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Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books Theological Instructions LESSON FIFTY-TWO: THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THIS WORLD AND HEREAFTER Introduction So far, we have realized that man’s life is not limited to the transient life of this world and that he will be brought to life again in the Hereafter, and granted eternal life. It also became apparent that the future life in comparison with this life is so pure and noble, that earthly life does not deserve to be called life.

However, this does not mean that life in the Hereafter refers to one’s good or bad reputation, nor does it mean that it is conceptual and unreal. It is now reasonable to discuss the relationship between life in this world and the Hereafter, and to clarify the type of relationship between the two.

In the course of our previous discussions such a relationship what made somewhat clear, but due to some misunderstanding of the concept, it will be helpful to elaborate using wisdom and Qur’anic evidence to specify its nature. This world is the fertile land for the Hereafter The first point to be stressed is that prosperity and adversity in the Hereafter depend on man’s behaviour in this world.

It will be impossible for a person in the Hereafter to exert efforts to obtain blessings in the same world. It is unlikely that those with a higher physical or mental capability can further benefit, or that sly individuals can benefit from others efforts and struggles. However, some ignorant people have thought that the Hereafter is totally independent from this world. The Holy Qur’an quotes some disbelievers saying as follows: “and I do not think that the Hour will ever set in.

And even if I am returned to my Lord I will surely find a resort better than this” (al-Kahf:36) In another verse, the Holy Qur’an maintains:“I do not think the Hour will ever set in, and in case I am returned to my Lord, I will indeed have the best [reward] with Him” (Fussilat:50) Such people either supposed that they could exert their efforts in the Hereafter and receive blessings forthwith or speculated that their being wealthy in this world indicates that God had shown them special favor, and as a result they would receive the same favor in the Hereafter.

Finally, if a person believes that the other world is completely isolated from this world and good or evil deeds in this world will not affect the blessings or punishment in the Hereafter, he has no belief in Resurrection -- one of the main principles of all Divine religions.