The Islamic Perspective on Having Extra Possessions: Necessity vs. Extravagance

Understanding the Balance Between Having Enough and Being Extravagant

Question: A sister mentioned that if we have extra clothes or an extra house, we will be questioned about it. Is this mentioned in any hadith?

Answer: Today, due to the abundance of wealth, most households have many extra items such as utensils, clothes, shoes, beds, mattresses, pillows, houses, land, jewelry, and many other things that are more than what we need.

The main point in all these matters is that a person should not keep excessive items to the point of extravagance. However, there is no harm in keeping items in larger quantities if they are needed from time to time. If Allah has given you abundance, you can express it, but keep two things in mind:

1. Do not use anything to the extent of extravagance.

2. Be mindful of the needs of the poor and needy.

It is important to understand what is considered a necessity. Many companions of the Prophet (peace be upon him) had only one piece of clothing. For example, Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) mentioned that seventy companions of the Suffah had only one lower garment and no upper garment. Similarly, some female companions had only one piece of clothing and no additional garment for covering, as mentioned in the hadith related to the Eid prayer by Umm Atiyyah.

In summary, having double or extra items that we use alternately is not an issue, but it should not reach the level of extravagance. Extravagance means keeping something excessively without necessity and wastefully.

By: Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi Hafidhahullah

Jeddah Da’wah Center