of Him, the All Praised.”*
[Hajj, 22: 23-24]

“For them will be gardens of eternity, rivers flowing beneath them. They will be adorned with bracelets of gold, and they will wear green garments of fine silk and heavy brocade, reclining on raised thrones. How good the reward! How beautiful a place of rest!”*
[Kahf, 18: 31]

“As for the righteous, (they will be) in a position of security among gardens and springs, dressed in fine silk and in rich brocade, facing each other. And We shall join them to companions with beautiful, big and lustrous eyes.”*
[Dukhan, 44: 51-54]

“Gardens of eternity that they will enter, they will be adorned therein with bracelets of gold and pearls. Their garments will be of silk. They will say, “Praise be to Allah who has removed from us (All) sorrow, for our Lord is indeed oft –forgiving, appreciative out of His bounty. No toil nor sense of weariness shall touch us therein.”*
[Fatir, 35: 33-35]

“Upon them will be green garments of fine silk and heavy brocade. They will be adorned with bracelets of silver, and their Lord will give them a pure drink. ‘Verily, this is a reward for you, and your endeavor has been appreciated.”*
[Insan, 76: 21-22]

Al-Barah ibn ‘Azib (radiAllahu anhu) said: “Allah’s Apostle (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) was given a silken garment, and its beauty and delicacy astonished the people. On that, Allah apostle (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said, ‘No doubt, the handkerchiefs of Sa’d bin Mu’aadh in Paradise are better than this.”*
[Sahih al-Bukhari]

The Bracelets of the People of Paradise

“Allah will admit those who believe and work righteous deeds to gardens beneath which rivers flow. They shall be adorned with bracelets of gold and pearls, and their garments therein will be silk. They have been guided (in this life) to good speech, and they have been guided to the path of Him, and the All-praised.”*
[Hajj, 22: 23-24]

“For them will be gardens of eternity, rivers flowing beneath them. They will be adorned with bracelets of gold, and they will wear green garments of fine silk and heavy brocade, reclining on raised thrones. How good the reward! How beautiful a place of rest!”*
[Kahf, 18: 31]

“Upon them will be green garments of fine silk and heavy brocade. They will be adorned with bracelets of silver, and their Lord will give them a pure drink. ‘Verily, this is a reward for you, and your endeavor has been appreciated.’”*
[Insan, 76: 21-22]

“Gardens of eternity they will enter. They will be adorned therein with bracelets of gold and pearls. Their garments will be of silk. They will say, ‘Praise be to Allah who has removed from us, (all) sorrow, for our Lord is indeed oft-forgiving, appreciative, who has settled us in the house of lasting residence out of His bounty. No toil no sense of weariness shall touch us therein.”*
[Fatir, 35: 33-35]

[ghumbasa]

Continue..paradise

The Youthful Servants of Paradise

“Around them will circulate eternal youths with goblets, beakers and cups filled from clear and flowing fountains, no after, ache will they there from, nor will they suffer intoxication, and also with fruits, any that they may select; and the flesh of fowls, any that they may desire.”*
[Waqi'ah, 56: 17-21]

“Around them will circulate (devoted) youths resembling well guarded pearls.”*
[Tur, 52: 24

“Around them, youths of perpetual (freshness) will serve. If you see them, you will think they are scattered pearls).”*
[Insan, 76: 19]

The Activities of the People of Paradise

“Verily, the companions of the Garden are in occupation they enjoy. They and their spouses will be in cool shade, reclining on thrones.”*
[Ya-Sin, 36: 55-56]

“Then those who have believed and worked righteous deeds will be in a garden (of happiness), honored.”*
[Rum, 30: 15]

“(They will be) facing each other on thrones. Passed around to them will be a cup from a clear, flowing fountain, crystal, white, of a taste so delicious to those who drink from it. It is free from headiness, and they will not suffer intoxication from it. Beside them will be chaste women, restraining their glances, with big eyes of wonder and beauty, as if they were delicate eggs, closely guarded.”*
[Safat, 37: 44-49]

“But on this day the believers will laugh at the unbelievers. On thrones they will command a sight of all things. Are the unbelievers not rewarded (finally) for what they used to do?”*
[Mutaffifeen, 83: 34-36]

“They will say, ‘Praise be to Allah, who has truly fulfilled His promise to us and has made us inherit the earth. We can dwell in the garden where we will. How excellent a reward for those who work (righteousness)!”*
[Zumar, 39: 74]

“They will advance to each other, engaging in mutual enquiry. They will say, ‘We used to be fearful of Allah and His punishment among our people. But Allah has been good to us and has delivered us from the penalty of the scorching wind. Truly, we used to call upon Him before. Truly, it is He who is the Beneficent, the Merciful.”*
[Tur, 52: 25-28]

Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu anhu) reported that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“The (members of the ) first group that will be admitted to Paradise will have their faces as bright as a full moon during the night. They will neither spit nor suffer anything. They will have their utensils and their combs made of gold and silver, and the fuel of their braziers will be aloes, and their sweat will be musk and everyone of them will have two spouses (so beautiful) that the marrow of their shanks will be visible through the flesh. There will be no dissension among them and no enmity in their hearts. Their hearts will be like one heart, glorifying Allah morning and evening.”*
[Muslim]

The Ranks of Paradise

“Those who believe, emigrate and strive with might and main in Allah’s cause with their wealth and their persons have the highest rank in the sigh of Allah. They are the ones who will achieve (salvation). Their Lord gives them glad tidings of a mercy from Himself and good pleasure and of gardens for them wherein is lasting enjoyment. They will dwell therein forever. Verily, with Allah is a great reward.”*
[Tawbah, 9: 20-22]

“Look how We have bestowed more on some than on others. But verily in the hereafter is greater difference in rank and preference.”*
[Isra', 17: 21]

“O you who believe! When you are told to make room in assemblies, (spread out and) make room. (Ample) room will Allah provide for you. And when you are told to rise up, rise up. Allah will raise those of you who believe and who have been granted knowledge in rank. Allah is well – acquainted with all you do.”*
[Mujadilah, 58: 11]

“Verily, he who comes to his Lord as a criminal (at judgment), for him is Hell, wherein he shall neither die nor live. But he who comes to Him as a believer who has worked righteous deeds, for them are ranks exalted gardens of eternity, beneath which flow rivers, dwelling therein forever. Such is the reward of those who purify themselves (from evil).”*
[Ta-Ha, 20: 74-76]

It is narrated that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“Whoever believes in Allah and His Apostle (salAllahu alayhi wasalam), offers prayer perfectly and fasts the month of Ramadan will rightfully be granted Paradise by Allah, no matter whether he fights in Allah’s cause or remains in the land where he is born.”*
The people said, “Oh Allah’s Apostle! Shall we acquaint the people with this good news?” He said, “Paradise has one hundred grades which Allah has reserved for the mujaahidoon who fight in His cause, and the distance between each of two grades is like the distance between the Heaven and the earth. So when you ask Allah (for something), ask for al-Firdaws which is the best and highest part of Paradise.” (the subnarrator added, “I think the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) also said ‘Above it (alfirdaus) is the throne of the beneficent (Allah), and from its originate the rivers of Paradise.”*
[Sahih al-Bukhari]

Sahl bin Sa’d (radiAllahu anhu) reported that the Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“The people of Paradise will look to the upper apartment of Paradise in the same way as you see the planets in the sky.”*
[Muslim]

Abu Sa’eed al Khudri (radiAllahu anhu) narrated that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“The people of Paradise will look at the dwellers of the lofty mansions (a superior place in Paradise) in the same way as one looks at a brilliant star far away in the East or in the West on the horizon. That is because of their superiority over one another (in rewards).” Because of that, the people said, “Oh Allah’s Apostle! Are these lofty mansions the prophets mansions which nobody else can reach?”*
The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) replied, “By Allah, in whose hands my life is, some men who believe in Allah and trust His Apostles will be able to reach them.”*
[Sahih al-Bukhari and Muslim]

Anas bin Malik (radiAllahu anhu) reported that Umm Ar-Ruba'i bint Al-Barah (radiAllahu anha) the mother of Harithah ibin Suraqah (radiAllahu anhu) came to the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) and said:*
“Oh Allah’s Prophet! Will you tell me about Harithah?” Harithah had been killed (martyred) on the day of Badr with an arrow by an unidentified person. She added, “If he is in Paradise, I will weep bitterly for him.” He said, “Oh mother of Harithah! There are gardens in Paradise, and your son got the Firdaus at A'la (the best place in Paradise).”*
[Sahih al-Bukhari]

The Lowest Rank in Paradise

Abdullah (radiAllahu anhu) said: “The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said,*
‘I know the person who will be the last to come out of the Hellfire and the last to enter Paradise. He will be a man who will come out of the Hellfire crawling, and Allah will say to him, ‘Go and enter Paradise.” He will go to it, but will imagine that it has been filled, and then he will re turn and say, “Oh Lord, I have found it full.” Allah will say, “Go and enter Paradise, and you will have what equals the world and ten times as much (you will have as much as ten times the like of the world).” On that, the man will say, “Do you mock at me (laugh at me) though You are the King?” I saw Allah’s Apostle (SAW) (while saying that) smiling that his premolar teeth became visible. It is said that will be the lowest degree among the people of Paradise.”*
[Sahih al-Bukhari]

Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu anhu) said: “Some people said, ‘O Allah’s Apostle! Shall we see our Lord on the Day of Resurrection?’ He said,*
‘Do you crowd and squeeze each other on looking at the sun when it is not hidden by clouds?’ They replied, ‘No, Allah’s Apostle’. He said, ‘Do you crowd and squeeze each other on looking at the moon when it is full and not hidden by clouds?’ They replied, No’, Allah’s Apostle’.*
He said, ‘So you will see Him (your Lord) on the Day of Resurrection similarly. Allah will gather all the people and say, ‘Whoever used to worship anything should follow that thing.’ So he who used to worship the sun, will follow it; and he who used to worship the moon will follow it and he who used to worship false deities will follow them. And then only this nation (Muslims) will remain, including their hypocrites. Allah will come to them in a shape other than they know and will say, “I am your Lord.” They will say, “We seek refuge from you. This is our place (we will not follow you) till our Lord comes to us, and when our Lord comes to us, we will recognize Him.” Then Allah will come to them in a shape they know and will say, “I am your Lord,” They will say, “(No doubt) You are our Lord.” And they will follow Him. Then a bridge will be laid over the Hellfire.” And Allah’s Apostle (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) added, ‘I will be the first to cross it.*

The invocation of the apostles on that day will be, ‘Allahumma sallim, sallim! (O Allah save us, save us!)’ Over that bridge will be hooks similar to the thorns of as’sa’daan (a thorny tree). Didn’t you see the thorns of as’ sa’daan?’ The companions said, ‘Yes, Oh Allah’s Apostle.’ He added, ‘So the hooks over that bridge will be like the thorns of as’-sa’daan, except that their greatness in size is only known to Allah. These hooks will snatch the people according to their deeds. Some people will be ruined because of their evil deeds, and some will be cut into pieces and fall down in Hell, but will be saved afterwards when Allah finished the judgments among His slaves and intends to take out of the Fire whoever He wishes to take out from among those who used to testify that none had the right to be worshipped but Allah.

He will order the angels to take them out. The angels will know them by the mark of the traces of prostration (on their foreheads), for Allah banned the Fire to consume the traces of prostration on the body of Adam’s son. So they will take them out, and by then they will have been burnt (as coal). Then water, called maa’ul hayat (water of life) will be poured on them, and they will spring out like a seed springs out on the bank of a rainwater stream. There will remain one man who will be facing the Hellfire and will say, “OH Lord! Its (Hell) vapor has poisoned and smoked me, and its flame has burnt me. Please turn my face away from the Fire.” He will keep on invoking Allah till Allah says, “Perhaps if I give you (what you want), you will ask for another thing?” The man will say, “No, by Your power, I will not ask You for anything else.”*
Then Allah will turn his face away from the Fire. The man will say after that, “Oh Lord, bring me near the gate of Paradise.” Allah will say to him, “Didn’t you promise not to ask for anything else? Woe to you, oh son of Adam! How treacherous you are!” The man will keep invoking Allah till Allah will say, “But if I give you that, you may ask me for something else.” The man will say, “No, by Your power, I will not ask for anything else.” He will give Allah his covenant and promise not to ask for anything else after that. So Allah will bring him near to the gate of Paradise. When he sees what is in it, he will remain silent as long as Allah wills, and then he will say, “Oh Lord! Let me enter Paradise.” Allah will say, “Didn’t you promise that you would not ask ME for anything other than that? Woe to you, oh son of Adam! How treacherous you are!” On that, the man will say, “Oh Lord! Do not make me the most wretched of Your creation,” and will keep on invoking Allah till Allah will smile. When Allah smiles because of him, then HE will allow him to enter Paradise. When he enters Paradise, he will be addressed, “Wish from so and so” He will wish until all his wishes are fulfilled. Then Allah will say, “All this (what you have wished for) and as much again therewith are for you.” Abu Hurairah (RA) added, ‘That man will be the last of the people of Paradise to enter Paradise.”

'Ata (radiAllahu anhu) narrated while Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu anhu) reporting: “Abu Sa’eed (RA) was sitting in the company of Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu anhu) and he did not deny anything of his narration till he reached his saying, ‘All this and as much again therewith are for you.”*
Then Abu Sa’eed (radiAllahu anhu) said, ‘I heard Allah’s Apostle say, “This is for you and ten times as much.” Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu anhu) said, “In my memory it is as much again therewith.”*
[Sahih al-Bukhari]

[ghumbasa]

Continue..paradise
Everlasting Life in Paradise

“But those who have faith and work righteousness, they are companions of the Garden, abiding in it eternally.”*
[surah al-Baqarah, 2: 82]

“There, no sense of fatigue shall touch them, nor shall they ever be evicted.”*
[Hijr, 15: 48]

“They will not taste death therein, except the first death, and He will preserve them from the penalty of the blazing Fire. (It will be) a bounty from your Lord. That will be the supreme achievement!”*
[Dukhan, 44: 56-57]

“As for those who believe and work righteous deeds, they will have the gardens of Paradise as hospitality. Eternally therein, they will not desire any other place.”*
[Kahf, 18: 107-108]

