Eternal Existence, Perfect Fulfilment and Allah’s Supreme Pleasure
Introduction
Life in Paradise will not merely be an improved or extended version of worldly life. It will be a perfected form of existence whose nature cannot be fully measured by earthly experience.
The life of this world is always mixed with opposites. Life is followed by death, wakefulness by exhaustion, youth by old age, health by illness, wealth by poverty, happiness by sorrow, honour by humiliation and companionship by separation. Every worldly pleasure remains vulnerable to decline, interruption or loss.
None of these reversals will exist in Paradise.
The inhabitants will live without death, remain awake without exhaustion, possess abundance without poverty, rejoice without grief, laugh without crying and live in honour without humiliation. Their health will never deteriorate, their youth will never end, their blessings will never be exhausted and their residence will never be taken from them.
They will move, travel, visit one another and reunite with believing family members. Every pure desire will be fulfilled, often before it is spoken. Their hearts will contain no envy, resentment or dissatisfied comparison. They will praise Allah through pleasure rather than obligation, and above every physical blessing they will discover that Allah’s love, acceptance and supreme pleasure are the sweetest gifts of Paradise.
1. The Day of Eternal Life
Qur’an — Surah Qāf 50:31–35
Arabic
وَأُزْلِفَتِ الْجَنَّةُ لِلْمُتَّقِينَ غَيْرَ بَعِيدٍ هَذَا مَا تُوعَدُونَ لِكُلِّ أَوَّابٍ حَفِيظٍ مَنْ خَشِيَ الرَّحْمَنَ بِالْغَيْبِ وَجَاءَ بِقَلْبٍ مُنِيبٍ ادْخُلُوهَا بِسَلَامٍ ذَلِكَ يَوْمُ الْخُلُودِ لَهُمْ مَا يَشَاءُونَ فِيهَا وَلَدَيْنَا مَزِيدٌ.
English Translation
“Paradise will be brought near to the God-conscious, no longer distant.
‘This is what you were promised—for every person who frequently returned to Allah and carefully guarded His commands,
who feared the Most Merciful without seeing Him and came with a heart turning toward Him.
Enter it in peace. This is the Day of Eternity.
They will have whatever they desire therein, and with Us is even more.’”
Short Comment
Entry into Paradise begins an existence in which every pure desire is fulfilled and Allah continues to grant blessings beyond what was requested.
2. Blessings Beyond Present Human Imagination
Qur’an — Surah al-Sajdah 32:17
Arabic
فَلَا تَعْلَمُ نَفْسٌ مَا أُخْفِيَ لَهُمْ مِنْ قُرَّةِ أَعْيُنٍ جَزَاءً بِمَا كَانُوا يَعْمَلُونَ.
English Translation
“No soul knows what joys of the eyes have been concealed for them as a reward for what they used to do.”
Tafsir From Imam Ja‘far al-Sadiq
Arabic
إِنَّ اللَّهَ خَلَقَ بِيَدِهِ جَنَّةً لَمْ تَرَهَا عَيْنٌ، وَلَمْ يَطَّلِعْ عَلَيْهَا مَخْلُوقٌ.
يَفْتَحُهَا الرَّبُّ تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَى كُلَّ صَبَاحٍ، فَيَقُولُ:
ازْدَادِي طِيبًا، ازْدَادِي رِيحًا.
فَتَقُولُ:
قَدْ أَفْلَحَ الْمُؤْمِنُونَ.
وَهُوَ قَوْلُ اللَّهِ تَعَالَى:
فَلَا تَعْلَمُ نَفْسٌ مَا أُخْفِيَ لَهُمْ مِنْ قُرَّةِ أَعْيُنٍ جَزَاءً بِمَا كَانُوا يَعْمَلُونَ.
English Translation
“Allah created a Garden which no eye has seen and upon which no creature has looked.
The Blessed and Exalted Lord opens it every morning and says:
‘Increase in pleasantness and increase in fragrance.’
It replies:
‘The believers have certainly succeeded.’
This is the meaning of Allah’s words:
‘No soul knows what joys of the eyes have been concealed for them as a reward for what they used to do.’”
References
- Al-Maḥāsin, in the narrations concerning Paradise
- Biḥār al-Anwār, vol. 8
- Transmitted in the collected narrations of Imam al-Sadiq.
Short Comment
The described blessings are only part of Paradise; Allah has concealed additional joys that no creature has yet witnessed.
3. Death Will Never Exist Again
Qur’an — Surah al-Dukhān 44:51–57
Arabic
إِنَّ الْمُتَّقِينَ فِي مَقَامٍ أَمِينٍ فِي جَنَّاتٍ وَعُيُونٍ يَلْبَسُونَ مِنْ سُنْدُسٍ وَإِسْتَبْرَقٍ مُتَقَابِلِينَ كَذَلِكَ وَزَوَّجْنَاهُمْ بِحُورٍ عِينٍ يَدْعُونَ فِيهَا بِكُلِّ فَاكِهَةٍ آمِنِينَ لَا يَذُوقُونَ فِيهَا الْمَوْتَ إِلَّا الْمَوْتَةَ الْأُولَى وَوَقَاهُمْ عَذَابَ الْجَحِيمِ فَضْلًا مِنْ رَبِّكَ ذَلِكَ هُوَ الْفَوْزُ الْعَظِيمُ.
English Translation
“The God-conscious will be in a secure station,
within Gardens and springs.
They will wear fine silk and brocade while facing one another.
So it will be, and We will unite them with wide-eyed companions.
They will call therein for every kind of fruit in complete security.
They will never taste death therein after their first death, and He will protect them from the punishment of the Blaze,
as a favour from your Lord. That is the supreme triumph.”
Short Comment
The death experienced before the resurrection will be the final death of every inhabitant of Paradise.
4. Death Will Be Slaughtered as a White Ram
Imam Ja‘far al-Sadiq, peace be upon him, said:
Complete Relevant Arabic
يُنَادِي مُنَادٍ مِنْ عِنْدِ اللَّهِ، بَعْدَ مَا صَارَ أَهْلُ الْجَنَّةِ فِي الْجَنَّةِ وَأَهْلُ النَّارِ فِي النَّارِ:
يَا أَهْلَ الْجَنَّةِ، وَيَا أَهْلَ النَّارِ، هَلْ تَعْرِفُونَ الْمَوْتَ فِي صُورَةٍ مِنَ الصُّوَرِ؟
فَيُؤْتَى بِهِ فِي صُورَةِ كَبْشٍ أَمْلَحَ فَيُذْبَحُ.
ثُمَّ يُقَالُ:
خُلُودٌ لَا مَوْتَ.
Complete English Translation
“After the inhabitants of Paradise have entered Paradise and the inhabitants of the Fire have entered the Fire, a caller from Allah will announce:
‘People of Paradise and people of the Fire, do you recognise death in any particular form?’
Death will be brought in the form of a white or white-speckled ram and slaughtered.
It will then be declared:
‘Eternity without death.’”
References
- Tafsīr al-Qummī, vol. 2, p. 50
- Biḥār al-Anwār, vol. 8, p. 346, hadith 4
Short Comment
Death will not simply remain absent; its possibility will be publicly and permanently abolished.
5. The Certainty of Immortality
Imam Muhammad al-Baqir, peace be upon him, described a second version of the same event.
Complete Relevant Arabic
إِذَا أَدْخَلَ اللَّهُ أَهْلَ الْجَنَّةِ الْجَنَّةَ، وَأَهْلَ النَّارِ النَّارَ، جِيءَ بِالْمَوْتِ فِي صُورَةِ كَبْشٍ، حَتَّى يُوقَفَ بَيْنَ الْجَنَّةِ وَالنَّارِ.
