Question
I have a question regarding the surah “Smoke”. Something disturbed me and I thought I really ought to seek clarification:
Within the last few lines of the surah a reference is made to how those who attain Paradise will be paired off with a “beautiful woman”. My husband explains every man is married off to this beautiful woman upon entering Paradise as an “additional reward” – and this woman is in addition to his collecting his “earthly” wife as well, should she also attain Paradise.
This seems a little odd to me. I know we should not question God’s Word, and I know feelings such as jealousy and insecurity shouldn’t exist in Heaven. However, why is it that a woman would work and focus so hard on attaining Paradise in the afterlife and in addition to the toil and effort of this life, be granted Paradise by God’s mercy only then to see her husband paired off with additional women as though he could have fared without his initial wife entirely, forever? I had always thought if both spouses made it to Heaven, then they we there together, just the two, with their family forever. Regardless, I know the Hellfire is no option, no matter what.
Is it blasphemous of me to even question this? I guess I couldn’t bear the idea of my husband being with another woman even in Paradise.
Answer
Events to be taking place in the Hereafter should be interpreted in the light of the basic principle that those in heaven will be provided everything they desire. No man will be forced to keep beautiful partners. It also entails that once entering the Paradise you will also be granted what you wish. Therefore your only concern should be to merit the blessings of the Almighty that day.
Answered by: Tariq Mahmood Hashmi
Date: 2015-01-10