“Their Lord gives them glad tidings of a mercy from Himself and good pleasure and of gardens for them wherein is lasting enjoyment.”*
[Tawbah, 9: 21]

Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu anhu) reported that Allah’s Apostle (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“He who gets into Paradise (will be made to enjoy such and everlasting) bliss that he will neither become destitute nor will his clothes wear out nor will his youthfulness decline.”*
[Muslim]

Abu Sa’eed al-Khudri (radiAllahu anhu) and Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu anhu) both narrated that Allah’s Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“There will be an announcer (in Paradise) who will make this announcement, ‘Verily, there is in store for you (everlasting) health. You will never fall ill, and you will live (forever) and never die. You will reamin young and never become destitute.’ (This is explained in) the words of Allah, the Exalted and Glorious, ‘And it will be announced to them, “This is the Paradise you have been made to inherit for what you used to do.””*
[Muslim, Quranic quote is from Al-A'raf, 7: 43]

Abu Sa’eed (radiAllahu anhu) reported that Allah’s Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“Death will be brought on the Day of Resurrection in the form of a white – colored ram.” Abu Juraib made the addition, “Then it will be made to stand between Paradise and Hell.” (So far the rest of the hadeeth is concerned, there is perfect agreement between the two narrators.) “It will be said to the people of Paradise. ‘Do you recognize this? They will raise up their necks, look towards it and say, ‘Yes, it is death’ Then a command will be given to slaughter it, and it will be said, “Oh people of Paradise, there is everlasting life for you and no death, Then (Addressing) the people of Hellfire, it is will be said, “Oh people of Hellfire! There is everlasting life for you and no death.” Allah’s Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) then recited the following verse pointing with his hand to this material world. “Warn them of the day of regret, when their affairs will be decided. They are unmindful, and they do not believe!”*
[Muslim, Surah Maryam 19: 39]

Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu anhu) narrated that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“It will be said to the people of Paradise. ‘Oh people of Paradise, eternity for you and no death!’ To the people of the Fire (It will be said), “Oh people of the fire, eternity for you and no death!’”*
[Sahih al-Bukhari]

The Greatest Thing in Paradise

“Say, ‘Shall I bring your attention to things far better than those? For the righteous are gardens in nearness to their Lord, with rivers flowing beneath, eternal therein, with pure companions and the good pleasure of Allah. For within Allah’s sight are all His servants – especially those who say, “Our Lord, we have indeed believed, so forgive us our sins and protect us from the agony of the Fire.” Those who are patient, are truthful, who worship devoutly, who spend in the way of Allah and who prays for forgiveness in the pre-dawn hours.’”*
[ali'-Imran, 3: 15-17]

“Allah has promised to believers, men and women, gardens under which rivers flow to dwell therein eternally and good homes in gardens of everlasting bliss. But the pleasure of Allah is greatest. That is the supreme triumph.”*
[Tawbah, 9: 72]

“Those who believe, emigrate and strive with mighty and main in Allah’s cause with their wealth and their persons’ have the highest rank in the weight of Allah. They are the ones who will achieve salvation. Their Lord gives them glad tidings of a mercy from Himself and good pleasure and of gardens for them wherein is lasting enjoyment. They will dwell therein forever. Verily, with Allah is a great reward.”*
[Tawbah, 9: 20-22]

“Their salutation on the day they meet Him will be ‘Peace!; and He has prepared for them a generous reward.”*
[Ahzab, 33: 44]

“Peace!’ a word of salutation from a Lord most Merciful!”*
Ya-Sin, 36: 58]

“Some faces that day, will beam in happiness, looking at their Lord.”*
[Qiyamah, 75: 22-23]
(This ayah is used as proof by ahl us-Sunnah that the people of Paradise will actually see their Creator).

Abu Sa’eed al-Khudri (radiAllahu anhu) reported that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:*
“Allah will say to the inhabitants of Paradise, ‘Oh inhabitants of Paradise! They will say, Oh our Lord, we present ourselves and are at Your pleasure, and good ness rests in Your hands.’ Then He will say, ‘Are you contented?’ They will reply, ‘And how should we not be contented, oh Lord, when You have given to us that which You have given to no one else of Your creation?’ Then He will say, ‘Would you not like Me to give you something better than that?’ They will answer, ‘Oh Lord and what thing is better than that?’ He will say, “shall cause My favor to descend upon you and there you shall never be displeased with you.’”*
[Sahih al-Bukhari, Muslim and at-Tirmidhi]

[ghumbasa]

Sabr(Patience).

It implies patience, forbearance, perseverance, determination, fortitude, constancy and steadfastness. Sabr assumes different dimensions depending upon which aspect of life is the point of reference:

Sabr in personal life:

1. The first kind of Sabr is 'patience' as it is ordinarily understood.

It is the ability to hold back, remain calm, maintain one's cool, restrain oneself and wait and see despite the urge to jump on, barge in, respond, and do something in the situations of heat, pressure, anxiety, curiosity, anger, confrontation, etc.

