Where Is True Happiness Hidden? In the World, in the Heart, or in the Hereafter?
One of the greatest pursuits of modern people is happiness. Some of us seek it in our careers, others in family, and still others in wealth and possessions. Yet even when we attain what we desire, we feel only a fleeting joy soon followed by a sense of emptiness.
It is precisely at this point that the Risale-i Nur Collection offers us a very different perspective. According to the Risale-i Nur, true happiness is not found only in this world it lies in being happy both in this world and in the hereafter. This state is referred to as saadet-i dâreyn, meaning happiness in both worlds.
So, what does this really mean? Does such a thing as true happiness actually exist?
The Source of Happiness: Faith and Knowledge of God
At the core of true happiness lie faith and knowing God (ma’rifah of Allah). The inner peace felt within a person the satisfaction of the heart is only truly possible when one turns toward their Creator. The purpose of human creation is to know Allah and to worship Him. A person who lives in accordance with this purpose finds genuine tranquility in their heart and soul. Happiness becomes lasting only when it aligns with the purpose of creation. Otherwise, a person who merely chases after pleasure and entertainment ends up struggling in a state of inner emptiness.
“Faith is both light and power. Indeed, a person who attains true faith can challenge the entire universe.” (The Words, 23rd Word)
This statement points to the fact that faith is more than just a source of happiness it is also a shield that delivers a person from existential fears.
The Transience of Worldly Life and Eternal Happiness
One should not be deceived by the fleeting nature of the world. Viewing this life as a place of ultimate happiness is misleading.
“O soul! Know that the world is a guesthouse. Every day, one caravan arrives, and another departs.“
(The Words, 17th Word)
This guesthouse metaphor reminds us that lasting happiness cannot be found in this world, but only in the hereafter. However, even in this life, when one lives with faith and worship, grounded in truth, a paradise-like sense of happiness can be felt in the heart.
“The happiest person in this world is the one who sees the world as a guesthouse and acts according to the commands of the Host.” (The Letters, 17th Letter)
Happiness in the Face of Hardships and Afflictions
The Risale-i Nur does not confine happiness to comfort and ease. On the contrary, it emphasizes that trials and hardships are also means of spiritual refinement, and that approaching them with patience can actually increase one’s happiness. This is because afflictions draw a person closer to Allah and can open the door to eternal bliss. At this point, trust in God and submission become two essential keys to inner peace.
“There is goodness in every affliction that befalls a person; to face it with patience is a blessing.”
(The Flashes, 17th Flash)
The Desire for Eternity and the Longing for Paradise
By nature, human beings long for eternity. The temporary pleasures of this world cannot satisfy this deep yearning. At this point, Paradise and eternal happiness come as a healing balm for the human soul.
“O human! Since you are created for eternity and you are striving for eternity, you need eternal happiness.” (The Words, 1st Word)
This perspective focuses not on the transience of worldly life but on the permanence of the hereafter. True happiness is only possible by reaching Allah, earning His pleasure, and living an eternal life in Paradise.
The Journey to Happiness Begins in the Depths of Faith
According to the Risale-i Nur, happiness is not an empty, fleeting pleasure it is a meaningful journey filled with faith in Allah. A person only finds true peace when living in accordance with their purpose of creation that is, through a life enriched with faith, worship, and knowledge of God. In this way, both inner tranquility in this world and eternal happiness in the hereafter become possible.
“Have faith, be patient, trust in God, and know your Lord this is where true happiness begins.”