Third: Indifference Towards the Life of this World (az-Zuhd)

It is, according to Islamic Law, leaving the permitted matters for that which is feared that may lead—if he loved it too much—to commit the doubtful matters. This indifference is preferable according to the Islamic Law, as it is mentioned in the stories and ancient narrations. Therefore, the slave should limit himself only to the necessities according to what his/her soul can stand, as this matter relatively differs. For example, a man may dispense with a matter which is his right because of this indifference and can stand living without it. In addition, it may prevent him from doing the acts of worship and deeds of obedience. He is different from another man who can limit himself to a less matter. Therefore, one should take care and prepare himself for death and be certain that it is near and he should be ready for it before it occurs. He must be, wisely, happy with the bounty, but he must not reach the limit of admiration. He should be, wisely, sad of the sins and the losses, but he must not reach the limit of despair.

Yes, there is no indifference to the life of this world in three matters:

• the beautiful woman, even if her dowry was very high, as this matter completes his religion. This is unless she will open on him the door of this life, not pleased with what is enough. Then one should avoid her.
• being drawn to water, as he, peace and blessings be upon him and his progeny, was drawn to places that had water source because he does not need to gain money and is worried this might lead him to the doubtful matters.
• preferring the good and healthy place over the one which contains diseases, and to choose the place which has all the necessary utilities, so that one does not have to pay more money, as the land is owned by Allah. The exception is only if he leaves this place to another place where the religion is more complete, or if he left the said place for the cause of the recommended asceticism.