ثُمَّ يُنَادِي مُنَادٍ يَسْمَعُ أَهْلَ الدَّارَيْنِ جَمِيعًا:
يَا أَهْلَ الْجَنَّةِ، يَا أَهْلَ النَّارِ.
فَيُقَالُ لَهُمْ:
أَتَدْرُونَ مَا هَذَا؟
هَذَا هُوَ الْمَوْتُ الَّذِي كُنْتُمْ تَخَافُونَ مِنْهُ فِي الدُّنْيَا.
ثُمَّ يُذْبَحُ كَمَا تُذْبَحُ الشَّاةُ.
ثُمَّ يُنَادِي مُنَادٍ:
لَا مَوْتَ أَبَدًا، أَيْقِنُوا بِالْخُلُودِ.
فَيَفْرَحُ أَهْلُ الْجَنَّةِ فَرَحًا، لَوْ كَانَ أَحَدٌ يَوْمَئِذٍ يَمُوتُ مِنَ الْفَرَحِ لَمَاتُوا.
Complete English Translation
“When Allah has admitted the people of Paradise into Paradise and the people of the Fire into the Fire, death will be brought in the form of a ram and placed between the two abodes.
A caller whose voice is heard by both groups will announce:
‘People of Paradise and people of the Fire!’
They will be asked:
‘Do you know what this is?
This is the death you used to fear in the world.’
Death will then be slaughtered as a sheep is slaughtered.
A caller will announce:
‘There will never again be death. Become certain of eternity.’
The inhabitants of Paradise will experience such joy that, if death from excessive joy were possible, they would die.”
Reference
- Kitāb al-Zuhd, Book 2, chapter 19, hadith 6.
Short Comment
The inhabitants will not merely hope for eternity; they will be commanded to possess absolute certainty that death can never return.
6. The Complete Condition of the People of Paradise
Imam Muhammad al-Baqir, peace be upon him, said:
Complete Arabic
أَهْلُ الْجَنَّةِ يَحْيَوْنَ فَلَا يَمُوتُونَ، وَيَسْتَيْقِظُونَ فَلَا يَنَامُونَ، وَيَسْتَغْنُونَ فَلَا يَفْتَقِرُونَ، وَيَفْرَحُونَ فَلَا يَحْزَنُونَ، وَيَضْحَكُونَ فَلَا يَبْكُونَ، وَيُكْرَمُونَ فَلَا يُهَانُونَ، وَيُقِيمُونَ فَلَا يَظْعَنُونَ.
Complete English Translation
“The people of Paradise will live and never die.
They will remain awake and never sleep.
They will possess abundance and never become poor.
They will rejoice and never grieve.
They will laugh and never cry.
They will be honoured and never be humiliated.
They will remain and never depart.”
References
- Al-Ikhtiṣāṣ, p. 358
- Biḥār al-Anwār, vol. 8, p. 220, hadith 215
Short Comment
Every positive condition will become permanent while its painful opposite will be absent forever.
7. They Will Remain Awake Without Needing Sleep
The narration states:
Arabic
وَيَسْتَيْقِظُونَ فَلَا يَنَامُونَ.
English Translation
“They will remain awake and never sleep.”
Short Comment
Their bodies will never become exhausted or require unconsciousness for physical or mental recovery.
8. True Rest Exists Only in Paradise
Imam Zayn al-‘Abidin, peace be upon him, said:
Complete Arabic
الرَّاحَةُ لَمْ تُخْلَقْ فِي الدُّنْيَا، وَلَا لِأَهْلِ الدُّنْيَا.
إِنَّمَا خُلِقَتِ الرَّاحَةُ فِي الْجَنَّةِ وَلِأَهْلِ الْجَنَّةِ.
Complete English Translation
“True rest was not created within this world or for the people of this world.
True rest was created only within Paradise and for the people of Paradise.”
References
- Al-Khiṣāl, p. 64, hadith 95
- Biḥār al-Anwār, vol. 73, p. 92, hadith 69
Short Comment
Heavenly rest means freedom from toil, anxiety, pressure and need—not sleep caused by weakness.
9. An Expansive Life Without Fatigue
Imam al-Hasan al-‘Askari, peace be upon him, explained the word رَغَدًا—“abundantly.”
Complete Arabic
رَغَدًا، أَيْ وَاسِعًا بِلَا تَعَبٍ.
Complete English Translation
“‘Abundantly’ means an expansive life without fatigue.”
References
- Tafsīr attributed to Imam al-Hasan al-‘Askari, p. 260, hadith 127
- Ta’wīl al-Āyāt al-Ẓāhirah, vol. 1, p. 45, hadith 20
- Biḥār al-Anwār, vol. 13, p. 183
Short Comment
The inhabitants will possess unrestricted comfort without the exertion normally required to obtain or maintain it.
10. No Ageing, Departure or Suffering
Imam Ali, peace be upon him, said:
Complete Arabic
دَرَجَاتٌ مُتَفَاضِلَاتٌ، وَمَنَازِلُ مُتَفَاوِتَاتٌ، لَا يَنْقَطِعُ نَعِيمُهَا، وَلَا يَظْعَنُ مُقِيمُهَا، وَلَا يَهْرَمُ خَالِدُهَا، وَلَا يَبْأَسُ سَاكِنُهَا.
Complete English Translation
“Paradise contains differing levels and residences.
Its blessings will never end.
Its residents will never depart.
Its eternal inhabitants will never grow old.
Its people will never suffer.”
References
- Nahj al-Balāghah, sermon 85
- Biḥār al-Anwār, vol. 8, p. 162, hadith 103
Short Comment
Youth, security and enjoyment will never move toward weakness, separation or pain.
11. No Fear, Illness, Danger or Forced Journey
Imam Ali, peace be upon him, said:
Complete Relevant Arabic
فَأَمَّا أَهْلُ الطَّاعَةِ فَأَثَابَهُمْ بِجِوَارِهِ، وَخَلَّدَهُمْ فِي دَارِهِ، حَيْثُ لَا يَظْعَنُ النُّزَّالُ، وَلَا تَتَغَيَّرُ بِهِمُ الْحَالُ، وَلَا تَنُوبُهُمُ الْأَفْزَاعُ، وَلَا تَنَالُهُمُ الْأَسْقَامُ، وَلَا تَعْرِضُ لَهُمُ الْأَخْطَارُ، وَلَا تُشْخِصُهُمُ الْأَسْفَارُ.
Complete English Translation
“As for the people of obedience, Allah will reward them with His nearness and keep them eternally within His abode.
Its residents will never depart.
Their condition will never undergo an unwanted change.
Terrors will never overtake them.
Illnesses will never reach them.
Dangers will never confront them.
Journeys will never force them away.”
References
- Nahj al-Balāghah, sermon 109
- Biḥār al-Anwār, vol. 7, p. 114
Short Comment
They may travel for pleasure and companionship, but never because of danger, employment, poverty, exile or necessity.
12. The Prophets Will Be Their Companions and the Angels Will Visit Them
Imam Ali, peace be upon him, said:
Complete Arabic
بَادِرُوا بِأَعْمَالِكُمْ تَكُونُوا مَعَ جِيرَانِ اللَّهِ فِي دَارِهِ، رَافَقَ بِهِمْ رُسُلَهُ، وَأَزَارَهُمْ مَلَائِكَتَهُ، وَأَكْرَمَ أَسْمَاعَهُمْ أَنْ تَسْمَعَ حَسِيسَ نَارٍ أَبَدًا، وَصَانَ أَجْسَادَهُمْ أَنْ تَلْقَى لُغُوبًا وَنَصَبًا.
