Introducing Islam a Simple Introduction to Islam
Introduction
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paradise; but none is able to find a paradise of such
infinite blessings in the present finite world. God
has reserved it for the next world.
None can earn paradise automatically; only those who
perform heavenly actions on earth will be deserving of
it. God has divided our lives into two parts: a short
period on earth, and the rest in the hereafter. This
world is for action. The next world is for reaping the
rewards of our actions.
Man is free to do as he wishes on earth, but his free
will is no more than a test. He should treat it as such.
He should not revel in his power. Those who are not
deluded by their temporary power, and never lose
sight of their true position, will be accommodated in
paradise. Those who rebel on the basis of their
worldly power will abide in hell.
All real power in this world belongs to God alone.
He is the Lord of all things. No one can escape from
His control for an instant. Those who recognise this
fact will submit to God of their own accord. They
are the ones who are worthy of paradise. Those
who deny this fact and proceed in whatever
direction their impulse takes them, are offenders in
