Page 68 - The Golden Age
P. 68

THE GOLDEN AGE



                  However, in this world Allah may well present blessings beyond
                  one's imagination. Indeed, Allah informs us that Paradise's blessings
                  are similar to those in this world:

                     Give the good news to those who believe and do right actions that
                     they will have gardens [in Paradise] with rivers flowing under
                     them. When they are given fruit there as provision, they will say:
                     "This is what we were given before." But they were only given a
                     simulation of it. They will have there spouses of perfect purity and
                     will remain there timelessly, forever. (Surat al-Baqara: 25)
                     The Golden Age will be the time when Allah will grant the most
                  glorious beauties and blessings to people. To form an accurate image
                  of this period, look at the verses that depict Paradise.








                                     Artistry in Paradise
                     Rivers and Springs

                     What is the example [i.e. description] of Paradise promised to the
                     righteous like? It has rivers flowing under it, and its foodstuffs and
                     cool shade never fail. That is the final fate of those who have done
                     their duty. But the final fate of the unbelievers is the Fire. (Surat ar-
                     Ra'd: 35)
                     The heedful will be amid gardens and springs: "Enter them in
                     peace, in complete security!" We will strip away any rancor in their
                     hearts—brothers [and sisters], resting on couches face-to-face.
                     (Surat al-Hijr: 45-47)
                     An image of Paradise that is promised to the righteous: In it there
                     are rivers of water that will never spoil, rivers of milk whose taste
                     will never change, and rivers of wine that are delightful to all who
                     drink it, and rivers of honey of undiluted purity. In it they will have
                     fruit of every kind and forgiveness from their Lord. Is that like
                     those who will be in the Fire timelessly, forever, with boiling water





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