Answer
Short Answer: In fact, there was never a punishment for Adam because he repented for his sin in the Garden. His removal from the Garden was not a punishment, but a natural consequence of his choice. However, we may learn from Adam’s test and experience. The main lesson is to control ourselves and realize what is beneficial for us and what is not, to always question our intentions, and to repent when we do wrong.
Assalamu Alaykum Dear Questioner,
Thank you for your question and for contacting Ask About Islam.
In fact, there was never a punishment for Adam, as is explained in the verses below.
Adam Repented
When we commit a sin, we sincerely ask for Allah’s forgiveness and Allah forgives us; and that’s what Adam did.
Allah says what means:
And We said: ‘O Adam! Dwell thou and thy wife in the Garden, and eat ye freely (of the fruits) thereof where ye will; but come not nigh this tree lest ye become wrong-doers.’
But Satan caused them to deflect therefrom and expelled them from the (happy) state in which they were; and We said: ‘Fall down, one of you a foe unto the other! There shall be for you on earth a habitation and provision for a time.’
Then Adam received from his Lord words (of revelation), and He relented toward him. Lo! He is the relenting, the Merciful.
We said: ‘Go down, all of you, from hence; but verily there cometh unto you from Me a guidance; and whoso followeth My guidance, there shall no fear come upon them neither shall they grieve.’ (Quran 2:35-38)
However, we may learn from Adam’s test and experience.
Self-Control
The main lesson is to control ourselves and realize what is beneficial for us and what is not.
The main test of this world is temptation.
Whether it is wealth, prestige, or position, we need to stop and think before indulging.
Our modern life is filled with temptations. We seem to be racing for this world.
Who wants to get the bigger car, bigger house, better position, when all while our final abode is a pitfall of sand. Allah says what means:
Rivalry in worldly increase distracts you until you come to the graves. (Quran 102:1-2)
We must realize those temptations and keep ourselves in control. This requires strong will and dedication.
We must always check our intentions
Are we acquiring what we are acquiring to please Allah or for some other purpose?
Are we using lawful means to get our wealth?
Are we really deserving of the position we are holding?
Allah judges us according to our intentions.
If we are worldly people then we will do anything to get what we want without paying attention to Allah’s command.
However, if we commit a mistake and we are God conscious then we will surely ask for Allah’s forgiveness.
We will live our lives according to Allah’s law.
In return, this is what we get:
Whosoever doeth right, whether male or female, and is a believer, him verily we shall quicken with good life, and We shall pay them a recompense in proportion to the best of what they used to do. (Quran 16:97)
I hope this helps answer your question.
Salam and please keep in touch.
(From AboutIslam’s archives)
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