What is meant by the opening of the gates of Paradise and the closing of the gates of Hell in Ramadan? Does this mean anyone can enter Paradise or Hell before the Day of Judgment? Is this specific to those who die in Ramadan?

Scholars differed on the meaning of "the gates of Paradise are opened." Some said it is a literal opening, while others said it means the removal of barriers and the lifting of veils, or that it is a metaphor for opening the doors to acts of obedience. Paradise and Hell exist now, and there are those who are enjoying bliss or being tormented in them in the Barzakh (interim period), but the torment of Hell on the Day of Judgment will be more severe and enduring. There is no evidence that dying in Ramadan is a reason for entering Paradise or being saved from Hellfire.