12 illustration(s) from this book
It is generally believed, that, under the lowest earth, and beneath seas
of darkness of which the number is unknown, is Hell, which consists of
seven stages, one beneath another. The first of these, according to the
general opinion, is destined for the reception of wicked Mohammadans;
the second, for the Christians; the third, for the Jews; the fourth, for
the Sabians; the fifth, for the Magians; the sixth, for the Idolaters;
the seventh, by general consent, for the Hypocrites. "Jahennem" is the
general name for Hell, and the particular name for its first stage. The
situation of Hell has been a subject of dispute; some place it in the
seventh earth; and some have doubted whether it be above or below the
earth which _we_ inhabit.
At the consummation of all things, God, we are told, will take the whole
earth in his [left] hand, and the heavens will be rolled together in his
right hand;[37] and the earth will be changed into another earth; and
the heavens [into other heavens];[38] and Hell will be brought nigh [to
the tribunal of God].[39]
NOTE 3. The phrase "God is all-knowing," or "surpassing in knowledge,"
or, as some say, simply "knowing," is generally used by an Arab writer
when he relates anything for the truth of which he cannot vouch; and
Muslims often use it in conversation, in similar cases, unless when they
are uttering intentional falsehoods, which most of them are in the
frequent habit of doing. It is worthy of remark, that, though falsehood
is permitted by their religion in some cases, their doctors of religion
and law generally condemn all works of fiction (even though designed to
convey useful instruction), excepting mere fables, or apologues of a
high class.