FIVE FUNDAMENTAL BELIEFS THAT BRING POSITIVE CHANGES TO THE HUMAN PERSONALITY

There are five fundamental beliefs that develop a healthy, positive and peaceful personality.

O you who believe! Believe in Allah and His messenger, and the Book He sent down to His messenger, and the Book He sent down before. Whoever rejects Allah, His angels, His book, His messengers, and the Last Day, has strayed far in error (4: 136)

Traits developed by these beliefs are unique and are impossible to create by any other means. A disbeliever, therefore, is always devoid of all these traits.

Belief [or disbelief], as mentioned in Chapter Five, plays a very important role in the formation of a personality. One who believes in these fundamentals develops a personality that is different from the one who does not believe. Here is a detailed explanation of these beliefs and how they bring major changes to a personality. Moreover, what happens if someone disbelieves in these five fundamentals.

6 .1 BELIEF IN ALLAH

Belief in Allah’s existence and His powers is very important for a healthy personality. Belief in Allah serves as the base while belief in the rest of the four realities is the extension of this basic belief. A person who does not believe in Allah cannot believe in the messengers, the angels, the Books [containing the Message of Allah] and in the life Hereafter.

Belief in Allah is not just a mental state but a psychological need of a human being without which his personality is not complete. Those who do not believe or whose belief/faith is not so strong, develop a personality that pushes them into mental, physical, and social problems from which they can never come out. It is important to mention here that it is not at all that a believer does not have problems in his life, or he lives a stress-free life. Problems and troubles do come into his life [as a test], but he comes out of them very quickly. A disbeliever or the one with weak belief, on the other hand, cannot manage to come out of the troubles of life and thus, his sufferings do not come to an end. Let us see how this belief helps believers.

(i) BELIEF IN ALLAH GENERATES SENSE OF SECURITY AND STRENGTH

Belief in Allah generates a sense of security in a believer, which helps him in  times of hardship. A believer never feels that he is all alone. Such belief gives him the strength to face uncertainties, difficulties, and hardships of life.

…………….. He is with you wherever you are…………. (57: 4)

Say, “Nothing will happen to us except what Allah has ordained for us; He is our protector.” In Allah let the faithful put their trust (9: 51).

To Allah belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth. He gives life, and He causes death. And besides Allah, you have neither protector, nor supporter (9: 116)

Disbeliever, on the other hand, is deprived of such feelings [of security]; his life is thus, full of insecurities and unnecessary fears.

(ii) BELIEF IN ALLAH GENERATES CONTENTMENT

Belief that Allah is always present with him, not only provides security to a person, but it helps him in building connections with Allah. Supplication, in fact, is a form of connectivity with Allah. Connectivity generates contentment and pleasant feelings. It gives a mental relief that there is a Hearer who hears his sighs and groans and who can save him from all sufferings. Disbelievers, however, stay deprived of such relieving feelings. 

And when My servants ask you about Me, I am near; I answer the call of the caller when he calls on Me. So let them answer Me, and have faith in Me, that they may be rightly guided (2: 186)

And to your Rubb turn for everything (94: 8)

Indeed, my Rubb is the Hearer of supplication (14: 39)

(iii) BELIEF IN ALLAH STRENGTHENS HOPE

Hope also is essential for a healthy personality because it relieves a person from stress and keeps him positive and composed. Hope terminates frustration, disappointment, depression, and distress. It protects the personality from being broken and helps in recovering from stressful situations. Belief in Allah thus brings positivity to one’s personality.

And rely upon Allah; and sufficient is Allah as Disposer of affair (33: 3)

A believer turns his worries to prayers which, soothe his sad and restless heart.

………………. surely, it is in the remembrance of Allah that hearts find comfort (13: 28)

 A disbeliever, on the other hand, has no one to listen to his worries and soothe his heart. He falls into distress when he faces difficulties. He loses hope very quickly which shatters his personality and thus, he goes into depression. 

And whoever turns away from My remembrance – indeed, he will have a depressed life……… (20: 124)

(iv) BELIEF IN ALLAH MAKES PEOPLE CAUTIOUS

Belief in the presence of Allah everywhere, all the time makes a person cautious about all his/her actions.

………………..And Allah of what you do is Seeing. (57: 4)

Moreover, belief in His Omniscience and Omnipotence generates fear of His displeasure. The fear of Commanding Authority is important because it makes a person cautious and keeps him away from taking wrong steps or making mistakes.

……………..and fear Allah. Indeed, Allah is swift in account (5: 4)

(v) BELIEF IN ALLAH RELIEVES STRESS

Humans, however, do make many mistakes, but repentance saves them from being mentally broken. There is a sense of guilt attached to every mistake [sin] one commits.  If guilt persists, life becomes miserable. Repentance gives a person a chance to correct himself and escape from the burden of guilt. It thus, relieves  mental stress.  A disbeliever, however, cannot find a way to get out of the resulting guilt.

And it is He who accepts repentance from His servants [worshipers/obedient] and pardons misdeeds [mistakes], and He knows what you do (42: 25)

And whoever does a wrong or wrongs himself but then seek forgiveness of Allah will find Allah Forgiving and Merciful (4: 110)

Say, O My servant who have transgressed against themselves: do not despair of Allah’s mercy, for Allah forgives all sins. He is indeed the Forgiver, the Clement.” (39: 53)

And I am Forgiving towards him who repents, believes, acts righteously, and then remains guided (20: 82)

……………. Whoever among you does wrong out of ignorance, and then repents afterwards and reforms – He is Forgiving and Merciful (6: 54)

(vi) BELIEF IN ALLAH MAKES PEOPLE FEARFUL BUT NOT COWARD

Sometimes a person feels that he will be forgiven if he makes a mistake, it might make him careless. So, it is important that one should fear Allah. Fear not only protects from making mistakes but also from becoming careless.

Inform My servants that I am the Forgiver, the Merciful. And that My punishment is the painful punishment. (15: 49-50)

…………………and pray to Him with fear and hope. Allah’s mercy is close to the doers of good (7: 56)

The fear of Allah is different than the fear of other things. It makes a person cautious, but not a coward. Whereas the fear of other things might make him cautious of a few things, but it also makes him a coward.

They (Moses and Harun) said, “Our Rubb, we fear he may persecute us, or become violent.” He (Allah) said, “Do not fear, I am with you, I hear, and I see (20: 45-46)

Believers are thus:

… those who, when wronged, defend themselves (42: 39)

(vii) BELIEF IN ALLAH KEEPS NEGATIVE BEHAVIORS AND ENERGIES AWAY

As disbelievers do not believe in the existence of Allah, they consider their achievements a result of their own efforts. Similarly, those whose belief in Allah is not strong enough have the same mindset. Disbelief and misbelief thus, give rise to arrogance, which makes a person self-centered /selfish.

And when it is said to them, “Prostrate to the Most Merciful,” they say, “And what is the Most Merciful? Should we prostrate to that which you order us?” And it increases them in aversion. (25: 60)

There is no assurance that every effort for worldly gains will bring success; sometimes a person faces failures as well. In such a case an arrogant person wastes his energies on useless efforts to fight against the rules of Allah. This wastage of energy exerts him physically and mentally. The exerted person gets irritated and frustrated very quickly. Irritation and frustration induce aggression and as a result disrupts social peace. As learned in Chapter Two — mental, physical, and social peace are interlinked; disturbance in one, spoils the rest. A disbeliever, thus, cannot find any kind of peace at all.

A believer, instead of fighting against the rules of Allah, relies upon Him. Reliance upon Allah generates hope which relieves a person from stress and keeps him composed. When a person feels that there is Someone upon whom he can rely, such feelings reduce frustration, irritation, anger, and depression. Moreover, a believer does not get irritated when he faces trouble. He stays calm and hopes for the best from Allah. He believes that whatever is happening, it is happening by the will of Allah.

And never say about anything, “I will do that tomorrow.” Without saying, “If Allah wills.” ……….. (18: 23-24)

Yet you cannot will, unless Allah wills. Allah is Knowing and Wise (76: 30).

Say, “Who is it that can protect you from Allah if He intends for you an ill or intends for you a mercy?” And they will not find for themselves besides Allah any protector or any helper (33: 17)

For a believer, any trouble is a test. Whereas the disbeliever gets upset when anything goes against his desires.

