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Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books The Moral Stories Shaddad's Paradise On Earth 'Aad' was a descendent of Prophet Noah. Thousands of years ago, his people had lived in the deserts of "AL-AHQAF" around Oman and Hadhramut in South Arabia. They were strongly built and very tall. They believed in no God but worshipped idols. Prophet 'HUD' was sent by Allah to preach and guide them on the right path. He advised them to worship one God as taught by Islam but they paid no heed.

Allah punished them by stopping rain and drought over took them for years. Then some people went to Prophet 'Hud' begging him to pray to Allah for the rains. The Prophet prayed and instructed them to return to their villages. Thereafter it rained and people prospered. But never did they amend their conduct nor abandon their faith in idol-worship. Al last they were destroyed by punishement from Allah. When 'Aad' died, he left behind two sons Shaddad and Shadeed.

After some time Shadeed also died and Shaddad became the ruler of his kingdom. He had appointed several governors in the areas over which he ruled. He grew so arrogant that he even claimed to be God and compelled his people to worship him. Allah sent Prophet 'Hud' to approach 'Shaddad' advising him to correct his wrong thinking and conduct. In response, he once asked the Prophet what reward he could expect if he were to put his faith in Allah and worship One God.

He was told that he would have a place in paradise. Shaddad inquired what sort of place it was. The Prophet described it as a blissful place where the righteous and true believers in Allah would after death enjoy the best of every thing. 'Shaddad' responded saying it was nothing since he could also build similar place or even a better one on earth. He then resolved to build a huge and beautiful paradise of his own on earth.

He sent someone to Zohak Tazi - who ruled Iran with request to purchase all available quantity of gold and silver. He also sent people around to other places and acquired large quantities of valuable items including musk and amber etc. He then gathered all his experts and architects and gave them instructions to construct a magnificient 'paradise' on earth. A place with good climate and scenery somewhere in south Arabia was selected.

High palaces and towers with walls inlaid with gold and silver were constructed. Beautiful pearls and emaralds were spread on floors instead of sand.