Question: There are eight doors to Paradise, but why are there only seven doors to Hell?
Answer: As Muslims, our duty is to follow the commands of Allah and His Messenger without questioning. A Muslim submits immediately when a command from Allah or His Messenger is given, without asking “why?” or seeking reasons. For example, alcohol was permissible at the beginning of Islam, but when its prohibition was declared, the companions immediately stopped consuming it without questioning why or delaying their obedience. We must follow Allah and His Messenger’s orders in the same way, without asking why something is as it is.
This question about why there are eight doors to Paradise and seven to Hell is unnecessary. Allah has created them as He wished, and we are in no position to question His creation. Allah says:
لَا يُسْأَلُ عَمَّا يَفْعَلُ وَهُمْ يُسْأَلُونَ(الأنبياء:23)
Translation: He cannot be questioned as to what He does, while they will be questioned.
From this verse, we learn that we cannot question Allah’s creation. What Allah and His Messenger have told us is sufficient, and we should refrain from engaging in needless speculation. Regarding the seven doors of Hell, some have explained that there are seven main parts of the body used for sinful actions: eyes, ears, tongue, hands, feet, private parts, and stomach. Each is accountable for sin, and thus there are seven doors. Additionally, Paradise has one more door than Hell because Paradise is a manifestation of Allah’s grace, while Hell is a result of His justice, and His grace surpasses His justice. However, this explanation is speculative and not based on any clear evidence. We should stick to what is proven: Paradise has eight doors, and Hell has seven.
Respondent: Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi Hafizahullah
Jeddah Dawah Center, Saudi Arabia
Interpreter: Hasan Fuzail
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