Role of Islam in promoting Happiness and decreasing Envy among social media users

Article Information

Title: Role of Islam in promoting Happiness and decreasing Envy among social media users

Authors: Ziasma Haneef Khan, Muhammad Sohail Shafiq

Journal: Research Journal ‘Ulum-e- Islamia'

HEC Recognition History

Category	From	To
Y	2024-10-01	2025-12-31
Y	2023-07-01	2024-09-30
Y	2022-07-01	2023-06-30
Y	2021-07-01	2022-06-30

Publisher: Islamia University, Bahawalpur

Country: Pakistan

Year: 2023

Volume: 30

Issue: 2

Language: English

DOI: 10.52461/ulm-e-islmia.v30i02.2232

Abstract

In Pakistan out of 220 million people, youth’soccupy 30 % of the population. A large segment of these youths use social media extensivelyto reach out to others to engage in both public and private communication.Since youths are at the critical age of seeking autonomy, attaining value, respect, freedom, recognition and fame in society. They may use social media to compare themselves with others leading to either positive feeling of emotional contentment, happiness or negative emotions of unhappiness and discontentment.The negative intensive pain in the heart or Qalb in Muslim perspective can only be reduced when it is filled with the Noor and the love of Almighty Allah. The present paper aims to understand the dynamic role of Islam in creating and flourishing the intense feeling of happiness and contentment in one’s life. This article alsodiscusses the current emotional state of youths who indulge in comparing themselves in the digital world leading to feeling of envy and unhappiness and thereforeprovides suggestions for reconnecting with true source of happiness meaning spreading love of Almighty Allah in our hearts and being grateful for HIS endless bounties in order to attain eternal happiness.
Key words: Happiness, social comparison, envy, Qalb

References
[i]Schumann C, Ejaz W, and Rochyadi-Reetz M, et al. International perspectives on information avoidance during the coronavirus pandemic: comparing media evaluations and media use in Pakistan, Germany, and Indonesia. Stud Community Media 2022; 11: 477–507. [Google Scholar] [Ref list]
[ii]United Nations Development Programme. (2017). National Human Development Report: Pakistan. New York.
[iii]Al -Qur’ān, 13: 28

Disclaimer: The following sections are produced through an intensive multi-stage analytical pipeline developed by DefinePK, utilizing advanced natural-language processing, domain-specific knowledge models, and automated cross-referencing systems. Despite the rigor and computational effort involved, the generated summary may still contain inaccuracies or incomplete interpretations. Users are strongly advised to verify all critical information against the original paper and its authoritative sources.

Research Objective

To understand the role of Islam in fostering happiness and reducing envy among social media users, and to provide suggestions for reconnecting with the true source of happiness by spreading the love of Allah and being grateful for His bounties.

Methodology

This paper is a theoretical and analytical study that draws upon Islamic teachings, Quranic verses, Hadith, and psychological concepts related to happiness and social comparison. It analyzes the impact of social media on youth, their perceptions of happiness, and the role of Islamic principles in addressing negative emotions like envy.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD
    A["Analyze Social Media Impact on Youth"] --> B["Identify Psychological Effects: Happiness, Envy"];
    B --> C["Consult Islamic Teachings"];
    C --> D["Extract Quranic Verses and Hadith"];
    D --> E["Analyze Islamic Concepts of Happiness and Qalb"];
    E --> F["Formulate Recommendations based on Islamic Principles"];
    F --> G["Conclude on Islam's Role in Promoting Happiness and Reducing Envy"];

Discussion

The paper discusses how the modern definition of happiness, often influenced by social media's portrayal of success and glamour, deviates from true contentment. It highlights that while social media can offer connection, it also fosters unhealthy comparisons, leading to envy and a diminished sense of self-worth. Islamic principles, such as looking at those less fortunate, practicing gratitude, and focusing on inner spiritual development, are presented as antidotes to these negative effects. The concept of the "Qalb" (heart) as the seat of belief and the key to spiritual well-being is central to the discussion.

Key Findings

Social media use, particularly upward social comparison, can lead to envy, unhappiness, and negative psychological effects among youth. Islam offers a framework for achieving true happiness through faith, gratitude, remembrance of Allah, and focusing on spiritual growth rather than material possessions and superficial validation. Islamic teachings emphasize the importance of a pure heart (Qalb) and positive social relationships for well-being.

Conclusion

Islam provides a comprehensive approach to achieving lasting happiness by guiding individuals to focus on their relationship with Allah, cultivate gratitude, and maintain virtuous character. By adhering to Islamic principles, individuals, especially youth, can navigate the challenges of social media, mitigate the negative impacts of social comparison, and find genuine contentment and peace.

Fact Check

* "In Pakistan out of 220 million people i, youth'soccupy 30 % of the population." - This is a factual claim regarding the demographic composition of Pakistan.
* "Studies show about 70 % of Pakistani youthsare mobile users." - This is a factual claim regarding mobile usage among Pakistani youth.
* "The latest World Happiness Report also ranked Pakistan at 108th number among 137 countries." - This is a factual claim referencing a specific ranking in the World Happiness Report.

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