How to Keep Spiritual Beliefs Alive in a Materialistic Society?

In today's world, where we are increasingly entangled in material manifestations and their deceptive allure, preserving and strengthening spiritual beliefs has become a significant challenge. A society that largely defines success by wealth, social status, and material possessions can easily distract hearts from the remembrance of God and lead them to drown in the fleeting world. However, the Holy Quran, as an unparalleled guide for humanity, offers clear and comprehensive directives to counteract this challenge, enabling believers to keep the light of faith alive in their hearts amidst materialism and not lose sight of the path to salvation. One of the fundamental principles the Quran puts forth to combat materialism is the principle of 'balance'. Islam never implies abandoning the world or withdrawing from its lawful pleasures; rather, it means not being completely attached to it and not forgetting the primary purpose of creation. In Surah Al-Qasas, verse 77, Allah says: “But seek, through that which Allah has given you, the home of the Hereafter; and [yet], do not forget your share of the world.” This verse indicates that a believer should benefit from worldly provisions but should make them a means to achieve spiritual perfection and success in the Hereafter, not making this world their ultimate goal. This balance is the key to escaping the trap of extreme materialism; it means we should hold the world in our hands, not in our hearts. The second, and perhaps most crucial, Quranic solution is to strengthen the 'remembrance of Allah' or 'Dhikr'. In Surah Ar-Ra'd, verse 28, we read: “Those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured.” The remembrance of Allah, including prayer, recitation of the Quran, supplication (Du'a), and glorifications (Tasbihat), is like oxygen that keeps the soul alive. In a materialistic society that constantly pushes us towards competition and anxiety for acquiring more, the remembrance of Allah is a safe refuge that grants peace, insight, and correct direction to the individual. The five daily prayers, as the pillars of religion, provide regular opportunities to disconnect from the worldly hustle and connect with the source of eternal tranquility. Reciting and contemplating the verses of the Quran also illuminates the heart and reminds a person that true values lie beyond the glitter and glamour of this world. The third important lesson is understanding the 'transient nature of this world'. The Quran repeatedly refers to the fleeting and ephemeral nature of the world to caution humanity against clinging to it. In Surah Al-Hadid, verse 20, Allah expresses this truth: “Know that the life of this world is only play and amusement, pomp and mutual boasting among you, and rivalry in respect of wealth and children, like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it [become] yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris.” This verse provides a vivid image of the instability of this world. When a person comprehends that wealth and status are merely temporary playthings, their heart is drawn towards more stable and eternal matters. This insight leads a person to invest in good deeds, seeking knowledge, and serving humanity, which are enduring righteous acts, instead of excessive accumulation. The fourth solution is 'giving and charity'. Spending wealth in the way of Allah is one of the most effective ways to free oneself from the bondage of materialism. When a person gives away something they love and are attached to for the sake of Allah, they essentially break their heart's attachments to the world and reduce their dependence on wealth. This act is a sign of altruism and sacrifice, fostering generosity and magnanimity in the individual. Zakat and Sadaqah not only help the poor but also purify the giver's heart from worldly love. The Quran emphasizes that spending increases blessings in wealth, and its reward in the Hereafter will be multiplied many times over. The fifth recommendation is 'choosing righteous companions and a spiritual community'. In an environment where values are materialistic, associating with those who have spiritual concerns can be a safe haven for preserving beliefs. Attending gatherings of remembrance and knowledge, participating in charitable and religious activities, and connecting with pious scholars help an individual remain steadfast on their spiritual path and be safe from the detrimental effects of a materialistic society. The believing community acts as a support network that strengthens an individual in their servitude to God and saves them from falling into the abyss of worldliness. Finally, 'contentment and avoiding extravagance' are other Quranic principles. Contentment means being satisfied with what Allah has provided as sustenance and staying away from excessive greed and covetousness. The Quran strongly condemns extravagance and wastefulness and calls believers to moderation in consumption and a simple life. This perspective frees a person from the endless race to acquire more and from comparing oneself to others, bringing true peace. When a person understands that true happiness is not in the abundance of wealth but in inner peace and divine satisfaction, they are freed from the chains of greed and avarice. In summary, in today's materialistic world, preserving spiritual beliefs requires conscious and continuous effort. The Quran, by presenting concepts such as balance between this world and the Hereafter, the importance of remembering Allah, understanding the transient nature of the world, encouraging charity, recommending righteous companionship, and inviting to contentment, has charted a comprehensive and flawless roadmap for spiritual living in the age of materialism. By acting upon these teachings, one can have a heart full of faith and a peaceful soul, even amidst the hustle and bustle of the materialistic world.