Religion and the Purpose of Human Existence

Throughout history, religion has provided numerous insights and interpretations into the fundamental question of why humans exist. This article delves into the perspectives presented by two major religious traditions—Christianity and Islam—focusing on the underlying meanings and intentions behind human existence.

Christianity: The Genesis Account and Divine Purpose

The first chapter of the Bible, particularly in the book of Genesis, offers a profound account of the creation of humanity and its purpose. According to the text, God created the world and mankind to express His love and demonstrate His creativity. Genesis 1:26-27 states, 'Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.”'

The divine purpose of human existence, according to Christianity, includes multiple aspects. Firstly, humans were created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27), signifying a unique bond between humanity and divinity. Secondly, humans were given the mandate to multiply and fill the earth (Genesis 1:28), reflecting a role filled with responsibility and expansion. Additionally, God intended for mankind to have a meaningful relationship with Him, underlined in John 3:16, where Jesus says, 'For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.'

Furthermore, religious texts like Psalm 37:10-11 and 29 emphasize the fulfillment of peace and righteousness: 'The meek will inherit the land and delight themselves in abundant prosperity. The wicked plot against the just but will be frustrated. Such is the end of the wicked; such is the fate of those who make evil their strength.'

Islam: The Quranic Perspective on Human Existence

Islam also provides a substantial framework for understanding the purpose of human existence, primarily through the Quran and Hadith.

Primary Purpose: Worship of Allah

The primary purpose of human creation, according to the Quran, is to worship Allah. This is explicitly stated in Surah Al-Zumar (39:31) which says, 'And I did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship Me (alone).'

Life as a Test of Conduct

Another significant aspect of our existence, as outlined in Surah Al-Jathiyah (45:26), is that life is a test: 'Who has created death and life that He may try you, which of you is best in deed. And He is the Exalted in Might, the Forgiving.'

Responsibilities and Stewardship

Above all, humans are created to be stewards of the Earth. This is emphasized in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:30): 'And surely We have created man and We know what his soul whispers to him and We are nearer to him than his jugular vein.

Islam also places a high value on seeking knowledge, which is seen as a reflection of divine guidance. Surah Al-Alaq (96:1-5) speaks about the importance of knowledge and reading: 'Read: In the Name of your Lord who created.

Scholarly Insights

Imam Al-Ghazali and Ibn Taymiyyah have contributed significantly to interpreting these concepts. Imam Al-Ghazali emphasized the purpose of life as achieving closeness to Allah through worship, ethical conduct, and seeking knowledge. Ibn Taymiyyah highlighted that true happiness and contentment come from fulfilling the purpose for which we were created, which is to worship Allah and follow His guidance.

In summary, both Christianity and Islam present a purposeful existence centered around worshiping Allah, being tested in our conduct, acting as stewards of the Earth, and seeking knowledge. These principles collectively guide individuals towards a fulfilling and meaningful life.