Introducing Islam a Simple Introduction to Islam
The Inheritance of Paradise
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THE INHERITANCE OF PARADISE
The believer is like a solid tree, which is
nourished by the whole universe. Sustained by
his belief, he grows like a splendid tree, with his
roots spread out under the ground and his
branches reaching up into the sky. Never
deserted by divine succour, he exudes freshness
and vitality at all times. He prospers in this
world and the next.
The unbeliever, on the other hand, is like a bramble
bush, or a weed which grows on the surface of the
earth, bereft of divine succour. He is unstable in this
world, and will give no fruit in the next. He loses
out in both places.
God has given unbelievers some rein in this
ephemeral world, and the opportunities they
have been given on earth should be seen in this
light. Since they are being tested in this world,
they have the chance to grow and develop
temporarily on earth. But when the period of trial
has run its course, they will burn forever. The
only souls to inherit the luxuriant world of
