Paradise is mentioned in the Quran by several names, each carrying a distinct meaning that reflects a sense of tranquility, bliss and security prepared by Allah for His servants. These names were not given without purpose; rather, they help bring the greatness of this abode closer to our understanding and open the heart to hope.
Becoming familiar with the names of Paradise offers a deeper appreciation of its meanings and invites us to reflect on the Hereafter as the true home to which souls aspire.
Allah says:
“Say, ˹O Prophet,˺ ‘Is this better or the Garden of Eternity which the righteous have been promised, as a reward and ˹an ultimate˺ destination?’” It is called the Abode of Eternity because it remains forever, as do its inhabitants.
Allah says:
“As for those who believe and do good, they will have the Gardens of ˹Eternal˺ Residence – as an accommodation for what they used to do.”
Allah says:
“Indeed, those who believe and do good will have the Gardens of Paradise as an accommodation.”
“Firdaws” refers to a beautiful garden containing all forms of delight, and it is regarded as the highest level of Paradise.
Allah says:
“Gardens of Eternity, whose gates will be open to them.”
The word ‘Adn’ implies permanence, meaning it is a dwelling of everlasting residence.
Allah says:
“They will have the Home of Peace with their Lord, Who will be their Guardian because of what they used to do.”
It is named so because its people are safe from hardship, illness and misery, and the angels greet them with peace.
Allah says:
“He is the One Who – out of His grace – has settled us in the Home of Everlasting Stay, where we will be touched by neither fatigue nor weariness.”
It is called the Home of Permanence because it is a place of eternal residence.
Allah says:
“This worldly life is no more than play and amusement. But the Hereafter is indeed the real life, if only they knew.”
This means the life that never ends.
This is the most well-known name. Linguistically, it conveys the meaning of concealment, as its people are sheltered within gardens and bliss.
Allah says:
“Those whose souls the angels take while they are virtuous, saying to them, ‘Peace be upon you! Enter Paradise for what you used to do’.”
Allah says:
“Indeed, those who have believed and done righteous deeds – for them are the Gardens of Pleasure.”
They are named so because of the immense bliss they contain.
Allah says:
“Indeed, the righteous will be in a secure place.”
Meaning a place safe from every harm.
Allah says:
“In a seat of honour near a Sovereign, Perfect in Ability.”
Allah says:
“O my people! This worldly life is only ˹temporary˺ enjoyment, but the Hereafter is indeed the home of settlement.”
Refers to the excellent dwelling prepared for the God-fearing.Allah says:
“And excellent is the home of the righteous.”
Allah says:
“For those who have done good is the best [reward] and extra.”
Allah says:
“Those will be awarded the Chamber for what they patiently endured.”
Allah says:
“And those who feared their Lord will be led to Paradise in groups until, when they reach it while its gates have been opened ...”
This verse indicates that Paradise has gates. The Prophet ﷺ stated that they are eight gates, each carrying great meaning and honour. Among them is Ar-Rayyan, the gate designated for those who fast. The gates of Paradise are opened every year during Ramadan.
The Prophet ﷺ said that whoever excels in certain acts of worship will be called from the corresponding gate.Among the well-known gates are:
Some scholars also mentioned additional gates such as:
A person may even be called from all the gates, as the Prophet ﷺ expressed hope that Abu Bakr would be among them.
