In Search of 'Islamic Lifestyle'

Abstract

The question of what is an ‘Islamic’ way of life demands a thoughtful response in light of the growing material affluence of the middle class in many Muslim societies. The Qur’an projects a detailed portrait of the Muslim individual and how to live a good life exemplifying Islamic precepts. In the view of the author, the possible contribution of Islamic values for shaping an emerging Cosmopolitan civilisation now confronts a new reality where Muslims are beguiled by the lifestyle of consumption. This emerging middle class appears to be content with embracing an Islamic surface identity. Are they being herded into the passive embrace of the consumer society? The question of what is an ‘Islamic’ way of life demands a thoughtful response in light of the growing material affluence of the middle class in many Muslim societies. The Qur’an projects a detailed portrait of the Muslim individual and how to live a good life exemplifying Islamic precepts. In the view of the author, the possible contribution of Islamic values for shaping an emerging Cosmopolitan civilisation now confronts a new reality where Muslims are beguiled by the lifestyle of consumption. This emerging middle class appears to be content with embracing an Islamic surface identity. Are they being herded into the passive embrace of the consumer society?