Lecture Notes: Purpose of Life and Existence

Introduction

• Questions surrounding existence and life's purpose.
• Reflection on modern societal norms:
  • Emphasis on money and materialism.
  • Conformity to media standards (hairstyles, fashion).
  • Escapism through alcohol and entertainment.

Key Questions

• What are we doing here?
• What is our purpose?
• How did we get here?
• What happens after we die?
• Is life worth living?

Life Cycle

• Discussion on the cycle of life:
  • Growing up, living, dying, and leaving behind property.
  • Questioning if this is all there is to life.

Existence and Creation

• Thoughts on the nature of existence:
  • Acknowledgment that life has no inherent purpose for some.
  • The need for a creator:
    • Everything has origins; complex systems require a maker.
    • Argument against random existence (0 + 0 cannot equal 1).

The Creator

• Discussion of God as the creator:
  • Allah described as the eternal, all-controlling being.
  • Misconceptions about God and the nature of worship.
  • Relevance of the Quran as an instruction manual:
    • Contains miracles, historical truths, and scientific insights.

Scientific Correlations in the Quran

• Examples of scientific knowledge in the Quran:
  • Description of human embryonic development.
  • Earth’s mountains maintaining stability.
  • Phenomena of the universe (expansion, alternating night and day).
  • Preservation of historical events (e.g., Pharaoh’s story).

The Prophet Muhammad

• Muhammad's background:
  • Illiterate, yet delivered profound revelations.
  • The impossibility of such knowledge in the 7th century.
  • Mockery faced for his message, yet it remains unchanged.

Life After Death

• Reflection on life’s temporality:
  • Misconception that this life is the only one.
  • Assurance of resurrection and accountability.
  • Call to believe in life after death and the assessment of deeds.

Conclusion

• Importance of seeking understanding in life’s purpose.
• Encouragement to read and learn about one’s faith.
• Reminder that there will be a reckoning for actions taken in life.