We will certainly test you with some fear and hunger, and some loss of possessions and lives, and crops. But give good news to the steadfast. Those who, when calamity afflicts them, say, “To Allah we belong, and to Him we will return.” Upon these are blessings and mercy from their Rubb. These are the guided ones. (2: 155-157)

(viii) BELIEF IN ALLAH GENERATES POSITIVE AND HEALTHY PERSONALITY

The feelings of security, connectivity, fear, and hope, altogether build up a personality which is calm, strong, contented, humble, cautious, and positive. Belief in Allah is thus, for our own good. His presence is a psychological need of all humans.

Whoever is guided – is guided for his own good. And whoever goes astray – goes astray to his detriment…………….. (17: 15)

6.2 BELIEF IN ALL MESSENGERS OF ALLAH 

Belief in the truthfulness of all messengers of Allah generates respect for all communities, colors, and races of humanity.

As mentioned in Chapter Two, Allah constantly guided humanity throughout time by sending His messengers who delivered the same Message to their people. Whenever Allah sent His next messenger, it was an indication that the teachings of the previous messenger had either been forgotten or their people had brought some changes in them. Allah thus made it binding upon the people to follow the messenger of the time.

And for every nation is a messenger. So when their messenger comes, it will be judged between them in justice, and they will not be wronged (10: 47) 

Allah received the covenant of the prophets, “Inasmuch as I have given you of scripture and wisdom; should a messenger come to you verifying what you have, you shall believe in him, and support him.” He said, “Do you affirm My covenant and take it upon yourselves?” They said, “We affirm it.” He said, “Then bear witness, and I am with you among the witnesses.” (3: 81)

The purpose of sending different messengers was nothing except guidance for humanity – guidance about Allah, about the way and purpose of life. 

We sent Our messengers with clear proofs, and We sent down with them the Book and the Balance, that humanity may uphold justice………………… (57: 25) 

Every messenger conveyed to humanity that Allah is the only source of guidance and only He can give the rules [religion] of peacemaking. It was because of this guidance, that the follower [believer] of every messenger was called Muslim/Peacemaker [details have already been given in Chapter Two].

No person to whom Allah has given the scripture, and wisdom, and prophethood would ever say to the people, “Be my worshipers [obedient]rather than Allah’s.” ………………. (3: 79)

Nor could he order you to take the angels and the prophets as lords. Would he order you to disbelief after you had been Muslims/Peacemakers? (3: 80)  

Belief in [the truthfulness of] messengers/prophets is, in fact, a continuation of belief in Allah because messengers deliver only what Allah commands them. If a person has no belief in the truthfulness of the messengers of Allah, he can never believe that whatever a messenger/prophet says, is from Allah.  

…………No messenger could bring a sign except with the permission of Allah……….(13: 38)  

……………..Allah knows best where to place His message……..(6: 124)

[Allah is] The Knower of the unseen, and He does not disclose His [knowledge of the] unseen to anyone. Except whom He has approved of messengers, and indeed, He sends before each messenger and behind him observers that He may know that they have conveyed the messages of their Rubb; and He has encompassed whatever is with them and has enumerated all things in number (72: 26-28)

It is not for a prophet to act dishonestly. Whoever acts dishonestly will bring dishonesty on the *Day of Resurrection. Then every soul will be paid in full for what it has earned, and they will not be wronged (3: 161) *[details about the Day of Resurrection in section 6.4 of this chapter].

Every prophet repeated the same message and revived the same religion. No prophet had ever said anything that contradicted the message of another prophet. The reason behind this uniformity in the message is that despite different colors and races, humanity is one community and so is their religion.

This community of yours is one community, and I am your Rubb, so worship Me. (21: 92) 

O people! We created you from a male and a female, and made you races and tribes, that you may know one another. The best among you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous. Allah is All-Knowing, Well-Experienced (49: 13)

When a person realizes that it is the same message from the same God, he does not find it hard to believe in the truthfulness of the next messenger. He does not show haughtiness to believe in one and reject the other. His only concern is to accept the message of Allah, irrespective of which messenger it was conveyed from.

…………. Whenever guidance comes to you from Me, whoever follows My guidance, will not go astray, nor suffer. (20: 123) 

After the succession of different messengers, Allah finally sent His Last Messenger Muhammad [PBUH] by giving him the Final Book of guidance – the Quran [details about the final Book in section 6.4 of this chapter]

O mankind, the Messenger has come to you with the truth from your Rubb, so believe; it is better for you. But if you disbelieve – then indeed, to Allah belongs whatever is in the heavens and earth. And ever is Allah Knowing and Wise (4: 170) 

Muhammad is not the father of [any] one of your men, but [he is] the Messenger of Allah and last of the prophets. And ever is Allah, of all things Knowing (33: 40)

We sent you [O Muhammad] only universally to all people, a herald and warner, but most people do not know (34: 28) 

Nothing is said to you, [O Muhammad], except what was already said to the messengers before you……………. (41: 43)

We have inspired you (Muhammad), as We had inspired Noah and the prophets after him. And We inspired Abraham, and Ishmael, and Isaac, and Jacob, and the Patriarchs, and Jesus, and Job, and Jonah, and Aaron, and Solomon. And We gave David the Psalms. (4: 163) 

Say, [O Muhammad], If you should love Allah, then follow me, [so] Allah will love you and forgive you your sins. And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.” Say, “Obey Allah and the Messenger.” But if they turn away – then indeed, Allah does not like the disbelievers. (3: 31-32) 

To dispel the impression of division in the religion, people in every era were commanded to respect all messengers of Allah as much as they respected the messenger of their own community. This was the only way to end the differences amongst different races, communities, and colors of humanity, and evoke feelings of respect for each other. 

And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided. And remember the favor of Allah upon you – when you were enemies and He brought your hearts together and you became, by His favor, brothers. And you were on the edge of a pit of the Fire, and He saved you from it. Thus does Allah make clear to you His verses that you may be guided. (3: 103) 

And do not be like the ones who became divided and differed after the clear proofs had come to them. And those will have a great punishment (3: 105)

Moreover, the belief in the truthfulness of all messengers develops respect for all communities of mankind who followed these messengers. Such mutual respect eliminates rage and violence and plays an important role in building a universal peaceful society. A peaceful society promises the development of peaceful individual personalities.  The formation of a peaceful society is possible only when mutual differences are avoided. Giving equal respect to all prophets and believing in their truthfulness, as said before, is a part of belief in Allah, because every prophet did nothing except deliver the message of Allah. To deny any of them means to deny the message of Allah. A belief in all prophets helps develop a personality that is respectful and honors all human beings, irrespective of what community they belong to or area they live in. No other mindset except this can build a personality that is respectful to all communities of humanity. Every believer who gives equal respect to all messengers of Allah, becomes humane. A denial of any of the messengers, on the other hand, develops a personality that is hostile towards the followers of other messengers and the people of other colors, nations, and races. People with such a hostile personality continue to spread mischief in the land. As a result, this destroys not only the peace of others but also their own. 

Furthermore, respect for the followers of every messenger diminishes the sense of superiority in a person. Feelings of superiority, in fact, create feelings of division and hatred in different communities which lead to their destruction. One who discriminates according to color, race, and sect cannot respect others equally. Such an individual cannot become a true Peacemaker. In reality, a peacemaker corrects the mistakes of people, he does not see them as enemies.

Say, “We believe in Allah; and in what was revealed to us; and in what was revealed to Abraham, and Ishmael, and Isaac, and Jacob, and the Patriarchs; and in what was given to Moses and Jesus; and in what was given to the prophets – from their Rubb. We make no distinction between any of them, and to Him we surrender” (2: 136)  

Indeed, those who disbelieve in Allah and His Messengers and wish to discriminate between Allah and His messengers and say, “We believe in some and disbelieve in others,” and wish to adopt a way in between – those are the disbelievers, truly…………….. (4: 151)

Those who do not accept the transition of prophethood even if they find that the Message they receive is the same, develop arrogance and hostility in their personalities. An arrogant and hostile person, in fact, has nothing to do with peacemaking. 

