The Prophet (ﷺ) said "There is a tree in Paradise (which is so big and huge that) a rider could travel in its shade for a hundred years. And if you wish, you can recite:--'In shade long extended..' (56. 30) and a place in Paradise equal to an arrow bow of one of you, is better than (the whole earth) on which the sun rises and sets."
Beginning of Creation - Sahih al-Bukhari 3252, 3253
This narration from the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) describes the magnificent expanse of Paradise, specifically highlighting two aspects: the immense shade-providing tree and the superior value of even the smallest portion of Paradise compared to the entire earthly world.
Commentary on the Shade Tree
The description of a rider traveling for one hundred years within the shade of a single tree demonstrates the unimaginable scale and grandeur of Paradise. This is not merely hyperbole but a reality beyond our earthly comprehension, designed to instill longing for the eternal abode.
The Prophet (ﷺ) references Quranic verse 56:30, "In shade long extended," directly connecting his teaching to Divine Revelation. This confirms that the Quranic descriptions of Paradise are to be understood literally, though their full reality transcends human experience.
Significance of the Arrow Bow's Length
When the Prophet (ﷺ) states that a space equal to an arrow bow's length in Paradise is superior to the entire earthly world, he emphasizes the qualitative difference between temporal worldly existence and eternal divine reward.
This comparison serves to reorient the believer's values - what seems vast and valuable in this world is insignificant compared to the smallest portion of the Hereafter. The "place where the sun rises and sets" encompasses all earthly kingdoms, treasures, and territories, yet all combined cannot equal a tiny parcel of Paradise.
Spiritual Lessons
This hadith encourages believers to prioritize the eternal over the temporal and to endure worldly hardships for the sake of Paradise. It provides tangible imagery to motivate righteous action and strengthen faith in the unseen realities of the Hereafter.
The descriptions serve as divine promises that reward in the afterlife will far exceed whatever sacrifices believers make in this temporary world. This understanding should cultivate contentment with little in this world while striving for the everlasting blessings of Paradise.