Spirit of Islam, Jul-Aug 2024

and becomes worthless stubble. In the life to come there will be a terrible punishment, or God’s forgiveness and approval: the life of this world is nothing but means of deception. (57: 20) The Companions exemplified this verse through their simple living and their focus on righteous deeds. Hasan Basri’s observations highlight how they prioritized their spiritual duties over material comforts, demonstrating their understanding that true success lies in the Hereafter, not in the accumulation of wealth. The simplicity of the Companions is further illustrated by their clothing and lifestyle. The Prophet himself lived a life of modesty and simplicity, as narrated in several Hadiths. For instance, he said: Be in this world as if you were a stranger or a traveler along a path. (Sahih al-Bukhari) This Hadith encapsulates the worldview of the Companions, who viewed their time on earth as temporary and focused on their ultimate journey to the Hereafter. They wore simple garments, often made from camel hair, and lived frugally, not out of necessity but out of choice, to avoid the distractions of material wealth. Hasan Basri’s remarks also serve as a stark reminder of the drift from the original Islamic ideals. He observed that if the Companions were to witness the best among the later generations, they would consider them disconnected from the true spirit of Islam. Conversely, the worst among them would appear as if they did not believe in the Day of Judgement. The Companions of the Prophet serve as timeless exemplars of detachment from worldly pleasures and commitment to a righteous life. Their legacy continues to inspire believers to prioritize their faith over material pursuits.o The Companions of the Prophet serve as timeless exemplars of detachment from worldly pleasures and commitment to a righteous life. Their legacy continues to inspire believers to prioritize their faith over material pursuits.