6.3 BELIEF IN THE ANGELS      

One cannot fully understand how Allah communicates His message to His selected people [messengers] who further deliver this message to the masses if he/she does not believe in the existence of angels [details of how Allah communicates with His people and details about angels in terms of science have already been given in Chapter Three].

A brief recap of Chapter Three reminds us that angels are different unseen forces.

… those who regulate events (79: 5) 

…………..They never disobey Allah in anything He commands them, and they carry out whatever they are commanded (66: 6)

Belief in their existence develops a personality that is clear about how the affairs of the universe work and how they affect individual lives. 

In addition, belief in angels also makes it clear to the believer how Allah communicates with His messengers. Such knowledge strengthens the belief that whatever a messenger conveys, is from Allah. 

He sends down the angels, with the inspiration of His command, upon whom He wills of His servants [messengers], [telling them], “Warn that there is no deity except Me; so fear Me.” (16: 2) 

Clarity about how different systems have been working in the universe under Allah’s command helps in building up logic behind every happening. 

And to Him belongs whoever is in the heavens and earth. All are to Him devoutly obedient (30: 26)

Though angels are forces, they cannot act on their own.

And to Allah prostrate whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth of creatures, and the angels and they are not arrogant. They fear their Rubb above them and they do what they are commanded (16: 49-50) 

As mentioned in Chapter Three, what science calls energies are called angels by Allah. It is just a difference of names otherwise both are the same.

By those [angels] who extract with violence and those who remove with ease (79: 1-2)

By those [angels] lined up in rows [to resist] and those who drive [and initiate activity]. And those who recite the message. Indeed your God is One. (37: 1-4)

By those [angels] unleashed in succession. Storming turbulently. Scattering far and wide. Separating decisively. Delivering a message (77: 1-6)  

Belief in the angels strengthens faith in Allah, which in turn boosts confidence in a person that he will be helped, one way or  another, in times of crisis.

O you who believe! Remember Allah’s blessings upon you, when forces came against you [in war], and We sent against them a wind, and forces you did not see………… (33: 9)

Disbelievers and those whose faith is not so strong, on the other hand, see different activities of the universe as an independent affair. They cannot see the broader picture and build links between one happening and the other. 

Even if they were to see lumps of the sky falling down, they would say, “A mass of clouds.” (52: 44) 

Do you not see that Allah drives clouds? Then He brings them together, then He makes them into a mass, and you see the rain emerge from within it. And He sends down from the sky, mountains [of clouds] within which is hail, and He strikes with it whom He wills and averts it from whom He wills………….(24: 43)

And when they saw it as a cloud approaching their valleys, they said, “This is a cloud bringing us rain!” Rather, it is that for which you were impatient: a wind, within it a painful punishment, destroying everything by command of its Rubb. And they became so that nothing was seen [of them] except their dwellings. Thus do We recompense the criminal people (46: 24-25)

When a person realizes that each activity of the universe is not only calculated but it is under the control of an Omnipotent Authority, he becomes cautious. A careful person, therefore, avoids those mistakes that can put him in trouble. Disbelievers, and those whose faith is not strong enough, on the other hand, are careless and keep calling for more trouble.

6.4 BELIEF IN THE DIVINE BOOKS 

Humans are forgetful; they need to be reminded repeatedly. They have been constantly told to follow the commands of Allah, but they keep overlooking or forgetting them.

Follow, [O mankind], what has been revealed to you from your Rubb and do not follow other than Him any allies. Little do you remember (7: 3) 

We had already taken a promise from Adam before, but he forgot; and We found not in him determination. (20: 115) 

Inscription [if not altered] not only prevents forgetting the information, but it also helps to remember it. Moreover, it keeps knowledge/information safe for thousands of years. No other creature can use this method to teach its fellow creatures and generations. It is only humans who are specially designed [physically and biologically] to adopt this method of the transfer of knowledge. Humans are thus biologically capable of creating, communicating, and understanding language. The perfect anatomy, muscle control, and coordination of their hands enable them to inscribe. Humans are, therefore, a special creation who can not only inscribe what comes to their mind but also read what is written by someone else [their brain is specially designed to interpret visual signs into an understandable message]. Moreover, they can make others write for them. This is how knowledge spreads among their different communities [details have already been given in Chapter Three].  

Read: And your Rubb is Most Generous [because He has given you so many capabilities]. He who taught by the pen. Taught man(kind) what he never knew (96: 3-5) 

Humans, as we will see in the next chapters, need rules of peacemaking to establish their societies. Rules for peace and peacemaking are not ordinary rules that humans can learn on their own or from any other source. All these rules were introduced by Allah. Humans would have remained unaware of such rules if guidance had not reached them from Allah. It is because of such guidance that humans gradually learned ethics, shaped their behavior, and civilized their societies. 

In Chapter Three it has already been explained how Allah used to send His instructions to His messengers for the guidance of humanity. These instructions/commands were preserved in writing [Books/scrolls] which benefited not only the people of that time but also their generations. 

Belief in the Divine Books refers to the belief that whatever is in these Books/Scrolls is true and from Allah. All these Books contain guidelines for a peaceful life. Belief in the truthfulness of these Books is, therefore, important because one cannot implement what is mentioned in these Books in his/her life unless he/she is convinced that it is true and for his/her own betterment.

Moreover, belief in these Books, like belief in the messengers, is the continuation of belief in Allah because whatever is mentioned in these Books is only from Allah.  

…………No messenger could bring a sign except with the permission of Allah. For every era is a scripture (13: 38)  

All the messengers of Allah, as mentioned before, gave the message of peace. They taught their people the standard rules of life [religion] which ensured peace not only within themselves but in their society as well.

We sent Our messengers with clear proofs, and we sent down with them the Book and the Balance, that humanity may uphold justice………………… (57: 25) 

But they were succeeded by generations who lost the prayers and followed their appetites [desires]. They will meet perdition/destruction. (19: 59) 

They assumed there would be no punishment, so they turned blind and deaf. Then Allah redeemed them, but then again many of them turned blind and deaf. But Allah is Seeing of what they do (5: 71)

Then We made you successors in the land after them so that We may observe how you will do (10: 14)

As mentioned in Section 6.2 of this chapter, the arrival of each new prophet was an indication that a major part of the Original Message [that was revealed to the previous messenger] had been altered or forgotten by the people. Allah thus, makes it binding for the people to obey the prophet of the time so that the Original Message should reach them correctly and completely. 

And for every nation is a messenger. So, when their messenger comes, it will be judged between them in justice, and they will not be wronged (10: 47) 

And Allah would not let a people stray after He has guided them until He makes clear to them what they should avoid. Indeed, Allah is Knowing of all things (9: 115) 

We have revealed the Torah, wherein is guidance and light. The submissive prophets ruled the Jews according to it, so did the rabbis and the scholars, as they were required to protect Allah’s Book, and were witnesses to it. So do not fear people, but fear Me. And do not sell My revelations for a cheap price [of worldly gains]. Those who do not rule according to what Allah revealed are the unbelievers (5: 44)

…………We sent Jesus, son of Mary, fulfilling the Torah that preceded him; and We gave him the Gospel, wherein is guidance and light, and confirming the Torah that preceded him, and guidance and counsel for the righteous (5: 46)

So let the people of Gospel rule according to what Allah revealed in it. Those who do not rule according to what Allah revealed are the sinners [wrongdoers] (5: 47)

He [Allah] has sent down upon you, [O Muhammad], the Book in truth, confirming what was before it. And He revealed the Torah and the Gospel (.) before, as guidance for the people. And He revealed the Quran. Indeed, those who disbelieve in the verses of Allah will have a severe punishment, and Allah is exalted in Might, the Owner of Retribution. (3: 3-4)

Obedience [to the commands] has always been difficult or testing for humans. It is because the rules of peace are not necessarily in accordance with human desires. Thus, those people in the past whose belief in Allah and His Message was not so strong, kept changing the Original Commands to what they found easy and desiring or neglecting what they did not find desirable.

