Author: Abdul Hai Lay'yan
Religious Needs Assessment of Human Beings in the Light of Islamic Teachings (the 19th and final part)
Conclusion
By reflecting on the discussions presented in this research titled “Religious Needs Assessment of Humans in the Light of Islamic Teachings,” it becomes clear that the issue of religion and humanity’s need for it is not a marginal or secondary matter, but one of the most fundamental and decisive aspects of human life. This study has attempted, through a scientific and analytical approach based on Islamic sources, to demonstrate that religiosity is rooted in human nature (fitrah), and that responding to humanity’s deep existential needs is not possible except through divine guidance.
The first key point that emerges is that the human being is not merely a material or biological entity, but possesses two essential dimensions: body and soul. This duality gives rise to different types of needs. While material needs can be met to some extent through natural means and worldly resources, spiritual and existential needs can only be fulfilled through connection with the Creator and acceptance of divine guidance. Thus, any reductionist view that defines humans solely in terms of material needs is not only incomplete but also misleading.
In light of this understanding, the concept of “religious needs assessment” gains special significance. It is, in essence, an effort to identify the true and authentic needs of human beings, rather than artificial or imposed ones. As this study has shown, Islam, as the final and complete religion, offers the most comprehensive system for identifying and addressing human needs. This system encompasses not only individual needs but also social, ethical, legal, and eschatological dimensions of life.
One of the most important findings of this research is the emphasis on the innate nature of religiosity. Historical and anthropological studies indicate that no society throughout history has been devoid of some form of religious belief. This reality confirms that the inclination toward religion is intrinsic, not a human invention or merely a product of social conditions. The Noble Qur’an expresses this truth through the concept of “Fitrah of Allah,” presenting religion as aligned with human nature. Therefore, denying religion is, in fact, denying a part of human existence.
Furthermore, this study shows that human religious needs are diverse, including the need for meaning and purpose in life, the need for worship and connection with God, the need for a stable moral system, inner peace, social justice, and hope for the future and life after death. Islam provides clear, rational, and practical answers to each of these needs, leaving no essential gap in human life.
Regarding the need for meaning and purpose, Islam defines the ultimate goal of life as worship and nearness to Allah, thereby giving direction and meaning to human existence. This meaning encompasses not only acts of worship but all human actions, transforming life from a state of emptiness into a purposeful journey.
In terms of the need for worship, Islam legislates acts such as prayer, fasting, supplication, and remembrance of Allah, establishing a continuous connection between the human being and the Creator. This connection purifies the soul, strengthens spirituality, and regulates human desires.
In the moral dimension, Islam offers a comprehensive and balanced system based on monotheism and accountability in the Hereafter. It promotes values such as honesty, justice, trustworthiness, forgiveness, and benevolence, while strongly prohibiting moral vices. The stability of these values prevents moral relativism and contributes to a healthy and balanced society.
To address the need for inner peace, Islam emphasizes faith, trust in Allah (tawakkul), and remembrance of Him. The peace achieved through these means is deep, lasting, and independent of external circumstances, enabling individuals to withstand life’s challenges without psychological collapse.
In the realm of social justice, Islam establishes precise laws and emphasizes both individual and collective responsibility. The principle of enjoining good and forbidding evil serves as a regulatory mechanism to maintain justice and prevent oppression and discrimination.
Similarly, in response to the need for hope and eternity, Islam presents the concept of the Hereafter, offering a new horizon for human existence. Death is not seen as an end but as a transition to a higher stage. This belief removes the fear of nonexistence and motivates righteous action and moral reform.
Another important achievement of this research is clarifying the criteria for recognizing the true religion. In a world of multiple religions and ideologies, distinguishing truth from falsehood is essential. Criteria such as divine origin, the call to monotheism, harmony with reason and human nature, internal consistency, fulfillment of fundamental human needs, and protection from distortion were identified. Islam fully meets these criteria, demonstrating its suitability as the true guide for humanity.
A further noteworthy point is the role of religion in organizing social life. Contrary to materialist perspectives that consider religion a purely personal matter, this study shows that religion is a powerful force for social cohesion, order, and justice. Religious faith creates an inner moral accountability that is often more effective than external laws.
In conclusion, the human need for religion is real, profound, and undeniable—a need rooted in human nature, reason, and historical experience. Islam, through its comprehensive and harmonious system, effectively responds to these needs and outlines the path to individual and collective well-being. Therefore, Islam is not merely one option among many, but a vital necessity for achieving a truly meaningful human life.
Accordingly, any attempt to separate humans from religion is, in reality, an attempt to deprive them of an essential part of their identity and perfection. In contrast, a conscious and informed return to Islamic teachings can provide solutions to many of the intellectual, moral, and social crises of the modern world.
Finally, this study emphasizes that a proper understanding of religion and human religious needs requires deep reflection, research, and reliance on authentic Islamic sources. It is hoped that this effort serves as a small step toward clarifying the role of religion in human life and demonstrating the greatness and effectiveness of Islamic teachings.
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