Reality of the Bounties of Paradise

This statement of the Holy Prophet(sa) was a metaphor and the intent was to make an indication towards the abode of peace, which Sa‘d(ra) received in paradise. As it is ascertained from the Holy Qur’ān and the Aḥādīth, in principle, the bounties of paradise cannot be compared to those of the physical world, nor can they be deemed ‘physical’ in our sense of the word. In reality, the words that have been mentioned in the Qur’ān and Aḥādīth are but metaphors and similitudes in order to make reference to the unique excellences of the bounties of paradise. In this regard, Allāh the Almighty states in principle:

“No individual can understand what joy of the eyes has been kept for the virtuous, as a reward for their good works.”1

As a further commentary of this verse, there is a Ḥadīth which states:

“The bounties of paradise are such that no eye has ever witnessed them, no ears have heard of them, and no heart has ever perceived of them.”2

Therefore, it must be accepted that the bounties of paradise are not the same as those which we witness in this world. In other words, the fruits of paradise are not the same as the fruits we eat in this world. The milk and honey of paradise is not the same as the milk and honey we consume in this world. And the companions of paradise are not the same as the beautiful women of this world. Quite the contrary, they are something else altogether, which have been described as metaphors by things of this world, yet they cannot be fathomed by our comprehension. However, one thing for sure is that all the bounties of paradise, whether they be for the human soul or body, are purely based on purity and virtue and they are completely pure of all elements of evil or impurity. For the Holy Qur’ān states:

“Paradise is such a place where there shall be no element of ill-manners, evil, and impurity.”3