……Allah took a covenant from those who were given the Scripture, [saying], “You must make it clear to the people and not conceal it.” But they threw it away behind their backs and exchanged it for a small price [of worldly gains and desires]. And wretched is that which they purchased. (3: 187) 

…………..They distort words from their [proper] usages and have forgotten a portion of that of which they were reminded. ………………. (5: 13) 

Whenever the message of Allah was altered or forgotten, Allah revived it. 

……………… none can alter the words of Allah……………. (6: 34)

We never nullify a verse, nor cause it to be forgotten, unless We bring one better than it, or similar to it. Do you not know that Allah is capable of all things? (2: 106)

And because:

…………His is the creation, and His is the command. ………. (7: 54)

And We did not send before you [O Muhammad] any messenger or prophet except that when he spoke [or recited], *Satan threw into it [some misunderstanding]. But Allah abolishes that which Satan throws in; then Allah makes precise His verses. And Allah is Knowing and Wise (22: 52) *[details about Satan in next chapters] 

As people used to alter the Original Message in the past, Allah has thus, finally made His Message [the Quran] precise by making it easy to memorize. The Quran is the only Book in human history that has been precisely memorized by millions of people. As it has been preserved accurately in so many minds, a little change can easily be detected. Nothing thus can have access to [the brains of] all those who have memorized it and bring any kind of change to it. If anybody does so, it can easily be detected by millions of these minds. History also confirms that no change, even of a single letter, has taken place in its transcript since its revelation. 

Praise be to Allah, who revealed the Book to His Servant [Muhammad] and allowed in it no distortion (18: 1) 

Surely We revealed the Message [Quran], and We will surely preserve it (15: 9)

Falsehood cannot approach it, from before it or behind it. It is a revelation from One Wise and Praiseworthy (41: 42)

The truth is from your Rubb, so do not be of those who doubt (3: 60) 

As the Message has been secured, Allah has stopped sending further prophets and revelations. Thus, the Message revealed to the prophet Muhammad is the Final Message [and Final Commands] from Allah. 

………………. Today I have perfected your religion for you, and have completed My favor upon you, and have approved Islam [peace] as a religion for you………….. (5: 3) 

We sent down upon you [O Muhammad] the Book for mankind in truth. He who follows guidance does so for the good of his soul. And he who strays in error does so to its detriment. You are not their overseer. (39: 41)

Belief in the Books of Allah, as mentioned above, is the continuation of belief in Allah. Belief in Allah demands that whatever comes from Him is true and should be accepted without any hesitation.  

History shows that whenever the Revived Message reached humanity, the true believers recognized that it was from Allah. They never felt hesitation in accepting and incorporating it into their lives. 

Those to whom We gave the Scripture before it [the Quran]– they are believers in it. And when it is recited to them, they say, “We have believed in it; indeed, it is the truth from our Rubb. Indeed we were, [even] before it, *Muslims/Peacemakers [submitting to Allah]”(28: 52-53) *[details have already been given in Chapter Two]

And when they hear what was revealed to the Messenger [Muhammad], you see their eyes overflowing with tears, as they recognize the truth in it. They say, “Our Rubb, we have believed, so count us among the witnesses.” (5: 83)  

A true believer always recognizes whatsoever is from Allah. He does not show resistance by sticking to one Scripture and rejecting the other.

Nothing is said to you, [O Muhammad], except what was already said to the messengers before you. …………….(41: 43) 

And indeed, [the Quran] is the revelation of the Rubb of the worlds. The trustworthy Spirit [angel] has brought it down. Upon your heart, [O Muhammad] – that you may be of the warners – in clear Arabic language*. And indeed, it is [mentioned] in the scriptures of former people. And has it not been a sign to them that it is recognized by the scholars of the Children of Israel? (26: 192-197) *[The reasons for sending it in Arabic have already been explained in Chapter One]

However, some believers in the former Scriptures refuse to accept the Quran despite knowing the truth.

………….. some of them conceal the truth while they know (2: 146) 

They do so because they fear that their messenger or Book would be dishonored if they acknowledged the New Version. While, in fact, all messengers and the Books are equally respectable. Messengers, as mentioned before, do not say anything on their own; they only convey what is revealed to them by Allah.  

Indeed, this is the true narration. And there is no deity except Allah. And indeed, Allah is the Exalted in Might, the Wise (3: 62)

O People of the Scripture, there has come to you Our Messenger [Muhammad] making clear to you much of what you used to conceal of the Scripture and overlooking much. There has come to you from Allah a light and a clear Book. By which Allah guides those who pursue His pleasure to the way of peace and brings them out from darkness into the light, by His permission, and guides them to a straight path (5: 15-16) 

Indeed, this Quran relates to the Children of Israel most of that over which they disagree (27: 76) 

…. It was revealed by He who knows the Secret in the heavens and the earth…… (25: 6)

And it was not [possible] for this Quran to be produced by other than Allah, but [it is] a confirmation of what was before it and a detailed explanation of the [former] Scripture, about which there is no doubt, from the Rubb of the worlds (10: 37) 

.. do they say [about the Prophet Muhammad], “He invented it? “Say, “Then bring forth a surah [chapter] like it and call upon [for assistance] whomever you can besides Allah, if you should be truthful.” (10: 38)

And if they do not respond to you – then know that the Quran was revealed with the knowledge of Allah and that there is no deity except Him. Then, would you [not] be Muslims [Peacemakers]? (11: 14)  

Do they not ponder the Quran? Had it been from any other than Allah, they would have found in it much discrepancy (contradiction) (4: 82)

And you [O Muhammad] did not recite before it any scripture, nor did you inscribe one with your right hand. Otherwise the falsifiers would have had doubt (29: 48)

With the truth We sent it down, and with the truth it descended…………… (17: 105)  

O you who believe! Obey Allah, and obey the Messenger, and do not let your deeds go waste (47: 33)  

And this [Quran] is a Book We have revealed [which is] blessed, so follow it and fear Allah that you may receive mercy (6: 155)

(i) THE GUIDANCE OF THE BOOK AFFECTS ONLY THOSE WHO BELIEVE IN IT

This [Quran] is a proclamation to humanity, and guidance, and advice for the righteous (3: 138)  

And it is:

……………. a detailed explanation of all things and guidance and mercy for a people who believe (12: 111)

So when the Quran is recited, then listen to it and pay attention that you may receive mercy (7: 204) 

This Quran guides to what is most upright; and it gives good news to the believers who do good deeds that they will have a great reward (17: 9) 

Those who believe in Allah, take guidance from Him, and observe the rules of a peaceful life with care. Whereas disbelievers and those whose faith is not so strong, do what they desire without caring about the outcome. 

……………….And who is more astray than one who follows his desire without guidance from Allah? Indeed, Allah does not guide the wrongdoing people (28: 50) 

We have cited in this Quran for the people every sort of parable. But even if you bring them a miracle, those who disbelieve will say, “You are nothing but fakers.” Allah thus seals the hearts of those who do not [want/try to] know (30: 58-59)

Deluded away from the Quran is he who is deluded [about life] (51: 9) 

Say, “Have you considered? If it [Quran] is from Allah and you reject it – who is farther astray than he who cutoff and alienated?” (41: 52)  

O mankind, there has come to you a conclusive proof from your Rubb, and We have sent down to you a clear light (4: 174)

The Word of your Rubb has been completed, in truth and justice. There is no changing to His words. He is the Hearer, the Knower (6: 115)

So believe in Allah and His Messenger and the Quran which We have sent down. And Allah is acquainted with what you do (64: 8)  

A blessed Book that We sent down to you, that they may ponder its Verses, and for those with intelligence to take heed (38: 29) 

When something is inscribed, it becomes a record that can be used as a source of reference. If this is a detailed inscription, it eliminates confusion and brings clarity to the instructions. Moreover, the written commands that remain consistent give confidence to the observer that they will not change; and will always be there to support his behavior. Such confidence gives stability to different attitudes and behaviors which ultimately become traits of a personality.

Once belief in Allah [and His Message] is strengthened, it gives confidence that whatever a person is doing has the support of Allah. It brings more confidence in behavior when a person believes that all the commands for his behavior have come from the One who is All-Knowing. Obedience to all these instructions thus brings peace, clarity, and confidence into his life.

