<P> While Jannah in the Quran is often translated as "Heaven" in the sense of an abode where believers are rewarded in afterlife, سماء sama' (usually pl . samawat) is also translated as "heaven" in the sense of the sky, sometimes referred to as "seven firmament" (2: 29) or "seven strong" (78: 12). The seven layers of heaven are thought to be analogous to the seven layers of Jahannam (hell). </P> <P> Some sources connect the two in some way . According to Sufi cosmology, Paradise is often depicted over the seven heavens, between the 8th and the 9th heaven . In some modern interpretations, based on Surah 21: 30 and 67: 5, the lowest heaven is also interpreted as the observable universe, with the other 6 heavens beyond, once were a mess together with the earths and later expanded . </P> <P> The Paradise is described as surrounded by eight principal gates, each level generally being divided into a hundred degrees guarded by angels (in some traditions Ridwan). The highest level is known as firdaws (sometimes called Eden) or Illiyin . Entrants will be greeted by angels with salutations of peace or As - Salamu Alaykum . Furthermore, paradise is considered to be "as vast as the heavens and the earth". </P> <P> In the Quran, "the Garden" is described with material delights, such as beautiful maidens, precious stones, delicious foods, and constantly flowing water--the latter especially appealing to the desert dwelling Arabs, who spend most of their life in arid lands . The Islamic texts describes life for its immortal inhabitants as: one that is happy--without hurt, sorrow, fear or shame--where every wish is fulfilled . Traditions relate that inhabitants will be of the same age (33 years), and of the same standing . Their life is one of bliss including wearing sumptuous robes, bracelets and perfumes as they partake in exquisite banquets served in priceless vessels by immortal youths (Houri), as they recline on couches inlaid with gold or precious stones . </P>

What is written on the door of jannah