How can the Nile and the Euphrates originate from Sidrat al-Muntaha while they are drying up and becoming polluted?
The sayings of scholars varied regarding the interpretation of the Nile and Euphrates being rivers of Paradise. Some hold to the apparent meaning, believing their source is from the Lote Tree of the Utmost Boundary (Sidrat al-Muntaha). Others believe it is a similarity of names, or that their mention indicates their blessing, or is a good tiding that their lands will belong to Muslims. This view aligns with the saying that the Mi'raj (Ascension) was a dream. Another view holds that they are indeed rivers of Paradise, but their nature changed in this world, or that their mention was to highlight their virtue and honor. The fundamental principle is to understand the hadith according to its apparent meaning unless there is a legal or rational impediment.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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