Houses On Bridges

Rasul Allah (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) said: “Be in this world as if you were a stranger or a traveler.” [Bukhari]

The above narration clearly indicates that we are in this world for a purpose and not for entertainment. We are like travelers during this life on earth. A traveler has a final destination that he/she is eager to reach. They need to use the time of their stop-over wisely, so as not to miss their connecting flight.

We should remember that earth is not our final destination. We have been encouraged to utilize the blessings Allah has put here for our use, yet we are told not to lose sight of the temporary nature of this life, and to use it to make preparations for the next life. Our souls are on a journey. Remembering death defeats joy. It kills our tastebuds for the pleasures of this life. But it is the only wise thing to do, in our own interest.

Concerning the life of this world Hazrat Esa (alaihis salaam) said, "This world is like a bridge, cross it and do not build on it."  This life is a bridge from our previous existence as soul to our next existence in the grave, then on the Day of Judgement, then either in The Garden or (Allah Forbid) The Fire. Houses are built on land, connected by bridges where the need arises. The most appropriate place to build, the focus of our attention, should be the land that we will set foot on once we cross the bridge that is our earthly existence. Where are you focused on building? On land, or on a delicate bridge that can collapse anytime with your death?