The New Nation - Internet Edition

Self-restraint, if it goes to the extent of extremism in the performance of any worship or prayer, is not acceptable to Allah. Either it be excessive in prayer (Salat), fasting; or totally abstaining from normal way of day-to-day life, it is out of the 'balanced' and disciplined Islamic life. Islam does not allow sacrifice of the human instincts at the altar of monasticism. The holy Quran says: "We did not prescribe for them." (57:27) According to the same verse it is their 'invention,'. It is wrong as it is against human nature.

When some of the companions of the greatest Messenger of Allah resolved 'to fast every day, to pray every night, not to sleep on bed.." the Prophet warned," Your bodies certainly have rights over you; so fast (only obligatory fasting) but also abstain from fasting (not the obligatory fasting of Ramzan); and pray at night, but also sleep. I fast but I also abstain from fasting, I eat meat, as well as fat. And I also marry. So whoever turns away from my way, is not with me." (Bukhari, Muslim).

So, none should cross the limit of Divine injunctions. No 'invention' of monasticism is allowed. Allah says: O ye who believe, make not unlawful the good things which Allah hath made lawful for you, but commit no excess." (5:87)

-Abdul Muqit Chowdhury