Why do we feel unhappy despite having many resources?

It's a perplexing paradox in our modern world: despite unprecedented access to resources, conveniences, and opportunities, a pervasive sense of discontent often lingers. We accumulate more, connect more, and consume more, yet genuine, lasting happiness often eludes us. From an Islamic and Quranic perspective, this feeling of unfulfillment, even amidst material abundance, is not only understandable but also a profound reflection of the true nature of human existence and the purpose of life. The Quran offers deep insights into why the pursuit of worldly possessions alone is an insufficient path to contentment and joy. At its core, the Quran teaches us that this worldly life (Dunya) is transient and merely a testing ground. It is not the ultimate abode nor the source of true, enduring happiness. Allah (SWT) says in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20): "Know that the life of this world is only play and amusement, an adornment and boasting to one another, and competition in increase 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. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and approval. And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion?" This verse vividly portrays the ephemeral nature of material possessions and worldly pursuits. Just like a plant that flourishes briefly and then withers, so too are the joys derived solely from wealth and status – temporary and ultimately unsatisfying. The constant pursuit of "more" becomes a race without a finish line, leading to exhaustion rather than exhilaration. This lack of contentment and insatiable thirst for more is a trap that keeps a person from inner peace. 1The human heart, according to the Quran, is designed for a deeper connection, a bond with its Creator. True tranquility and peace (طمأنينة) are not found in bank accounts, luxurious homes, or endless entertainment, but in the remembrance of Allah. Surah Ar-Ra'd (13:28) declares: "Those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured." This verse is a foundational principle. When our focus is primarily on accumulating worldly goods, we neglect the spiritual nourishment that our souls truly crave. The emptiness we feel, despite external abundance, is often the soul's yearning for its origin, its purpose, and its connection with the Divine. Material things can provide comfort, ease, and pleasure, but they cannot fill the spiritual void that only Allah can fill. The chase for more possessions is a continuous cycle of desire and fleeting satisfaction, often leading to envy, anxiety about loss, and a lack of gratitude for what one already possesses. This cycle never truly reaches a state of fulfillment, always seeking the next thing that is believed to bring happiness. Furthermore, the Quran warns against being engrossed by worldly desires to the extent that it distracts us from our ultimate purpose – preparing for the Hereafter. Surah At-Takathur (102:1-2) states: "Competition in worldly increase diverts you, until you visit the graveyards." This powerful verse highlights how the relentless pursuit of more wealth, status, and pleasure can consume a person's life, diverting their attention from spiritual growth, good deeds, and the inevitable reality of death and accountability. This distraction leads to a superficial existence, devoid of deeper meaning, where happiness becomes conditional on external factors that are inherently unstable. When our self-worth and happiness are tied to external achievements or possessions, we become vulnerable to the fluctuations of the world, leading to instability in our emotional state. The absence of a transcendent and meaningful purpose plunges humanity into a whirlpool of confusion and emptiness. The Islamic perspective encourages a balanced approach: one should strive to earn a lawful living and enjoy the good things of this world, but always with awareness that these are means, not ends. The ultimate goal is Allah's pleasure and success in the Hereafter. When wealth and resources are seen as tools to achieve good, to help others, and to draw closer to Allah, rather than as idols to be worshipped, then they can become sources of blessing and contentment. Gratitude (Shukr) plays a vital role here. When we constantly compare ourselves to those who have more, or when we take our blessings for granted, we sow seeds of dissatisfaction. The Quran encourages us to reflect on Allah's favors and to be thankful, which in itself fosters a sense of contentment and inner peace. In conclusion, the feeling of unhappiness despite abundant resources stems from a fundamental misalignment of priorities. It signifies a neglect of the spiritual dimension of life and an overemphasis on the material. True happiness, from a Quranic standpoint, is an internal state of peace, contentment, and serenity that arises from a strong connection with Allah, living a life of purpose, gratitude, and striving for the Hereafter. It is about understanding that while the world offers temporary pleasures, ultimate fulfillment is found in devotion, good deeds, and the realization that everything we have is a trust from Allah. When hearts are filled with the remembrance of Allah and submission to His will, the allure of fleeting worldly possessions diminishes, and a profound, lasting sense of joy and inner peace takes root, independent of external circumstances. This divine perspective guides us to recalibrate our understanding of success and happiness, pointing us towards what truly matters and brings enduring contentment.