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Spirit of Islam Issue 35 November 2015
The emergence of
this spiritual, or
heavenly period is
in practical terms as
much a possibility
as that of previous
periods of history.
The process of civilization set in on the earth once human beings came
to exist. In the first phase, man was only able to build a primitive world.
He later became more and more successful at constructing a highly
developed world. This human success goes
hand-in-hand with a continuous evolutionary
process. And it is but natural to believe that
one more stage is in the offing—that of a
perfect world.
This evolutionary process indicates the earth
is heading towards a superior stage. This will
be the last evolutionary stage of the earth,
which we can call the perfect world. This
ideal world will have no limitations. By Divine
arrangement, justice will prevail in its most
perfect form. The wicked will be removed and only the virtuous will
gain entry into this ideal world, where there will be no pollution of
any kind. Calamities will cease to occur, and all disadvantages such as
disease, accidents, old age and death will be eradicated forever.
Now, all tasks are performed by hard work. Indeed, hardship and
success are inseparable. In Paradise however, such refined changes
will take place that each activity will be enjoyable. As it is said in the
Quran:
Truly, the dwellers of Paradise that day (the Day of Resurrection)
will be busy in joyful activities.
(THE QURAN 36: 55)
In Paradise, there will be no need for any human diversion, since all
activities will be a source of entertainment and enjoyment.
For thousands of years, man has been seeking a heaven on earth.
In response to this natural urge, he will find a life of joy, peace and
happiness forever in a state of perfection in this world. There will be no
necessity for physical labour; pleasant intellectual activities will suffice
for the achievement of all desired goals.
o
The Test of Man
Although many allurements exist in this world, they are
there to put man to the test. In avoidance of temptation, a
person shows that he is a man of principles.