Verses from the Quran and Ibn Kathir's interpretation about the palaces of this world in the view of the Lord of the Worlds.

Peace be upon you and God's mercy. I wanted to share my simple reflections on some verses along with Ibn Kathir's explanations in a more relaxed way: First verse: God said: ﴿And set forth for them the parable of the life of this world...﴾ [Al-Kahf: 45] It's a respectful reminder that the life of this world is like rain that causes the earth to sprout, then dries up and becomes like chaff blown away by the winds. As Ibn Kathir explained: the world blossoms and then fades away, and what remains of it is only what God wills. So, let’s not be deceived by its adornments, but rather prepare for the hereafter. Second verse: God said: ﴿Know that the life of this world is but play and amusement...﴾ [Al-Hadid: 20] This verse makes it clear that the world is a fleeting enjoyment: play, adornment, pride, accumulating wealth and offspring, all of which are likened to rain that brings joy to farmers and then dries up becoming wreckage. Ibn Kathir mentioned that this is a warning against being preoccupied with what deceives or distracts from working for the afterlife, which leads to either punishment or forgiveness and pleasure from God. Third verse: God said: ﴿But you prefer the worldly life, while the Hereafter is better and more lasting﴾ [Al-A'la: 16-17] It's a straightforward reminder that many people prefer this world over the afterlife, even though the afterlife is better and everlasting. Ibn Kathir clarifies that the intention here is: don’t let the adornments of this world overshadow your readiness for the work of the afterlife. A simple summary (with humility): - The world is fleeting, and its adornments can be misleading, so we shouldn’t rely on it alone. - Working for the afterlife is more beneficial, and its rewards are lasting. - Let’s always remind ourselves of pure intentions and actions that will stand for us before God. May God reward you all and bless your time.