The Owner of the Two Gardens

There were two men. Allah gave one of them two gardens of grapevines, surrounded by palm trees, with crops placed between them. Both gardens produced their fruits fully and a river flowed through them. It was a beautiful and complete blessing from Allah.

But instead of being grateful, the owner of the gardens became arrogant. He boasted to his companion about his wealth and strength.

He said that he had more wealth and more people than his companion.

He also said that he did not think his garden would ever perish and that he did not think the Hour would ever come.

He was deceived by what he owned and forgot that Allah is the One who gives and takes away.

His believing companion advised him with wisdom.

He reminded him of Allah, the One who created him from dust, then from a drop, then fashioned him into a man.

He made clear that Allah alone is his Lord and that he does not associate anyone with Him.

He also told him that when entering the garden he should have said, “This is what Allah has willed. There is no power except with Allah.”

This was sincere advice from a believer who wanted good for his companion.

However, the owner of the gardens did not listen.

In the end, his wealth was destroyed and he was left wringing his hands in regret over what he had spent on his garden.

What had once been a place of beauty and pride became ruined. He then realised that no one could help him against Allah and that he could not even help himself.

This story teaches us many important lessons:

1. All wealth and blessings come from Allah.

2. Having more money does not make someone better than others.

3. Blessings should make us thankful to Allah and not arrogant.

4. Muslims should kindly advise others when they see something wrong.

5. We should not let love of this world distract us from the Hereafter.

6. We should be grateful for every blessing, big or small.

Finally, nothing in this world is permanent. Wealth, gardens, beauty and strength can all disappear. What remains is a person’s iman (faith), deeds and relationship with Allah.