Hadith Text & Reference

"In Paradise, there are a hundred levels, between every two levels is (the distance of) a hundred years."

Book: Chapters on the description of Paradise

Author: Jami' at-Tirmidhi

Reference: Jami` at-Tirmidhi 2529

Literal Interpretation (Zahir)

This hadith establishes the immense physical scale and grandeur of Paradise. The "hundred levels" indicates a hierarchical structure, with each level possessing distinct merits and rewards for its inhabitants based on their righteous deeds.

The distance "of a hundred years" between levels is understood by the scholars to mean the distance a traveler would cover in one hundred years of continuous journeying. This is not a metaphorical expression but a real, vast distance meant to inspire awe at the Creator's power and the magnificence of His reward.

Spiritual & Moral Significance

The hierarchy signifies the precise and just nature of divine recompense. A believer's station in Paradise is directly proportional to their faith (iman) and piety (taqwa). The highest level, Firdaws, is directly beneath the Throne of the Most Merciful and is reserved for those closest to Allah.

This description serves as a powerful motivation for the believers to strive in good deeds and spiritual competition, knowing that no effort is wasted and every act of obedience elevates one's eternal abode.

Scholarly Commentary

Imam at-Tirmidhi himself classified this hadith as "hasan" (good). Scholars like Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali explain that the levels are of varying excellence, with the highest being for the Prophets, then the truthful ones (siddiqin), then the martyrs, and then the righteous.

The vast distance emphasizes the separation in status and honor. It is a manifestation of Allah's wisdom and mercy, ensuring that each soul is perfectly content with its specific station, free from any envy, as mentioned in other texts of the Qur'an and Sunnah.