The Purpose of Life in Islam
What’s the point of life? As I sit here, lost in thoughts about where I fit in this vast world, that question keeps echoing in my mind. Is it about having a good job? Getting married? Going through the same routine day after day? When does it end? When do I reach the finish line? Maybe there isn’t a definite end. Perhaps all these things are just pieces of life, not the actual purpose. Maybe life means more than just going through the motions.
Being a Muslim, I’m thankful that Allah gave me Islam as a way of life and Prophet Muhammad SAW as a guide. When I read about his teachings, it’s as if I’m transported to those moments. Life is fleeting, and death is inevitable. We can’t escape it, and we won’t be delayed when our time comes. But then, what’s the real purpose? Why do we wake up every day and face the world’s challenges when this world isn’t our true home? Why do we feel a void inside us, yearning for something eternal?
Finding our purpose isn’t just about chasing success or doing what’s expected. It’s about deepening our faith, connecting with our spirituality, and making a positive impact on others. Following Islam and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad SAW helps us navigate through life’s complexities and discover a purpose beyond our individual selves.
Let’s remember that life is short, and our actions matter. Every good deed, every kind word, leaves a mark that can lead to eternal rewards. That’s the essence of life’s purpose.
Consider this verse: “Verily! In the creation of the heavens and the earth, and in the alternation of night and day, there are indeed signs for men of understanding, who remember Allah standing, sitting, and lying down on their sides, and contemplate the creation of the heavens and the earth, (and conclude), ‘Our Lord! You have not created all this without purpose, glory to You! Grant us salvation from the torment of the Fire.'” (Quran 3: 190-191)
In this expansive world, everything holds meaning if you believe in it. Each aspect of life has a purpose as long as you believe in its significance. Nothing in this existence is without a reason; everything serves a greater purpose.
Allah’s words remind us: “We created man from sounding clay, from mud molded into shape…” (15:26). Allah gave us life and sustenance, yet we often forget to express gratitude.
Living in America, pursuing the “American dream” can blur our focus. It’s natural to desire a good life, but we mustn’t forget the paradise promised in the hereafter. Balancing our worldly aspirations with our spiritual goals is crucial. May Allah guide us and grant us the highest level of paradise, Jannatul Firdaus.
The ultimate purpose of our existence is to willingly worship Allah. This is the foundation that people sometimes overlook. Our lives are a test filled with distractions meant to measure our commitment to remembering Allah in our daily routines. There are no shortcuts or hidden paths—our choices and actions determine our path.
Allah is fair; He could have placed us directly in paradise or hell, but He chose this world as a means for us to witness our own actions. There’s no other purpose for this world. Our desires can lead us astray from Allah. If we prioritize desires over Him, there are consequences. I say this out of concern, hoping that you avoid such pitfalls.
Conversely, if you strive to suppress your desires out of love and fear for Allah, if you continuously seek His closeness, may Allah make it easy for you. Allah’s love is boundless; if only you could hear His words directly, your heart would find the solace it craves.
Consider this story: Some prisoners were brought before Allah’s Messenger (saw). A woman among them searched frantically until she found a baby. She cradled the child, showing immense care. Allah’s Messenger (saw) asked, “Would this woman ever throw her child into the fire?” Everyone replied, “Never!” He then explained, “Allah’s mercy for His believers exceeds even a mother’s love for her child.” (Bukhari and Muslim)
To those who question their worth and purpose, know that you are loved. Your existence is not random; you have a purpose woven into the fabric of creation. Allah’s love for you surpasses your imagination. He has prepared blessings and rewards beyond your comprehension. He loves you deeply and unconditionally. If you’re not a Muslim and you’re reading this, perhaps it’s a sign guiding you toward Islam.
Living in America can lead to the forgetfulness of Allah due to the distractions around us. The influence of negative forces is strong. Remember that Allah created this world in perfect harmony. He wants us to live meaningful lives devoted to His cause. The purpose of life is to worship Allah, be kind to others, and contribute positively for His sake, knowing that Allah is watching and will reward us.
You don’t need to sacrifice your dreams or career to serve Allah. Find a way to serve Him through your passion. How you use your abilities to make a positive impact truly matters.
Avoiding wrongdoing and striving to do good is essential. Acknowledge your flaws and work towards improvement. Don’t let mistakes define you; repent and aim to be better. If you falter, seek forgiveness and keep your missteps between you and Allah, unless sharing them serves to protect others.
The choice is yours. The message has been delivered, and you have the power to change for the better. Allah knows best, and I genuinely wish the best for you, my friend. I am also striving to follow this advice. Let’s lead by example, and I pray that this guidance helps you find your path with Allah’s mercy.”
Hadiths about Allah’s Love
‘Ubadah ibn al-Samit reported: The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “Whoever loves to meet Allah, Allah loves to meet him. Whoever hates to meet Allah, Allah is averse to meet him.”
Source: Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 2683 Grade: Sahih (authentic) according to Al-Bukhari
Anas ibn Malik reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “When Allah loves a people, He afflicts them with trials.”
Source: al-Mu’jam al-Awsaṭ lil-Ṭabarānī 3228 Grade: Sahih (authentic) according to Al-Albani
Abu Huraira reported Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) as saying to Hasan: O Allah, behold, I love him. Thou too love him and love one who loves him.
Sahih Muslim 2421a https://sunnah.com/muslim:2421a
Narrated Abu Huraira: Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said, “If Allah loves a person, He calls Gabriel, saying, ‘Allah loves so and so, O Gabriel love him’ So Gabriel would love him and then would make an announcement in the Heavens: ‘Allah has loved so and-so therefore you should love him also.’ So all the dwellers of the Heavens would love him, and then he is granted the pleasure of the people on the earth.” (See Hadith No. 66, Vol. 8)
Sahih al-Bukhari 7485 https://sunnah.com/bukhari:7485
Poem: Whispers of Allah’s Love
In the morning’s golden light so fair,
Allah’s love is felt everywhere.
Like a gentle hug from skies above,
His care surrounds us with endless love.
In the rustle of leaves on a gentle breeze,
His presence comforts, puts our minds at ease.
Like a river’s flow, steady and true,
His mercy refreshes, making us anew.
In the twinkling stars on a clear night’s sky,
His guidance shines bright, never asking why.
Like a friend’s embrace when the world feels cold,
His love embraces us, making us bold.
In life’s journey, through every stride,
Allah’s love is our constant guide.
Like a song of peace in a bustling street,
His love’s melody makes our hearts complete.
Beautiful piece of writing. I always look forward to your new articles. They’ve helped so much. Keep up the awesome work. May Allah reward you for all your hardwork
Thank you so much sister May Allah reward you!