In Islam, the purpose of human life is clearly defined in the Quran and Hadith. The central purpose is to worship Allah, follow His guidance, and strive for success in both this world (Dunya) and the Hereafter (Akhirah).
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Purpose of human life in light of Quran and hadiths
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The Purpose of Human Life in Light of the Quran and Hadith
In Islam, the purpose of human life is clearly defined in the Quran and Hadith. The central purpose is to worship Allah, follow His guidance, and strive for success in both this world (Dunya) and the Hereafter (Akhirah).
1. Worship and Obedience to Allah
Allah states in the Quran:
"And I did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship Me."
(Surah Adh-Dhariyat 51:56)
This verse establishes that the fundamental purpose of human existence is to worship Allah (ibadah
). Worship in Islam is not limited to rituals like prayer and fasting but includes every act done sincerely for Allah’s sake, including seeking knowledge, working ethically, and treating others with kindness.
2. Being a Khalifah (Steward) on Earth
Allah has given humans the responsibility of being His Khalifah (vicegerent) on Earth:
"And [mention, O Muhammad], when your Lord said to the angels, 'Indeed, I will make upon the earth a successive authority (khalifah).’"
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:30)
This means that humans are entrusted with caring for the world, establishing justice, and living in accordance with divine guidance.
Hadith on Responsibility:
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
"Each of you is a shepherd, and each of you is responsible for his flock."
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)
This means that every person has a duty—whether as a leader, parent, teacher, or worker—to act justly and responsibly.
3. Life as a Test
The Quran teaches that life is a test to distinguish between those who do good and those who do evil:
"[He] who created death and life to test you [as to] which of you is best in deed—and He is the Exalted in Might, the Forgiving."
(Surah Al-Mulk 67:2)
Everything in life—wealth, health, hardships, and blessings—is a test to see who remains faithful and grateful to Allah.
Hadith on Life’s Trials:
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“The greatest reward comes with the greatest trial. When Allah loves a people, He tests them.”
(Sunan al-Tirmidhi 2396)
4. Seeking Knowledge and Righteous Deeds
Islam encourages seeking knowledge and acting upon it:
"Say, 'Are those who know equal to those who do not know?'"
(Surah Az-Zumar 39:9)
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
"Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim."
(Ibn Majah 224)
Knowledge helps humans understand their purpose and responsibilities, leading to righteous actions and a meaningful life.
5. Preparing for the Hereafter (Akhirah)
Life is temporary, and the true success is in the Hereafter. The Quran reminds:
"And this worldly life is not but diversion and amusement. And indeed, the home of the Hereafter—that is the [eternal] life, if only they knew."
(Surah Al-Ankabut 29:64)
Muslims are encouraged to live a balanced life—fulfilling their worldly duties while keeping their ultimate goal as Jannah (Paradise).
Hadith on the Best Life:
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
"The best among you are those who have the best manners and character."
(Sahih al-Bukhari 3559)
This highlights that the purpose of life is not just worship but also embodying good character, kindness, and service to others.
Conclusion: A Balanced Life of Worship, Responsibility, and Righteousness
In summary, the Quran and Hadith teach that the purpose of human life is:
- Worship Allah (
ibadah
) in all aspects of life. - Be a Khalifah (steward) and establish justice.
- Undergo the test of life with patience and faith.
- Seek knowledge and do righteous deeds.
- Prepare for the Hereafter while living a meaningful life.
By fulfilling these purposes, a person achieves success (Falah) in both this world and the Hereafter.
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