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From the perspective of the Holy Quran and Islamic traditions, the inhabitants of Paradise enjoy varying degrees and ranks according to the nature and quality of their deeds. Therefore, Paradise is composed of multiple levels and varying degrees. Imam Sadiq (peace be upon him) stated: “Allah says Paradise has degrees, some of which are higher than others, and people attain superiority through their actions.”
Now, we turn our attention to Jannat al-‘Aliyyah—the High Paradise, which is another tier of Paradise.
The term ‘Aliyyah originates from the root ‘uluw, meaning height, elevation, and superiority. It signifies exaltation both in rank and location. The Qamoos al-Quran explains that Jannat ‘Aliyyah refers to an elevated and superior position in Paradise in both physical and spiritual aspects (Qamoos al-Quran, Vol. 5, p. 37).
Occurrences of “‘Aliyyah” in the Holy Quran
The word ‘Aliyyah appears twice in the Holy Quran:
- “In a High Paradise” جَنَّةٍ عَالِیةٍ (Surah Al-Haqqah, 22)
- “In a High Paradise” جَنَّةٍ عَالِیةٍ (Surah Al-Ghashiyah, 10)
Additionally, the Quran refers to ‘Illiyyeen in Surah Al-Mutaffifin:
“Indeed, the record of the righteous is in ‘Illiyyeen” كَلاَّ إِنَّ كِتابَ الْأَبْرارِ لَفی عِلِّیینَ (Al-Mutaffifin, 18).
Allah further emphasizes its significance by stating:
“And what will make you know what ‘Illiyyeen is?” وَ ما أَدْراكَ ما عِلِّیونَ (Al-Mutaffifin, 19).
These verses underscore the special status and elevated position of Jannat al-‘Aliyyah.
The Inhabitants of the High Paradise
‘Aliyyah refers to an elevated and prestigious place where the inhabitants enjoy pleasures beyond human imagination. As mentioned in Surah Al-Haqqah (21–24):
“So he will be in a pleasant life / In a High Paradise / Its fruits hanging low [for picking] / [It will be said] Eat and drink in satisfaction for what you put forth in the days past.”
The verses describe the “companions of the right hand” (Ashab al-Yameen), those whose records are given in their right hand. Their reward is entry into Jannat al-‘Aliyyah.
The Attributes of the High Paradise
The High Paradise is a place of ultimate satisfaction and joy, where:
- Fruits are always within easy reach.
- Eating and drinking are blessed and free of discomfort.
- The inhabitants experience no fatigue or nausea from consuming its provisions.
In Surah Al-Ghashiyah (10–16), six unique qualities of Jannat al-‘Aliyyah are mentioned:
- No vain or meaningless speech is heard.
- Flowing springs are abundant.
- Majestic thrones are provided for relaxation.
- Goblets are set and filled with delicious beverages.
- Cushions are arranged for comfort.
- Luxurious carpets are spread across its vast expanse.
The Concept of ‘Aliyyah and ‘Uluw According to Scholars
Scholars interpret ‘Aliyyah as referring to a specific and exalted level of Paradise. ‘Illiyyeen is the plural of ‘Ali, which denotes an elevated position or individuals residing in higher realms. Some scholars describe ‘Illiyyeen as “the highest place in the heavens,” while others interpret it as “the pinnacle of Paradise” (Tafsir al-Namunah, Vol. 26, p. 270).
The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) explained that ‘Illiyyeen refers to a station higher than the seventh heaven and beneath the Divine Throne (Arsh) (Al-Jami‘ Li Ahkam al-Quran, Vol. 19, p. 262).
Allah highlights its importance:
“And what will make you know what ‘Illiyyeen is?” This rhetorical question emphasizes that ‘Illiyyeen is a station beyond human perception, imagination, or comprehension (Tafsir al-Namunah, Vol. 26, p. 272).
Two Interpretations of ‘Aliyyah
Scholars propose two main interpretations for the elevation of Jannat al-‘Aliyyah:
- Elevation in Honor and Dignity: The High Paradise signifies supreme honor and spiritual superiority.
- Elevation in Location and Rank: It refers to physical elevation as well as a position overseeing all other blessings in Paradise.
This tier of Paradise is reserved for the companions of the right hand (Ashab al-Yameen), who will enjoy its exclusive rewards and divine blessings (Majma‘ al-Bayan fi Tafsir al-Quran, Vol. 10, p. 337).
Conclusion
Regardless of its interpretations, Jannat al-‘Aliyyah remains a place of extraordinary honor and rank. It is the reward for those who lead righteous lives, performing noble deeds and striving to gain Allah’s satisfaction. The High Paradise encompasses blessings and delights unparalleled by anything the human eye has seen, the ear has heard, or the mind has conceived.