What Is the True Meaning of Life?
Life is one of the most fundamental realities through which a person seeks to understand their existence. Every individual questions the meaning and purpose of life, as well as the reasons behind the challenges they face. At this point, the Risale-i Nur Collection offers a profound and multifaceted perspective on human life.
Risale-i Nur does not only address the temporary and fleeting nature of the material world; it also explains the spiritual dimension of life, the wisdom behind trials, the purpose of human creation, and the path to true happiness. This work views life as “a test, a school, and a realm of spirituality.” In other words, worldly life is a testing ground created to train and mature the human soul and to bring it closer to God.
The transient nature of the world, the importance of not becoming attached to material desires, and the necessity of prioritizing the Hereafter are themes that are repeatedly emphasized in the Risale-i Nur. The more difficult aspects of life such as hardships, illnesses, and struggles are, in reality, forms of mercy and blessings. These challenges serve as means to prepare the human being for patience, reliance on God, and the true life that is, the eternal life.
Life Is a Test and a Trial
Life is a stage created by God to test human beings. In the face of difficulties, illnesses, poverty, and other hardships in this world, a person should demonstrate patience and show their faith and submission to God. Life is both a test and a school. In this school, every affliction is filled with mercy and wisdom.
The Transience of Life
The Risale-i Nur constantly emphasizes that life is fleeting and temporary. A person should not view this worldly life as a permanent home, but rather as a field for the eternal life to come. The world is a place of preparation for the afterlife. For this reason, it is said that “this world is a herald of eternal life, a gateway to the secrets behind it and to the Hereafter.“
“The world is a herald of eternal life; it reveals the mysteries behind it and is a door leading to the Hereafter. Therefore, just as the troubles of this world are temporary, one must be patient and remain hopeful.”
Human Beings and the Purpose of Creation
The meaning of life in the context of human creation is not merely to exist, but to worship and serve God. In the Risale-i Nur, it is stated that a person’s greatest duty is faith and worship, and that “the true life of a human being is to live in submission and contentment with God.”
“A person’s true life is the liberation of the soul from materialism and its connection with the divine life. Unless this bond is formed, worldly life is nothing more than a superficial reflection.”
The Wisdom Behind Hardships
The difficulties encountered in life exist to help a person mature and reach spiritual perfection. In the Risale-i Nur, this is explained as follows: “Every calamity is a mercy; every illness is a cure; every affliction is a form of salvation” (The Words, 15th Word). In this way, hardships refine the individual and elevate the soul.
The Value of Life and Gratitude
The Risale-i Nur emphasizes the importance of approaching life with gratitude. Recognizing that every blessing comes from God and giving thanks for them allows a person to truly appreciate the beauty of life. “Gratitude causes blessings to increase; ingratitude causes them to decrease” (The Gleams, 18th Gleam).
The Risale-i Nur Collection does not view life as mere physical existence, but as a test and preparation for the eternal life of the Hereafter. Trying to understand the wisdom behind every event in life, showing patience, and practicing gratitude are among the core teachings of the Risale-i Nur. This perspective helps individuals face life with greater resilience and awareness.
Remembering these divine truths from the Risale-i Nur in times of difficulty can offer you strength and patience.
If you’re interested in exploring the deeper meaning of destiny and whether it calls for acceptance or active resistance, we invite you to read our blog post titled What is Destiny? Submission or Struggle? for a thoughtful perspective on this timeless question.