Complete English Translation
“Hasten toward righteous deeds so that you may become Allah’s neighbours within His abode.
He will make His messengers their companions.
He will cause His angels to visit them.
He will honour their hearing by protecting it from ever hearing the sound of the Fire.
He will protect their bodies from weariness and fatigue.”
References
- Nahj al-Balāghah, sermon 183
- Biḥār al-Anwār, vol. 8, p. 163, hadith 105
Short Comment
Paradise will contain companionship with Allah’s messengers, visits from angels and complete protection of body and hearing.
13. They Will Not Hear Even the Sound of Hell
Qur’an — Surah al-Anbiyā’ 21:101–103
Arabic
إِنَّ الَّذِينَ سَبَقَتْ لَهُمْ مِنَّا الْحُسْنَى أُولَئِكَ عَنْهَا مُبْعَدُونَ لَا يَسْمَعُونَ حَسِيسَهَا وَهُمْ فِي مَا اشْتَهَتْ أَنْفُسُهُمْ خَالِدُونَ لَا يَحْزُنُهُمُ الْفَزَعُ الْأَكْبَرُ وَتَتَلَقَّاهُمُ الْمَلَائِكَةُ هَذَا يَوْمُكُمُ الَّذِي كُنْتُمْ تُوعَدُونَ.
English Translation
“Those for whom the finest promise has already gone forth from Us will be kept far away from Hell.
They will not hear even its slightest sound, and they will remain forever within whatever their souls desire.
The greatest terror will not grieve them, and the angels will receive them, saying:
‘This is your day which you were promised.’”
Short Comment
Their security will extend to their senses: even the sound of the punishment from which they were saved will not disturb them.
14. Worldly Fear and Hardship Will Be Removed
Qur’an — Surah Fāṭir 35:34–35
Arabic
وَقَالُوا الْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ الَّذِي أَذْهَبَ عَنَّا الْحَزَنَ إِنَّ رَبَّنَا لَغَفُورٌ شَكُورٌ الَّذِي أَحَلَّنَا دَارَ الْمُقَامَةِ مِنْ فَضْلِهِ لَا يَمَسُّنَا فِيهَا نَصَبٌ وَلَا يَمَسُّنَا فِيهَا لُغُوبٌ.
English Translation
“They will say:
‘All praise belongs to Allah, who has removed sorrow from us. Our Lord is truly All-Forgiving and Appreciative.
He has settled us through His favour within the permanent abode, where no fatigue touches us and no weariness affects us.’”
Tafsir From Imam Muhammad al-Baqir
Arabic
الْحُزْنُ هُوَ مَا أَصَابَهُمْ فِي الدُّنْيَا مِنَ الْخَوْفِ وَالشِّدَّةِ.
English Translation
“The sorrow removed from the inhabitants is the fear and hardship that afflicted them in the world.”
References
- Ta’wīl al-Āyāt al-Ẓāhirah, vol. 2, p. 483, hadith 10
- Biḥār al-Anwār, vol. 23, p. 220, hadith 22
Short Comment
The fear, pressure and hardship carried through worldly life will be permanently taken away.
15. No Fear, Grief or Humiliation
Qur’an — Surah al-Zukhruf 43:68–73
Arabic
يَا عِبَادِ لَا خَوْفٌ عَلَيْكُمُ الْيَوْمَ وَلَا أَنْتُمْ تَحْزَنُونَ الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا بِآيَاتِنَا وَكَانُوا مُسْلِمِينَ ادْخُلُوا الْجَنَّةَ أَنْتُمْ وَأَزْوَاجُكُمْ تُحْبَرُونَ يُطَافُ عَلَيْهِمْ بِصِحَافٍ مِنْ ذَهَبٍ وَأَكْوَابٍ وَفِيهَا مَا تَشْتَهِيهِ الْأَنْفُسُ وَتَلَذُّ الْأَعْيُنُ وَأَنْتُمْ فِيهَا خَالِدُونَ وَتِلْكَ الْجَنَّةُ الَّتِي أُورِثْتُمُوهَا بِمَا كُنْتُمْ تَعْمَلُونَ لَكُمْ فِيهَا فَاكِهَةٌ كَثِيرَةٌ مِنْهَا تَأْكُلُونَ.
English Translation
“‘My servants, no fear will be upon you today, nor will you grieve—
those who believed in Our signs and submitted.
Enter Paradise, you and your spouses, rejoicing.’
Golden dishes and cups will be passed around them. There will be whatever the souls desire and whatever delights the eyes, and you will remain therein forever.
That is the Paradise you inherited because of what you used to do.
You will have abundant fruit therein from which you will eat.”
Qur’an — Surah Yūnus 10:26
Arabic
لِلَّذِينَ أَحْسَنُوا الْحُسْنَى وَزِيَادَةٌ وَلَا يَرْهَقُ وُجُوهَهُمْ قَتَرٌ وَلَا ذِلَّةٌ أُولَئِكَ أَصْحَابُ الْجَنَّةِ هُمْ فِيهَا خَالِدُونَ.
English Translation
“For those who perform good is the finest reward and even more. Neither darkness nor humiliation will cover their faces. They are the inhabitants of Paradise, remaining therein forever.”
Short Comment
They will have no anxiety about the future, no sorrow over the past and no experience of shame or disgrace.
16. No Resentment, Hatred or Jealousy
Qur’an — Surah al-A‘rāf 7:43
Arabic
وَنَزَعْنَا مَا فِي صُدُورِهِمْ مِنْ غِلٍّ تَجْرِي مِنْ تَحْتِهِمُ الْأَنْهَارُ وَقَالُوا الْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ الَّذِي هَدَانَا لِهَذَا وَمَا كُنَّا لِنَهْتَدِيَ لَوْلَا أَنْ هَدَانَا اللَّهُ.
English Translation
“We will remove whatever rancour remains within their hearts. Rivers will flow beneath them, and they will say:
‘All praise belongs to Allah, who guided us to this. We could never have been guided had Allah not guided us.’”
Qur’an — Surah al-Ḥijr 15:46–47
Arabic
ادْخُلُوهَا بِسَلَامٍ آمِنِينَ وَنَزَعْنَا مَا فِي صُدُورِهِمْ مِنْ غِلٍّ إِخْوَانًا عَلَى سُرُرٍ مُتَقَابِلِينَ.
English Translation
“‘Enter them in peace and complete security.’
We will remove whatever rancour remains within their hearts, and they will become brothers seated upon couches facing one another.”
Short Comment
No remembered injury, resentment or rivalry will survive within the purified hearts of the inhabitants.
17. No Lies, Insults or Harmful Speech
Qur’an — Surah al-Wāqi‘ah 56:25–26
Arabic
لَا يَسْمَعُونَ فِيهَا لَغْوًا وَلَا تَأْثِيمًا إِلَّا قِيلًا سَلَامًا سَلَامًا.
English Translation
“They will hear therein neither meaningless speech nor sinful words, but only the saying:
‘Peace, peace.’”
Qur’an — Surah al-Naba’ 78:35
Arabic
لَا يَسْمَعُونَ فِيهَا لَغْوًا وَلَا كِذَّابًا.
English Translation
“They will hear therein neither meaningless speech nor lies.”
Short Comment
Conversation will contain no deception, mockery, obscenity, false accusation or emotionally harmful language.
