Most Mu’tazila deny the existence of the Bridge of Sirat, believing that it does not convey any truth.
They argue that the meaning of the Bridge as a path to Paradise signifies evidence of obedience; anyone who has acted in accordance with this obedience will enter Heaven by it. Conversely, what they refer to as the bridge leading to Hell represents the evidence of sin; anyone who has committed sin will enter Hell through it.
Many Mu’tazila have outright denied the existence of the Bridge of Sirat, asserting that crossing such a bridge is not possible; even if it were, it would simply be a form of punishment for believers, and believers will not be punished on the Day of Resurrection.
Mu’tazila’s Reasons
In their reasoning, the Mu’tazila contend that crossing the Bridge of Sarat is an obligation, and there are no obligations for believers in the Hereafter. Qazi Abdul Jabbar states, “We do not share the Hashaviya belief about the Sirat Bridge; they believe that the bridge is narrower than a hair and sharper than a sword, and that the obligated individuals must cross it. Those who can cross it are among the people of Paradise, while those who cannot cross are among the people of Hell. The Hereafter is not a place of obligation, and it would cause pain to a believer; crossing this narrow and sharp path would thus not be an obligation.”
The Response to the Mu’tazila’s Reasons
The examination of believers in the Hereafter also exists in other forms. For example, standing in a position for an extended time, with sweat reaching near their heads, among other trials, are also assignments. Texts have established that the duty of the servant ceases upon entering Paradise or Hell, as those two locations serve as places of punishment. Prior to that, however, is the realm of duty and action.
Allama Taftazani, may Allah have mercy on him, responds to the Mu’tazila’s argument by stating, “Allah Almighty is capable of granting the believer the strength and power to cross and to facilitate their passage over this bridge, so that some may pass through it like lightning, some like a swiftly blowing wind, and others like a fleet horse, along with other scenarios mentioned in Hadith.”
Note: Although the Mu’tazila have presented more rational reasoning, we are satisfied with this response.
For more information, please refer to the sources used, especially Dr. Ziab Alavi’s insightful article.
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