A Critique and Review of Maslow's Hierarchy of Human Needs Theory from the Point of View of the Holy Quran

Maslow’s human motivation theory has been considered as one of the most influential theories of psychology since its emergence. In this theory, basic human needs are ranked in a pyramid. Based on this hierarchy, basic needs, such as physiological needs, safety needs, etc., should be met first. In this hierarchy, the need for self-actualization and transcendence are placed at the highest level. Thus, an inevitable order and hierarchy of needs govern the fulfillment of the needs. Using a qualitative comparative approach and content analysis method, this study tries to critically review Maslow’s hierarchy of needs theory from the point of view of Islam and The Holy Quran. The results of the study show that in order to achieve self-actualization and transcendence defined by The Quran, it is not necessary to fulfill all the prior needs. Even in some cases, it is necessary for humans to disregard some or all their prior needs. Some examples of contradiction mentioned in The Quran include fasting, avoiding hypocrisy, martyrdom, and divine trials.