A Self-Sufficient Life and a Generous Heart
Imam Lays ibn Sa’d (rah) desired not only to live a happy life himself but also to ensure those around him lived in happiness. To achieve this, he was a very generous spender.
“And do not forget your portion of this world; and do good as Allah has been good to you.” (Al-Qasas: 77)
Having understood this verse perfectly, Imam Lays put forward a profound concept: “There is no justification for an individual to hoard wealth as long as the basic needs of the people are not fully met.” Furthermore, he emphasized that rulers and those in authority are accountable to God to ensure that people are provided with more than just a “subsistence level”(حد الكفاف), they must ensure a “level of self-sufficiency” (حد الكفاية).
The difference between the two:
- Subsistence Level (حد الكفاف): This refers to the bare minimum of food and drink necessary for a human being to survive.
- Level of Self-Sufficiency (حد الكفاية): This includes quality food, drink, and comfortable housing – encompassing all the facilities necessary for a person to live with dignity and peace of mind.
The Assets of Salahuddin Ayyubi
Salahuddin al-Ayyubi, the ruler of vast regions including Egypt, Sham (Greater Syria), Syria, Yemen, and the Hijaz- when he passed away, he possessed only 47 dirhams. At the time of his death in 1193 AD, there was not even enough money to cover his funeral expenses. This was because he spent all his wealth for the cause of Allah, liberating prisoners, helping the poor, and constructing mosques and hospitals.
He lived as a man detached from worldly desires (Zuhd). Had he wished, he could have possessed the riches of the earth, but he chose the life of the Hereafter instead.
Tranquility of Mind
أَلَا بِذِكْرِ اللَّهِ تَطْمَئِنُّ الْقُلُوبُ
“Be aware, it is through the remembrance of Allah that hearts find peace.” (Ar-Ra’d: 28)
To find your peace and live with contentment, the best way is to live always in the remembrance of God. It is to remember Him at all times – not just in the morning and evening, but living with the constant awareness that He is with us in every situation. Reciting morning and evening adhkar (remembrances) and situational supplications (duas) regularly is a vital part of this.