It also represents the patience exercised during the hardships people face in their lives such as illnesses and diseases, death of loved ones, natural calamities and disasters, and problems or setbacks emanating from the situations and circumstances beyond one's control. Knowing that all these things are part of our test for which we have been put on the earth and knowing that our success lies in how well we react to and handle such situations helps a believer endure these hardships without panicking, complaining or being frustrated.

"A person who faces a physical or financial setback, keeps quiet about it and does not complain to people, has a right on Allaah to be forgiven." Attributed by Ibn 'Abbaas to the Prophet sal-Allaahu alaihi wa sallam as reported in At-Tabaraani's Al-Owsat

"A Muslim does not suffer any mental or physical anguish, or any distress, grief, pain or sorrow - even from the prick of a thorn - except that Allaah expiates his mistakes and sins." Bukhaari and Muslim


This Sabr is an extremely important virtue for a believer. The Prophet sal-Allaahu alaihi wa sallam, talking to some poor Muslims from Ansaar whom he had given whatever he had, said:

"Whoever practices Sabr, Allaah Subhanahu wa Ta'alaa gives him Sabr. And no one can be given anything better or more far-reaching (comprehensive) than Sabr." Aboo S'eed Khudri in Bukhaari and Muslim.

In a letter of condolence dictated for Mu'aadz Ibn Jabal on the death of his son, the Prophet sal-Allaahu alaihi wa sallam said,

"May Allaah increase your reward and bestow you patience, and enable us and you to be thankful to Him. Our lives, our wealth and our families are blissful gifts that are trusts temporarily entrusted. Allaah gave you the opportunity to enjoy (your son gifted to you in trust) with happiness and pleasure, and then he took it from you in return for a big reward. May He bestow upon you blessings, mercy and guidance, if you restrain yourself in expectation for His reward. So, be patient and do not let wailing destroy your reward, to be sorry afterwards. Remember wailing neither brings back the dead, nor removes the grief. What had to happen has happened." At-Tabaraani.

However, tears or sadness is not against the spirit of the patience. When the son of the Prophet's daughter, Zainab, was taking his last breath in the Prophet's lap, tears came down from Prophet 's eyes. When Sa'd wondered, the Prophet sal-Allaahu alaihi wa sallam explained, "This is an expression of mercy that Allaah has put in the hearts of people." Reported from Usamah Ibn Zaid in Bukhaari and Muslim.

This kind of patience is the lowest level of Sabr expected of the believers and is one of the qualities emanating from the Taqwaa in the heart. The test of the patience is at the initial shock. With time, everyone cools down. The patient person controls his/her reactions at the very outset. Reacting emotionally in the beginning and then cooling off is indicative of lack of patience.

The Messenger of Allaah sal-Allaahu alaihi wa sallam told a women crying over the grave of her husband, "Maintain Taqwaa and be patient." Later on he explained to her, "The real Sabr (patience) is that which is demonstrated at the initial shock." Reported from Anas in Bukhaari and Muslim.

The Messenger of Allaah sal-Allaahu alaihi wa sallam said, "Allaah Tabaaraka wa Ta'alaa says: O son of Adam! If you remained patient restraining yourself and expecting my reward at the initial shock, I will not be happy without rewarding you with Jannah." From Abee Umaamah in Ibn Maajah.

The complementary quality for this Sabr is Shukr (gratitude) which means thanking Allaah Subhanahu wa Ta'alaa for any good things, happy occasions, successes, health, profitability, good harvest and prosperity we enjoy in our life. Because all of these things depend, in addition to our hard work, on many favourable circumstances and conditions that are beyond our control, a believer thanks Allaah Subhanahu wa Ta'alaa for providing the ability to work hard and making our efforts fruitful through all those favourable circumstances and conditions.


This is what is alluded to in the following Ahaadeeth:

The Messenger of Allaah sal-Allaahu alaihi wa sallam said, "Wondrous are the believer's affairs. For him there is good in all his affairs, and this is true only for a believer. If he encounters

something troubling, he remains steadfast with patience, and that is good for him. If he experiences something pleasing, he thanks Allaah, and that is good for him. Reported from Suhaib in the Muslim.

The Messenger of Allaah sal-Allaahu alaihi wa sallam said, "Allaah told Eesa (Jesus) peace be upon him: I will bring up an Ummah after you who will thank Allaah when they encounter what they like; and they will restrain themselves expecting reward from Allaah and will remain patient when they suffer something they dislike." Reported from Aboo-Ad-Dardaa by Baihiqi in Shu'abul-Eemaan.

Here is a brief review of the second dimension of Sabr:

Forbearance

2. The second kind of Sabr is the forbearance exercised in the face of the ignorant behaviour shown by people around oneself. It is to endure verbal abuse, accusations, disrespect, slander, backbiting, false assumptions, name-calling, ridicule, maligning comments, etc. from people around us because of their jealousy, misgivings, maliciousness, difference of opinion or dislike for whatever reason.

