The Alchemy of Happiness

The Alchemy of Happiness is a book by Al Ghazzali, first published in the early 12th century and translated into English by Claud Field in 1909. Written originally in Persian as Kimiya-yi Sa'ādat, this work distills the teachings of Ghazzali’s monumental Arabic treatise Ihya Ulum al-Din (The Revival of the Religious Sciences) into a more accessible form.

It offers readers a profound exploration of the inner life, emphasizing the purification of the soul, the importance of self-knowledge, and the ultimate goal of attaining nearness to God. Regarded as one of the great thinkers of Islamic spirituality and philosophy, Al Ghazzali’s teachings blend theological depth with practical guidance.

In The Alchemy of Happiness, he argues that true happiness does not lie in material wealth or worldly success but in understanding the self and recognizing its divine origin. This recognition transforms the soul—an alchemical metaphor for turning base elements (worldly distractions) into spiritual gold (divine realization).

The book has had a lasting influence not only in the Islamic world but also among seekers of wisdom in other spiritual traditions. Its themes of self-awareness, ethical conduct, and inner transformation resonate across cultures and centuries, making it a timeless guide for those pursuing a more meaningful, inwardly fulfilled life.