Has man lost the essence of his creation? A reflective call to rediscover our divine purpose (Final )

 Returning to the essence of

creation

 The  solution to the world’s growing crises lies in reconnecting with our spiritual identity and embracing the true purpose for which we were cre­ated. Allah has promised eternal reward for those who remain steadfast in faith and righteousness:

“Indeed, those who have believed and done righteous deeds — for them are the Gardens of Paradise as a lodging.” (Surah Al-Kahf, 18:107).

This life is not the final abode; it is a temporary test of character, morality, and obedience. Success is not measured by material wealth or social status but by our faithfulness to divine instructions and our service to humanity. As vicege­rents (khalifah) of Allah on earth, we are entrusted with responsibilities—to uphold justice, promote goodness, and preserve the earth and all within it.

Behaving as true vicegerents means making decisions guided by Qur’anic ethics, showing compassion to fellow beings, and becoming agents of peace and reform. It means acknowledging our accountability before Allah and striving to fulfill our duties with integrity and sincerity. The time has come for man­kind to return to the sacred covenant and live not as rebels to divine order, but as humble stewards reflecting the light of divine mercy in all affairs.

Conclusion

Man was created in honour and endowed with a sacred trust as Allah’s vicegerent on earth. Unlike any other creation, he was chosen to bear knowl­edge, will, and the moral compass to steward the world in truth and justice. Deviating from this role has led to crises that threaten both humanity and the planet. We must reflect sincerely, repent humbly, and renew our align­ment with the divine blueprint. Let every soul awaken to the beauty of their noble status and strive to reclaim the righteousness and dignity embedded in their creation. In doing so, we fulfill our divine mission and secure peace in both this life and the Hereafter.

Recommendations for

restoring the essence

of human purpose

To reverse the moral and spiritual decline in society, a concerted, multi-in­stitutional approach is required. First, religious bodies—mosques, churches, and faith-based organisations—must intensify efforts to instill God-conscious­ness, ethical responsibility, and spiritual discipline. Weekly sermons, faith-based media, and interfaith forums should em­phasise accountability before Allah and the moral duties of individuals.

The Ministry of Education and related curriculum authorities must reform the educational system to include robust moral and character education. Embed­ding religious ethics and civic responsi­bility into school syllabi will help nur­ture principled future leaders grounded in compassion, justice, and integrity.

Governance institutions, particularly Parliament, Ministries of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, and the Judiciary, should align policies with moral and ethical values rooted in the religious and cultural identity of the people. This means promoting laws and programmes that fight corruption, safeguard the en­vironment, and uphold human dignity.

Meanwhile, traditional and community leaders, including imams and pastors, must lead grassroots engagement. Regular town hall meetings, communal service initiatives, and value-based mentorship for youth are essential for social transformation.

Lastly, personal introspection is par­amount. Every individual, regardless of status, should regularly reflect upon their actions through the lens of divine guidance, asking, “Am I living according to the purpose for which I was created?” Only through collective commitment— from institutions and individuals—can humanity rediscover the sacred essence of its creation and live in peace, dignity, and harmony with the earth.

By Imam Alhaji Saeed Abdulai, the Author