Luxury (تنعم) in Islamic Tradition
Definition
Luxury, translated as tanaʿum (تنعم) in Arabic, refers to a life of comfort and indulgence in lavish, often excessive, material goods and pleasures. Within Islamic tradition, luxury can have a complex interplay with ethical, spiritual, and social elements, guiding the believer towards a balanced life that avoids excess.
Etymology
The term tanaʿum (تنعم) is derived from the Arabic root ن ع م (N-ʿ-M), which connotes ease, comfort, and enjoyment of pleasant things. The concept encapsulates both the potential benefits and the ethical concerns associated with material comfort and prosperity.
Perception in Islamic Teachings
Islamic teachings advocate a balanced approach, appreciating the blessings provided by Allah while warning against excessive indulgence that can lead to neglect of spiritual and communal responsibilities.
Ethical Training in Islamic Literature
In “Akhlāq-i-Jalālī,” a notable work on Islamic ethics, the author explicitly condemns luxury in the training of children. He advises against habits and comforts that may encourage laziness or excessive self-indulgence:
“Sleeping in the day and sleeping overmuch at night should be prohibited. Soft clothing and all uses of luxury, such as cool retreats in the hot weather, and fires and furs in the cold, they should be taught to abstain from. They should be inured to exercise, foot-walking, horse-riding, and all other appropriate accomplishments.” (Akhlāq-i-Jalālī, p. 280).
Islamic Law (Sharia) and Luxury
In Islamic law, luxury is not outright forbidden, but certain ethical guidelines are prescribed:
- Moderation: Muslims are encouraged to practice moderation in all aspects of life, including the consumption and exhibition of wealth.
- Charity (Zakat): A significant portion of one’s wealth is to be spent in aiding the needy, assuring a balance of societal welfare.
- Accountability: On the Day of Judgement, believers are held accountable for how they utilized the blessings and resources provided to them by Allah.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Ethics of Islam” by Shaykh Fadhlalla Haeri.
- “Islamic Ethics of Life: Abortion, War, and Euthanasia” by Jonathan E. Brockopp.
- “The Purification of the Soul” by Aḥmad ibn ʿAlī Ibn al-Mubārak and Shaykh ʿAbd al-Qādir ʿĪsā.
Takeaways
- Tanaʿum (تنعم) highlights the dual nature of comfort in Islamic ethics - as both a blessing and a potential trial.
- Ethical training in Islamic tradition often emphasizes resilience and avoidance of excesses.
- Legal and moral guidelines propose moderation, accountability, and charity as fundamental principles in managing luxury.
Conclusion
The term tanaʿum (تنعم) captures the nuanced position of luxury within Islamic thought. It signals both the enjoyment of divine blessings and the ethical responsibility towards balanced living, emphasizing that material comfort should not overshadow spiritual and moral duties.
By understanding the concept of tanaʿum within its broader Islamic context, believers are better equipped to navigate the delicate balance between enjoying life’s comforts and upholding their spiritual and ethical obligations.
