A proper understanding of the truth about human life is extremely important for a Muslim. Only when one builds life upon that understanding can a successful life be led both in this world and in the Hereafter.

Many verses in the Qur'an clearly highlight the temporary and unstable nature of worldly life. Similarly, several sayings of the Prophet (peace be upon him) describe the fleeting nature of this life by comparing it to the journey of a traveller.

The 20th verse of Surah Hadid presents in a vivid and realistic way the uncertain and deceptive aspects of worldly life and its activities:

"واعلموا انما الحياة الدنيا لهو ولعب.......(20:57)"

"And know that the life of this world is only play and amusement..."

Several Hadiths of the Prophet (peace be upon him) describe this worldly life as a temporary resting place during a traveller’s journey.

"ما انا في الدنيا إلا كراكب استظل تحت شجرة ثم راح وتركها (رواه الترمذي)"

"My position in this world is like that of a traveller who took rest under the shade of a tree and then went on and left it behind."

This Hadith clearly illustrates the transient nature of worldly life.

Do the Qur'anic verses and Hadiths that speak about worldly life contradict Islam's guidance for success in this life? Are they calling toward a life of renunciation? It is important to understand this correctly.

In reality, one can obtain the most accurate understanding of these verses and Hadiths by comparing them with the final 23 years of life of the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him).

The time between an individual’s birth and death is defined by divine decree. That time may be short or long. However, Islam desires that one lives a successful life within that timeframe. The Prophet (peace be upon him) was extremely concerned about developing such successful individuals. The people he nurtured became distinguished personalities who reached the pinnacle in various fields of life. Through such individuals, he built a unique society that triumphed in this world and continues to stand as a practical model for all humanity until the Last Day.

The Qur'an teaches us the following supplication, which confirms this stance:

"Our Lord! Grant us goodness in this world and goodness in the Hereafter..."

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:

"If the Last Hour comes while you have a sapling in your hand, then plant it, for there is a reward in it."

This statement also clarifies Islam’s stance on success in worldly life.

The idea that worldly life is temporary should not be misunderstood to mean that one must abandon it or refrain from striving for success in it. The above explanation makes this clear.

When the Qur'an and Hadith describe this world as temporary, fleeting, and sometimes filled with amusement, they do so to reject the type of life that focuses solely on worldly pleasures while forgetting the Hereafter.

Islam stresses that success in this world must be pursued with the success of the Hereafter as its foundation.

Between the transitory nature of this worldly life and the success in it, Islam desires to maintain a fine and balanced approach. When Islam refers to this life as unstable and filled with distractions, it does not mean that one should hate or withdraw from the world. The Prophet (peace be upon him) did not set such an example either.