Emotions and wellbeing in the Noble Qur’an: Happiness and Sadness Content Analysis

This paper explores how happiness and sadness are addressed in the Noble Qur’an and their implications for enhancing positive psychology’s understanding of well-being from a different perspective. Using content analysis and qualitative interpretation, the study examines the Qur’anic approach to happiness as a guiding principle in Islamic culture. This study responds to the second and third waves of positive psychology, which call for a broader understanding of well-being beyond the individual focus prevalent in Western culture. The results reveal that the Qur’an emphasises happiness through faith and life satisfaction, helping believers overcome grief and fear. The analysis distinguishes between eudaimonic and hedonic happiness, promoting long-lasting happiness derived from meaning while discouraging gloating, greed, and taking pleasure in others’ misery. The Noble Qur’an addresses not only individual emotions and beliefs but also the impact of others' behaviours and intentions on individual happiness. The study bridges religious guidance and modern psychological concepts, advocating for a more inclusive and enriched understanding of well-being.