Body And Soul
(The Material Versus The Spiritual)
Islam balances the needs of the body and soul or those of the material and spiritual worlds [Qur'an 28:77, 2:143]. Islam does not promote monasticism or escapism from the world. This acknowledges that our world would collapse if the path to God required meditation in seclusion in monasteries, caves, forests, or on mountain tops.
Muslim retreats, which follow the example set by the Prophet Muhammad after the revelation of the Qur'an, are usually conducted in the mosque during the last 10 days of the month of Ramadan when Muslims are required to fast from dawn to sunset.
Muslims are expected to earn a living, marry, raise children, support their extended family, their neighbors and fellow Muslims. Making an honest living is a form of worship that fulfills God's plan for life on earth.
The Prophet Muhammad once noticed a man in the mosque praying day and night. He enquired: "Who supports this man?"His companions told him that the man's brothers support him. The Prophet said: "His brothers are praying more than he is".
The Muslim approach of turning to God, while fully engaging life, is more challenging than meditating in seclusion away from the challenges of life and human relationships.
Muslims are encouraged to enjoy God's blessings[Qur'an 2:57]. While seeking the hereafter, they should not forget their share of this life [Qur'an 28:77]. The Prophet Muhammad advised Muslims to work for this life as if they would live forever and work for the hereafter as if they would die tomorrow.
Muslims should not be too hard on themselves; and should not despair of God's mercy. God forgives all sins; and God is the most Forgiving, the most Merciful [Qur'an 39:53].
Islam encourages moderate spending. Muslims are told not to be cheap or wasteful [Qur'an 17:26, 27 & 29].
Those who prefer to work for the hereafter will be greatly rewarded by God. Those who prefer to work for this life will get worldly rewards but will lose their share in the hereafter [Qur'an 42:20]. The hereafter is the "real" life [Qur'an 29:64].
Islam offers the seeker the Golden Mean.
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Revised on 10/3/99
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