Lifestyle from Imam al-Ridha’s perspective

Nowadays lifestyle is among the important issues of the society. One’slifestyle has recently come to have a great meaning, especially in thedeveloped countries. The term lifestyle can denote the interests, opinions,behaviors, and behavioral orientations of an individual, group, or culture. Ittypically reflects an individual’s attitudes, way of life, values, or worl d view.Based on religious teachings, lifestyle has a great impact on the formation ofthe desirable identity of sections of the society. Islam, as a revealed religion,not only is associated with the mental aspect of human existence, but alsoimpacts every activity in life, from eating and sleeping to working andplaying. It can, therefore, be considered as a way of life or lifestyle. As aresult, Muslims seeking to live in accordance with Islamic teachings may havea relatively good lifestyle. Islam, associated with the relief from mental stress,can also provide Muslims with a guideline to live a happier life. Sayings andconducts of infallible Shia Imams form one of the crucial Islamic sources thatcan have an important role in Islamic lifestyle. One of these leading Imams isImam al-Ridha, who has occupied an important position in Muslim cultureand history. This paper studies his perspective on lifestyle. In doing so, it willrefer to his sayings and conducts. According to Imam al-Ridha’s instructions,a desirable lifestyle necessitates the followers of Islam to take Ahl ulBayt(a.s.) as their models, to consider the religious needs of each other andhave a simple life, to tolerate each other and do good to the family, to respecttheir parents and know each other’s rights and observe them.

Keywords:

Infallible Imams , Imam al-Ridha , Islam , lifestyle