Why Islam Frowns Upon Borrowing for Luxury: Lessons from the Prophet’s Life

The question of why Islam does not encourage people to take loans for luxury is a common one. To answer this, one must understand the core teachings of Islam, especially as exemplified by the Prophet Muhammad. Islam promotes frugality and eschews extravagance and debt, particularly for unnecessary and frivolous expenses. This article delves into the rationale behind these teachings through the lives and practices of the Prophet, as evidenced by various historical sources.

Understanding the Prophetic Teachings

Prophet Muhammad's lifestyle serves as a clear model for his followers. He lived a simple and frugal life, setting an example that many can aspire to. Unlike common misconceptions, Islam does not encourage the pursuit of luxury or the accumulation of wealth for its own sake. Instead, it focuses on the well-being and spiritual growth of believers.

Frustering the Common Premise

One of the common misconceptions about the Quran and Hadith is that religion somehow promotes luxury or encourages debts for lavish living. It is crucial to understand that the Quran and Hadith are fundamentally about promoting a balanced and righteous lifestyle, which inherently includes financial prudence.

Prophet Muhammad’s Simplicity and Dedication

Prophet Muhammad’s personal example is unparalleled and invaluable. Several well-known sources, including books by prominent authors, present a clear picture of his frugal lifestyle. These sources range from scholarly interpretations to historical accounts, all converging on the same message: simplicity and humility were hallmarks of the Prophet's life.

References from Prophetic Sources

Barnaby Rogerson

According to Barnaby Rogerson, in his book The Prophet Muhammad: Hidden Spring, 2003, Prophet Muhammad made no use of Khadijah’s wealth beyond giving alms to the poor and maintaining his simple existence as a merchant. This living was rooted in frugality and service to others.

Karen Armstrong

Karen Armstrong elaborates in her biography, Muhammad – A Biography of the Prophet, Harper Collins, 1993. She notes that the Prophet always resided in a simple and frugal manner, even during his period of gaining immense power. He lived in a home where there was often nothing to eat, and he refused to wear richer garments, preferring coarse clothing. He also refused pompous titles and was often seen sitting with the poorest members of the community.

Edward Gibbon

Historian Edward Gibbon’s account in his book The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire describes the Prophet’s simple living, noting that he despised the pomp of royalty and was often seen performing menial tasks.

Washington Irving

Washington Irving in his book Mohammed: A Biography, Wordsworth Editions Limited, 2007 affirms that the Prophet's style of living was similar to that of his disciples, and that he engaged in tasks such as sweeping his chamber, lighting the fire, and repairing his clothes. He served himself in many ways, adhering to a life of simplicity.

Conclusion

These references clearly illustrate that Prophet Muhammad’s life was characterized by simplicity, frugality, and a commitment to righteousness. The teachings of Islam encourage believers to live a balanced life that focuses on spiritual growth and community welfare rather than amassing wealth or living a life of luxury. Borrowing for unnecessary or extravagant purposes goes against the core principles of Islam and the example set by the Prophet.