Everyone is in pursuit of happiness. If I am not mistaken, the way of living determines the extent of happiness. I believe that spending life according to the Quranic verses, shapes one’s spiritual as well as physical satisfaction.
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, happiness is “being satisfied.” However, before struggling for happiness, we should know further about the construction of happiness or how much control do we have on it.
Well, James Montier tells in his book “The Psychology of Happiness” that happiness is a construct of three factors. Almost 50% of individual happiness comes from genetics, 10% from the circumstances and the remaining 40% happiness is derived from the way of living and intentional activities.
So, two things are essential for a happier life. First “being satisfied” and the second is the “way of living.” Indeed, these two aspects are entirely addressed by the Holy Quran.
The Holy Quran is the last divine book that was revealed to the beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in 610 AD. Since then, the Holy Quran is serving as a wellspring of guidance and wisdom. The wisdom leads to the ultimate “satisfaction” and guidance directs to the right “way of living.”
Hence the Holy Quran satisfies the pursuit of happiness. I have put together some key features, demonstrated by the Quranic verses, establishing that the life spent according to the Quranic verses, will be happy and perfect. Let’s have a look.
Have Faith in Allah Almighty
The most important thing that one must have is to have faith in Allah Subhana hu Wata’la. The Holy Quran says:
“To GOD belongs the future of the heavens and the earth, and all matters are controlled by Him. You shall worship Him and trust in Him. Your Lord is never unaware of anything you do.”
So, having faith will provide:
- Inner strength.
- Purpose of life.
- A sense of hope.
- Help to go through turmoil.
- A set of rules to be a better person.
- Ability to overcome stress and anxiety.
- Selflessness and dignity simultaneously.
Be Grateful and Obliged
Being a true believer, we know that somethings are beyond our reach and control. Death time, count of daughters and sons, and the life partner are some examples of fortune. Matters of luck have never been in control.
So, we should be grateful, contented, and happy with what we have in our lives. Additionally, it is a matter of virtue if we keep praising Allah Subhana hu Wata’la. This is called “Raza bil Qaza” which means “being content with whatever we have.”
However, this virtuous deed doesn’t go unrewarded as Allah Subhana hu Wata’la says:
“If you express gratitude, I shall certainly give you more, and if you are ungrateful, then My punishment is severe.”
Be Mindful of Time
There is a well-known saying: “Time is money.” Also, time-related all positive habits, like regularity and punctuality, are always highly appreciated. The Holy Quran didn’t miss this important feature of human life.
The Holy Quran has elaborated on some key indicators that can help us to use time effectively and fruitfully. So, the Holy Quran says:
“By time, surely man is in loss, save those who believe and do good deeds, and enjoin on each other truth, and enjoin on each other patience.”
In the above-mentioned verse, along with particularizing the importance of time, Allah Subhana hu Wata’la has mentioned the best way to spend time in this world.
Yes, have trust in Allah and practice truth verbally as well as practically in your lives. Be honest in your deeds and words. Also, this verse directs us to be patient and making this world more tolerant. Of course, by slowing down anger and enhancing forgiveness, we can reduce violence.
Consult with Others Before Making Decisions
A person has to take many important decisions in his life. Taking a true and suitable decision guarantees success in life. Otherwise, one ends up with a bunch of failures. So, the Holy Quran directs here again and says:
“And consult them in the matter.”
This is a point of vital importance. What if one takes decisions without consulting with others? You may ask.
Fine, here are some consequences:
- The person will be perceived as arrogant and proud.
- Sole decision making makes others to feel less important and hurt.
- No one will come to help if that person would have to face turmoil.
- Before taking a decision, all the pros and cons will not be discussed properly.
Be kind to others
When someone hurts you, you have some choices to react. You can take revenge, ignore, go negative or simply forgive him. The Holy Quran advises being kind and forgiving in this scenario.
This act of forgiveness has a hidden good in itself. Yes, when we forgive one on his/her mistakes or unkind behaviors, we break the chain of unkind attitudes. People are much more likely to react similarly as they were dealt with.
So, the Holy Quran reads:
“Indeed, Allah enjoins justice, and the doing of good to others, and giving like kindred, and forbids indecency, and manifest evil, and wrongful transgression. He admonished you that you may take heed.”
Moreover, forgiving others and treating them with kindness will create a wave of inner peace. So, avoid unkindness and your life will be changed forever. Let’s start forgiving right now.
Think for Yourself
Socrates, the ancient Greek philosopher, said: “The unexamined life is not worth living.” This fact is true to a great extent as a life without self-actualization and reflection is wasted.
On the other hand, most people think that religions refrain from logic, reflection, and thinking. Contrarily, the Holy Quran urges its followers to reflect upon themselves and the surrounding. The Holy Quran says:
“Truly, the worst of all creatures in the sight of Allah are the deaf, the dumb, those who do not use their reason.”
So, dear brothers and sisters, do reflect at the end of each day. Do scrutinize what have you done, what should you do, and what you are supposed to do in this world. Also, think about how you can contribute to making this world a better place to live in.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if a person wants to live a happy and blessed life in this world and hereafter, he must incorporate Quranic teachings in his life. I have mentioned a few rules, out of countless guiding codes, elaborated in the Holy Quran. Let’s pray that Allah Subhana hu Wata’la makes our lives sanctified in this world and henceforth. Ameen.
