Is it israaf to spend on luxuries?

Answer

Spending money on luxuries is not Israaf (waste) as long as the intention is not pride or show. Israaf is satanic waste. The underlying intention is evil, and even if the intention is not evil, the act of waste is satanic. This happens usually with the food prepared on wedding occasions, Ramadhaan iftaar occasions in the Musaajid, mass I'tikaafs, jalsahs and festivals, or spending when there is no need whatsoever. Wasters are described in the Qur'aan Majeed as the "brothers of the shayaateen". The punishment in this dunya for israaf, at the minimum, is that soon Allah Ta'ala will snatch away the bounties. In the Aakhirah it could be the Fire of Jahannam.

Another example of israaf is to replace your existing lounge suite for no valid reason, but merely because you take a liking to the latest fashionable model. The same applies with your existing curtains or tiles, etc. There is nothing wrong with the present furniture and furnishings, yet they are replaced for no valid reason. All of this is israaf. However, when buying a fridge, for example, you choose a R10,000 fridge. This will not be israaf even if a much cheaper one is available. When spending, be cautious. Spend when only necessary. Curb spending by bringing to mind the suffering and poverty of others.

The general Qur'aanic principle underlying spending is mentioned in the following Aayat:

"The Servants of Ar-Rahmaan are ....... those who, when they spend, they are not wasteful nor are they miserly. Between these two extremes, they (spend) in moderation."

The true Servants of Allah Ta'ala are neither extravagant nor are they niggardly.

Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said that moderation in spending is half of a prosperous livelihood. While moderation brings barkat in one's Rizq, extravagance depletes the wealth as well as eliminates the barkat.

The Shariah does not stipulate any specific limits for extravagance, miserliness and moderation. Times and circumstances vary from generation to generation What may have been extravagant a century ago, may be a necessity today. Allah Ta'ala has bestowed sound Aql to the Mu'min. He should apply his Aql and consult his conscience to understand if he is extravagant or niggardly.