Houris, the black-eyed damsels of the Mohammedan paradise, formed of pure musk, and made by a peculiar creation perpetual virgins. They dwell in green gardens and pearl pavilions, among lotus and acacia trees, with fruits in abundance, near flowing streams, reposing on lofty couches adorned with gold and precious stones. Some of the pavilions which they occupy are 60 miles square. The very meanest of the faithful will have 72 houris, besides the wives which he married when living. They join in concert with the angel Israfil, the most melodious of God's creatures, and the branches of the trees give an AEolian accompaniment. They may, if they desire, have children, which within an hour shall be conceived, born, and grow to maturity. Algaz-zali regards the descriptions of the houris in the Koran as allegorical, and designed to convey an impression of the spiritual beatitude of the saints; and the orientalist Hyde affirms that an enlightened belief prevails among the wiser Mohammedans.