The Resurrection

Do not imagine that the proofs for the transformation of this temporary land into an everlasting one are limited to these twelve aspects. There are countless signs and proofs that this unstable, perishable land will be replaced by an imperishable and enduring one. Likewise, there are innumerable indications that these people will be transferred from these temporary residences to the center of the everlasting dominion.

Come, I shall show you one further proof, more powerful than all these twelve aspects combined.

Indeed, come and look! There in the distance, among the great multitude, stands the noble adjutant whom we previously saw on the island, bearing a most exalted emblem. Let us go and listen carefully to what he says.

This majestic and noble adjutant proclaims to the people the supreme decree, displayed prominently for all to see, saying:

"Prepare yourselves! You will depart for another, everlasting land. Compared to it, this land is nothing but a prison. You will be taken to the center of our ruler's dominion. If you take this decree to heart and obey his commands, you will be honored there with his mercy and his favors. But if you rebel and disobey, you will be cast into terrifying dungeons."

Indeed, you yourself can see that this magnificent decree bears a seal that cannot possibly be imitated. Everyone except unreasonable people like yourself knows with certainty that this decree comes from the ruler. And this noble adjutant bears such unmistakable signs that everyone, except those as blind as you, knows with complete certainty that he is the truthful conveyor of the ruler's commands.

Is it at all possible that there could still be any room for doubt or objection concerning the transfer from this temporary land to an everlasting one—a transfer so emphatically proclaimed by this noble adjutant through the supreme decree? No, it is impossible. To doubt it, or even to entertain such a doubt, you would first have to deny everything you have seen.

Now then, my friend, it is your turn to speak. What have you to say?

His friend replied:

"What more can I say? Is it possible to raise any objection against all this? Can anyone deny the presence of the sun at midday? I can only say: Alhamdulillāh! A hundred thousand thanks be to Allah! I have been delivered from the tyranny of doubt and vain desires, rescued from the prison of my nafs and its base passions, and saved from an everlasting dungeon. I am now convinced that beyond these confused and transient dwellings there exists, in the nearness of the ruler, a land of everlasting happiness, for which we have been destined."

Thus ends this parable, which points to the resurrection and the Hereafter. With the help of Allah, we shall now proceed to the sublime reality itself. We shall begin with an introduction, followed by twelve interrelated Truths corresponding to these twelve Aspects.