Can I Find True Happiness in the Face of Suffering?

Friend, without someone being present to experience pain, there can be no true happiness. The journey of life is riddled with challenges and struggles, and it is through these experiences that we truly grow and find our inner peace.

Dr. Niranjan Pandya: A Wisdom of Inner Peace

Dr. Niranjan Pandya, a Senior Physician and Spiritual Friend, emphasizes the importance of spiritual growth in the face of pain.

Sages of old, such as Ramana Maharshi, exemplify this principle. Despite enduring the excruciating pain of a serious health condition, Maharshi remained perpetually content. True happiness does not depend on external circumstances, including the absence of physical pain.

Why Life is a Test of the Soul

Life on Earth is but a testing ground where we learn and grow. Western and Eastern philosophical and religious texts provide valuable insights into this concept.

According to the Bible, the refining pot and furnace are used to test the worth of silver and gold, similar to how God tests the hearts of His people. (Proverbs 17:3, Isaiah 48:10, Psalm 66:10, Job 23:10)

The Qur'an also teaches, 'We will surely test you until We make evident those who strive among you [for the cause of God] and the patient.' (Qur'an 47:31)

The purpose of our existence is not merely to enjoy life's journey but to discover its deeper meaning. Just as Socrates posited, 'The unexamined life is not worth living.' Our earthly existence is a brief period compared to the vastness of the cosmos, and it is during this time that we face challenges and tests to uncover the true essence of our lives.

Testing Ground for True Resolve

Life on Earth is a testing ground where the wealthy father may examine his children before distributing his wealth, ensuring that his sons are prepared for future responsibilities. (Luke 15:11-32) Similarly, the wise father disciplines his children to prepare them for a better life, while those who obey are rewarded more than those who do not. (Proverbs 17:6)

These principles hold true even in the modern world. The test questions are not known in advance, and the testing environment requires focus and dedication. Like a student who must not solely rejoice during exam hours, we should not rue the challenges life presents but rather embrace them.

The Role of Human Limitations

Just as we cannot choose to be blind to a plane flying away, similarly, we cannot force lack of knowledge to create faith. The test does not depend on the level of religious education. Someone with natural gifts of conscience and reason may pass the test, just as a scholar might fail because of their theoretical beliefs.

A wise teacher sets different evaluation criteria for different students. It is only fair that the person who has not been exposed to religious teachings would face an easier test based on their inherent wisdom. God has endowed each person with the ability to be happy and blessed, and we have the free will to choose our path.

The Message of Prophets and God

All prophets have taught that blessings and curses are the outcomes of obedience and disobedience. 'In obedience and repentance is your salvation.' (Isaiah 30:15) Therefore, the faithful can be blessed in this life and saved in the next, which should bring joy and freedom from doubt. If there are doubts, one should not hesitate to ask God, as He has promised to answer.

The ultimate path to salvation lies in God's grace, and understanding that will set you free from the chains of fear and doubt. May you find comfort and guidance in these teachings and live a purposeful life.