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(273) said to extend over the infernal gulph, is represented as narrower than a spider's web, and sharper than the edge of a sword. Yet the paradise of Mahomet can be entered by no other avenue. Those indeed who have behaved well need not be alarmed; mixed characters will find it difficult; but the wicked soon miss their standing, and plunge headlong into the abyss. ''Pocock in Port. Mos.'' p. 282, &c.

According to the tradition from the Prophet, not less than nine hundred, nor more than seven thousand.

It was an article of the Mahometan creed, that all animals would be raised again, and some of them admitted into paradise. The animal here mentioned appears to have been one of those white-winged caparisoned with gold, which Ali affirmed would be provided to convey the faithful. ''Relig. Cer.'' vol. VII. p. 70. ''Sale's Prelim. Disc.'' p. 112. ''Al Janheri. Ebno'l Athir'', &c.