Reflections on Life: Between This World and the Hereafter

The Quran and the Greatness of Allah

The Quran, revealed by Allah and recited by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), serves as a divine guide for humanity. Allah’s creation encompasses everything we can see, hear, and feel, acting as signs of His existence and greatness. The mysteries of His creations are beyond our comprehension. Allah has given us this world to live in, along with the knowledge to manage, govern, and explore it. He has endowed us with intellect and wisdom to explore the depths of His creation.

The Role of Thought and Intention

There is no harm in contemplating any subject; it is through such contemplation that we gain knowledge. However, what matters is the intention and action behind our thoughts, as there are boundaries and limits we must respect. Life is full of mysteries and realities, constantly raising questions for which only Allah has the answers. It is not wrong to seek methods to strengthen our faith in Allah (Tauhid).

Purpose of Life and the Hereafter

Why did Allah create us to live in this world, die, and then be resurrected in the Hereafter? Could Allah have made us live directly in the Hereafter? Certainly, because Allah is all-knowing and not limited by events, time, or place. Without this worldly life, could Allah know who would choose Hell and who would choose Paradise? Indeed, He could, as His knowledge is absolute.

Struggles and Challenges in the World

Why do we face difficulties, obstacles, and suffering in this world, while our desires are limitless and the world’s resources are limited, including our lifespan? Allah created illness so we would take care of our bodies and recognise our vulnerabilities, preventing us from committing sins that lead to Hell in the Hereafter. Happiness is given so that we seek the rewards He has prepared for us both in this world and the Hereafter. Sadness serves as a lesson for us to ponder upon.

Understanding Joy and Suffering

In my view, Allah created this world and placed us here as a prerequisite for the Hereafter. If we were to live directly in the Hereafter, the inhabitants of Paradise and Hell would not understand the true meaning of torment and bliss, having no knowledge, experience, or comparison. Furthermore, they would not understand why they were in Paradise or Hell, just like trees and animals are unaware of their existence.

Striving for Betterment

Therefore, in this world, those who start with difficulties must strive and exert their best efforts to achieve ease and only then can they truly appreciate Allah’s blessings. Those who begin with ease must also understand hardship, as Allah will surely test them, perhaps in different ways. Hence, every calamity carries a hidden blessing, teaching us gratitude and the wisdom behind Allah’s plans.

Submission to Allah’s Will

We are taught to say, “Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un” (Indeed, we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return). We are entirely creations and possessions of Allah. Thus, it is the Creator’s and Owner’s absolute right to do as He wills with us, who have no right to oppose. He gives and takes away anything, including life. Our only response should be gratitude.

Entering Paradise by Allah’s Grace

Entering Paradise is by Allah’s grace, not solely because of our deeds. Hence, our worship must be sincere. This is because Allah is not bound by conditions set by His creations. Our sincere worship is solely to attain His pleasure. We hold onto His promise of creating Paradise for the righteous. Hell is a choice made by humans to oppress themselves, a choice leading to torment in the Hereafter.

Wallahu a’lam (And Allah knows best).