Disbelievers and those whose faith in Allah and His Message is not so strong, on the other hand, remain confused all their lives regarding their reactions and responses to different situations. They keep trying non-recommended behaviors and responses which only increase problems in their lives.    

6.5  BELIEF IN THE HEREAFTER 

The concept of life after death/resurrection or eternal life is not unknown to mankind. People, from every era, whether they believe it or not, are at least aware of this concept. It is because it has been presented to humanity throughout time.

But you prefer the worldly life, while the Hereafter is better and more enduring. Indeed, this is in the former scriptures, the scripture of Abraham and Moses. (87: 16-19)

…. “The first [community of mankind] and the last will be gathered for the appointment of a familiar Day.”(56: 49-50) 

Allah, throughout time kept people informed about the realities of the present life/existence, and the arrival of the next life which has not taken place yet. Believing in information about something that has not taken place yet is not illogical. It is as same as an expert meteorologist who by using his knowledge, informs people about the incoming, weather, storm, or rain; and those who believe, easily save themselves from damages caused by these disasters.

Before learning the impact of this belief on a personality, it is important to understand the notion itself. The Hereafter cannot be completely understood unless we study how the present world came into being. Thus, the foremost thing we need to understand is the origination and formation of the universe and the earth.

(i) THE ORIGINATION OF THE UNIVERSE AND EARTH

Since humans did not exist at the time of the creation of the universe, science draws conclusions based on some evidence as to how the universe might have originated.  The presence of Cosmic Microwave Background, Doppler redshift of light, and the presence of Hydrogen and Helium all over the universe has led scientists to conclude that the universe [in the form of matter] came into being as the result of some big explosion. Scientists call this event, “The Big Bang”. The Big Bang origin of the universe in simple words is that prior to that moment, there was nothing; during and after that moment there was something – our universe.

Allah describes this origination in these words:

Originator of the heavens and the earth. When He decrees a thing, He says to it, “Be,” and it becomes (2: 117)  

The “Big Bang” or the big explosion resulted in the formation of atoms/matter, which eventually led to the formation of several galaxies and billions and zillions of stars. Scientists have discovered some methods by which they can observe the movements of different stars and galaxies. One of the methods to observe such movement is Doppler redshift of light. By using this method scientists observe that stars and galaxies are continuously moving away; and thus, the universe is expanding. In simple words, when the “Big Bang” occurred, all matter moved away from the point of its origin. Since then, it has been continuously moving away [expanding].

We constructed the universe with power, and We are expanding it (51: 47) 

Do the disbelievers not see that the heavens and the earth were one mass, and We tore them apart? ……………………………… (21: 30)

Nothing evolved haphazardly from the Big Explosion. Whatever evolved, it has a purpose.

Blessed is He who placed constellations in the sky, and placed in it a lamp [sun] and an illuminating moon (25: 61)

It is He who made the sun a shining light and the moon a derived light and determined for it phases – that you may know the number of years and account [of time]. Allah has not created this except in truth. He details the signs for a people who know. (10: 5)

Allah created the heavens and the earth in truth [based upon logic]. Indeed, in that is a sign for the believers (29: 44)

The Earth has different atmospheric layers, each having a different purpose [Details in Chapter Eight]. One of these layers is the Ozone layer. It protects all biological lives, including human beings, against the damaging effects of the ultraviolet [UV] rays from the sun.

And We made the sky a protected ceiling ………. (21: 32)

Nothing is created, haphazardly, aimlessly, or accidently but precisely, purposefully, and logically. Whatever is created, it supports life on earth. If any of them were missing, life in its present form would not be possible.

And the earth after that He spread. And from it, He produced its water and its pasture (79: 30-31)

The sun, moon, soil, water, plants, animals, insects and even bacteria, contribute to the sustenance of human life [Details in Chapter Eight]. Allah thus, created a suitable/perfect environment before the creation of humankind.

[Allah] Who perfected everything He created, and originated the creation of man from clay (32: 7)

Humans are the most remarkable creations of the Creator. They are specially designed [physically, mentally, and biologically] in a way that can learn and imitate natural designs and utilize them for their own benefits [Details in Chapter Nine]. No other creation has such capability.

We have honored the Children of Adam, and carried them on land and sea, and provided them with good things, and greatly favored them over many of those We created (17: 70)

All materials and technologies that can possibly be used to improve the quality of human life have been provided to mankind [Details in Chapter Nine].

And He placed at your service whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on earth – all is from Him. In that are signs for a people who think (45: 13)

Indeed, in the creation of the universe and the earth and the alternation of the night and the day are signs for those of understanding who remember Allah while standing or sitting or [lying] on their sides and give thought to the creation of the heavens and the earth, [saying], “Our Rubb, You did not create this aimlessly………… (3: 190-191)

(ii) THE PURPOSE OF THE CREATION OF THE UNIVERSE AND EARTH

As described before, humans are the most amazing creation of Allah. They not only have the capability to observe but also to analyze their observations. Moreover, by connecting different dots of what they observe or learn, they can draw different conclusions.

A detailed observation of the universe and the earth shows that human beings are the biggest beneficiaries of the universe and the earth [Details in Chapter Nine]. Based on these observations, we can conclude that the universe and the earth are specially created for human beings.

We did not create the heaven and earth and that between them in play (21: 16)

We did not create the heavens and the earth and what lies between them except with reason, and for a finite period…….. (46: 3) 

And He placed at your service whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on earth – all is from Him. In that are signs for a people who think (45: 13)

(iii) THE PURPOSE OF THE PRESENT EXISTENCE OF HUMANS ON EARTH

Logic does not accept that the universe and the earth, which contain so much precision in formation and functions [Details in Chapter Eight]; are created without any purpose, and humans for whom such a perfect environment is created, are created aimlessly.

Does man think that he will be left without purpose? (75: 36) 

We will certainly test you, until We know those among you who strive, and those who are steadfast, and We will test your reactions (47: 31)   [details of the test in Next Chapters]

Justice demands that a person who is being tested should know the rules of the test [These rules of  the test are the rules of life]. For this purpose, Allah kept sending different messengers in different eras and areas to teach people these rules of life [Details in Next Chapters]. Humans can learn different techniques from their physical environment [Details in Chapter Eight]; these techniques help them improve their standard of living. However, to live a peaceful mental and social life they need guidance, which is impossible to get from the physical environment.

……. We have sent among you a messenger from yourselves reciting to you Our verses and purifying you and teaching you the Book and wisdom and teaching you that which you did not know. (2: 151)

O Children of Adam! When messengers from among you come to you, relating to you My revelations – whoever practices piety and reforms – upon them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve (7: 35) 

Besides telling the rules of the test, these messengers also informed people about the purpose of the test, and the present life – The purpose of the present life is to pass the test for the next life.

As the purpose of the present life is to pass the test [for the next life], Allah has sent His messengers in every era who taught people how to live in the present world to achieve succession to the next world – The Home of Permanence – the Home of Peace.

……..the life of this world is nothing but fleeting enjoyment, but the Hereafter is the Home of Permanence (40: 39)

Indeed, your Rubb is Allah, who created the heavens and the earth ………………(10: 3)

O mankind, worship [obey] your Rubb, Who created you and those before you, that you may become righteous [perfect] (2: 21)

…It is He who scattered you on earth, and to Him you will be rounded up. (67: 24)

To Him is your return, altogether. The promise of Allah is true. He originates creation, and then He repeats it, to reward those who believe and do good deeds with equity……………(10: 4)

Know that the worldly life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children – like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries, and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and approval. And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion/vanity. (57: 20) 

O people, be conscious of your Rubb. The Quaking of the Hour is a tremendous thing (22: 1)

And beware of a Day when no soul will avail another in the least, nor will any intercession be accepted on its behalf, nor will any ransom be taken from it, nor will they be helped. (2: 48)

Respond to your Rubb before a Day comes from Allah of which there is no repelling. No refuge will you have that Day, nor for you will there be any denial (42: 47)

And fear a Day when you will be returned to Allah. Then every soul will be compensated for what it earned, and they will not be treated unjustly (2: 281)

The Day when He gathers you for the Day of Gathering – that is the Day of mutual exchange. Whoever believes in Allah and acts with integrity, He will remit his misdeeds, and will admit him into the gardens beneath which rivers flow, to dwell therein forever. That is the supreme achievement. But as for those who disbelieve and denounce Our revelations – these are the inmates of the Fire, dwelling therein forever; and what a miserable fate/destination! (64: 9-10)

(iv) DISBELIEVERS OF THE HEREAFTER HAVE REMAINED PART OF EVERY ERA

Whenever a messenger from Allah told people about life after death, a group of people found it hard to believe.

