In an interview with the Hawzah News Agency, Hojatoleslam Mohammad Zarifi, a seminary-based psychologist, addressed widespread assumptions that pious individuals are inherently sorrowful and that distancing from religion is necessary for a joyful life.
“Unfortunately, part of society holds this false belief. Yet, if we look carefully at Islamic sources, we see that Islam not only does not oppose happiness, but considers it a value and a spiritual necessity,” Zarifi explained.
Islam’s Perspective on Happiness
Quoting the Holy Qur’an, he pointed out that inner peace and joy stem from remembering God:
“Indeed, it is in the remembrance of Allah that hearts find tranquility.” (Qur’an 13:28)
He noted that Islam promises a hayat tayyebah (pure life) for those who combine faith with good deeds, adding:
“This life is marked by contentment, inner peace, and true joy.” (Qur’an 16:97)
Zarifi also highlighted the Qur’anic encouragement to rejoice in God’s mercy:
“Say: In the bounty of Allah and in His mercy – in that let them rejoice; it is better than all they accumulate.” (Qur’an 10:58)
Prophetic Teachings and Tradition
According to Zarifi, the life of the Prophet of Islam (PBUH) and the Imams (AS) serves as a model for joyful living.
“The Prophet (PBUH) was always cheerful, teaching that religion is ease. Imam Ali (AS) also emphasized that a believer’s smile is outward while his sorrow rests in his heart,” he said.
Islamic teachings recommend a balanced lifestyle that includes spiritual devotion, work, social interaction, and permissible recreation, Zarifi added.
Why the Misconception Exists
The scholar outlined several reasons behind the belief that religion opposes happiness:
- An incomplete presentation of religion, focusing more on warnings than on hope.
- Confusing spiritual grief with depression, whereas the former is meant to inspire positive action.
- Misconduct of some religious individuals who project a stern or joyless image.
- Media portrayals that associate happiness exclusively with material pleasures and depict believers as rigid or sorrowful.
Promoting True Joy
Zarifi stressed that correcting these misconceptions requires:
- A deeper and more balanced understanding of religion.
- Following the example of the Prophet (PBUH) and Imams (AS) who embodied cheerful conduct.
- Promoting authentic religious celebrations alongside mourning rituals.
- Presenting an attractive image of faith through kindness, dignity, and joyfulness.
“Islam not only does not prevent joy, but it shows the only path to real and lasting happiness,” Zarifi concluded.
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