18. No Harmful Heat, Cold or Environmental Discomfort
Qur’an — Surah al-Insān 76:11–13
Arabic
فَوَقَاهُمُ اللَّهُ شَرَّ ذَلِكَ الْيَوْمِ وَلَقَّاهُمْ نَضْرَةً وَسُرُورًا وَجَزَاهُمْ بِمَا صَبَرُوا جَنَّةً وَحَرِيرًا مُتَّكِئِينَ فِيهَا عَلَى الْأَرَائِكِ لَا يَرَوْنَ فِيهَا شَمْسًا وَلَا زَمْهَرِيرًا.
English Translation
“Allah will protect them from the evil of that Day and meet them with radiance and joy.
He will reward them for their patience with Paradise and silk.
Reclining therein upon couches, they will experience neither burning sun nor bitter cold.”
Short Comment
The environment will remain perfectly comfortable without harmful weather, temperature or seasonal hardship.
19. They Will Never Be Removed From Paradise
Qur’an — Surah al-Ḥijr 15:48
Arabic
لَا يَمَسُّهُمْ فِيهَا نَصَبٌ وَمَا هُمْ مِنْهَا بِمُخْرَجِينَ.
English Translation
“No fatigue will touch them therein, nor will they ever be removed from it.”
Short Comment
Their residence will never be cancelled, confiscated, lost or made dependent upon a changing condition.
20. They Will Never Desire Another Home or Substitute
Qur’an — Surah al-Kahf 18:107–108
Arabic
إِنَّ الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا وَعَمِلُوا الصَّالِحَاتِ كَانَتْ لَهُمْ جَنَّاتُ الْفِرْدَوْسِ نُزُلًا خَالِدِينَ فِيهَا لَا يَبْغُونَ عَنْهَا حِوَلًا.
English Translation
“Those who believe and perform righteous deeds will have the Gardens of Firdaws as their welcoming home.
They will remain therein forever and will never desire any transfer from it.”
Tafsir From Imam Ja‘far al-Sadiq
Complete Arabic
خَالِدِينَ فِيهَا:
لَا يَخْرُجُونَ مِنْهَا.
وَلَا يَبْغُونَ عَنْهَا حِوَلًا:
لَا يُرِيدُونَ بِهَا بَدَلًا.
Complete English Translation
“‘Remaining therein forever’ means that they will never leave it.
‘Never desiring any transfer from it’ means that they will desire no substitute for it.”
References
- Tafsīr al-Qummī, tafsir of Qur’an 18:107–108
- Al-Burhān fī Tafsīr al-Qur’ān, vol. 3, p. 683
- Transmitted from Abu Basir from Imam al-Sadiq.
Short Comment
Every resident will be so fulfilled that no alternative home, pleasure or form of existence will appear preferable.
21. No Painful Hunger, Thirst or Poverty
Imam Muhammad al-Baqir’s descriptions include:
Arabic
وَيَسْتَغْنُونَ فَلَا يَفْتَقِرُونَ أَبَدًا.
وَيَأْكُلُونَ فَلَا يَجُوعُونَ أَبَدًا.
وَيَرْوَوْنَ فَلَا يَظْمَئُونَ أَبَدًا.
وَيُكْسَوْنَ فَلَا يَعْرَوْنَ أَبَدًا.
English Translation
“They will possess abundance and will never experience poverty.
They will eat and never suffer hunger.
They will be refreshed and never suffer thirst.
They will remain clothed and never become naked.”
References
- Al-Ikhtiṣāṣ, p. 358
- Biḥār al-Anwār, vol. 8, pp. 218–220
The extended Shia description records life, wakefulness, abundance, happiness, food, drink, clothing, travel and divine greetings as permanent conditions.
Short Comment
Food, drink and clothing will remain pleasures rather than urgent necessities imposed by weakness or deprivation.
22. Nourishment Without Ordinary Bodily Impurity
A Christian asked Imam Muhammad al-Baqir, peace be upon him:
Complete Arabic
أَخْبِرْنِي عَنْ أَهْلِ الْجَنَّةِ، كَيْفَ صَارُوا يَأْكُلُونَ وَلَا يَتَغَوَّطُونَ؟ أَعْطِنِي مَثَلَهُمْ فِي الدُّنْيَا.
فَقَالَ عليه السلام:
هَذَا الْجَنِينُ فِي بَطْنِ أُمِّهِ، يَأْكُلُ مِمَّا تَأْكُلُ أُمُّهُ وَلَا يَتَغَوَّطُ.
Complete English Translation
“Tell me about the inhabitants of Paradise. How will they eat without defecating? Give me an example from the world.”
The Imam replied:
“The unborn child within its mother receives nourishment from what its mother eats, yet it does not defecate.”
References
- Al-Kāfī, vol. 8, p. 123, hadith 94
- Tafsīr al-Qummī, vol. 1, p. 99
- Al-Kharā’ij wa al-Jarā’iḥ, vol. 1, p. 292
- Biḥār al-Anwār, vol. 60, p. 255
Short Comment
The recreated body will receive nourishment without producing the ordinary impure waste of earthly digestion.
23. Happiness After Which Misery Will Never Return
Imam Ja‘far al-Sadiq, peace be upon him, described the believer’s arrival at the gate of Paradise.
Complete Relevant Arabic
فَإِذَا انْتَهَى إِلَى بَابِ الْجَنَّةِ قِيلَ لَهُ:
هَاتِ الْجَوَازَ.
قَالَ:
هَذَا جَوَازِي، مَكْتُوبٌ فِيهِ:
بِسْمِ اللَّهِ الرَّحْمَنِ الرَّحِيمِ، هَذَا جَوَازُ جَائِزٍ مِنَ اللَّهِ الْعَزِيزِ الْحَكِيمِ لِفُلَانِ بْنِ فُلَانٍ مِنْ رَبِّ الْعَالَمِينَ.
فَيُنَادِي مُنَادٍ يُسْمِعُ أَهْلَ الْجَمْعِ كُلَّهُمْ:
أَلَا إِنَّ فُلَانَ بْنَ فُلَانٍ قَدْ سَعِدَ سَعَادَةً لَا يَشْقَى بَعْدَهَا أَبَدًا.
Complete English Translation
“When the believer reaches the gate of Paradise, he will be told:
‘Present your pass.’
He will reply:
‘This is my pass. Written upon it is:
In the name of Allah, the Most Merciful, the Especially Merciful. This is a valid pass from Allah, the Almighty, the All-Wise, for so-and-so, son of so-and-so, from the Lord of the worlds.’
A caller will then announce so that everyone gathered can hear:
‘Know that so-and-so, son of so-and-so, has attained a happiness after which he will never again suffer misery.’”
References
- Al-Ikhtiṣāṣ, p. 350
- Kitāb Ṣifat al-Jannah wa al-Nār
- Al-Burhān fī Tafsīr al-Qur’ān, vol. 5, p. 263
- Biḥār al-Anwār, vol. 8, p. 212
Short Comment
The believer’s entry will mark an irreversible transition into happiness from which no later misery can emerge.
24. Their Daily Life Will Be Filled With Joyful Activity
Qur’an — Surah Yā-Sīn 36:55–58
Arabic
إِنَّ أَصْحَابَ الْجَنَّةِ الْيَوْمَ فِي شُغُلٍ فَاكِهُونَ هُمْ وَأَزْوَاجُهُمْ فِي ظِلَالٍ عَلَى الْأَرَائِكِ مُتَّكِئُونَ لَهُمْ فِيهَا فَاكِهَةٌ وَلَهُمْ مَا يَدَّعُونَ سَلَامٌ قَوْلًا مِنْ رَبٍّ رَحِيمٍ.
English Translation
“The inhabitants of Paradise will on that day be happily occupied.
They and their spouses will recline upon couches in the shade.
