—the keys to its treasures—but he refused them. Riches then flowed toward his Companions, yet they put others before themselves and never bartered away their share of the Hereafter. They understood that this world is a bridge and a passageway, not a homeland or a permanent abode; a place to cross, not a place to rejoice; a summer cloud that soon disperses; a fleeting apparition that, before its visit is complete, sounds the call to depart.

The Prophet ﷺ said, “What have I to do with this world? I am only like a rider who rested for a moment in the shade of a tree, then went on his way, leaving it behind.” (1)

He also said, “In comparison with the Hereafter, this world is nothing but the amount of water that clings to one of you when he dips his finger into the sea; let him see what it brings back.” (2)

Its Creator, exalted is He, says:

“The likeness of the life of this world is that of water We send down from the sky: with it the vegetation of the earth, which people and cattle eat, becomes luxuriant; then, when the earth has taken on its adornment and is arrayed in beauty, and its people think they have mastery over it, Our command comes to it by night or by day, and We turn it into stubble, as though it had not flourished the day before. Thus do We make the signs clear for people who reflect. Allah calls to the Abode of Peace and guides whom He wills to a straight path.” ⦗24–25⦘

Here He describes the paltriness of this world and dissuades us from it, while informing us of the Abode of Peace and inviting us thereto.

He, the Exalted, also says:

“Set forth for them the parable of the life of this world: it is like water We send down from the sky; the vegetation of the earth mingles with it, then becomes dry stubble scattered by the winds. Allah is able to do all things. Wealth and children are the adornment of the life of this world, but enduring righteous deeds are better in your Lord’s sight for reward and better for hope.” ⦗45–46⦘