Outcomes of Different Worldviews
A worldview is an interpretation of the entire world of existence. When some people look at the world, they see it as a purposeful being that is supported by consciousness and has plan and order. Such a view is called divine worldview.
Some others, however, imagine that the world has neither a plan nor a purpose, nor a conscious designer. Such a view is a materialistic worldview.
The difference between these two worldviews is obvious and there is no doubt that they have different outcomes.
If we believe that the world is a house that has no owner and there is no regularity in it, why shouldn’t we act as we please in this house?
However, if we believe that this world has a purpose and its owner has set a measure for all things, “He has prescribed a due measure for everything,” (Verse 3 of Surah At-Talaq), and that no leaf falls from a tree without His permission, “Not a single leaf falls which He would not know,” (Surah Al-An’am, Verse 59), then we would realize that we should also adapt what we want with what the owner of the house, namely God, wants.
If the world were purposeless and without any order or plans, there would be no reason for me to accept order and observe limitations either.
One who believes in what God says about His creation: “We have created seven heavens above you and have never been neglectful to Our Creation,” (Surah Al-Muminoon, Verse 17), and that “…indeed, your Lord is ever watchful,” (Surah Al-Fajr, Verse 14), will never have the same behavior and conduct as a person who has no such belief.
It is only with a divine worldview that we can be a responsible and committed person, because only then will be believe that we are being watched and we will be questioned about we do.
When it is said that mankind is responsible, the question is raised that who is he responsible to? If I believe that the entire universe has no owner, then who am I responsible to? If someone says I am responsible to people, it would not be acceptable, because they are beings like me.
So according to the materialistic worldview, the world has no plan or purpose and people come to this world and then die and everything is over. The purpose of the world is having joy and then dying. With such a mindset I may wonder why should I not commit suicide? If I will die after years of suffering and everything will be over, why should I not free myself from suffering right now?
The divine worldview, however, gives us hope and peace of mind: “Remembrance of God certainly brings comfort to all hearts.” (Surah Ar-Ra’ad, Verse 28) We know that God is merciful and compassionate and accepts repentance. God gives good-doers so much in return for their good deeds and is easy to be pleased.
