18:32-44 - The Two Gardens

[18:32-44] Cite for them the example of two men: we gave one of them two gardens of grapes, surrounded by date palms, and placed other crops between them. Both gardens produced their crops on time, without the least reduction, and we caused a river to flow between them. One of them said to the other, as they were discussing the matter, "I am wealthier than you, and more powerful." When he entered his garden, he wronged his soul by saying, "I do not think this will ever end. Moreover, I think this is it; I do not think the Hour (the Hereafter) will ever come. Even if I am returned to my Lord, I will find even better than this." His friend said to him, as they were discussing the matter, "Have you disbelieved in the One who created you from dust, then from a tiny drop, then perfected you into a man? As for me, GOD is my Lord, and I will never set up any partners with my Lord. When you entered your garden, you should have said, 'This is what GOD has given me (Maa Shaa Allah). No one possesses power except GOD (La Quwwata Ella Bellah).' You may see that I possess less money and less children than you. My Lord may grant me better than your garden. He may send a demonstrating punishment from the sky that wipes out your garden, leaving it completely barren. Or, the water may sink deeper, out of your reach." Indeed, his crops were wiped out, and he ended up sorrowful, for all that he had invested therein. He finally said, "I wish I never set up my garden as a partner with my Lord." He had no people to help him against GOD, nor was he able to recover. In that situation, all power belongs to GOD, the true God. He provides the best recompense, and with Him is the best destiny.