walls providing shade and protection, especially desirable in the harsh, arid climate where this type of garden flourished. Interpretation Much of the use and symbolism of the paradise garden is thought to have derived from the Garden of Eden, despite most elements of the design predating the Abrahamic religions. In the Book of Genesis, the Garden of Eden is described as having a design similar to the four-fold design, with a central spring that feeds four rivers, each flowing out into the world beyond. In the Quran, the Jannah is described as being abundant with material delights including delicious foods and constantly flowing water. Having emerged in the desert, the thirst and gratitude for water are abundant in Islamic traditions. In the Quran, rivers are the primary constituents of the paradise, and references to rain and fountains abound. In the Quran 21:30: "Did the disbelievers not observe that the heavens and the earth were closed, then We opened them? And We created from water every living thing. Would they still not believe?'." Water is associated with the virtues of purity and obedience: "Then the water was told, 'Be still'. And it was still, awaiting God's command. This is implied water, which contains neither impurity nor foam" (Tales of the Prophets, al-Kisa'). Although the concept of chahar bagh gardens representing 'paradise on earth' predates the Islamic adoption of the style, the paradisical retreats of the Persians became known as "the embodiment of the celestial paradise promised to a practicing Muslim". Gardens representing paradise on earth or paradise gardens spread throughout the Muslim-conquered world and developed into different, grander and more elaborate styles. Influence The paradise garden is one of the few original and fundamental kinds of garden from which all gardens in history derive, sometimes in combinations. In its simplest form, the paradise garden consists of a formal, rectangular pool, having a flow just sufficient to give it movement, and a dais from which to observe it. However, a pavilion provides more permanent shelter than the original tent. Strictly aligned, formally arranged trees, especially the chenar or Platanus, provide shade. An example of this style are the Bahá'í Terraces and Mansion of Bahjí on Mount Carmel in Israel, both of which have extensive gardens of intricate design. Examples Pasargadae Bagh-e Doulatabad in Yazd, created in the 18th century by the governor Mohammad Taqi Khan Cheshmeh-e'Ali Gardens of the Taj Mahal Al-Azhar