1. I enjoy writing about human life and often reflect on the thoughts of philosophers and perspectives within Islam.
In each piece, I hope to share knowledge lent by Allah for readers to benefit from as a source of insight. This morning, I had the desire to compile my writings, poems, and inspirational thoughts into a book that may be useful in the future.
2. In searching for the meaning of happiness, we often get caught up in external ideas of happiness.
Does happiness mean receiving praise from others? Is it a big house, a luxury car, or an expensive handbag? Or is it simply about looking impressive on social media?
3. Many of us are captivated by definitions of happiness that require external factors and recognition from others, while true happiness is more meaningful when it comes from inner peace.
4. Philosopher’s View: Aristotle and “Eudaimonia”
Philosophers like Aristotle define happiness as “eudaimonia”—a sense of well-being achieved by leading a virtuous and wise life.
For Aristotle, happiness is a genuine sense of satisfaction, not reliant on external things but born from practicing positive life values.
5. Simon Sinek: Happiness Through Life’s Purpose
Modern thinkers like Simon Sinek believe happiness comes from a life grounded in meaning and purpose.
In his book Start With Why, Sinek suggests that a life centered around benefiting others brings deeper happiness than merely chasing recognition or material success.
6. Islamic Philosophers’ Views on Happiness
Beyond the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), some Islamic philosophers, like Al-Ghazali and Ibn Sina, explored the concept of happiness and a fulfilling life.
i. Al-Ghazali: Happiness in a Relationship with Allah
Al-Ghazali, a renowned Islamic philosopher and scholar, believed that true happiness lies in a deep and sincere relationship with Allah.
In his work Ihya’ Ulum al-Din, Al-Ghazali stated that a heart filled with faith and love for Allah experiences happiness unattainable through worldly means.
For Al-Ghazali, happiness is achieved when one finds balance between spiritual and physical aspects, using worldly happiness as a path to Allah’s pleasure.
He believed the pursuit of happiness starts within and is achieved through practices that bring a person toward goodness, such as patience, gratitude, and worship.
For him, sincerity in worship is the path to closeness with Allah, which ultimately brings inner peace and true happiness.
ii. Ibn Sina: Happiness as Balance of the Soul
Ibn Sina, also known as Avicenna in the West, was an Islamic philosopher and medical scholar who believed that happiness is achieved through a balance between reason and the soul.
He argued that one who can control desires and impulses finds a purer and lasting happiness.
For Ibn Sina, happiness is gained not only through emotional or material satisfaction but also through intellectual enlightenment, leading to a deeper understanding of life’s meaning.
In his view, the human soul has spiritual needs that can only be fulfilled by pursuing truth-based life goals. Balancing physical and spiritual desires is a way to achieve holistic and enduring happiness.
7. Combining the perspectives of Al-Ghazali and Ibn Sina, we can understand that true happiness in Islam is not merely acquiring material pleasures but comes from a profound relationship with Allah, spiritual balance, and intellectual enlightenment.
True happiness does not require external validation but arises from a peaceful heart filled with faith and good deeds.
8. Internal vs. External Happiness
Happiness that depends on external factors, such as praise or possessions, is fragile and temporary.
Meanwhile, happiness that comes from within—such as gratitude, simplicity, and self-fulfillment—is longer-lasting and more meaningful.
9. I would like to suggest Five Tips for Achieving True Happiness:
i. Practice Gratitude
Being thankful for small blessings helps us appreciate every moment and creates genuine happiness.
ii. Set Meaningful Life Goals
Focus on goals that benefit family or community. Meaningful life goals bring invaluable happiness.
iii. Develop Spiritual and Mental Well-Being
Through spiritual practices, like prayer and supplication, we build inner peace. Balanced mental health also contributes to true happiness.
iv. Learn Self-Acceptance
Happiness also comes from genuine self-acceptance. Value yourself without expecting praise or recognition from others.
v. Build Sincere Relationships
Deep relationships with loved ones are a vital source of happiness. Focus on genuine and meaningful connections built on trust and love.
10. Happiness is an Inner Journey
Happiness cannot be bought or achieved with external validation. It comes from a calm heart and meaningful life practices.
Whether through Aristotle’s views, Simon Sinek’s ideas, or the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), all remind us that true happiness comes from a sincere life, honest intentions, and a purpose beyond oneself.
11. As a conclusion to this deep reflection on happiness, we should realize that the pursuit of happiness is not a journey toward fleeting worldly pleasures but an exploration within, toward authentic balance and deep unity with the Creator.
12. True happiness is not something achievable with money, fame, or others’ praise; rather, it is the tranquility hidden in the depths of the heart, only discoverable through a sincere relationship with Allah SWT, as taught by the Prophet, and through the purification of the soul as understood by Islamic scholars and philosophers like Al-Ghazali and Ibn Sina.
13. In the calm of a clear heart, we will find that happiness—happiness no longer bound to worldly desires, but born of faith, gratitude, and awareness that life itself is a precious gift.
14. What is more beautiful than a peaceful heart, free from envy and excessive desires, and full of gratitude? A happy heart is one that is unmoved by trials or losses, for it knows that every breath is by the decree of Allah, the Most Compassionate.
15. Let us all cultivate tranquility in our souls, sow goodness, and nurture sincerity, for true happiness is not the greatness displayed on social media but the spiritual satisfaction felt in the quiet of a peaceful heart.
16. Here lies happiness that will not fade over time, glowing within and guiding us toward eternal happiness.
17. I pray each reader finds true happiness, all good things from Allah, and may all shortcomings be mine.
