Understanding The Prophet's Life
From Issue: 631 [Read full issue]
Path to Paradise
In a hadith related by Bukhari and Muslim, God's Messenger, peace be upon him, said: "Paradise is surrounded by trouble and tribulation, and Hell is concealed in pleasure."
Paradise and Hell are, in essence, blessings for humanity. Fear of Hell causes us to observe God's prohibitions so that we may go to Paradise. However, being saved from Hell and becoming deserving of Paradise requires great self-discipline and strict intellectual and spiritual training.
Hell is an abode of torment placed within an attractive setting of enticing lures and pleasures. If we are captivated and live only to satisfy such desires, we are lured toward Hell. To reach Paradise, we first have to train ourselves to ignore worldly attractions. Hell is part of the way to Paradise, for we must travel to Hell without allowing any of its attractions to seduce us. To reach Paradise, we must persevere, endure affliction, perform what is obligatory, avoid sin, and thank God for His bounties and blessings. Such virtuous acts are hated by our carnal desires.
Compiled From:
"The Messenger of God: Muhammad" - Fethullah Gulen, pp. 113, 114