Those who disbelieve claim that they will not be resurrected. Say, “Yes indeed, by my Rubb, you will be resurrected; then you will be informed of everything you did; and that is easy for Allah. (64: 7)

…they say, “There is nothing but this our present life; we die, and we live, and nothing destroys us except time.” But they have no knowledge of that; they are only guessing. (45: 24)

…. They say, “When we have become bones and fragments [particles], shall we really be resurrected as a new creation?” Say, “Even if you become rocks or iron. Or some substance, which, in your minds, is even harder.” Then they will say, “Who will restore us?” Say, “The One who originated you the first time.”…………… (49-51)

Does man think that We will not reassemble his bones? Yes indeed, We are able to reconstruct his fingertips (75: 3-4)

…They wonder that there has come to them a warner from among themselves, and the disbelievers say, “This is an amazing thing. When we have died and have become dust, [we will return to life]? That is a distant return.” We know what the earth diminishes of them, and with Us is a retaining record. But they denied the truth when it came to them, so they are in confused condition. (50: 2-5)

(v) SOME CONVINCING POINTS ABOUT THE HEREAFTER FROM ALLAH HIMSELF

Blessed is He in whose hand is dominion, and He is over all things competent.  [He] who created death and life to test you [as to] which of you is best indeed – and He is the Exalted in Might, the Forgiving – who created seven heavens in layers. You do not see in the creation of the Most Merciful any inconsistency. So return [your] vision [to the sky]; do you see any breaks? Then return [your] vision twice again. [your] vision will return to you humbled while it is fatigued. (67: 1-4)

……………. “Travel through the land and observe how He began creation. Then Allah will produce the final creation. Indeed Allah, over all things, is competent.”(29: 20)

……………Just as We began the first creation, We will repeat it – a promise binding on Us. We will act. (21: 104)

Have they not looked at the heaven above them – how We structured it and adorned it and [how] it has no rifts? (50: 6)

Were We fatigued by the first creation? But they are in doubt of a new creation (50: 15)

Allah gives some information that cannot be denied by any faculty of science and logic [Details in Chapter Eight]. The purpose of giving such precise information is to convince people that whatever is said about the next life is also true.

Allah – there is no deity except Him. He will surely assemble you for the Day of Resurrection, about which there is no doubt. And who is more truthful than Allah in statement? (4: 87)

Are you more difficult to create, or the heaven? He constructed it. (79: 27) 

And certainly did We create man from an extract of clay (23: 12)

Let man(kind), consider his food. We pour down water in abundance. Then crack the soil open. And grow in it grains. And grapes and herbs. And olives and dates and luscious gardens. And fruits and vegetables. Enjoyment for you and your livestock. (80: 24-32)

Eat and pasture your livestock. In that are signs for those with understanding. From it We created you, and into it We will return you, and from it We will bring you out another time. (20: 54-55)

Our food becomes our body. This body generates another body through the process of reproduction. A sperm and an ovum from which a new body begins its life, are also formed from these extracts/elements of the soil. Before coming into  human form, no one has the slightest hint of his existence. Is it not amazing that the extract of soil, when it takes human form, starts speaking, hearing, seeing, and thinking?

Has there [not] come upon man a period of time when he was not a thing [even] mentioned? Indeed, We created man from a sperm-drop mixture that We may try him; and We made him hearing and seeing. (76: 1-2)

We have created you, so why do you not believe? (56: 57)

Have you seen that which you emit? Is it you who create it, or are We the Creator? (56: 58-59)

Indeed, We created man from a sperm-drop mixture that We may try him; and We made him hearing and seeing (76: 2)

Does man not consider that We created him from a [mere] sperm-drop – then at once he is a clear adversary? And he presents for Us an example and forgets his [own] creation. He says, Who will give life to bones while they are disintegrated?” Say, “He will give life who produced them the first time; and He is, of all creation, Knowing.” (36: 77-79)

Was he [human] not a drop of ejaculated semen? Then he became a clot. And He created and proportioned? And made of him two sexes, the male, and the female? Is He not Able to revive the dead? (75: 37-40)

Is not He who created the heavens and the earth Able to create the likes of them? Yes, [it is so]; and He is the Knowing Creator. His command is only when He intends a thing that He says to it, “Be.” And it is. (36: 81)

He created the heavens and earth in truth and formed you and perfected your forms; and to Him is the [final] destination. (64: 3)

Indeed, this is the true certainty. (56: 95)

So believe in Allah and His Messenger, and the Light which We sent down [as guidance]. Allah is aware of everything you do. (64: 8) 

(vi) NOTHING IS EVERLASTING – THE BIGGEST REALITY OF PRESENT EXISTENCE – EVERY BEGINNING HAS AN ENDING

Are you confident that the One in the heaven will not cause the earth to collapse beneath you as it spins? (67: 16)

When we observe in detail, we find that nothing is everlasting; there is an end to everything. From a tiny virus to the immeasurable galaxies, everything has a finite time. The lifespan of some viruses is just a few seconds, while the lifespan of galaxies ranges from hundreds of millions to billions of years.

For every happening is a finality, and you will surely know (6: 67)

[Allah] who created everything and determined its measure (25: 2)

Scientists who are convinced that the universe [in the form of matter] has originated in the result of the Big Bang, also believe that it can revert to the same point again.

……………….and the heavens will be folded………………… (39: 67)

Just as “Be” was commanded to originate the universe, the same will be commanded to wind it up.

It is He who gives life and death; and when He decides on a thing, He just says to it “Be”, and it comes to be (40: 68)

(vii) TIME OF THE END OF PRESENT EXISTENCE IS UNKNOWN

And they say, “When will this promise be fulfilled, if you are truthful?” Say [O Muhammad], “The knowledge is with Allah, and I am only a clear warner.” But when they see it approaching, the faces of those who disbelieved will turn gloomy, and it will be said, “This is what you used to call for.” (67: 25-27)

(viii) WHAT IS THE REASON FOR KEEPING THE TIME OF FINALITY HIDDEN?

The Hour is coming – but I keep it almost hidden – so that each soul will be paid for what it endeavors. (20: 15)

(ix) WHAT WILL THE DAY OF RECOMPENSE BE LIKE?

He asks, “When is the Day of Resurrection? “When vision is dazzled. And the moon is eclipsed. And the sun and the moon are joined together. On that Day, man will say, “Where is the escape?” No indeed! There is no refuge. To your Rubb on that Day is the settlement. On that Day man will be informed of everything he put forward, and everything he left behind. And man will be evidence against himself. (75: 6-14)

 In the age of technology, it is easy to understand that each cell of the human body contains loads of information about the individual; it can be used as a witness against so many things.

That Day, We will seal over their mouths, and their hands will speak to Us, and their feet will testify about what they used to earn (36: 65)

The Day when Allah`s enemies are herded into the Fire, forcibly. Until, when they have reached it, their hearing, and their sight, and their skins will testify against them regarding what they used to do. And they will say to their skins, “Why did you testify against us?” They will say, “Allah, who made all things speak, made us speak. It is He Who created you the first time, and to Him you are returned (41: 19-21)

You were unable to hide yourselves from your hearing, and your sight and your skins to prevent them from testifying against you, and you imagined that Allah was unaware of much of what you do (41: 22) 

Human makes wrong assumptions.

Does he think that no one has seen him? (90: 7)

And indeed, [appointed] over you are keepers [angels], noble/honest and recording. They know whatever you do (82: 10-12)

Humans of the present-day technology can understand how easy it is to keep data/record of anything.