They will have fruit therein and whatever they request.
‘Peace’—a word from a Merciful Lord.”
Short Comment
Eternal life will not be empty inactivity; it will contain companionship, enjoyment, fulfilled requests and divine peace.
25. Desires Will Be Fulfilled Through Glorification
Imam Muhammad al-Baqir, peace be upon him, transmitted the following description:
Complete Relevant Arabic
وَإِنَّ الْمُؤْمِنَ لَيَكُونُ لَهُ مِنَ الْجِنَانِ مَا أَحَبَّ وَاشْتَهَى، يَتَنَعَّمُ فِيهِنَّ كَيْفَ شَاءَ.
وَإِذَا أَرَادَ الْمُؤْمِنُ شَيْئًا أَوِ اشْتَهَى، إِنَّمَا دَعْوَاهُ فِيهَا إِذَا أَرَادَ أَنْ يَقُولَ:
سُبْحَانَكَ اللَّهُمَّ.
فَإِذَا قَالَهَا تَبَادَرَتْ إِلَيْهِ الْخَدَمُ بِمَا اشْتَهَى، مِنْ غَيْرِ أَنْ يَكُونَ طَلَبَهُ مِنْهُمْ أَوْ أَمَرَ بِهِ.
وَذَلِكَ قَوْلُ اللَّهِ عَزَّ وَجَلَّ:
دَعْوَاهُمْ فِيهَا سُبْحَانَكَ اللَّهُمَّ وَتَحِيَّتُهُمْ فِيهَا سَلَامٌ.
Complete English Translation
“The believer will possess whatever Gardens he loves and desires and will enjoy them however he wishes.
Whenever the believer wants or desires something, his call will be to say:
‘Glory be to You, O Allah.’
When he says it, the servants will immediately bring whatever he desires without his having requested it from them or commanded them.
This is the meaning of Allah’s words:
‘Their call therein will be: Glory be to You, O Allah, and their greeting therein will be peace.’”
References
- Al-Kāfī, vol. 8, pp. 99–100, hadith 69
- Al-Wāfī, vol. 25
- Biḥār al-Anwār, vol. 8
Short Comment
Even requesting a blessing will require no effortful explanation; remembrance of Allah will be followed by immediate fulfilment.
26. Their Provision Will Be Known Before They Ask
The same narration continues:
Complete Relevant Arabic
وَأَمَّا قَوْلُهُ:
أُولَئِكَ لَهُمْ رِزْقٌ مَعْلُومٌ،
قَالَ:
يَعْلَمُهُ الْخُدَّامُ، فَيَأْتُونَ بِهِ أَوْلِيَاءَ اللَّهِ قَبْلَ أَنْ يَسْأَلُوهُمْ إِيَّاهُ.
وَأَمَّا قَوْلُهُ عَزَّ وَجَلَّ:
فَوَاكِهُ وَهُمْ مُكْرَمُونَ،
قَالَ:
فَإِنَّهُمْ لَا يَشْتَهُونَ شَيْئًا فِي الْجَنَّةِ إِلَّا أُكْرِمُوا بِهِ.
Complete English Translation
“As for the words:
‘They will have a known provision,’
the servants will already know it and will bring it to the friends of Allah before they ask for it.
As for the words:
‘Fruits, while they are honoured,’
the inhabitants will desire nothing within Paradise except that they will be honoured with it.”
References
- Al-Kāfī, vol. 8, p. 100, hadith 69
- Tafsīr al-Ṣāfī
- Al-Burhān fī Tafsīr al-Qur’ān
Short Comment
Paradise provision will reach the believer before a verbal request becomes necessary.
27. Every Pleasure Will End With Praise of Allah
The narration explains the final words of Qur’an 10:10:
Complete Relevant Arabic
وَآخِرُ دَعْوَاهُمْ أَنِ الْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ رَبِّ الْعَالَمِينَ.
يَعْنِي بِذَلِكَ عِنْدَ مَا يَقْضُونَ مِنْ لَذَّاتِهِمْ مِنَ الْجِمَاعِ وَالطَّعَامِ وَالشَّرَابِ، يَحْمَدُونَ اللَّهَ عَزَّ وَجَلَّ عِنْدَ فَرَاغِهِمْ.
Complete English Translation
“‘The conclusion of their call will be: All praise belongs to Allah, Lord of the worlds.’
This means that after completing their pleasures of marital intimacy, food and drink, they will praise Allah, Mighty and Majestic, upon finishing.”
References
- Al-Kāfī, vol. 8, hadith 69
- Al-Wāfī, vol. 25
- Biḥār al-Anwār, vol. 8
Short Comment
Pleasure will increase gratitude and remembrance rather than causing heedlessness.
28. Effortless Travel Throughout Paradise
Imam Ali, peace be upon him, said:
Complete Relevant Arabic
إِنَّ فِي الْجَنَّةِ لَشَجَرَةً يَخْرُجُ مِنْ أَعْلَاهَا الْحُلَلُ، وَمِنْ أَسْفَلِهَا خَيْلٌ بُلْقٌ مُسَرَّجَةٌ مُلْجَمَةٌ ذَوَاتُ أَجْنِحَةٍ، لَا تَرُوثُ وَلَا تَبُولُ.
فَيَرْكَبُهَا أَوْلِيَاءُ اللَّهِ، فَتَطِيرُ بِهِمْ فِي الْجَنَّةِ حَيْثُ شَاءُوا.
Complete English Translation
“Within Paradise is a tree from whose upper part garments emerge and from beneath which come piebald, saddled and bridled horses possessing wings, which neither defecate nor urinate.
The friends of Allah will mount them, and they will fly with them throughout Paradise wherever they desire.”
Reference
- Kitāb al-Zuhd, Book 2, chapter 19, hadith 7.
Short Comment
Travel will be governed by pleasure and desire rather than distance, expense, fatigue or necessity.
29. They Will Ride and Visit One Another Forever
The extended description attributed to Imam Muhammad al-Baqir states:
Arabic
وَيَرْكَبُونَ وَيَتَزَاوَرُونَ أَبَدًا.
يُسَلِّمُ عَلَيْهِمُ الْوِلْدَانُ الْمُخَلَّدُونَ أَبَدًا.
مُتَّكِئِينَ عَلَى سُرُرٍ أَبَدًا، عَلَى الْأَرَائِكِ يَنْظُرُونَ أَبَدًا.
تَأْتِيهِمُ التَّحِيَّةُ وَالتَّسْلِيمُ مِنَ اللَّهِ أَبَدًا.
English Translation
“They will ride and visit one another forever.
Everlasting youths will greet and serve them forever.
They will recline upon couches and look from raised seats forever.
Greetings and peace from Allah will reach them forever.”
References
- Al-Ikhtiṣāṣ, p. 358
- Biḥār al-Anwār, vol. 8, p. 220
The longer Shia compilation preserves these clauses as part of Imam al-Baqir’s description of eternal life.
Short Comment
The social life of Paradise will include visits, movement, hospitality, service and continual divine greetings.
30. Believers of Different Ranks Will Still Be Able to Meet
Abu Basir asked Imam Ja‘far al-Sadiq, peace be upon him:
Complete Relevant Arabic
قُلْتُ لَهُ:
إِنَّ الْمُؤْمِنَيْنِ يَدْخُلَانِ الْجَنَّةَ، فَيَكُونُ أَحَدُهُمَا أَرْفَعَ مَكَانًا مِنَ الْآخَرِ، فَيَشْتَهِي أَنْ يَلْقَى صَاحِبَهُ.
