Question
Please tell us in detail what simplicity in Islam really means. How the Muslims should live in this world. How much can they spend on their living?
Answer
Simplicity implies living a life, which is clear of extravagance and pompousness. Islam prohibits extravagance and pompousness. However, there is no universally prescribed limit for what may amount to extravagance. This limit can vary from person to person, depending upon the social status, the income and the general level of economic and social welfare in the society.
In principle, it seems that it is, in fact, not the amount, however big it might be, which amounts to extravagance, on the contrary, it is the spirit with which a particular expenditure is undertaken, which may bring it under the scope of extravagance and pompousness. When the overriding spirit in making an expense is to show off one’s wealth and social status, even a relatively small expense has the danger of falling within the scope of extravagance. On the contrary, even when a relatively large expense is made to fulfill a genuine need, requirement or desire of the spender, without the spirit of showing off his wealth, that expense shall then not fall in the category of extravagance and pompousness.
As should be clear from the foregoing clarification, Islam does not prescribe a minimum or a maximum amount, which a Muslim may spend to fulfill any of his needs. On the contrary, it is the spirit in the spending, which Islam wants to keep in check.
I hope this helps.
Regards,
Moiz Amjad
October 9, 2001