Life and the Hereafter: A Purposeful Journey.
The Nature of Worldly Life.
The life of this world is temporary, fleeting, and filled with distractions. From the moment we are born, we begin a journey filled with ambitions, desires, struggles, and experiences. People chase careers, wealth, relationships, and recognition. While these are part of human survival and social structure, they are not the ultimate goal.The Qur’an refers to this world as a place of test:
“And this worldly life is nothing but play and amusement. But the home of the Hereafter is far better for those who fear Allah. Will you not then understand?”
(Surah Al-An’am 6:32)
This verse reminds us that the world is not the destination; it is the preparation ground for the eternal life to come.
The Significance of the World in Light of the Hereafter
Despite being temporary, the world holds immense value because of its role. It is in this life that we are given the chance to believe, to act righteously, to seek forgiveness, and to earn Allah’s pleasure. The decisions we make here will shape our position in the next life.
Think of this world as an exam hall. The importance of an exam room lies not in its luxury or comfort but in what you do there. Similarly, this world is important not because of its pleasures, but because it’s the only opportunity we get to strive for Paradise.
The Hereafter: The Eternal Life. Unlike this world, the Hereafter is everlasting. Once the Day of Judgment comes, every soul will be shown their deeds, and justice will be served. There will be no second chances, no returns.
“Every soul shall taste death. And only on the Day of Judgment will you be paid your full recompense. Whoever is spared from the Fire and admitted into Paradise has truly triumphed. And the life of this world is no more than the delusion of enjoyment.”
(Surah Aal-e-Imran 3:185)
In the Hereafter, there is no death, no pain, no aging, and no sorrow for the people of Paradise. It is a life of eternal peace, contentment, and closeness to Allah.
Comparison: This World vs. the Hereafter
Aspect Worldly Life Hereafter
Duration Temporary (a few decades) Eternal, never-ending
Nature Full of tests, trials, and uncertainty Reward or punishment based on deeds
Joy and Comfort Limited and mixed with pain Pure and complete (for people of Paradise)
Status and Wealth Unequal and short-lived True equality based on righteousness
Opportunities Available but time-limited No second chance after death
Why the Hereafter Deserves Priority Over the World
There are several reasons why the Hereafter should be given more importance than the worldly life:
1. Permanence: The world is temporary, while the Hereafter is forever.
2. True Justice: Many people suffer unfairly in this world. The Hereafter is where perfect justice will be delivered.
3. Lasting Rewards: Efforts made for the sake of Allah are not wasted. Every small good deed can lead to eternal rewards.
4. Purpose of Creation: We were not created to build empires or chase desires. We were created to worship Allah and prepare for what comes after.
> “Did you think that We created you in play (without purpose), and that you would not be brought back to Us?”
(Surah Al-Mu’minun 23:115)
Conclusion
In conclusion, while this world is a necessary and valuable stage in our journey, it is not the end. Its value lies in how well we use it to earn success in the real life — the Hereafter. Prioritizing the Hereafter doesn’t mean abandoning the world; rather, it means living in this world with purpose, awareness, and responsibility.
A wise person is the one who prepares for the life that never ends, even while living in the one that surely will.