The Illusion of Worldly Pursuits: Finding True Purpose in Islam
The Illusion of Worldly Pursuits: Finding True Purpose in Islam
In today’s fast-paced world, many people become consumed by their worldly pursuits—whether it be wealth, family, status, or power. Some dedicate their entire lives to growing their businesses, accumulating riches, or chasing political influence. Others seek honor, recognition, or authority, believing that these achievements will bring them happiness and fulfillment. However, Islam teaches that living solely for material gains is a path of ignorance (jahiliyyah), as true purpose and contentment can only be found in devotion to Allah.
The Temporary Nature of This World
One of the core teachings of Islam is that this world is temporary, and everything in it will eventually perish. Allah reminds us in the Qur’an:
“Know that the life of this world is only play and amusement, pomp and mutual boasting among you, and rivalry in wealth and children. It is like the example of rain whose growth pleases the farmers, then it dries and you see it turning yellow, then it becomes straw. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and His pleasure. And the life of this world is nothing but a deceiving enjoyment.” (Surah Al-Hadid 57:20)
This verse highlights that worldly achievements and possessions are fleeting. They may provide temporary happiness, but they will never bring lasting peace or eternal success. True fulfillment lies in preparing for the Hereafter, where rewards are permanent and far greater than anything the world has to offer.
The Danger of Materialism
When a person prioritizes material wealth, status, or influence above all else, they risk losing sight of their real purpose. Islam does not forbid earning wealth, taking care of one’s family, or seeking leadership positions, but these pursuits must never become the ultimate goal of life. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) warned:
“Wretched is the slave of gold, silver, fine clothes, and luxurious furnishings. If he is given something, he is pleased, but if he is denied it, he becomes angry. Wretched is he! Let him fall down and never rise again!” (Sahih Bukhari)
This hadith describes the condition of a person who becomes a ‘slave’ to wealth and material possessions. Such an individual is never truly content; they are always chasing more, but their desires are never satisfied. This endless pursuit leads to stress, envy, and a heart that is disconnected from Allah.
The Test of Worldly Success
Many people see wealth, power, or family as blessings, but in reality, they can also be tests from Allah. He gives and withholds based on His divine wisdom. Allah says:
“And know that your wealth and your children are but a trial, and that with Allah is a great reward.” (Surah Al-Anfal 8:28)
The real challenge is whether a person allows these blessings to bring them closer to Allah or if they become a source of distraction and arrogance. A believer must always remember that these worldly possessions are temporary and that they will be held accountable for how they used them.
Living with True Purpose: Worship and Submission to Allah
Islam teaches that life is meant for a greater purpose than just accumulating wealth or achieving status. Our primary mission is to worship and obey Allah in all aspects of life. Allah clearly states:
“And I did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship Me.” (Surah Adh-Dhariyat 51:56)
Worship in Islam is not limited to prayer and fasting—it encompasses every action done with sincerity for the sake of Allah. A person can work, earn money, and take care of their family, but if these actions are done with the intention of pleasing Allah, they become acts of worship.
Balancing Worldly Life and the Hereafter
Islam does not teach asceticism, where one abandons all worldly affairs. Instead, it promotes a balanced approach. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was a businessman, a leader, and a family man, but he never let these roles distract him from his ultimate purpose. He advised:
“Work for your worldly life as if you will live forever, and work for your Hereafter as if you will die tomorrow.” (Ibn Asakir)
This means that while we should strive to be successful in this world, our hearts should always be attached to the Hereafter. The wealth, status, and achievements of this life should be used as a means to seek Allah’s pleasure, rather than as an end in themselves.
How to Avoid Living in Ignorance
To ensure that we do not become consumed by materialism, we should adopt the following Islamic principles:
- Prioritize Prayer and Worship – Establishing Salah (prayer) on time keeps our hearts connected to Allah and reminds us that He is the true source of success.
- Practice Gratitude – Recognizing that all blessings come from Allah helps prevent arrogance and greed. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Be content with what you have, and you will be the richest of people.” (Tirmidhi)
- Give in Charity (Zakat and Sadaqah) – Regularly giving to the poor purifies the soul and reminds us that wealth is only a tool, not a goal.
- Remember Death and the Hereafter – Frequently thinking about the temporary nature of this world helps put priorities into perspective. The Prophet (peace be upon him) advised: “Remember often the destroyer of pleasures (death).” (Tirmidhi)
- Surround Yourself with Righteous Company – Being in the company of those who remind you of Allah and encourage good deeds strengthens faith and prevents attachment to materialism.
The True Meaning of Success
In the eyes of Allah, success is not measured by wealth, titles, or worldly power. True success is defined by faith, good deeds, and striving for the Hereafter. Allah reminds us:
“Whoever is saved from the Fire and admitted into Paradise has truly succeeded. And what is the life of this world except the enjoyment of delusion?” (Surah Aal-e-Imran 3:185)
This verse is a powerful reminder that no matter how much a person achieves in this world, if they fail in the Hereafter, they have ultimately lost everything.
Conclusion: Shifting Focus to the Eternal Life
The pursuit of wealth, status, and worldly pleasures often dominates people’s thoughts and emotions, but Islam teaches that this is a path of ignorance. True wisdom lies in understanding that life is temporary and that the real purpose of existence is to worship and obey Allah. A balanced approach—where we work hard in this world while keeping our hearts focused on the Hereafter—leads to true peace and eternal success.
May Allah guide us to live with purpose, keeping our eyes on the ultimate reward of Jannah. Ameen.