A person will be within one's right to defend himself from any misbehaviour. That is justice and everyone is entitled to it without being blamed for it. However, Ihsaan is that the believer takes all that in stride graciously and magnanimously without responding, fighting back, paying much attention or complaining. Ihsaan is the standard good Muslims are expected to strive for. The Holy Qur-aan states:

"The fair settlement for a wrong is equal retribution. However, whoever forgives and reconciles, his reward is due on Allaah, and Allaah does not like the unjust. And whoever avenges himself after being wronged, they are not to be blamed. The blame is on those who oppress people and wrongfully rebel in the land. For them, there will be a painful punishment. And indeed whoever practices Sabr and forgives, that is a highly resolute, top-notch behaviour." Ash-Shoora 42:40

It is also indicated by the following episode:

Once, a person was verbally abusing Aboo Bakr while the Prophet sal-Allaahu alaihi wa sallam was curiously watching with a smile. After taking much abuse quietly, Aboo Bakr responded to a few of his comments. At this, the Prophet sal-Allahu alaihi wa sallam exhibited his disapproval, got up and left. Aboo Bakr caught up with the Prophet sal-Allaahu alaihi wa sallam and wondered, "O Messenger of Allaah, he was abusing me and you remained sitting. When I responded to him, you disapproved and got up." The Messenger of Allaah sal-Allaahu alaihi wa sallam responded,

"There was an angel with you responding to him. When you responded to him, Shaytaan took his place."

He then said,

"O Aboo Bakr, there are three solid truths: If a person is wronged and he forbears (without seeking revenge) just for the sake of Allaah Subhanahu wa Ta'alaa , Allaah will honour him and give him upper hand with His help; if a person opens a door of giving gifts for cementing relationships with relatives, Allaah will give him abundance; and, if a person opens a door of seeking charity for himself to increase his wealth, Allaah will further reduce his wealth." Reported from Aboo Hurairah in Mishkaah and Musnad Ahmad.

The prime example for practising Sabr, forbearing and then forgiving is the behaviour of Yousuf in response to his brothers' wrongs. The Holy Qur-aan observes:

"Indeed, whoever maintains Taqwaa and practices Sabr, Allaah does not let the reward of the Muhsineen be lost." Yousuf 12:90

The above two dimensions of Sabr were purely from the perspective of the personal life of a Muslim. The third and fourth dimensions cover the kind of Sabr needed in the Islamic work. No matter what dimension of sabr we talk about, we must always remeber, that our Prophet sal-Allaahu alaihi wa sallam provided the best examples in all of them.

[ghumbasa]

Sabr in the Islamic Work:

The most important Sabr expected of Muslims is the determination, endurance, fortitude, perseverance, steadfastness and constancy that the Muslims must demonstrate in fulfilling their duties of establishing Islam in their own lives, in their communities and in their societies with a vision to implement Islamic world order of peace, justice and security over the whole globe. This work -- which all believers are obligated to undertake firstly to establish a global community of believers and then to maintain it is a very perilous work beset with hardships, challenges and risks. It requires a lot of endurance, fortitude, tenacity and perseverance (Sabr). Practising Sabr In the Islamic work is the basic requirement of faith.

The Islamic work has two distinct stages that call for two kind of Sabr, each relative to a different stage of Islamic work.

3. The first stage of Islamic work is spreading the word of Islam, seeking commitment of people to the Islamic work and organizing and mobilizing those who respond positively to the Islamic Da'wah. This work continues until the majority of the people of a selected society have become workers of the Islamic movement resulting in the establishment of an Islamic state or kingdom of God.

As soon as a believer sincerely dedicates himself to and embarks upon an organized Islamic mission, tests and tribulations start in full force. The more dedicated and effective the efforts are, the harder the persecution is. The persecution starts with verbal abuse progressing to psychological, financial and physical abuse, imprisonment and sometimes leads up to attempts on one's life. Depending upon who is the object of Da'wah and where the Da'wah is being given, the perpetrators of the persecution can be people who call themselves Muslims or they can be Non-Muslims. Some of the problems are even caused by those who are companions of the Islamic workers. It may be due to their lack of experience or vision, or due the gullibility or influence of negative propaganda of the people against the Islamic movement.

The negative reaction from non-Muslims is understandable and expected, but opposition from 'Muslims' is very discouraging, injurious and problematic. As soon as a believer stands up for Islam, people expect him to be perfect according to what they think Islam is about. The moment the worker differs in any respect from their viewpoint or the moment he makes a small mistake which every human being is prone to, all his selfless efforts and the high standard of his character are disregarded and
forgotten. People overlook their own major sins but the Islamic worker's small error of judgement becomes the biggest concern in the world. Backbiting, baseless accusations and false stories start flying against the person all over without even his knowledge. His words are twisted, motives doubted, and even the best of the action flawed. The most popular accusations are usually: 'He is greedy for leadership or fame' or 'he thinks he is better than others' or 'he has caused disunity in the community'. But this is just the beginning, If the Islamic worker remains strong and continues his work with dedication, it becomes much more nasty.

