According to the Holy Qur’an, the test of this world is not imposed upon us, but is instead a matter of personal choice (Al-Ahzab 33:72). Since the test is a moral test, it presents us with the constant option to choose between morality and immorality. Each individual decides between good and evil, honesty and dishonesty. It is through these choices that one’s eternal destiny—whether heaven or hell—will be determined.
The eternal life of heaven offers immortal luxury, unending blessings, eternal beauty and youth, unrestrained pleasures, incalculable rewards, and innumerable honors. In short, everything we can imagine awaits us in this everlasting abode. Conversely, the other potential destination for humanity is the endless torment and unbearable hardships of hell.
While this can be articulated and theorized, the reality is that Hell is an unimaginable choice. How can the searing embrace of fire be an option for a person who cannot endure the heat of summer? For someone who cannot tolerate the prick of a needle, the ever changing, body and mind breaking torments of Hell are simply inconceivable.
A person who understands that there are only two possible outcomes, and that the second is not a viable choice, will be deeply concerned. All the goodness that emanates from human existence stems from this awareness. Every act of piety is a result of this profound realization.
The unfortunate ones who live without this realization, choose sin and moral depravity. Consequently, their destiny becomes Hell, a fate that is far from a real choice.
Translated by Ali Zafar