Uthman ibn Affan: an example of High Character and Ascetism

In its conventional sense, religious asceticism typically implies abstaining from various worldly indulgences, such as luxury, marriage, or even social engagement. However, within the Islamic context, asceticism, known as “zuhd” in Arabic, takes on a distinctly different meaning. It is often defined as a state in which attachment to the material world remains in one’s hands but not within their heart.

In this context, a person may possess substantial wealth, enjoy a vibrant social life, and indulge in luxuries, yet still be considered ascetic as long as their heart remains unburdened by an attachment to these worldly possessions. If everything they have were to vanish overnight, it would not sadden them, and if it were to return, it would not increase their happiness. Absolute asceticism, therefore, revolves around the detachment of the heart, rather than the limbs, from entanglement in worldly affairs.

The exemplary embodiment of such detachment can be found in the life of ‘Uthman. As previously mentioned, he was not only exceptionally wealthy but also widely known, beloved, and highly respected in his community before embracing Islam. For a man of his stature to willingly forsake everything was indeed a formidable task. However, when the persecution of Muslims in Mecca reached intolerable levels, and life became unbearable for many believers, ‘Uthman was among the first to undertake the migration to Abyssinia, where Muslims could practice their faith freely.

In this migration, ‘Uthman had to leave behind his thriving business, substantial wealth, and his esteemed social status. His asceticism was evident in the freedom of his heart from the love of material possessions and status, making it relatively easy for him to relinquish his life’s achievements for the sake of Allah.

Throughout his life, ‘Uthman continually demonstrated his asceticism by generously spending substantial portions of his wealth for the betterment of Islam and the well-being of fellow Muslims. He purchased a well in Madinah, ensuring that people could access it for free [9]. He also acquired land and contributed it for the expansion of the Prophet’s Mosque when it became insufficient for the growing Muslim community. Furthermore, he dedicated significant resources to support Muslims preparing for the Tabook campaign [10].

Today, many people find themselves deeply attached to the material world. Our measures of success are often closely tied to our worldly progress. When this progress stagnates or all our achievements are lost, some may experience depression or even contemplate suicide. Hearing a story of someone losing all their worldly possessions is often perceived as the ultimate life challenge. However, if we were to adopt an ascetic mindset, similar to the companions of the Prophet ﷺ, such losses would be met with equanimity, even if we were to initiate them ourselves. ‘Uthman’s life story serves as a powerful testament to the strength of asceticism in transcending the allure of materialism and embodying a profound spiritual detachment from worldly pursuits.