Everything they [the humans] have done is in the [record] Books. Everything, small or large, is written down (54: 52-53)

And the record will be placed, and you will see the criminals (sinful) fearful of that within it, and they will say, “Oh, woe to us! What is this book that leaves nothing small or great except that it has enumerated it?” And they will find what they did present (before them). And your Rubb does injustice to no one (18: 49)

If a simple man-made computer can do it, why can’t such a thing be expected from the Creator of the universe? [For details see Chapter Ten]

Indeed, it is We who bring the dead to life and record what they have put forth and what they left behind and all things We have enumerated, in a clear register (36: 12)

We will narrate to them with knowledge, for We were never absent (7: 7)

Your Rubb will repay each one of them in full of their deeds. He is aware of everything they do (11: 111)

And for all there are degrees [of reward and punishment] for what they have done, and [it is] so that He may fully compensate them for their deeds, and they will not be wronged (46: 19)

So whoever does an atom’s weight of good will see it, and whoever does an atom’s weight of evil will see it (99: 7-8)

The scale on that Day will be just. Those whose weights are heavy – it is they who are the successful. But as for those whose weights are light – it is they who have lost their souls because they used to mistreat Our revelations. (7: 8-9)

.. as for one whose scales are heavy [with good deeds], he will be in a pleasant life. But as for one whose scales are light, his refuge will be an abyss. And what can make you know what that is? It is a Fire, intensely hot. (101: 6-11)

(x) THE PUNISHMENT FOR DISBELIEVERS

………the transgressors will have a miserable return. Hell; in which they will roast; what a miserable abode! (38: 55-56)

Whoever comes to his Rubb guilty, for him is Hell, where he neither dies nor lives. (20: 74)

……. As for those who disbelieve, garments of fire will be tailored for them, and scalding water will be poured over their heads. Melting their insides and their skins. And they will have maces of iron. Whenever they try to escape the gloom, they will be driven back to it: “Taste the suffering of burning.” (22: 19-22)

And when they are thrown into it [Hell], into a tight place, shackled, they will plead there for death. “Do not plead for one death today but plead for great many deaths.” (25: 13-14)

……………… Every time their skins are roasted through, We will replace them with other skins so they may taste the punishment. Indeed, Allah is ever Exalted in Might and Wise (4: 56)

As for those who disbelieve, for them is the Fire of Hell, wherein they will never be finished off and die, nor will its punishment be lightened for them. Thus We will repay every ingrate. And they will scream therein, “Our Rubb, let us out, and we will act righteously, differently from the way we used to act.” [It will be said], “Did We not give you a life long enough, in which anyone who wanted to understand would have understood? And the warner did come to you? So taste. The evildoers will have no helper.” (35: 36-37)

.. those who disbelieved will be driven to Hell in groups until, when they reach it, its gates are opened and its keepers will say, “Did there not come to you messengers from yourselves, reciting to you the verses of your Rubb and warning you of the meeting of this Day of yours?” ………………… (39: 71)

They will say, “Yes, a warner did come to us, but we disbelieved, and said, “Allah did not send down anything; you are very much mistaken.” And they will say, “Had we listened or reasoned, we would not have been among the inmates of the Blaze.” So they will acknowledge their sins…………… (67: 9-11)

And who is more unjust than one who invents a lie about Allah or denies the truth when it has come to him? Is there not in Hell a residence for the disbelievers (29: 68)

(xi) THE REWARD FOR BELIEVERS – THE HOME OF ETERNITY – THE HOME OF PEACE

The ones who strongly believe in the five beliefs [mentioned in this chapter], can refine themselves and act according to the requirements of peacemaking. Those who pass the test of Peacemaking this life will be awarded the Home of Peace. 

For those who believe and do righteous deeds – for them is happiness and a beautiful return. (13: 29)

……………. who feared the Standing of his Rubb and restrained the self from desires. Then Paradise is the shelter (79: 40-41)  

……………………. That is the reward for him who purifies himself. (20: 76)

…. those who feared their Rubb will be driven to Paradise in groups until, when they reach it while its gates have been opened and its keepers say, “Peace be upon you; you have become pure; so enter it to abide eternally therein.” (39: 73)

[To the righteous Allah will say], “O My servants [obedient], no fear will there be concerning you this Day, nor will you grieve, [you] who believed in Our verses and were Muslims/ Peacemakers. (43: 68-69)

Their greeting on the Day they meet Him is, “Peace,” and He has prepared for them a generous reward (33: 44)

Even those who fear Allah secretly, will also be rewarded.

As for those who fear their Rubb in secret – for them is forgiveness and a great reward. Whether you keep your words secret or declare them – He is aware of the inner thoughts. Would He not know, He Who created? He is the Refined, the Expert. (67: 12-14)

And Paradise will be brought closer to the pious, not far away. “This is what you were promised – for every careful penitent (.) who inwardly feared the Most Gracious and came with a repentant heart. Enter it in peace. This is the Day of Eternity.” (50: 31-34)

(xii) PARADISE EXPLAINED

Here are some verses that explain Paradise. After reading these verses there remains no need for further detail.

……………Just as We began the first creation, We will repeat it – a promise binding on Us. We will act. (21: 104)

To Him is your return, altogether. The promise of Allah is true. He originates creation, and then He repeats it, to reward those who believe and do good deeds with equity……………(10: 4)

… never think that Allah will fail in His promise to His messengers. Indeed, Allah is Exalted in Might and Owner of Retribution. [It will be] on the Day the earth will be replaced by another earth, and the heavens [as well], and all creatures will come out before Allah, the One, the Prevailing. (14: 47-48)

We have written in the Psalms, after the Reminder, that the earth will be inherited by My righteous servants. (21: 105)

Believers on that Day:

…… they will say, “Praise to Allah Who has fulfilled for us His promise and made us inherit the earth [so] we may settle in Paradise wherever we will. And excellent is the reward of [righteous] workers.” (39: 74)

These verses show that the new Earth will be a Paradise for the believers/ righteous/ peacemakers.

Paradise is a place that is full of bounty, purities, and eternities. As the present earth is a place of Test, it, however, has certain limitations.

And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient. (2: 155)

And give good tidings to those who believe and do righteous deeds that they will have gardens beneath which rivers flow. Whenever they are provided with a provision of fruit therefrom, they will say, “This is what we were provided with before.”………………. (2: 25)

(xiii) THE DESCRIPTION OF PARADISE

Paradise is a place that is full of bounties, purities, eternities, and peace.

Indeed, the righteous will be among gardens and rivers. (54: 54)

…..The devout/righteous will have a good place of return. The Gardens of Eden, with their doors wide-open for them. Relaxing therein and calling for abundant fruit and beverage. (38: 49-51)

…………..And they will have therein purified spouses, and they will abide therein eternally. (2: 25)

Indeed, the righteous will be in pleasure. On adorned couches, observing. (83: 22-23)

…………….They will be decorated therein with bracelets of gold and pearls, and their garments therein will be of silk.(22: 23)

Serving them will be immortalized youth (.) with cups, pitchers, and sparkling drinks. Causing them neither headache, nor intoxication. And fruits of their choice. And meat of birds that they may desire. And lovely companions. The likenesses of treasured pearls. As a reward for what they used to do (56: 17-24)

Circulated among them will be plates and vessels of gold. And therein is whatever the souls desire and[what] delights the eyes, and you will abide therein eternally (43: 71)

Therein they will hear no nonsense, and no accusations. But only the greeting: “Peace, Peace.”(56: 25-26)

When you look there, you will see pleasure and great dominion (76: 20)

………….. And it will be proclaimed to them, “This is the Garden you are made to inherit, on account of what you used to do.” (7: 43)

(xiv) WHY IS THE ABUNDANCE OF GARDENS, RIVERS, AND FRUITS SO IMPORTANT?

Food and water are basic needs of humans; they are important for their survival. Humans cannot get their food from any other source. The scarcity of food and water has always remained a main cause of all evils of human life. It causes insecurities, crimes, selfishness, injustice, intolerance, killings, disputes, and even wars. Food and water are thus basic requirements of a peaceful living. If they are plentiful, peace in a society is guaranteed.  

