Steadfastness is the base of all positive deeds and the source of all obedience. This is why forbearance and steadfastness has been declared to be one of the requisite features for going to Paradise. Verse 12 of Surah Dahr says:

“And He rewarded them for what they patiently persevered, with a garden and silk clothes.”(1)

They will be welcomed by the angels when they enter Paradise and this will be the proof of these forbearing people’s greatness.

Verse 24 of Surah Raad says:

“Peace be on you for what you have patiently persevered.”

According to many Shia and Sunni commentators the verse of Surah Dahr under discussion is about Hazrat Ali, Lady Fatima, Hasan and Hussein because they have displayed a great forbearance when they fasted for three days continuously and opened their fast with water while they gave away their Iftar to the needy, the orphan and the prisoner. This is forbearance in obedience.

It should be known that forbearance in the face of tragedies and hardships and steadfastness in other problems like instigations for sinning are regarded as the keys to Paradise.

The notable point is that this verse mentions the beautiful dresses from among all the bounties of Paradise. It is either because this group of forbearers used to give their food as well as clothes to the needy or because the outward beauty of person is often due to fine dresses. The inner beauty of a person is related to piety and Qura’n has termed it as “The robe of piety.”

1. The same meaning can be found in verses 21 and 22 of Surah Raad and verse 75 of Surah Furqan.