Period of Respite

On the day when they behold that hour, it will be as if they had tarried in the grave only a single evening or the morning following it. (79:27-46) What exists before us in the form of the universe is so great that all other things become totally insignificant in comparison. When a great happening, such as the creation of the universe, can take place, why cannot matters of smaller import likewise come into existence? In this context, the tidings given by the Quran that man has to be reborn is something which has already been made understandable by known events on a very large scale. Man’s life stretches over two phases—one is the present, the other, the Hereafter, which for the present is unseen. The actual test of man is for him to prefer the Hereafter as compared to the present world. But this can be achieved only by those who have the courage to control their selfish impulses and desires. Man has been placed in the present world in order to be put to the test. This test necessarily requires freedom. That is why man has not been placed under any compulsion as has been done with the rest of the universe. He has the option either to conform to the system of God, or to indulge in deviations from it. But this freedom applies only to actions during his lifespan in this world; it does not apply to the result of his actions. Man’s final lot will be determined in accordance with the unchangeable laws of God. □ The Quran is for admonition, not just for recital Aishah, hearing of certain individuals who read the Quran all night, reading it right through once, or even twice in a night, remarked, “What is there in mere recitation?” I used to stay up all night with the Prophet and, in his recitations of the chapters entitled ‘Cow,’ ‘Family of Imran,’ and ‘Women,’ whenever he came to a verse which contained a warning, he would pray to God and seek refuge with Him, and whenever he came to a verse bearing good tidings, he would pray to God and express his longing for what was mentioned in the verse. (Hadith: Ahmad, Musnad)