How can the Quran reform our perspective on time?

The Holy Quran, as the divine word and a comprehensive guide for humanity, not only teaches us how to live but fundamentally transforms our perspective on core concepts such as 'time.' In today's world, where the speed and acceleration of modern life often entangle us in a superficial and aimless passage of time, Quranic teachings offer a profound and meaningful framework for understanding and managing time. This shift in perspective begins with the Quran not viewing time merely as a physical dimension or a collection of hours and minutes, but rather presenting it as a divine blessing, a precious trust, and a testing ground for eternal salvation. Firstly, and perhaps most importantly, the Quran teaches us about time by emphasizing the transient nature of this world (dunya) and the eternity of the hereafter (akhirah). Repeatedly in numerous verses, this world is described as a fleeting and meager provision, while the hereafter is presented as the eternal abode and the true life. This perspective fundamentally redefines our priorities. When a person understands that their worldly life is insignificant and fleeting compared to eternity, they no longer dedicate all their efforts and concerns to accumulating wealth, power, or transient worldly pleasures. Instead, they invest their time in what is enduring and lasting: righteous deeds, seeking divine pleasure, and building provisions for the hereafter. The Holy Quran beautifully expresses this concept; for instance, in Surah Al-Kahf, verse 45, worldly life is likened to water that falls from the sky, making the earth lush and green, but soon dries up and is scattered by the wind. This metaphor vividly portrays the extreme speed and transience of worldly life, reminding humans that the opportunity is brief and must be seized. This outlook reduces anxiety caused by missing worldly opportunities and creates a deep sense of peace derived from reliance on the Lord's eternal promises. Secondly, a crucial point is the emphasis on accountability and seizing opportunities. Surah Al-Asr, one of the shortest yet most profound and comprehensive chapters of the Quran regarding the concept of time, takes an oath by 'time.' Allah says: "By Time, Indeed, mankind is in loss, Except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience." This oath by time signifies its immense importance, indicating that time itself is a witness to our actions. All humanity is in loss, except for four groups who utilize their time optimally: faith, righteous deeds, enjoining truth, and enjoining patience. This verse teaches us that every moment that passes without taking a step towards good and righteousness means we are indeed losing our very existential capital. This insight prevents procrastination, idleness, and aimlessness, directing individuals towards maximal and purposeful use of every moment of life. A believer understands that opportunities for serving humanity, acquiring knowledge, worship, and self-purification are limited and irreversible, thus they must be utilized to their fullest. Furthermore, the Quran stresses the importance of patience (sabr) and steadfastness over time. Many desired goals and outcomes require the passage of time and perseverance. By emphasizing patience, the Quran teaches us not to be hasty and to endure difficulties and challenges. Understanding that everything happens at its appointed time and with divine wisdom brings peace and prevents despair and frustration. Patience is not merely passive endurance but active steadfastness on the path of truth and waiting for divine openings. This perspective helps individuals maintain consistency in their personal and social progress and entrust the results of their efforts to the timing and wisdom of the Lord. Another lesson the Quran imparts is reflection (tadabbur) on divine signs in the passage of time. Allah repeatedly refers in the Quran to the alternation of day and night, the rising and setting of the sun and moon, and the changing seasons as 'ayat' (signs) for those who reflect. (For example, Surah Yunus, verse 5: "It is He who made the sun a shining light and the moon a [reflected] light and determined for it phases that you may know the number of years and [account of] time. Allah has not created this except in truth. He details the signs for a people who know.") These verses encourage us to contemplate the passage of time rather than being indifferent to it. Every sunrise and sunset, every seasonal change, is a reminder of Allah's power, wisdom, and unparalleled order, and can strengthen our sense of gratitude and a deeper connection with the Creator. This perspective imbues life with meaning and transforms every moment into an opportunity for connection with the Creator. Finally, the Quran reminds us to maintain a balance between this world (dunya) and the hereafter (akhirah) in our time management. This does not mean abandoning the world and its lawful enjoyments, but rather viewing the world as a means to reach the hereafter. Striving for lawful sustenance, seeking knowledge, building a family, and serving the community can all be considered righteous deeds and provisions for the hereafter if done with a divine intention. The Quran warns us against 'israf' (extravagance and wastefulness) and 'laghw' (idle talk and vain amusements), as these squander precious life. With this perspective, every activity that is for the pleasure of Allah and contributes to individual and societal well-being is considered valuable, and the time spent on it is not only not wasted but brings eternal reward. In summary, the Quran transforms our perception of time from a linear, purely material dimension into a multi-faceted, spiritual, and accountable one. In the Quranic view, time is capital for gaining eternity, a field for divine testing, and a mirror reflecting Allah's power and wisdom. By adopting this perspective, a believer lives their life with greater purpose, makes the best use of their moments, and ultimately achieves true peace and salvation.