We all hope to enter Jannah (Paradise), but is Jannah for just any Muslim? The Holy Quran states that Allah has prepared Jannah for the Muttaqin (the pious). To become a truly pious person, one must possess certain special qualities.
In a heart-touching lecture, Shaykh Ahmadullah discussed six such qualities of the people of Jannah, based on verses 133 to 136 of Surah Al-Imran. If you possess these qualities, you can, with Allah’s grace, hope for Jannah.
6 Special Qualities of the People of Jannah
1. Giving Charity in All Circumstances, in Ease and Hardship
The first and foremost quality of the people of Jannah is that they give charity not only when they are wealthy but also when they face financial hardship. This charity is not for worldly fame or praise, but solely to please Allah. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said that one of the seven types of people who will receive shade under Allah’s Throne on the Day of Judgment is one who gives charity in such secrecy that their left hand does not know what their right hand has given.
2. Controlling Anger and Rage
Anger can overwhelm a person’s conscience. A key quality of the people of Jannah is their ability to control their anger and rage. When they feel their temper rising, they restrain themselves and avoid saying hurtful things or acting destructively. This is true strength. When asked for advice, the Prophet (PBUH) repeated “La Taghdab” (Do not get angry) three times. He also said that the strongest person is not the one who can wrestle others down, but the one who can control themselves when angry.
3. Forgiving Others
Forgiving others requires a big heart. Small-minded people cannot easily forgive. However, the people of Jannah know how to forgive others, even if they have a grudge or resentment. When you forgive someone, your own heart feels lighter and you experience inner peace. Most importantly, if you wish for Allah’s forgiveness on the Day of Judgment, you must learn to forgive Allah’s servants in this world.
4. Showing Ihsan (Goodness) to People
The fourth quality of the people of Jannah is that they show Ihsan to people. Ihsan means doing good and being benevolent. They are well-wishers and are always ready to help others. Dr. Khondaker Abdullah Jahangir (may Allah have mercy on him) said that the action that pleases Allah the most is when a person helps another. A true believer never tries to harm others or engage in backbiting. Instead, they wish for the well-being of others.
5. Seeking Forgiveness from Allah After Sinning
As human beings, it is natural for us to make mistakes or commit sins. However, if a pious person commits a sin, they immediately remember Allah. They feel, “I cannot do this.” Without delay, they immediately and wholeheartedly seek forgiveness from Allah, knowing that no one else can forgive their sins.
6. Not Repeating the Same Sin
After seeking forgiveness, the sixth quality of a true believer is that they make a sincere effort not to repeat the same sin. They scold themselves and make a firm resolve to stay away from that sin. Making an earnest effort to return from a sin after repentance is a sign of a truly pious person.
Conclusion
Allah has reserved the reward of forgiveness and paradise for those who cultivate these six qualities. Allah has promised that these people will enter Jannah, beneath which rivers flow, to reside there forever. Let us all strive to attain these six qualities and become among the beloved servants of Allah.