Can everyone achieve a good end/outcome?

The question of whether everyone can achieve a good end or a blessed outcome in life and the hereafter is one of the most profound and hopeful topics within the Islamic and Quranic worldview. The Holy Quran’s answer to this question, emphatically positive, is rooted in the vastness of Divine Mercy, the boundless justice of God, and the pivotal role of human free will and effort. The Quran teaches us that the doors of God's mercy and forgiveness are always open to His servants, and no one is deprived of attaining a good and felicitous ultimate destiny unless they deliberately choose a path of perdition through continuous heedlessness and rebellion, persisting in their sins and deviations. This truth indicates that the path to righteousness and salvation is not exclusive, but is accessible to all human beings, regardless of their background or past. Divine mercy encompasses all servants who turn to Him and strive to atone for the past and build a better future. The Quran explicitly states that a good outcome (husn al-khatimah in Arabic, or 'aqebat-beh-kheir in Persian) is not a random occurrence or merely a preordained fate independent of human actions. Rather, it is the fruit of sincere faith (Iman), righteous deeds (Amal Saleh), sincere repentance (Tawbah Nasuh), and steadfastness (Istiqamah) on the path of truth. Allah Almighty emphasizes in numerous verses that reward and punishment are based on human actions, and each person will ultimately move towards their destiny according to their efforts and intentions. As stated in Surah An-Najm (53:39): “And that there is not for man except that [good] for which he strives.” This noble verse highlights the fundamental principle of Divine Justice, affirming that no one is wronged, and everyone will see the outcome of their endeavors. This principle underscores the individual responsibility of humans for their choices and grants them the autonomy to alter their path towards felicity or misery through their own will. To achieve a good outcome, the Holy Quran outlines several fundamental pillars, by adhering to which any human being can attain this noble goal: 1. Genuine and Deep Faith (Iman): Faith is the foundation of all righteousness and salvation. This is a faith that is not merely lip service but has taken root in the heart and manifests itself in actions. It encompasses belief in the Oneness of God, the prophethood of His messengers, the divine books, angels, the Day of Judgment, and Divine Decree. Such faith serves as a powerful motivator to move towards good and righteousness and to shun evil, providing divine insight to understand the true purpose of creation and the real meaning of life. It is a faith that leads a person to sincere servitude to God, freeing them from the servitude of self and the world. 2. Righteous and Meritorious Deeds (Amal Saleh): Faith without action is like a tree without fruit. The Quran repeatedly pairs “those who believe and do righteous deeds” and considers it a condition for salvation. Righteous deeds include fulfilling religious obligations (such as prayer, fasting, charity – Zakat, and pilgrimage – Hajj), abstaining from forbidden acts, maintaining good character, serving humanity, respecting the rights of others, showing kindness to parents and relatives, and indeed, any good act that earns God's pleasure. These deeds not only bring order and blessings to one's worldly life but also accumulate as provisions for the hereafter, earning great reward in the presence of Allah Almighty. 3. Repentance and Returning to God (Tawbah): One of the most beautiful and hopeful Quranic teachings is the ever-open door of repentance. No one is so sinful that they cannot return and achieve a good end. The Merciful God Himself says in the Quran (Surah Az-Zumar, 39:53): “Say, ‘O My servants who have transgressed against themselves [by sinning], do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Indeed, Allah forgives all sins. Indeed, it is He who is the Forgiving, the Merciful.’” This verse illuminates the light of hope in the heart of every sinner, indicating that even in the final moments of life, one can change their path through sincere repentance and making amends, stepping towards a good outcome. True repentance involves heartfelt remorse for sins committed, a firm resolve to abandon them, and, if necessary, rectifying injustices against others. 4. Steadfastness and Perseverance (Istiqamah): The path of truth has its difficulties and challenges. A good end is not the result of a momentary act, but rather the outcome of persistence on the path of righteousness and resilience against temptations and difficulties. Allah Almighty states in Surah Fussilat (41:30): “Indeed, those who have said, ‘Our Lord is Allah’ and then remained on a right course – the angels will descend upon them, [saying], ‘Do not fear and do not grieve but receive good tidings of Paradise, which you were promised.’” This steadfastness is crucial, extending even to the moment of death, and demonstrates human consistency in their covenant with God. It is vital to understand that God does not mislead anyone unless they themselves choose the path of misguidance. Divine will is interconnected with human will. Allah guides, but not by compulsion; rather, He guides by sending prophets, divine books, and divine signs in the universe and within human souls. The ultimate choice of path rests with the individual. Those who, out of arrogance, obstinacy, or continuous heedlessness, reject the call of truth and persist in their sins, are the ones who deprive themselves of divine mercy and guidance, thereby sealing an unfortunate destiny for themselves. This means that the primary responsibility lies with the human being himself, and God, in His justice, never deprives anyone without reason. Therefore, it can be affirmed that, yes, everyone has the potential to achieve a good end. This is a universal opportunity granted to all based on Divine Justice. Age, race, past, and even the severity of past sins (if followed by genuine repentance and amends) are not barriers to attaining a good outcome. Every individual, through a firm decision, heartfelt faith, and sincere deeds, can redirect their life's course towards eternal bliss and attain a high status. This is the hopeful promise of the Quran: that the doors of forgiveness and mercy are open until the very last breath, and no one should despair of achieving a good end. Instead, one should always strive and pray for it. A good end is the ultimate success bestowed upon sincere, repentant, and steadfast servants, and this possibility is available to all who are willing to strive on the path of truth.