The People of Paradise

Those who submit themselves to the will of God, have well-wishing for others, adhere to justice with others, are the people of paradise.

The Prophet of Islam was asked what it was that counted as more important for a person to find a place in Paradise. The Prophet replied: “Fearing God and having the best moral character.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi 2004)

The greatest success for a person is that he should lead such a life in this world that when he dies he finds for himself a place in Paradise where he will have a life of eternal happiness. It is the secret of this successful life which has been explained in this tradition.

The most important things in this connection are the acceptance of the greatness of God, remaining ever mindful of Him and regarding oneself as accountable to Him; believing that one cannot save oneself from God’s chastisement, for all ones deeds, open or hidden, are in the knowledge of God, and that no strategy can save oneself from standing before God after death.

The whole life of one who is convinced of this truth undergoes a change. The permissiveness of his life is replaced with restraint. In all matters, he avoids irresponsible behaviour and this obviates egoism, arrogance and other such feelings. On all issues, he becomes an obedient servant of God.

Another quality of a God-fearing person is that his character becomes heavenly. He starts leading his life in this world just as the people of Paradise will live in the Hereafter. In his heart, he cherishes feelings of well-wishing for others. He speaks good words and refrains from harshness. He meets with other people as if he is meeting with his brothers and sisters. While dealing with others he always adheres to what is just. In his dealings his guiding principles are moral and human and in no way serve his personal interests.