Islamic Thought and Sources
25 Keys to a Happy Life from the Quran and Sunnah
Author(s): Shaykh Ismail Kamdar
Reviewed by: Samah Chatar
Review
Reviewed by: Samah Chatar, Markfield, UK
Published by: Markfield, UK: Kube Publishing, 2024, 140pp. ISBN: 978-1847742377.
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Shaykh Ismail Kamdar’s 25 Keys to a Happy Life from the Quran and Sunnah offers an insightful and practical guide to achieving spiritual contentment and peace by following the timeless wisdom derived from the Qurʾān and Sunnah. The book’s central argument is that true happiness is not derived from transient worldly pleasures, such as wealth or fame, but from fulfilling the divine purpose Allah has set for humanity: to worship Him and live according to His guidance. Kamdar’s exploration of happiness, situated within the context of Islamic teachings, offers readers vital principles in navigating life’s challenges while remaining grounded in faith.
From the outset, Kamdar critiques modern society’s obsession with materialism and the elusive nature of happiness as it is commonly defined. He invites readers to look beyond fleeting satisfactions and toward a more profound and eternal joy rooted in faith. This call for reflection on the purpose of life and the pursuit of lasting contentment is particularly relevant in today’s world, whereby the rapid pace of technological advancement and the rise of social media often foster comparison, discontentment, and anxiety. In a time when many individuals experience dissatisfaction despite seemingly having everything they desire, Kamdar addresses this paradox, urging readers to seek fulfilment through spiritual connection rather than material accumulation. While Kamdar briefly touches on the impact of social media on our understanding of happiness, a more in-depth exploration would have further enhanced the book’s relevance, especially for younger readers deeply influenced by online culture.