Islam is a Religion and a Way of Life[1]

     Islam harmonizes both the body and the soul by meeting their needs through its wide scope of practical laws. This is because the strength of its structural vitality and appropriateness is for all times and places. Thus it is not merely a spiritual religion that segregates man from this life and its material needs, imposing on him the life of monks with perennial worship, refraining from wedlock, and other human desires. Yet, it is not a sheer materialistic religion, neglecting spirituality, nor does it ignore the human values. Indeed, it is a religion of temperance and moderation.

As Allah the Most High says,

“Seek the life to come by means of what Allah has granted you, but do not neglect your rightful share in this world.” (Qur’ān, 28:77)

He also says,

“Children of Adam, dress well whenever you are at worship, and eat and drink but do not be extravagant. Allah does not like extravagant people. Say [Prophet], ‘Who has forbidden the adornment and the nourishment Allah has provided for His servants?’” (Qur’ān, 7:31-32)

After which He says,

“You who believe, do not forbid the good things Allah has made lawful to you and do not exceed the limits. Allah does not love those who exceed the limits.” (Qur’ān, 5:87)

     The Prophet, peace be upon him, said to one who sought to completely follow him in his worship to the point where it affected his other duties, “Your Lord has a right on you, your soul has a right on you, and your family has a right on you; so you should give the rights of all those who has a right on you.” (Hadith by Al-Bukhāri)

     In another situation, the Prophet, peace be upon him, said to those who asked about his extraordinary worship, as they belittled them, intending to fast perpetually, stay up all night praying, and avoid women, “I am more submissive to Allah and more aware of Him than you; yet I fast and break my fast; I pray and sleep, and I also marry women. So he who does not follow my way in religion is not of me.” (Hadith by Muslim, and Al-Nasa’i)