ON THE THRESHOLD OF PARADISE

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.