What is our maqsad in this life?

Main Topic

The speaker discusses the fundamental purpose of human existence (Maqsood), explaining how worldly means and knowledge (Ilm) serve as instruments to perform good deeds (A'mal), which ultimately strengthen and increase a believer's faith (Iman).

Key Lessons

• Understanding Maqsood vs. Ghair Maqsood: Primary objectives (Maqsood) must be prioritized over secondary means (Ghair Maqsood). Secondary means only hold value in proportion to how much they help attain the ultimate goal.
• Human Potential for Progress: Unlike angels who neither progress nor retrogress, human beings were sent to the world (Dunya) with Iman and free will to earn higher ranks in Jannah through righteous deeds.
• Knowledge as a Means, Not the End: Acquiring religious knowledge (Ilm) is not the final objective in itself; it is meant to guide action (A'mal). Having theoretical knowledge without practical application or good character (Akhlaq) misses the true purpose.
• Establishing Shariah: Following basic obligations is necessary, but establishing the laws and values of Islam (Shariah) within one's own household, character, and business affairs represents a higher spiritual objective.

Quranic/Hadith References

• Surah Al-Fath (48:4): Mention of the concept "Liyazdadu imanam ma'a imanihim" (That they may add faith to their faith) to illustrate how deeds increase baseline faith.
• Ranks in Jannah: Hadith explaining that people in lower levels of Jannah will look up at higher dwellers like distant stars in the sky—a rank attained by those who truly followed the Prophets (Alayhimussalam).
• The Event of Mi'raj: The lesson from Jibreel (Alayhis salam) tying the Buraq at Masjid al-Aqsa, demonstrating that humans must utilize proper material means (Alam-e-Asbab) in this world.

Practical Advice

• Evaluate whether your Iman is growing by looking for its primary indicators: fear of Allah (Khof-e-Khuda) and genuine humility.
• Always verify the permissibility (Halal status) of financial transactions, business practices, and modern services before taking part in them.