The Gates of Paradise and Their Names
According to the honorable Sunnah, Paradise has eight gates, four of which are explicitly named: the Gate of Prayer, the Gate of Jihad, the Gate of Charity, and the Gate of Ar-Rayan. Scholars have exerted efforts to identify the names of the remaining gates. Ibn Hajar noted the existence of the Gate of Hajj, emphasizing its significance as it is the only pillar not specifically named. He also mentioned three additional gates: the Gate of “Those Who Control Their Anger and Forgive Others,” the Right Gate, which is designated for those who place their trust in Allah, and finally, the Gate of Remembrance, also referred to as the Gate of Knowledge. Thus, these represent the eight gates of Paradise. However, they are not like the doors of houses in this world; instead, as described by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), “By Him in Whose Hand is the soul of Muhammad, the width of the space between two gates of Paradise is like the distance between Makkah and Hajar or Hajar and Makkah.”
Entry into Paradise
The delights in Paradise for the faithful believers entering it in the afterlife are numerous. Some of these blessings include:
- The inhabitants of Paradise will pass by a tree with two springs of water. They will drink from the first, which will cleanse them of all ailments, and then from the second, which will leave their faces radiant with bliss, ensuring they will neither age nor grow old thereafter.
- Believers will enter Paradise in groups, filled with love for one another, free from animosity, jealousy, or hatred.
- All gates of Paradise will remain open, signifying the complete abundance, peace, and tranquility within this divine abode.
- All believers will enter Paradise at the age of thirty-three, in the prime of their youth and health, with beautiful features.
The Greatest Blessing of Paradise
Once the inhabitants of Paradise settle in and begin to enjoy its delights, they may think that their joy has reached its peak. However, a caller will ask them if they desire anything more. Finding nothing left to ask of Allah Almighty after experiencing the fullness of joy, they will then witness the ultimate blessing: Allah will manifest Himself to His servants, radiating upon them with the light of His face. This is the greatest blessing bestowed by Allah upon His servants, as they are granted the opportunity to see Him after having obeyed Him in the unseen during their worldly life.