This blog continues the series of studies looking at references to the Garden(s) of Paradise, as depicted in the Qur’an. Our last blog on this matter was on May 22.
The next relevant passage is from Surah 42:22-23 (Yusuf Ali):
22: Thou wilt see the Wrong-doers in fear on account of what they have earned, and (the burden of) that must (necessarily) fall on them. But those who believe and work righteous deeds will be in the luxuriant meads of the Gardens: they shall have, before their Lord, all that they wish for. That will indeed be the magnificent Bounty (of Allah).
23: That is (the Bounty) whereof Allah gives Glad Tidings to His Servants who believe and do righteous deeds. Say: “No reward do I ask of you for this except the love of those near of kin.” And if any one earns any good, We shall give him an increase of good in respect thereof: for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Ready to appreciate (service).
What we read in these verses is consistent with what we have previously considered. Here again is a very clear statement that ‘salvation’, narrowly conceived of as admittance into the Gardens of Paradise, is salvation by works. One has to earn the right to receive God’s mercy. Those who opposed Muhammad and the Islam he promotes – the “wrongdoers” – suffering a terrible fate on the Day of Judgment. But they too will only receive what they have earned.
In verse 23 where it reads “Say” it is understood that this is what Muhammad says to people. In effect he says that he doesn’t ask them to reward him in any way for the service he has rendered them. Most translators understand Muhammad to be also saying that he only asks that they show kindness to his own near relatives. However, perhaps Sherali’s rendering captures the intent better: “I ask of you no reward for my service to you, except such love as subsist between kindred.” That is, Muhammad is asking people to love him in the same way that they love near and dear relatives.
This can be compared with Jesus’ demand:
If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, his wife and children, his brothers and sisters – yes, even his own life – he cannot be my disciple. And everyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple (Luke 14:26-27).
Such must be our love for Jesus that by comparison love for near and dear relatives seems like hatred.
Posted June 6, 2011
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