The Sabr during this work, at the basic level which is the corollary of faith, is to continue to work steadfastly for the mission, enduring all the verbal, physical and financial abuse as well persecution, torture, oppression, imprisonment and loss of respect,
wealth and property without retaliating, fighting back, and showing any weakness, reduction in efforts or giving up. Sabr at the level of Ihsaan is enduring the aforementioned abuse and persecution, while continuing to wish for the guidance and well being of the people with care and conviction, without slowing down in the missionary work and enthusiasm; without making any compromises whatsoever; and without hating the tormentors.

The Messengers of Allaah sal-Allaahu alaihi wa sallam have set excellent examples of this Sabr. Moosa (Moses) peace be upon him demonstrated a good example of Sabr on the problems caused by Banee Israaeel, the members of his Islamic movement, with their nagging questions, superficial objections, foolish arguments, short-sighted suggestions, undue demands, improper expectations, lack of firm commitment, half-hearted support and weakness in obedience. To discourage repetition of that kind of behaviour, Allaah Subhanahu wa Ta'alaa commanded,

"O Believers, do not be like those who abused Moosa; then Allaah cleared him from what they said. And he was, in the sight of Allaah, honourable." Al-Ahzaab 33:70

"And when Moosa said to his people, 'O my people, why do you abuse me when you surely know that I am the messenger of Allaah to you?' When they deviated, Allaah caused their hearts to deviate." As-Saff 61:5

Eesa peace be upon him was the best example of those who practised Sabr on the reaction of the so-called Muslims, Banee Israaeel (who were supposed to be and claimed to be the believers), to his call for the Islamic movement and revival. He was sent to revive Islam without bringing any new Sharee'ah. So, he tried to bring them from petrified, ritualistic Islam to the true spirit of the dynamic Islam that results in the establishment of the kingdom of God and that converts every believer into a missionary for the establishment for the supremacy of the Islamic way of life, but he was rejected and persecuted. So much so that they plotted to kill him, siding with the pagan Romans.

Our Prophet sal-Allaahu alaihi wa sallam demonstrated best of Sabr in all of the situations described above giving us a vivid picture of what a perfect and ideal Sabr looks like. The most outstanding example of Sabr in the way of Allaah Subhanahu wa Ta'alaa demonstrated in the face of persecutions from non-Muslims was that of our Prophet sal-Allaahu alaihi wa sallam's 13 years in Makkah and his experience in Taaif. That was humanity at its best, Sabr par excellence and Ihsaan without a parallel. To prepare for this, he was admonished at the very outset of the mission,

"And practice Sabr for the sake of your Lord." Al-Mudaththir 74:7

And then he was reminded,

"Rejected were the messengers before you, and they continued to practise Sabr while they were being rejected and persecuted, until Our help reached them." Al-An'aam 6:34

"And practice Sabr, certainly Allaah does not let the reward of the Muhsineen be lost." Younus 11:115

He indeed excelled in what he was commanded. The same is expected from us. Although we may not be able to reach that level of excellence, our goal is to strive towards that level. We all have an obligation to revive Islam as a movement and we are bound to face all three kind of difficulties mentioned in this section requiring us to exhibit appropriate Sabr in response to all of those circumstances. The Prophet sal-Allaahu alaihi wa sallam did warn us about this situation,

"A time is going to come on people when remaining steadfast on Deen will be like holding a burning coal in one's hand." Anas in At-Tirmidzee

When asked what should we do in those circumstances, he said:

"Just as did the companions of Eesa Ibn Maryam: they were sawed into pieces, they were hanged on the crosses. Death in the obedience of Allaah is better than the life in disobedience of Allaah." Mu'aadz Ibn Jabal in At-Tabaraani

Often, when Kuffaar become blinded by their hatred and anger against Muslims, they violate every principle of human decency, break every ethical rule or moral code, use every deceitful and immoral tactic and they viciously persecute and savagely torture Muslims. This has always happened in the past and continues to happen today, though unashamedly they lay claims to civilization, freedom and human rights. However, despite observing this vicious phenomena or experiencing the deceit and torture at their hand, a Muslim continues to practise Sabr by strictly following Islamic values and moral code in their treatment of Kuffaar.

Thus, the true believers stand up for Islamic mission and, when they face the persecution, they say:

"And why should we not rely upon Allaah while He indeed has shown us our ways? And we shall certainly practice Sabr on the persecution you inflict on us." Ibraaheem 14:12.

