In this fast-paced world, the search for happiness has taken on a more desperate character than ever at any point in history. People tend to look for happiness in short-term comforts, but actual happiness is sometimes nowhere in sight. “30 Ways To Attain Happiness” (3rd Edition) by Muhammad bin Abdillah Ash-Shaayi’ gives eternal Islamic wisdom for believers to bring happiness into reality. Unlike materialistic superficial happiness, this book focuses on deep-rooted contentment that aligns with the teachings of Islam.
This blog would delve into the core principles as introduced in the book, explaining how this methodology can enable Muslims to truly have happiness that will end. By following the guidelines set out by Ash-Shaayi’, one can have fulfillment in the here and now while being spiritually peaceful and satisfied about Allah’s will.
The Need to Understand Happiness from an Islamic Point of View
Modern societies often associate happiness with material wealth, fame, or success. In Islam, however, happiness occurs as a result of the greater sense of meaning in one’s life and deeper relationship with Allah. The Qur’an and Hadith both emphasize inner peace and tranquility along with gratitude as the major constituents of happiness.
Through “30 Ways To Attain Happiness,” Ash-Shaayi’ reminds readers that happiness is not about temporary pleasures but living in harmony with oneself, others, and Allah. The book points out that this means that spiritual well-being leads to sustainability in happiness.
1. Cultivate Gratitude for Lasting Happiness
Gratitude is the key fundamental way through which people can achieve happiness. Ash-Shaayi’ specially mentions how in Islam, the power of Shukr (gratitude) can inspire an entire lifetime of goodness. Upon realizing the favors Allah has placed upon them, a person will always feel that he or she is contented and less dissatisfied because he or she has lots of things to be grateful for. In focusing on what they already possess, not necessarily what they do not have, a person can change his or her outlook towards positivity.
The Quran teaches gratitude in many verses, including: “If you are grateful, I will surely increase your favor upon you” (Quran 14:7). Gratitude not only helps us maintain a good relationship with Allah, but it also brings a good mental state that leads to sustainable happiness.
2. Cultivation of Patience in Trials
Another major principle learned from this book is to adopt Sabr or patience. Life always presents its challenges; and how one faces these challenges largely influences his well-being. Ash-Shaayi’ reminds people that they tend to find peace and happiness if they are more patient in facing trials.
The Islamic teachings urge the faithful to be patient when they are faced with trials and to have faith that Allah’s intent is always for their better good. As the Prophet Muhammad said, “How wonderful is the case of the believer, for his affairs are always good; if something good happens to him, he thanks Allah and that is better for him. If something bad happens to him, he bears it patiently, and that is better for him” (Sahih Muslim). This mindset keeps Muslims peaceful in time of adversity, hence enjoying long-term happiness.
3. Strong Bonding with Allah
The third process of happiness is that of strengthening the bonding relationship between Allah and you. Tawheed is a core belief in Islam, with a strong bonding with Allah using one’s self. When one turns towards Allah with prayer, supplication, and recitation, it brings comfort and relief that cannot be found elsewhere.
Ash-Shaayi’ urges people to remain involved in acts of worship like Salah (prayer), Dhikr (remembrance of Allah), and Dua (supplication). These acts, it is claimed, not only helps a person remain pious but also calm and content with feelings that have nothing to do with worldly matters.
4. Reflective Self-Improvement
Reflecting on oneself is another equally powerful tool for happiness. According to Ash-Shaayi, in the book, self-assessment regarding his actions, intentions, and any state of mind he may be in should be done regularly. When a person reflects on his thoughts and actions, he will find where to improve.
Islam promotes Tazkiyah as a way of soul purification to enhance good character and happiness. Reflective self-examination leads to greater awareness of purpose and ultimately to a more satisfying and fulfilling life.
5. Perform Beneficence and Good Social Acts
Another way towards happiness for Ash-Shaayi’ is giving to others. Sadaqah (charity) is a magnificent tenet of Islam, and the act of helping others brings much happiness to the giver. In addition to getting rewards from Allah, charity makes a person feel satisfied as it fosters empathy and tightens the bond among members of society.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, ‘The best of people are those who benefit others the most.” It is not just about giving money as charity, but rather lending support or assistance to others, giving them a smile or friendly words. This does lead to that other person to experience more inner bliss and satisfaction.
6. Surround yourself with positive and supportive people
It goes without saying that the people with whom we interact are the biggest contributors to our mood and happiness. Ash-Shaayi’ explains that we should be around positive thinkers that encourage right-minded behavior and aid our minds in keeping from deteriorating.
Islam preach good companionship and tells us to not to keep company with those who lead us to astray. The Quran further reveals, “And keep yourself patiently with those who call upon their Lord morning and afternoon, seeking His face” (Quran 18:28). Good relationships increase one’s mental wellbeing while providing a nurturing environment to be happy with.
7. Have a Balanced Life
Everything in life needs to be balanced. Whether on the job or with family, worship, or personal time, Ash-Shaayi advises that maintaining an equilibrium helps keep the healthiness of it. When excessive stress is placed on one’s favourite area in life, it usually works against others, mainly affecting stress, burnout, and unhappiness.
Indeed, the balanced life of the Prophet Muhammad indicated that he devoted an equal effort to his responsibilities towards Allah, his family, and people. Based on this actual situation, following his example would indeed be the key to really achieving a well-balanced life for Muslims in relation to their happiness.
8. Strive for Knowledge and Self-Development
Islam encourages seeking knowledge as another means of achieving happiness.”30 Ways to Attain Happiness” is the key for Ash-Shaayi’, stressing lifelong learning, whether religious or world knowledge. Knowledge development boosts one’s self-esteem and builds a personal sense of purpose.
The Quran says, “Say, ‘Are those who know equal to those who do not know?’ ” Quran 39:9 Knowledge empowers a person with choice and by building a meaningful life, and it finally leads to happiness.
9. Cultivate Contentment with Allah’s Decree
Lastly, Ash-Shaayi’ reminds readers that the principle of contentment with Allah’s decree, Rida, is the most outstanding one in attaining happiness. It does not matter what is going on; acceptance of Allah’s will and trust in His wisdom bring peace to the heart.
A great saying attributed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is this: “Whoever is pleased with Allah as his Lord, with Islam as his religion, and with Muhammad as his Prophet will certainly be one of the true felicitants” (Sahih Muslim). Once contented with Allah’s will, this person finds no other serenity or spiritual comfort.
Conclusion: Road of permanent happiness
“30 Ways To Attain Happiness” (3rd Edition) by Muhammad bin Abdillah Ash-Shaayi’ has been a guide for anyone looking to find happiness built with Islam. Muslims believe that through thankfulness, patience, self-examination, benevolence, and good relations with Allah, one can achieve real happiness and serenity.
What Ash-Shaayi speaks about as happiness does not rely, in the first and foremost place, on temporary gratifications or accumulation of material possessions. Instead, it is the liveliness of a life that finds its meanings with conscience and balance. With such wisdom portrayed in this book, readers can achieve happiness by attaining ultimate contentment hereafter.
Read more: Kitab-ut-Tawheed wa Taqwiyat-ul-Iman
