Pond of Abundance

In Islam, the Pond of Abundance (Arabic: حوض الكوثر‎, translit. Ḥawḍ al-Kawthar‎[1]) refers to a metaphysical pond or river that is supposed to exist in Paradise. The traditional Muslim belief is that on Judgement Day, when people will be resurrected, they will rise up in great thirst, and would be eager to quench it in an atmosphere of chaos. At this juncture, Muhammad would be the one privileged by God to respond to the pleas of believers and quench their thirst by offering them a cool and refreshing drink from the Hawd al-Kawthar.

Origin of the concept

The Quran refers to this situation in Surah Al-Kawthar, although several exegetes maintain that the reference in the Surah is to the general abundance granted to Muhammad.[2][3] In any case, the concept has come to be identified with the special reverence for Muhammad in comparison to other Prophets and Messengers of God.

Implications

The general implication of the Pond of Abundance is that it motivates Muslims to be conscious of the Day of Judgement and its severity and accordingly plan for improving their after-life. It also motivates them towards love of Muhammad, while promoting the view that the events surrounding the Day of Judgement require belief in the Unseen and are highly metaphysical in nature.

See also

References

  1. ↑ Houtsma, M. Th. (1993). E. J. Brill's First Encyclopaedia of Islam, 1913-1936. BRILL. p. 835. ISBN 90-04-09790-2.
  2. ↑ Tadabbur-i-Quran by Amin Ahsan Islahi - exegesis available here
  3. ↑ Exegesis by Javed Ahmad Ghamidi
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