Is an outwardly simple lifestyle a sign of faith?

In the elevated teachings of the Holy Quran, the connection between one's outward lifestyle and the depth of their faith is a subtle and multifaceted issue that cannot be simply reduced to a direct, one-to-one correlation. The Quran, rather than emphasizing superficial appearances and material possessions, focuses on the state of the heart, intentions, righteous deeds, and the degree of human attachment to worldly goods versus the values of the hereafter. Therefore, while a simple lifestyle can be a result and an external manifestation of some of the highest principles of faith, it alone cannot be considered a definitive and comprehensive criterion for faith. The Holy Quran repeatedly calls upon believers to avoid extravagance and wastefulness. In Surah Al-A'raf, verse 31, Allah states: "O children of Adam, take your adornment at every place of prayer, and eat and drink, but be not excessive. Indeed, He likes not those who commit excess." This verse indicates that moderation and temperance in consumption and life are fundamental Quranic principles. Extravagance is not merely excessive spending; it can also include the improper and wasteful use of resources and blessings. This avoidance of excess can naturally lead to a simpler and more principled life. In Surah Al-Isra, verses 26 and 27, we also read: "And give the kinsman his due and the needy and the traveler, and do not spend wastefully. Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils, and ever has Satan been to his Lord ungrateful." These verses explicitly condemn extravagance and wastefulness, equating them with satanic acts. These teachings guide the believer towards contentment and efficient use of resources, which can impart a simple appearance to life. However, the primary goal is the purity of intention and accountability regarding divine blessings. Furthermore, the Quran places great emphasis on the worthlessness and transient nature of worldly life in contrast to the Hereafter. In Surah Al-Hadid, verse 20, it states: "Know that the life of this world is only amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting among yourselves and competition in increase of wealth and children - like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it [become] yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and approval. And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion." This perspective teaches the believer not to become attached to the glitter of this world and to set their main goal on gaining divine pleasure and provisions for the Hereafter. This kind of outlook naturally leads an individual not to pursue luxuries and wealth accumulation, but rather to choose simplicity in their life. Yet, this simplicity originates from a deep worldview, not merely an outward display. Moreover, charity and spending in the way of Allah are among the core pillars of faith in the Quran. A true believer is one who spends a portion of their wealth in the way of Allah and to help the needy. These injunctions inherently prevent an individual from accumulating excessive wealth and living an overly luxurious life. In Surah Al-Furqan, verse 67, Allah describes the characteristics of the servants of the Most Gracious: "And [they are] those who, when they spend, do not spend excessively and do not economize but are always [in between] that [moderation]." This verse also emphasizes the principle of moderation and avoiding extremes in financial matters, which can lead to a balanced life free from excessive luxuries. In summary, faith in the Quran is primarily related to the heart, intentions, piety, righteous deeds, gratitude, patience, and attachment to the Hereafter. Although many Quranic teachings (such as avoiding extravagance, not being attached to this world, and encouraging charity) can lead to the adoption of a simple lifestyle free from luxuries, this simplicity is a product and fruit of faith, not its sole sign. It is possible for someone to have a simple appearance but a heart full of greed and miserliness, and conversely, for a wealthy person to spend their wealth in the way of Allah and have a heart full of piety. Therefore, the outward appearance of a simple life alone is not a definitive proof of faith; rather, faith manifests itself in the depths of one's being and in all aspects of one's life, including lifestyle choices. Simplicity, if it stems from contentment, true asceticism, and detachment from worldly allurements, is a good sign of faith, but not the only one.