قرآن کے تصور فلاح کا مغربی تصور فلاح کے ساتھ تقابلی جائزہ

The Qur’anic Concept of Human Well-Being (Falah): A Comparative Study with the Western Concept of Well-Being

Abstract

The concept of Falah occupies a central position in the Qur’anic worldview and represents a comprehensive model of human success, prosperity, and well-being. Unlike materialistic approaches that often define well-being in terms of economic prosperity, personal satisfaction, and individual freedom, the Qur’anic concept of Falah integrates spiritual, moral, social, and material dimensions of life. This study aims to examine the Qur’anic understanding of Falah and compare it with prominent Western theories of well-being. The research explores the linguistic and conceptual foundations of Falah in the Qur’an, highlighting its connection with faith, righteous deeds, moral responsibility, social justice, and accountability in the Hereafter. It further investigates major Western perspectives on well-being, including hedonistic, utilitarian, psychological, and humanistic approaches, which primarily focus on happiness, pleasure, self-actualization, and quality of life. Through a comparative analytical methodology, the study identifies areas of convergence and divergence between the two paradigms. While both perspectives acknowledge the importance of human flourishing and personal fulfillment, the Qur’anic model extends beyond worldly success by emphasizing spiritual development, ethical conduct, and eternal salvation. The findings suggest that the Qur’anic concept of Falah offers a holistic framework that balances individual and collective welfare, material progress and spiritual growth, as well as temporal and eternal dimensions of human existence. The study contributes to contemporary discussions on well-being by presenting an alternative paradigm rooted in divine guidance and moral accountability.