قَالَ عليه السلام:
مَنْ كَانَ فَوْقَهُ فَلَهُ أَنْ يَهْبِطَ، وَمَنْ كَانَ تَحْتَهُ لَمْ يَكُنْ لَهُ أَنْ يَصْعَدَ؛ لِأَنَّهُ لَا يَبْلُغُ ذَلِكَ الْمَكَانَ.
وَلَكِنَّهُمْ إِذَا أَحَبُّوا ذَلِكَ وَاشْتَهَوْهُ الْتَقَوْا عَلَى الْأَسِرَّةِ.
Complete English Translation
“I asked the Imam:
‘If two believers enter Paradise and one occupies a higher position than the other, but they desire to meet, what will happen?’
The Imam replied:
‘The one occupying the higher position may descend.
The one below cannot ascend to a position he has not attained.
However, when they love and desire to meet, they will meet upon couches.’”
References
- Majma‘ al-Bayān, vol. 9, p. 318
- Biḥār al-Anwār, vol. 8, p. 106
Short Comment
Differences of rank will not end friendship, affection or social meetings between believers.
31. Believing Families Will Be Reunited
Qur’an — Surah al-Ra‘d 13:23–24
Arabic
جَنَّاتُ عَدْنٍ يَدْخُلُونَهَا وَمَنْ صَلَحَ مِنْ آبَائِهِمْ وَأَزْوَاجِهِمْ وَذُرِّيَّاتِهِمْ وَالْمَلَائِكَةُ يَدْخُلُونَ عَلَيْهِمْ مِنْ كُلِّ بَابٍ سَلَامٌ عَلَيْكُمْ بِمَا صَبَرْتُمْ فَنِعْمَ عُقْبَى الدَّارِ.
English Translation
“They will enter the Gardens of Eden together with the righteous among their parents, spouses and descendants.
The angels will enter upon them through every gate, saying:
‘Peace be upon you because of your patience. Excellent is the final home.’”
Qur’an — Surah al-Ṭūr 52:21
Arabic
وَالَّذِينَ آمَنُوا وَاتَّبَعَتْهُمْ ذُرِّيَّتُهُمْ بِإِيمَانٍ أَلْحَقْنَا بِهِمْ ذُرِّيَّتَهُمْ وَمَا أَلَتْنَاهُمْ مِنْ عَمَلِهِمْ مِنْ شَيْءٍ.
English Translation
“Those who believed and whose descendants followed them in faith—We will unite their descendants with them, and We will not diminish anything from the reward of their deeds.”
Short Comment
Worldly death and separation will not permanently divide righteous believing families.
32. A Deceased Child May Lead a Believing Parent Into Paradise
Imam Muhammad al-Baqir reported that the Messenger of Allah said to Lady Khadijah after the death of her son:
Complete Relevant Arabic
يَا خَدِيجَةُ، أَمَا تَرْضَيْنَ إِذَا كَانَ يَوْمُ الْقِيَامَةِ أَنْ تَجِيئِي إِلَى بَابِ الْجَنَّةِ وَهُوَ قَائِمٌ، فَيَأْخُذَ بِيَدِكِ، فَيُدْخِلَكِ الْجَنَّةَ، وَيُنْزِلَكِ أَفْضَلَهَا؟
وَذَلِكَ لِكُلِّ مُؤْمِنٍ.
Complete English Translation
“O Khadijah, would you not be pleased that on the Day of Resurrection you will approach the gate of Paradise and find him standing there?
He will take you by the hand, admit you into Paradise and settle you in its finest place.
The same applies to every believer.”
References
- Al-Kāfī, vol. 3, p. 218, hadith 2
- Mishkāt al-Anwār, p. 59, hadith 73
Short Comment
The sorrow of losing a believing child may end with the child welcoming and leading the parent into Paradise.
33. The Desire for a Child Can Be Fulfilled Without Pregnancy or Birth
Imam al-Mahdi, peace be upon him, is reported to have said:
Complete Arabic
إِنَّ الْمُؤْمِنَ فِي الْجَنَّةِ إِذَا اشْتَهَى وَلَدًا خَلَقَهُ اللَّهُ عَزَّ وَجَلَّ بِغَيْرِ حَمْلٍ وَلَا وِلَادَةٍ، عَلَى الصُّورَةِ الَّتِي يُرِيدُ، كَمَا خَلَقَ آدَمَ.
Complete English Translation
“If a believer in Paradise desires a child, Allah, Mighty and Majestic, will create the child without pregnancy or childbirth, in the form the believer desires, just as He created Adam.”
References
- Al-Iḥtijāj, vol. 2, p. 580
- Biḥār al-Anwār, vol. 53, p. 163
Short Comment
The joy associated with having a child may be granted without the biological pain, danger or hardship of earthly reproduction.
34. They Will See the Hell Dwelling From Which Allah Saved Them
Imam Ja‘far al-Sadiq, peace be upon him, said:
Complete Relevant Arabic
مَا خَلَقَ اللَّهُ خَلْقًا إِلَّا جَعَلَ لَهُ فِي الْجَنَّةِ مَنْزِلًا وَفِي النَّارِ مَنْزِلًا.
فَإِذَا سَكَنَ أَهْلُ الْجَنَّةِ الْجَنَّةَ، وَأَهْلُ النَّارِ النَّارَ، نَادَى مُنَادٍ:
يَا أَهْلَ الْجَنَّةِ، أَشْرِفُوا.
فَيُشْرِفُونَ عَلَى النَّارِ، وَتُرْفَعُ لَهُمْ مَنَازِلُهُمْ فِي النَّارِ.
ثُمَّ يُقَالُ لَهُمْ:
هَذِهِ مَنَازِلُكُمُ الَّتِي لَوْ عَصَيْتُمْ رَبَّكُمْ دَخَلْتُمُوهَا.
فَلَوْ أَنَّ أَحَدًا مَاتَ فَرَحًا، لَمَاتَ أَهْلُ الْجَنَّةِ فِي ذَلِكَ الْيَوْمِ فَرَحًا لِمَا صُرِفَ عَنْهُمْ مِنَ الْعَذَابِ.
Complete English Translation
“Allah has created no person without assigning for that person a residence within Paradise and a residence within the Fire.
When the inhabitants of Paradise have settled in Paradise and the inhabitants of the Fire have settled in the Fire, a caller will announce:
‘People of Paradise, look.’
They will look toward the Fire, and their former residences within it will be shown to them.
They will be told:
‘These are the dwellings you would have entered had you disobeyed your Lord.’
If it were possible for anyone to die from joy, the inhabitants of Paradise would die from joy that day because of the punishment Allah diverted from them.”
References
- Thawāb al-A‘māl
- Tafsīr al-Qummī, vol. 2
- Biḥār al-Anwār, vol. 8, p. 370
Short Comment
Seeing the punishment they escaped will deepen their gratitude and produce overwhelming joy in Allah’s salvation.
35. Paradise Has Different Ranks, but No Lasting Jealousy
The Messenger of Allah, peace be upon him and his family, said:
Complete Relevant Arabic
إِنَّ الدَّرَجَةَ فِي الْجَنَّةِ فَوْقَ الدَّرَجَةِ كَمَا بَيْنَ السَّمَاءِ وَالْأَرْضِ.
وَإِنَّ الْعَبْدَ لَيَرْفَعُ بَصَرَهُ، فَيَلْمَعُ لَهُ بَرْقٌ يَكَادُ يَخْطَفُ بَصَرَهُ، فَيَقُولُ:
مَا هَذَا؟
فَيُقَالُ لَهُ:
هَذَا نُورُ أَخِيكَ فُلَانٍ.
