Reviewed by: Ustadha Heba Zaki Ahmed
Condemning Extravagance and Encouraging Moderation: A Classic Example in Islam
Today, let’s explore the concept of Israaf (extravagance) through a story that beautifully illustrates how to avoid excess and embrace moderation. This story of Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA), the first caliph of Islam, guides us on how to live a life of simplicity and humility, keeping extravagance at bay.
The Story of Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) and Avoiding Extravagance
Before becoming the caliph, Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) was a merchant who traded fine cloth. However, once he was appointed as caliph, his companions agreed that he should cease his trade to avoid any misconceptions of privilege due to his position. Instead, his sustenance would come from Bait-ul-Maal (the state treasury), and his wages were set at the level of an average laborer’s daily wage in Madinah. This change meant adjusting from a merchant’s lifestyle to one resembling that of a modest worker.
An Incident with Hazrat Abu Bakr’s (RA) Wife
One evening, Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) expressed a desire for something sweet after his meal. His wife told him that their daily provisions did not include any luxury items, and so they had no sweets at home. He thanked Allah and remained silent.
A week later, his wife presented him with a small bowl of homemade sweets, which surprised him. Curious, he asked how she had managed to make the dessert. She explained that she had saved a handful of flour each day for a week, then traded it for date syrup. Abu Bakr (RA) smiled, thanked her, and immediately visited the Bait-ul-Maal to request a reduction in their daily flour provisions, stating that he had realized they could survive on less.
SubhanAllah!
Reflecting on Abu Bakr’s (RA) Example
This act of modesty and avoidance of extravagance by Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) is truly inspiring. Let’s pause for a moment and honestly ask ourselves: what would we do in his place? This example compels us to think deeply about our own habits and how much more we might demand for our comforts.
Practical Tips to Avoid Extravagance
To help us implement moderation in our own lives, here are a few practical tips to avoid extravagance in daily life:
- Pause Before Spending: Before making a purchase or using resources (money, food, water, etc.), take a moment to reflect. Ask yourself if this expenditure is necessary or if it could be reduced.
- Remind Yourself of the Sunnah: Think of Hazrat Abu Bakr’s (RA) modesty, and ask yourself how you can follow his example.
- Think of the Social Impact: Extravagant spending can inadvertently create jealousy, insecurity, or dissatisfaction among others. It may even pressure some to seek wealth through illegal or harmful means.
- Respect Others’ Feelings: Our small acts of moderation can positively influence society by promoting contentment and reducing harmful social comparisons.
The Example of Our Beloved Prophet (PBUH)
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) himself was a model of simplicity, choosing to live humbly. He avoided any form of excess that might hurt those less fortunate. He would refrain from discarding fruit peels openly to spare others, especially those unable to afford such luxuries, from feeling deprived. His actions constantly reminded us to be considerate of others and avoid excess.
Islam teaches us to live within our means, condemning extravagance as a practice that leads to waste and social inequality. The teachings of the Quran and Sunnah urge us to adopt moderation and avoid unnecessary luxuries in favor of supporting others and building a more equitable society. This story of Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) serves as a powerful reminder of these values, inspiring us to be mindful, grateful, and considerate in all that we do.
