This book reminds me of my life principle back when I was in high school; “happiness is to be able to give” and it keeps me going so that I can give more afterwards. If you’re looking for a spiritual read, this one is for you. Briefly, this book is divided into two parts; life, and happiness because to be happy we need to understand both context of life and happiness itself.

There are two types of life; al Hayyawan (true life/paradise), and al hayat al dunya (temporary and subhuman life). Quality of life lies on our self-awareness e.g. our roles as vicegerent/khalifah which relates to reason of our existence. Being well versed of our roles will drive us to do righteous deeds and to give because there are no piety without kindness towards others. Author also discussed about living in society which is why in Islam we have fard ‘ain and fard kifayah as bases of society.

To have a clear peaceful mind is happiness and it is to be able to distinguish ego and soul at peace. Happiness is to not be mistaken with sentiments of enjoyment, joy, gladness, and contentment because those are temporary feelings while happiness is rather a quality. Happiness closely related to concept of giving and concept of love. As same as being productive leads to a good day, giving leads to happiness. Read this book 3 times and glad that I came across it cause I learned so much through this light read. Blemishes of quotes from Quran, sunnah, and scholars throughout this book which is great for self reflections and leave us points to ponder because of its brief explanation.