Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "In Paradise there is a tree so big that in its shade a rider may travel for one hundred years without being able to cross it."
The Magnificent Tree of Paradise
This hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari 6552, found in the book "To make the Heart Tender (Ar-Riqaq)", describes one of the wondrous creations Allah has prepared for the believers in Paradise. The immense tree mentioned symbolizes the boundless blessings and vastness of Jannah that surpass human comprehension.
Scholarly Interpretation
Classical scholars explain that this description serves to awaken longing for Paradise and to demonstrate that its realities far exceed anything known in this worldly existence. The "hundred years" measurement is not meant to be taken literally as earthly years, but rather indicates an immense, unimaginable distance that highlights Paradise's grandeur.
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani comments that such descriptions help believers understand that Paradise contains delights beyond human imagination, encouraging them to strive harder in obedience to Allah.
Spiritual Lessons
This narration softens hearts by reminding us of the eternal rewards awaiting the righteous. It puts worldly pleasures into perspective, showing they are insignificant compared to what Allah has prepared for those who fear Him.
The tree's immense shade symbolizes the comprehensive mercy, comfort, and protection believers will experience in Allah's eternal garden, far removed from the hardships and limitations of this temporary world.