SHAFAQNA – Asceticism (Zohd in Arabic) can be in two levels or in two kinds: Avoiding whatever is declared as Haram in the world by God; or avoiding whatever is declared Halal by God. The holy Quran describes asceticism in Ayah 23 of Surah Al-Hadeed: “So that you may not despair over matters that pass you by (lost things), nor exult over favours bestowed upon you; for Allah (SWT) does not like any vainglorious boaster.”
Or in Ayah 153 of Surah Al-e-Imran says: “Behold, you were climbing up the high ground, without even casting a side glance at any one, and the Messenger behind you, who was calling you back for helping others. There did Allah (SWT) give you one distress after another by way of requital, to teach you not to grieve for (the booty) that had escaped you and for (the ill) that had befallen you. For Allah (SWT) is well aware of all that you do.” It is clear that when the heart is not attached to a thing, does not grieve when that thing is lost and will not be overjoyed either when it is gained.