4. Once an Islamic state or the kingdom of God is established to conduct the affairs of the community of believers according to Islamic values and Allaah Subhanahu wa Ta'alaa's rule, Kuffaar usually attack such a state with their full military might to destroy and annihilate the Islamic state. They usually do not give up until either their own power is eroded or Islamic state is destroyed. If the Islamic state survives by withstanding the onslaught and by eroding the power of Kuffaar, then they try to put obstacles in the way of the Islamic state's ability to expand and to bring the rest of the humanity under the law of Allaah Subhanahu wa Ta'alaa. Whether it is a war when the Islamic state is trying to survive or whether it is a war put up to stop an Islamic state from liberating other people from the rule of Kufr, the believers are supposed to demonstrate Sabr by fighting bravely with valour, without showing any weakness and without retreating, surrendering, running away or giving up despite the intensity of battle or casualties. This Sabr pertains to the Madani stage of the Islamic movement. Again, the most excellent example of this Sabr was demonstrated by our Prophet sal-Allaahu alaihi wa sallam and his devout companions at battles of Uhad, Ahzaab and Hunain.

At the beginning of the Madani stage, keeping the inevitability of onslaught of Kuffaar over the fledgling Islamic state, Muslims were prepared to face the inevitability by the following command:

"O Believers! Seek strength through Sabr and Salaah, verily Allaah is with those who practice Sabr. And do not consider those who are killed in the way of Allaah dead, but alive; however, you do not understand. Surely, we are going to test you through things like fear, hunger and loss of wealth, lives and produce. And give the good news to those who practice Sabr -those who, when they encounter troubles, say we are for Allaah and to Him we are going to return." Al-Baqarah 2:153

They were also told:

"You will surely be tested in regard to your possessions and your lives; and you will surely hear from those who were given the Book before you and from those who equate others with Allaah much hurtful abuse." Aali Imraan 3:186

This is the most emphasized Sabr in the Holy Qur-aan. In this regard, Muslims were commanded:

"O Believers! Practice Sabr, outdo others in practising Sabr, and be prepared to face the enemies so that you may be successful." Aali-Imraan 3:200

"And We shall test you until We know those who perform Jihaad and those who practice Sabr (remain steadfast);
and We shall test to appraise your state." Muhammad 47:31

"Do you think that you will enter Jannah without Allaah testing as to who are those that perform Jihaad and that practice Sabr." 3:142

And the Prophet sal-Allaahu alaihi wa sallam admonished, while addressing people in one of expeditions:

"Do not wish war, rather ask Allaah Subhanahu wa Ta'alaa for peace and security. However, when you confront the enemy, practice Sabr (fortitude and perseverance) and know that Jannah is under the shade of the swords." 'Abdullaah ibn Abee Owfaa in Bukhaari and Muslim

And Muslims are assured:

"Allaah is with those who practice Sabr." Anfaal 8:46, 66

Regardless of the type of circumstances and causes of difficulties, Sabr is an essential quality of a believer. Sketching the personality of those who truly have Taqwaa, Allaah Subhanahu wa Ta'alaa mentioned:

"And those who practice Sabr in hardships, physical afflictions and during the war." Al-Baqarah 2:177

Although Sabr is a basic requirement of faith expected of all Muslims, the difficulty of the task is well recognized:

"And if you practice Sabr and keep Taqwaa, that is quite a resolute, high calibre of the tasks." 'Aali Imraan 3:186

"O my son! Establish Salaah, enjoin good, forbid evil, and bear with Sabr whatever befalls on you, indeed, that is quite a resolute, high calibre of the tasks." Luqmaan 31:17

Hence the reward promised to those who practice Sabr is equally outstanding:

The people who practice Sabr will be entered into the beautiful, everlasting Jannah and angels of Allaah will welcome them with: "Peace be upon you for the Sabr you practised. Excellent indeed is the final home." Ar-Ra'd 13:24

"And He will reward them for their Sabr in the form of Jannah and silk, reclining on raised thrones wherein they will not see sun or cold." Ad-Dahr 76:12-13

"Those who practice Sabr will be rewarded their recompense without measure." Zumar 39:10

They will be rewarded not according to their average, but according to the best of their performance:

"We will certainly reward those who practice Sabr according to the best of their actions they used to perform." An-Nahl 16:96

The practice of this standard of Sabr is not possible without collective efforts of the Ummah and mutual support and reminder towards each other. Hence, it is incumbent upon believers to enjoin each other this Sabr. Without it, (according to Soorah Al-'Asr) loss is not insured, salvation is not promised and success is not assured.


Something to reflect.

Sabr and Shukr are two tremendous blessings from Allah, like everything else in life they can only be acquired by consistently being practiced, in all circumstances, and at all times, and remember after every hardship there is ease, and if you remember Allah, in Prosperity, he will insha'allah hear your prayers in times of adversity, and Allah helps those who help themselves.

" If Patience and Gratitude had been two camels, I would not care on which one I rode." Hazrat Umar al Farooq (Ra)*