This earth is the highest of the seven earths. The lowest is supported by a bull and that by a fish beneath which is hell. The habitable world is divided into seven parallel climes or zones, all north of the equator. Hell is usually pictured as a pit with seven storeys. In the lowest are the roots of the tree Zaqqurn which reaches to the top of hell with its fruits of demon's heads. Torments include intense cold and intense heat. When the skins of the wicked have been burnt off, new ones grow that the torment may be renewed. Hell is also pictured as a monstrous animal. When God gives the order to fetch hell, it trembles and needs to be reassured by angels that He will not punish it. It has four feet and each foot is fettered by 70,000 rings on each of which sit 70,000 demons. Mecca is said to be the navel of the earth. It was created first and the world spread out around it. It is the highest point, the spot from which the world draws its nutrients and it is the junction with the upper and lower worlds. So it is called 'the mother of towns'. The site of the Kaba corresponds to that of the pole star. Ishmael and hundreds of prophets are buried round it. It is the centre of the universe. Its foundation is in the lowest earth and forms an axis which passes through the whole seven. Each stage in the universe has its sanctuary, and the throne of God is the highest. |