فَيَقُولُ:
أَخِي فُلَانٌ! كُنَّا نَعْمَلُ فِي الدُّنْيَا جَمِيعًا، وَقَدْ فُضِّلَ عَلَيَّ هَكَذَا!
فَيُقَالُ لَهُ:
إِنَّهُ كَانَ أَفْضَلَ مِنْكَ عَمَلًا.
ثُمَّ يُجْعَلُ فِي قَلْبِهِ الرِّضَا حَتَّى يَرْضَى.
Complete English Translation
“One rank in Paradise will be above another like the distance between heaven and earth.
A servant will raise his eyes and see a flash of light that almost overwhelms his sight. He will ask:
‘What is this?’
He will be told:
‘This is the light of your brother, so-and-so.’
He will say:
‘My brother! We used to perform deeds together in the world, yet he has been raised so far above me.’
He will be told:
‘His deeds were better than yours.’
Contentment will then be placed within his heart until he becomes completely satisfied.”
References
- Al-Amālī of Shaykh al-Ṭūsī, p. 529
- Makārim al-Akhlāq, vol. 2
The report is also preserved in Shia hadith collections of Paradise.
Short Comment
Different earned ranks will exist, but Allah will remove jealous dissatisfaction and give every resident complete contentment.
36. The Weekly Honour of the Believers
Imam Ja‘far al-Sadiq, peace be upon him, said:
Complete Relevant Arabic
إِنَّ لِلَّهِ كَرَامَةً فِي عِبَادِهِ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ فِي كُلِّ يَوْمِ جُمُعَةٍ.
فَإِذَا كَانَ يَوْمُ الْجُمُعَةِ بَعَثَ اللَّهُ إِلَى الْمُؤْمِنِ مَلَكًا مَعَهُ حُلَّتَانِ.
فَيَلْبَسُهُمَا، فَلَا يَمُرُّ بِشَيْءٍ إِلَّا أَضَاءَ لَهُ، حَتَّى يَنْتَهِيَ إِلَى الْمَوْعِدِ.
فَإِذَا اجْتَمَعُوا تَجَلَّى لَهُمُ الرَّبُّ تَبَارَكَ وَتَعَالَى، فَإِذَا نَظَرُوا إِلَيْهِ ـ أَيْ إِلَى رَحْمَتِهِ ـ خَرُّوا سُجَّدًا.
فَيَقُولُ:
عِبَادِي، ارْفَعُوا رُؤُوسَكُمْ، لَيْسَ هَذَا يَوْمَ سُجُودٍ وَلَا عِبَادَةٍ، قَدْ رَفَعْتُ عَنْكُمُ الْمَؤُونَةَ.
فَيَقُولُونَ:
يَا رَبِّ، وَأَيُّ شَيْءٍ أَفْضَلُ مِمَّا أَعْطَيْتَنَا؟ أَعْطَيْتَنَا الْجَنَّةَ.
فَيَقُولُ:
لَكُمْ مِثْلُ مَا فِي أَيْدِيكُمْ سَبْعِينَ ضِعْفًا.
Complete English Translation
“Allah grants a special honour to His believing servants every Friday.
When Friday arrives, Allah sends an angel to the believer carrying two garments.
The believer wears them, and everything he passes becomes illuminated until he reaches the appointed gathering.
When the believers have gathered, the mercy and honour of the Blessed and Exalted Lord are manifested to them, and they fall in prostration.
Allah says:
‘My servants, raise your heads. This is not a day of obligatory prostration or worship. I have removed the burden from you.’
They say:
‘Our Lord, what could be greater than what You have already given us? You have given us Paradise.’
Allah replies:
‘You will receive seventy times what you presently possess.’”
References
- Tafsīr al-Qummī, vol. 2, p. 169
- Biḥār al-Anwār, vol. 8, p. 126, hadith 27
Short Comment
Paradise will contain recurring new honours and gifts, while obligatory religious burden will no longer be required.
37. Remembrance and Praise Will Remain Pleasurable
The removal of obligatory burden does not mean the end of remembrance. The Qur’an says:
Qur’an — Surah Yūnus 10:9–10
Arabic
إِنَّ الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا وَعَمِلُوا الصَّالِحَاتِ يَهْدِيهِمْ رَبُّهُمْ بِإِيمَانِهِمْ تَجْرِي مِنْ تَحْتِهِمُ الْأَنْهَارُ فِي جَنَّاتِ النَّعِيمِ دَعْوَاهُمْ فِيهَا سُبْحَانَكَ اللَّهُمَّ وَتَحِيَّتُهُمْ فِيهَا سَلَامٌ وَآخِرُ دَعْوَاهُمْ أَنِ الْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ رَبِّ الْعَالَمِينَ.
English Translation
“Those who believe and perform righteous deeds—their Lord will guide them through their faith. Rivers will flow beneath them within Gardens of Bliss.
Their call therein will be:
‘Glory be to You, O Allah.’
Their greeting therein will be peace.
The conclusion of their call will be:
‘All praise belongs to Allah, Lord of the worlds.’”
Short Comment
Obligatory toil will end, but glorification and praise will continue as natural sources of joy.
38. Love of Allah Will Be the Sweetest Blessing
Imam Ali, peace be upon him, is reported to have said:
Complete Arabic
إِنَّ أَطْيَبَ شَيْءٍ فِي الْجَنَّةِ وَأَلَذَّهُ حُبُّ اللَّهِ، وَالْحُبُّ فِي اللَّهِ، وَالْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ.
وَذَلِكَ أَنَّهُمْ إِذَا عَايَنُوا مَا فِي الْجَنَّةِ مِنَ النَّعِيمِ هَاجَتِ الْمَحَبَّةُ فِي قُلُوبِهِمْ، فَيُنَادُونَ:
الْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ رَبِّ الْعَالَمِينَ.
Complete English Translation
“The sweetest and most delightful thing within Paradise is love of Allah, love for the sake of Allah and praise of Allah.
When the inhabitants witness the blessings of Paradise, divine love will arise powerfully within their hearts, and they will proclaim:
‘All praise belongs to Allah, Lord of the worlds.’”
References
- Miṣbāḥ al-Sharī‘ah, p. 195
- Biḥār al-Anwār, vol. 69, p. 251, hadith 30
Short Comment
Physical pleasure will deepen their love and gratitude toward Allah rather than distracting them from Him.
39. Allah’s Pleasure Is Greater Than Paradise
Qur’an — Surah al-Tawbah 9:72
Arabic
وَعَدَ اللَّهُ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ وَالْمُؤْمِنَاتِ جَنَّاتٍ تَجْرِي مِنْ تَحْتِهَا الْأَنْهَارُ خَالِدِينَ فِيهَا وَمَسَاكِنَ طَيِّبَةً فِي جَنَّاتِ عَدْنٍ وَرِضْوَانٌ مِنَ اللَّهِ أَكْبَرُ ذَلِكَ هُوَ الْفَوْزُ الْعَظِيمُ.
English Translation
“Allah has promised the believing men and believing women Gardens beneath which rivers flow, remaining therein forever, and beautiful residences within the Gardens of Eden.
Yet Allah’s pleasure is greater.
That is the supreme triumph.”
Short Comment
The Qur’an explicitly places Allah’s pleasure above the Gardens, rivers and beautiful residences themselves.
