MODERATION IN SPENDING

Be economical (do not waste) when spending and purchasing goods. Suffice on necessity. Necessity has different levels. The one level is such that one cannot do without it. This is not only permissible but Waajib – compulsory.

The second level is that one can do without it but its absence will cause inconvenience and difficulty and its presence will result in ease and comfort. Permission is also granted for things of this level. The third level is that without it no work is hindered and no inconvenience is caused, but by having it one becomes pleased and happy. This is also permissible on the condition of affordability.

Another level is to possess things to show others i.e. ostentation. This is Haraam. Thus a woman who wears expensive clothes and jewellery for her own happiness or for the pleasure of her husband and not for 24 ostentation, will be allowed to do so. If the intention is ostentation, she will be a sinner. The yardstick for this is that when she is at home she is unkempt and untidy and when she attends an occasion, she dresses like a princess. They usually give a ludicrous explanation that we are dressing up to preserve the dignity of our husbands. This is completely false. If it were as they claim, then the dress worn on the previous occasion would suffice for the husband’s dignity. Why a new set of clothes for every occasion? This is ample proof that it is to show others.

The above mentioned levels are applicable to everything viz. houses, dishes, etc. To summarize, if inconvenience is caused without it, it is necessary, and if no inconvenience is caused without it, it is unnecessary. If it is to please oneself it will be permissible, and if it is to show others it will be Haraam.