Mention of a paradise garden for the gods can be found in the first writings known to man, dating from around 4000 BC during the Sumerian period in Mesopotamia.
Within the Islamic context the key elements of flowing water, shade and exuberant foliage powerfully convey ideas of both spiritual and physical refreshment. THE IDEA of paradise as a garden is a very ancient one, pre-dating the three great monotheistic religions, Judaism, Christianity and Islam, by centuries. Underneath which rivers flow: The Symbolism of the Islamic Garden
