Review of “Mustaqbilun – Mastering the Art of Futures Thinking”

 

The blogpost Mustaqbilun by Ezatulhada introduces readers to the emerging discipline of futures literacy through an accessible and structured framework. It cleverly frames the word Mustaqbilun—derived from the Arabic root meaning “future-facing”—as both a methodology and a mindset. The author takes the reader on a journey through key concepts in futures thinking while simultaneously grounding them in spiritual and cultural relevance.

The structure of the piece is neat and memorable, using the acronym MUSTAQBILUN to anchor eleven key building blocks: from Mindset of a Futurist and Understanding Megatrends, to Scanning Weak Signals, Alternative Scenarios, and Learning from Wild Cards. Each element is tied to an essential practice in foresight work, making it easier for readers to grasp complex concepts by linking them to a simple mnemonic. This design signals the author’s intent to make futures literacy not just theoretical, but practical and applicable for everyday readers.

One of the strongest aspects of the post is its emphasis on shifting perspectives. Futures literacy is not about predicting a single future, but rather about exploring multiple possibilities. The author highlights how tools such as the Futures Triangle, Scenario Planning, and Causal Layered Analysis expand our capacity to imagine beyond one outcome. This call to “shake up mental faculties” underscores the transformative nature of foresight—it is less about prediction and more about liberating thought from rigid assumptions.

Another striking feature is the integration of faith-based reflection. By drawing on Quranic injunctions such as Surah Al-Hashr (59:18), the author links foresight directly to the Islamic principle of taqwa. In this framing, to anticipate the future is not just a strategic or intellectual exercise but a spiritual obligation—an act of consciousness toward Allah and responsibility for tomorrow. This blend of futures studies with tasawwuf (Sufism) and Quranic imperatives enriches the discussion and offers a distinctive cultural lens. It positions futures literacy as more than a professional toolkit; it becomes a form of worship, a lived practice of accountability and anticipatory ethics.

Stylistically, the article is reflective and aspirational. It begins with a personal anecdote about gifting a book to the author’s mother, immediately humanizing what could otherwise be a highly technical subject. It closes with an invitation—“Let us all become a Futurist”—that echoes both a call to action and a spiritual reminder that the future is shared by all. This balance of personal voice, practical instruction, and moral grounding makes the piece both engaging and persuasive.

At the same time, the post functions as a sneak preview rather than a full treatment. It touches on tools and concepts but leaves their detailed explanations for the forthcoming book. This works well as a teaser, though some readers may find themselves wishing for more concrete examples or applications in real-world settings. Still, this brevity is compensated by the clarity of its vision: to democratize futures literacy and situate it within an Islamic ethical framework.

In conclusion, Mustaqbilun succeeds as an inspiring introduction to futures thinking. It combines intellectual rigor with cultural resonance, using both mnemonic devices and spiritual framing to make futures literacy accessible. It invites readers to see foresight not as an abstract science but as an act of taqwa—a responsibility to anticipate, to question assumptions, and to shape futures consciously. For anyone interested in blending modern foresight practices with timeless spiritual wisdom, this post offers a compelling entry point and sets high expectations for the author’s forthcoming book.