………………Gardens beneath which rivers flow, where they will stay forever. Such is the reward of the righteous (5: 85) 

……………..in it are rivers of pure water, and *rivers of milk forever fresh, and *rivers of wine delightful to the drinkers, and *rivers of strained honey. And therein they will have every fruit, and forgiveness from their Rubb…………… (47: 15) [word ‘river’ is metaphorically used for abundance]

…………….And those who have believed and done righteous deeds will be in the lush regions of the gardens having whatever they will in presence of their Rubb………….. (42: 22)

And We will provide them with fruit and meat from whatever they desire (52: 22)

Humans are the most intelligent creation of Almighty Allah. The only thing they need is a favorable environment where they can fulfill their basic needs of food and water. Once they acquire these basic needs, they can learn and invent anything to make their life not only comfortable but luxurious as well. History of the development of humans, from caves to the modern age, is full of such inventions [for details see Chapter Nine]. Moreover, progress in any field would not have been possible if the basic needs of humans had remained unfulfilled.

All inventions and gadgetries lose their attraction and become useless, outdated, and boring, with the passage of time. However, plants and trees have been with humans for billions of years but still their presence gives them a feeling of delight.

Adorned for the people is the love of desires, such as women, and children, and piles upon piles of gold and silver, and branded horses [transport], and livestock, and fields. These are the conveniences of the worldly life, but with Allah lies the finest resort. (3: 14) 

…lush orchards and sweet-smelling plants. And extended shade. And outpouring water. And fruit, abundant, neither withheld, nor forbidden. (56: 28- 33)

Humans are specially designed [physically, mentally, and biologically] to make inventions and create a comfortable and luxurious environment for themselves. They have invented huge number of gadgets and accessories by making use of the materials of the earth and energies of the universe. Similar facilities will also be provided in the next world.

[The angels will say] We were your allies in worldly life and [are so] in the Hereafter. And you will have therein whatever your souls desire, and you will have therein whatever you request [or wish] (41: 31)

Whatever humans can conceive in their minds, they will be able to achieve it.

Therein they will have whatever they desire – and We have even more (50: 35)

Thus:

…the Hereafter is better for you than the first [life] (93: 4)

(xv) WHY IS PURITY SO IMPORTANT?

Purity of foods, speech, thoughts, character, and relations is important for peacemaking [details in Next Chapters].

Impurity, whether it is in foods, thoughts, speech, characters, or relations causes nothing but disease. Impurities of food cause disease in a body, and impurities of thoughts, speech, characters, and relations cause disease in a society. Disease, as mentioned in Chapter Four, ruins peace.

…………….And their Rubb will offer them a pure drink (76: 21)

………………And they will have pure spouses therein, and they will abide therein forever. (2: 25)

Indeed, the righteous will be within gardens and springs [Having been told], “Enter it in peace, safe [and secure].” And We will remove whatever is in their breasts of resentment, [so they will be] brothers, on thrones facing each other. (15: 45-47)

They will exchange with one another a cup wherein no ill speech or commission of sin (52: 23)

No ill speech will they hear therein or any falsehood (78: 35)

……………….and their greeting therein will be, “Peace!” (14: 23) 

(xvi) WHY IS PERMANENCE SO IMPORTANT?

Fear of loss is attached with every non-permanent thing.  The fear of loss generates stress, and stress, as mentioned in Chapter Four, damages physical, mental, and social peace. On the other hand, permanence in achievements produces happiness. Happiness is a positive feeling that not only keeps the mind, body, and society healthy, but also at peace. 

Happiness does not let boredom and fatigue come over. Boredom and fatigue are the main obstacles to achieving any target. A failure to achieve the target generates distress/sorrow which ruins the health and peace of an individual.

As for those who believe and do righteous deeds, they will have the Gardens of Paradise for hospitality. Abiding therein forever, without desiring any change therefrom (18: 107-108)

No fatigue will touch them therein, nor from it will they [ever] be removed. (15: 48)

And they will say, “Praise Allah, who has lifted all sorrow from us. Our Rubb is Most Forgiving, Most Appreciative. He who settled us in the Home of Permanence, by His grace, where boredom will not touch us, and fatigue will not afflict us.”(35: 34-35)

(xvii) WHY IS PEACE SO IMPORTANT?

Peace is important for survival. As we learned in Chapter Two, the universe is designed for peace. Anything that goes against peace, gets destroyed. 

(xviii) THE REALITY OF TIME

Since the very beginning, people have been told that the occurrence of the Hereafter is nearby. However, thousands of years have passed but still it has not taken place. To understand the meaning of ‘nearby’ we need to understand the reality of time.

On the Earth we calculate time with reference to the sun but, outside the sphere of the earth, the calculation of time is different. Time [on the earth] is related to [the speed of] the movement of the earth on its axis, and the speed at which it moves around the sun in its orbit.

………….. And indeed, a day with your Rubb is like a thousand years of those which you count (22: 47)

So be patient with gracious patience. Indeed, they see it [as] distant, but We see it [as] near (70: 5-7)

On the Day when He calls you, you will respond with His praise, and you will realize that you stayed only a little. (17: 52)

On the Day when they witness it – as though they only stayed an evening, or its morning. (79: 46)

So, imagine if the sun goes out of the picture, what would be time like?

He asks, “When is the Day of Resurrection? “When vision is dazzled. And the moon is eclipsed. And the sun and the moon are joined together. (75: 6-9)

………………….and the heavens will be folded………………… (39: 67)

The scale of time is different at different points of the universe. One who lives on Earth is bound in the time set for the Earth, but when he/she comes outside the boundaries of the Earth’s atmosphere, the scale of time gets changed.

Indeed, your Rubb is Allah, who created the heavens and the earth in six days and then established Himself above the Throne, arranging the matter [of His creation]. …………..(10: 3)

For humans, the origination and re-origination of the universe and the Earth is an affair of billions of years, but for Allah it is just a matter of days. Those who do not understand this calculation consider it a long process but for Allah it is just a matter of days.

When we have died and have become dust, [we will return to life]? That is a distant return.” (50: 3)

So be patient with gracious patience. Indeed, they see it [as] distant, but We see it [as] near (70: 5-7)

(xix) THE IMPACT OF BELIEF IN THE HEREAFTER ON A PERSONALITY

Belief in the Hereafter gives meaning and purpose to the present life. It clarifies that the present existence is the preparation for the eternal existence. A believer in the Hereafter believes that present life is a test and each action taken by him is accounted for. It makes him careful about each step he takes in his life. The description of reward keeps his morale high and fear of punishment prevents him from taking any action that is damaging to himself and his society.

A disbeliever, on the other hand, lives a purposeless life; his priorities are confused; and his goals are unclear. he, therefore, lives a careless life which causes problems not only for himself but also for those who live with him.

6.6 CONCLUSION

Having studied in detail about belief in Allah, His messengers, His angels, His Books, and the Hereafter, we found that there is nothing as such that goes against logic or science.

Allah, being the Source of guidance, has devised a proper system through angels, and messengers, who gave humanity the Message which stays preserved for generations in the form of Books. If a person believes in all the links of guidance, he can understand reality; otherwise, no other source in this world can show him the unseen reality.

It is knowledge of the next existence that gives meaning/clarity to the present existence. Otherwise, life is nothing more than vain activities and meaningless events.

[This] worldly life is only amusement and diversion. And if you believe and fear Allah, He will give you your rewards…………… (47: 36)

Without these beliefs, no personality can take a perfect shape. These beliefs make an individual calm, confident, careful, and clear about different aspects of life. There is no other source from which humans can learn something that makes them calm, confident, and careful in their true essence. Whatever they learn from any other source, it only helps them in a particular situation and becomes useless when the situation is changed.

A believer is clear about the purpose of his life. He follows the rules of peace and avoids mistakes [sins]. As he is clear about the tests of his life, he lives a careful life. He knows his priorities and duties to fulfill. He knows Who to obey. He has confidence in the Commanding Authority that whatever comes from Him is true and for his betterment. Thus, he adopts the attitude of gratitude, which further enhances his personality with contentment and positivity.

………………….. “Praise be to Allah Who has guided us to this. Had Allah not guided us, we would never be guided. The messengers of our Rubb did come with the truth.”…………. (7: 43) 

A disbeliever, or the one whose faith is not strong enough, on the other hand, is not clear about the many aspects of life. Misconceptions and misunderstandings add more confusion, anxiety, and stress in his life. Thus, there remains no option for him except to live in pain and misery.