In a recent episode of "Sharia and Life" aired on March 16, 2026, Dr. Alaa Hosni Moussa, a professor of jurisprudence at the University of Minnesota, addresses the question of why people experience anxiety despite the comforts available to them today that were unimaginable in the past. He argues that the fundamental problem lies in a flawed understanding of the meaning of life, emphasizing that life should be perceived as a relationship with God rather than merely a pursuit of material wealth.

Dr. Moussa stresses the importance of acknowledging the spiritual aspect of existence, citing the Quranic verse "Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest" to illustrate that disengagement from spiritual awareness leads to a life filled with anxiety. He links anxiety to a lack of understanding of one’s purpose in life, noting that those unable to answer existential questions such as “Who am I? Why was I created? Where am I going?” struggle to attain genuine peace of mind.

Furthermore, Dr. Moussa discusses the Islamic philosophy of suffering, known as 'ibtilā', which suggests that hardships can be a sign of divine love. He compares this to a child who fears a doctor's injection yet later recognizes the necessity and is grateful for it. He also comments on the digital reality, expressing concerns over how social media influences anxiety and understanding of one's purpose, pointing to the need for a return to spiritual values in the face of pervasive digital distractions.