Preface

Bismillah Al-Rahman Al-Raheem
(In the name of God, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful)

What does it mean to live a life of purpose? For many, the pursuit of purpose is a central part of life. For some, their purpose is clear; for others, it unfolds gradually, shaped by experiences and reflection. The concept of purpose is deeply nuanced.

One aspect is a divine purpose—a calling echoed in many spiritual traditions and faiths. It is the aspiration to live a life of goodness, to purify one’s heart, and to cultivate both inner and outer peace. This journey often involves ending suffering by attaining wisdom and insight, which, for many, is inseparable from seeking closeness to the Divine Creator. Though the paths may differ in appearance, they reflect a shared yearning for transcendence, healing, and harmony.

For those who believe in a Divine Creator and a life beyond this one, the struggle often begins in the heart—when the heart is yet to fully believe what the intellect knows. It is the process of transforming this purpose into a truth and conviction that defines one’s being. Beyond this, it becomes a struggle to walk the path—Sabeel—the unique and individual journey toward fulfilling one’s Divine purpose.

It may then lead to the question: How do we make sense of our choices—whether to love, to give, or to strive—if life is finite and unpredictable? Without a larger framework, the pursuit of meaning itself can feel arbitrary and fragile. Yet, across faiths, philosophies, and even secular worldviews, the search for meaning—however defined—is one of the most profound shared human experiences.

I believe in a Divine purpose. My journey has led me to explore peace—both inner and outer harmony. These reflections examine the essence of peace, how it can be nurtured, and the diverse ways it is understood: through the lenses of philosophy, spirituality, psychology, culture, and systems of justice.

Ultimately, the concept of peace is universal. Whether one views peace as spiritual fulfillment, inner balance, social harmony, or a philosophical ideal, it transcends cultural and religious boundaries. These reflections are glimpses into my journey and thoughts on striving for peace—an endeavor far greater than myself and my lifetime but one that reflects my deepest longing: to walk a path toward Al-Salam (The Source of Peace).

Allahumma Anta al-Salam wa Minka al-Salam,
(O Allah, You are Peace, and from You comes Peace.)