The righteous (al-abrār) are those who perform good deeds and refrain from what is forbidden; the term comes from birr, which means obeying Allah. “Indeed, the righteous will be in bliss” (Q 82:13) – that is, they enjoy bliss in their hearts and bliss in their bodies; they are in the very pinnacle of felicity. May Allah make us and you among them. “On couches, observing” (Q 83:23). Couches (al-arāʾik) is the plural of arīkah, a canopied, ornamented seat. They look at what Allah has prepared for them of delights in those gardens, and that includes gazing upon the Face of Allah, Majestic and Exalted. “You will recognize in their faces the radiance of bliss” (Q 83:24) – meaning that when you see them you will know at once that they are favored, for their faces are fresh, fair, and beautiful. “They will be given to drink of pure sealed nectar, whose seal is musk; for this let the competitors compete” (Q 83:25-26). They will drink the finest beverage, sealed – that is, its closing note is a fragrant scent of musk. For such reward, recompense, and bliss, let those who aspire strive. Allah alone grants success.

1880 – Jābir, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said: “The people of Paradise will eat and drink there, yet they will neither defecate, nor blow their noses, nor urinate. Their food will come out as a belch whose odor is like that of musk, and they will be inspired to glorify and magnify Allah as easily as you breathe.” Narrated by Muslim.