What Is Paradise in Islam?

Several religions believe in the concept of a paradisaical afterlife, where those who have lived according to the faith's teaching will live for eternity. Islam's afterlife is a concept that is simple to grasp for followers and non-Muslims, and is known as Jannah.

Identification

Loosely translated, Jannah means "garden," hearkening one back to the Hebrew concept of paradise with Eden, and the Christian concept of heaven. In Jannah, there is no want or desire, and everything is available to those who reside there.

Garden of delights

Those in Jannah live a blissful, peaceful life full of sensual pleasures. Anything they wish to eat and drink is available. They wear the finest clothing and robes and will forever live in the prime of their lives at 33 years of age. They hear celestial music, and animals, vegetation and landscapes dazzle their eyesight. Everyone rejoices in the company of their family and friends, and men are afforded a large number of virgins for carnal pleasure.

Levels

Jannah is surrounded by eight gates, with levels ascending to the highest level, "Firdaws." This is where only the most pious people, such as Muhammad and those who lived in poverty and in servitude to Allah, will reside.

Considerations

The first stipulation for entering paradise is that followers must believe in only one God. They also must perform good deeds; ask for penance when doing wrong or performing transgressions on others; suffer adversity; and remain faithful to Allah after being tested.

No middle ground

Though there are similarities between Islam and the Judeo-Christian faith, there is no Islamic middle ground when it comes to the afterlife. Muslims will live eternally in either paradise or hell. The Koran states that those who are indifferent to Allah, do not keep faith in his word, and who do not live their lives as good Muslims will enter hell.

References

• All about paradise