Asceticism does not mean abandoning the world; it signifies a lack of extreme attachment to material goods and having correct priorities.
Asceticism does not mean abandoning the world; rather, it signifies having the right priorities and not being overly attached to material possessions. The Holy Quran allows for attention to worldly matters to a degree that does not cause one to forget God. In this sense, asceticism encourages a lifestyle where individuals transcend base desires and materialistic pursuits. In Surah Al-Hashr, verse 19, it states, 'And do not be like those who forgot Allah, so He made them forget themselves.' This verse indicates that if one forgets God, they are essentially forgetting themselves. Additionally, in Surah Al-Imran, verse 14, it says, 'Beautified for people is the love of that which they desire - of women and sons, heaped-up sums of gold and silver, fine branded horses, and cattle and tilled land.' This verse points to the allure of the world, but continues to remind that such things are fleeting. Asceticism, therefore, is a proper perspective on worldly affairs, freeing individuals from excessive thinking and guiding them toward higher truths. Thus, it can be concluded that asceticism is not about renouncing the world but establishing a relationship with it that allows one to remember both God and the hereafter.
And do not be like those who forgot Allah, so He made them forget themselves. It is they who are the defiantly disobedient.
Beautified for people is the love of that which they desire - of women and sons, heaped-up sums of gold and silver, fine branded horses, and cattle and tilled land. That is the provision of worldly life, but Allah has the best return.
One day, Adel sat under a tree, contemplating his life. He was conflicted about whether he should abandon everything or not. During this moment, he recalled the verses of the Quran, which teach that detachment from the world doesn't mean to forsake it but rather to have a correct perspective towards it. Adel then decided to embody asceticism in its true essence in his life, finding peace within. Eventually, he experienced life with more freshness and serenity, fostering love for his family and savoring his simple daily activities.