Paradise and Hell

A Hadith states:

Paradise has been surrounded by hardships, and Hell has been surrounded by desires

2 Mujam Kabir, vol. 9, p. 104, Hadith: 8546 – Minhaj al ‘Abidin, p. 16

This blessed Hadith mentions that Allah Almighty has surrounded Hell with desires, meaning that the path leading toward Hell outwardly appears very attractive. Walking upon this path seems very easy, while avoiding it appears extremely difficult. At every step upon this path, there are comforts and pleasures for the nafs, and because of this, the nafs is naturally inclined toward it. However, this path, which outwardly appears attractive, ultimately pushes a person toward Hell.

Just as Hell has been surrounded by desires, Paradise too has been surrounded by hardships and difficulties. Paradise itself is extremely beautiful, but the road leading to it is very difficult.

The famous Mufassir, Hakim al Ummat Mufti Ahmad Yar Khan رَحْمَةُ اللَّهِ عَلَيْهِ states: “Hell itself is dangerous, but on the road leading to it there are many artificial flowers and gardens. The sins and evils of this world, which outwardly seem very appealing, are in fact the road to Hell. Paradise is a fruitful garden, but its road is thorny, and crossing it is burdensome upon the nafs. Salah, fasting, Hajj, Zakah, Jihad, and martyrdom are all paths leading to Paradise. Remaining steadfast upon acts of worship and separating oneself from desires are truly difficult matter.