He reported God’s messenger as saying, “If anyone contributes a pair of anything in God’s path he will be invited to enter by the gates of paradise, for paradise has gates. Those who engage in prayer will be invited to enter by the gate of prayer; those who take part in jihad will be invited to enter by the gate of jihad; those who give sadaqa will be invited to enter by the gate of sadaqa; and those who fast will be invited to enter by the gate ar-Rayyan.”* Abu Bakr said, “No distress will rest on him who is invited to enter by those gates,** but will anyone be invited to enter by all those gates?” He replied, “Yes, and I hope you may be one.” (Bukhari and Muslim.)* This word means literally 'well-watered,’ or 'fresh’.** This is explained as meaning ‘by one of those gates,’as one who enters by any gate will get into paradise
The Excellence of Charity in God's Path
The Prophet (peace be upon him) declares that contributing even a single pair of anything for Allah's cause guarantees entry through paradise's gates. This demonstrates the immense virtue of spending in divine service, where minimal effort yields eternal reward.
The Specialized Gates of Paradise
Paradise contains distinct gates designated for specific righteous deeds: the gate of prayer for worshippers, jihad for warriors, charity for givers, and Ar-Rayyan for those who fast. This specialization honors each act of devotion and shows Allah's precise recognition of every good deed.
The gate named Ar-Rayyan (meaning 'well-watered') specifically honors fasting believers, indicating the special freshness and satisfaction awaiting those who endured hunger and thirst for Allah's pleasure.
Abu Bakr's Insightful Question
The noble companion Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him) demonstrates his deep understanding by noting that entering through any single gate suffices for paradise admission. His subsequent question about entering through all gates reveals his aspiration for comprehensive excellence in worship.
The Prophet's Hopeful Response
The Messenger's affirmative answer confirms that those who perfect all forms of worship - prayer, jihad, charity, and fasting - will merit entry through all gates. His special hope that Abu Bakr would be among them testifies to the Companion's comprehensive righteousness and serves as inspiration for all believers to strive for complete devotion.