Asceticism and Piety: The Islamic Measure of Not Being Attached to the World with the Heart

Introduction

The worldly life presents itself as a captivating and often deceptive center of attraction. Asceticism and piety are the Islamic paths to escaping this allure and attaining true tranquility. Asceticism is the indifference of the heart towards worldly pleasures, while piety is the awareness of responsibility towards Allah. Both guide a person to establish a balance between this world and the Hereafter.

Historical/Religious Background

Asceticism and piety are concepts frequently emphasized in the Qur'an and Sunnah. In the Qur'an, Allah states, "The worldly life is but a game and amusement." (Al-An'am, 6:32) highlighting the transience of worldly life. Our Prophet (peace be upon him) also summarizes our attitude towards worldly life in a hadith, saying, "Be like a stranger or a traveler in this world." (Bukhari)

Detailed Lists and Applications

• Supplications:

  • Allahümme inni es'elükel-hüdâ vet-tukâ vel-afâfe vel-ginâ.

    (O Allah, I ask You for guidance, piety, chastity, and richness of the heart.)
  • Okunuş: "Allahümme inni es'elükel-hüdâ vet-tukâ vel-afâfe vel-ginâ."
  • Meal: "O Allah, I ask You for guidance, piety, chastity, and richness of the heart." (Muslim)

Lessons from Scholars

Imam Ghazali stated about asceticism, "Asceticism is the emptying of the heart from the world and the settling of the love for the Hereafter in its place." The great scholar Hasan al-Basri emphasized the depth of this concept by saying, "Piety is the fear that the heart feels towards Allah."

Conclusion

In conclusion, asceticism and piety purify the Muslim's heart from the love of the world and strengthen their connection to Allah. These two concepts lead a person to true tranquility and spiritual perfection. O Lord, cleanse our hearts from the love of the world and make us among those who turn solely to You. Ameen.