40. Allah’s Love and Pleasure Are Greater Than Every Physical Blessing
Imam Zayn al-‘Abidin, peace be upon him, said:
Complete Relevant Arabic
إِذَا صَارَ أَهْلُ الْجَنَّةِ فِي الْجَنَّةِ، وَدَخَلَ وَلِيُّ اللَّهِ إِلَى جِنَانِهِ وَمَسَاكِنِهِ، وَاتَّكَأَ كُلُّ مُؤْمِنٍ مِنْهُمْ عَلَى أَرِيكَتِهِ، حَفَّتْهُ خُدَّامُهُ، وَتَهَدَّلَتْ عَلَيْهِ الثِّمَارُ، وَتَفَجَّرَتْ حَوْلَهُ الْعُيُونُ، وَجَرَتْ مِنْ تَحْتِهِ الْأَنْهَارُ.
ثُمَّ إِنَّ الْجَبَّارَ يُشْرِفُ عَلَيْهِمْ فَيَقُولُ:
أَوْلِيَائِي وَأَهْلَ طَاعَتِي وَسُكَّانَ جَنَّتِي فِي جِوَارِي، هَلْ لَكُمْ أَنْ أُنَبِّئَكُمْ بِخَيْرٍ مِمَّا أَنْتُمْ فِيهِ؟
فَيَقُولُونَ:
رَبَّنَا، وَأَيُّ شَيْءٍ خَيْرٌ مِمَّا نَحْنُ فِيهِ؟
فَيَقُولُ:
رِضَايَ عَنْكُمْ وَمَحَبَّتِي لَكُمْ خَيْرٌ وَأَعْظَمُ مِمَّا أَنْتُمْ فِيهِ.
فَيَقُولُونَ:
نَعَمْ يَا رَبَّنَا، رِضَاكَ عَنَّا وَمَحَبَّتُكَ لَنَا خَيْرٌ لَنَا وَأَطْيَبُ لِأَنْفُسِنَا.
Complete English Translation
“When the inhabitants of Paradise have entered Paradise and the friend of Allah enters his Gardens and residences, every believer will recline upon his couch.
His servants will surround him, fruits will hang down over him, springs will burst forth around him and rivers will flow beneath him.
Allah will then address them:
‘My friends, My obedient servants and the inhabitants of My Paradise who live within My nearness, shall I tell you about something better than everything you presently possess?’
They will ask:
‘Our Lord, what could possibly be better than what we possess?’
Allah will say:
‘My pleasure with you and My love for you are better and greater than everything you possess.’
They will reply:
‘Yes, our Lord. Your pleasure with us and Your love for us are better for us and sweeter to our souls.’”
References
- Tafsīr al-‘Ayyāshī, vol. 2, p. 96, hadith 88
- Biḥār al-Anwār, vol. 8, p. 141, hadith 57
Short Comment
The inhabitants themselves will declare that Allah’s love and pleasure are sweeter than their servants, fruits, springs, rivers and residences.
41. Allah Will Be Pleased With Them and They With Him
Qur’an — Surah al-Bayyinah 98:8
Arabic
جَزَاؤُهُمْ عِنْدَ رَبِّهِمْ جَنَّاتُ عَدْنٍ تَجْرِي مِنْ تَحْتِهَا الْأَنْهَارُ خَالِدِينَ فِيهَا أَبَدًا رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُمْ وَرَضُوا عَنْهُ ذَلِكَ لِمَنْ خَشِيَ رَبَّهُ.
English Translation
“Their reward with their Lord will be Gardens of Eden beneath which rivers flow, remaining therein forever.
Allah is pleased with them, and they are pleased with Him.
That is for whoever feared his Lord.”
Short Comment
The highest contentment will be mutual: Allah will accept the inhabitants, and they will be completely satisfied with Him.
42. The Completely Peaceful and Satisfied Soul
Qur’an — Surah al-Fajr 89:27–30
Arabic
يَا أَيَّتُهَا النَّفْسُ الْمُطْمَئِنَّةُ ارْجِعِي إِلَى رَبِّكِ رَاضِيَةً مَرْضِيَّةً فَادْخُلِي فِي عِبَادِي وَادْخُلِي جَنَّتِي.
English Translation
“‘O completely reassured soul,
return to your Lord, satisfied and accepted.
Enter among My servants,
and enter My Paradise.’”
Short Comment
The soul will enter Paradise possessing complete tranquillity and knowing that Allah is pleased with it.
Complete Description of Life in Paradise
Life in Paradise will begin with the announcement that death has ended:
خُلُودٌ لَا مَوْتَ.
“Eternity without death.”
The inhabitants will live and never die. They will remain awake and never require sleep. Their wakefulness will produce no fatigue because true rest will surround their entire existence.
They will possess abundance and never experience poverty. They will eat without painful hunger, drink without thirst and remain clothed without fear of deprivation. Their bodies will never become sick, weak, old or endangered.
Their condition will never deteriorate. No unwanted change will occur. No journey will be forced upon them by poverty, employment, exile or danger.
They will feel no fear concerning the future and no grief concerning the past. Worldly fear and hardship will be removed. They will laugh without crying, remain cheerful without frowning and live in honour without humiliation.
Their hearts will contain no resentment, hatred or jealousy. Different ranks will exist according to deeds, but Allah will place satisfaction within every heart until no believer remains dissatisfied with another believer’s position.
Their speech will contain no lies, insults, false accusations, obscenity or harmful argument. They will hear peace from one another, from the angels and from the Merciful Lord.
They will not hear even the sound of Hell. Allah’s messengers will be their companions, and the angels will visit them. The greatest terror will not grieve them.
They will never be expelled from Paradise and will never desire another home or substitute. Its blessings will never end, its residents will never depart and its eternal inhabitants will never grow old or suffer.
Their days will contain joyful activity rather than empty inactivity. They will recline with spouses and companions, travel wherever they desire, ride heavenly mounts and visit one another forever.
Believers occupying different ranks will still meet when they desire companionship. Righteous parents, spouses and descendants will be reunited, and the sorrow caused by the death of believing children may end with those children welcoming their parents at the gate of Paradise.
Every pure desire will be fulfilled. The servants of Paradise will know their provision before they ask. A believer who says, “Glory be to You, O Allah,” will find the desired blessing presented without labour or explanation.
They will receive not only what they request but also additional blessings beyond their imagination. Some joys have never been seen by any eye or witnessed by any creature.
The inhabitants will be shown the punishment from which Allah saved them, increasing their gratitude and producing extraordinary joy. If death from excessive happiness remained possible, they would die from that joy—but death will already have been abolished.
Their enjoyment will never cause forgetfulness of Allah. Every pleasure will end with praise:
الْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ رَبِّ الْعَالَمِينَ.
“All praise belongs to Allah, Lord of the worlds.”
Obligatory religious burden will no longer be necessary, yet remembrance, glorification and praise will remain among their sweetest pleasures.
Recurring heavenly gatherings will bring new garments, radiance, gifts and multiplied blessings. Paradise will therefore never become repetitive, stagnant or exhausted.
Yet the greatest blessing will not be its palaces, garments, servants, spouses, fruits, rivers, mounts or residences.
The sweetest blessing will be love of Allah.
Allah’s pleasure will be greater than all physical Paradise. Allah will tell the inhabitants that His pleasure and love for them are greater than everything they possess.
They will answer:
رِضَاكَ عَنَّا وَمَحَبَّتُكَ لَنَا خَيْرٌ لَنَا وَأَطْيَبُ لِأَنْفُسِنَا.
“Your pleasure with us and Your love for us are better for us and sweeter to our souls.”
Life in Paradise will therefore be:
immortality without ageing, wakefulness without exhaustion, prosperity without poverty, pleasure without painful need, happiness without grief, honour without humiliation, relationships without jealousy, movement without hardship, worshipful love without burden and everlasting life beneath Allah’s mercy, acceptance, love and supreme pleasure.