The Nature of Asceticism and Renunciation of the World
In Islamic spirituality, asceticism (zuhd) is the insensitivity of the heart to the world and its transient pleasures, and a turning towards the blessings of the afterlife. Asceticism and poverty (fakr), which are counted among the “salvators” (munchiyat), is not about a person not possessing worldly wealth, but rather that wealth does not occupy a place in their heart 1, 18. As an enlightened one expresses it, “Asceticism is withdrawing from the world and not worrying about where anything goes.” The true ascetic is someone whose eyes see the world as small and whose heart can easily abandon it. The ascetic who finds comfort by detaching from possessions does not excessively rejoice in gains nor grieve over losses; his sole aim is to attain Allah’s pleasure.
The Exaltedness of the Station of Poverty
In Sufism, “poverty” (fakr) is more than material poverty; it is the slave’s feeling of absolute powerlessness in the presence of Allah and realizing that they are dependent on no one but Him. “Poverty means being independent from all creation with your Lord.” Perfect dervishes seek refuge in Allah Ta’ala, detached from their own desires and causes. No poverty not based on necessity is a virtue; true virtue is to sever ties with this world and the hereafter and be completely devoted to Allah. In the afterlife, people will not be questioned about their poverty or wealth, but rather about the “patience and gratitude” they showed towards them.
Spiritual Wealth and Trust in God
A believer who attains the stations of asceticism and poverty is the richest and freest person on earth. For there is no leash of desire for material possessions or positions around his neck. Ibn Ataullah al-Iskandari expresses that absolute dependence on Allah is actually the greatest treasure, saying, “How can I be poor when I am poor?” By abandoning the world’s fleeting desires and being content with lawful earnings, a servant dedicates his heart to Allah, thus taking a step towards true generosity and courage. Asceticism is not about becoming angry with one’s surroundings, but rather filling oneself with divine love and freeing oneself from the captivity of transient objects.