"The similitude of the Heaven promised to the God-fearing is, that through it flow streams: its fruit is everlasting, and so is its shade. That is the reward of those who are righteous; and the reward of the disbelievers is Fire." [Holy Qur'an 13:36]
From this verse it is clear that the Qur'anic view of Heaven and Hell is presented in similitudes and metaphors. The following verse again reminds us that such descriptions are to be understood metaphorically:
"And no soul knows what joy of the eyes is kept hidden for them, as a reward for their good works."
[Holy Qur'an 32:18]
The Promised Messiah (peace be on him) has explained the true nature of Heaven and Hell. He writes:
"What is the object of religion? It is that having the certainty of faith in the existence and perfect attributes of God Almighty, man should attain release from the passions of self and should develop personal love for God. That is the Paradise which will be manifested in diverse ways in the hereafter. To remain unaware of the True God and to keep away from Him and not to have true love for Him is the Hell which will be manifested in diverse ways in the hereafter." [Essence of Islam Vol II by Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, p. 427]
In the book he further explains that Heaven and Hell is not a physical but an internal phenomenon occurring within the mind or soul, but it will be sensed by the mind as if physical. This kind of perception is common in dreams.
As I explained in the previous post, love of God in inherent within the mind. Therefore not having love for God is in direct conflict with the mind. Lack of love and not being loved creates Hell within the mind. However, following one's nature and expressing personal love towards our Creator is what creates the Heaven within ourselves.
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