Minimalism is often spoken about today as a lifestyle choice—owning less, spending wisely, and simplifying one’s life. But long before modern minimalism, the Prophet ﷺ and his Companions lived lives of simplicity rooted in faith, balance, and contentment.
1. Simplicity in Possessions
The Prophet ﷺ lived in a modest home with few belongings. His bedding was sometimes nothing more than a mat of palm fibers, and his household contained only essentials. This showed that value lies not in the number of possessions, but in how they serve a person’s needs without tying down the heart.
2. Moderation in Food
The Sunnah teaches that food should be consumed with balance:
“No human ever filled a vessel worse than the stomach. It is sufficient for the son of Adam to eat a few mouthfuls to keep his back straight. But if he must do it, then a third for food, a third for drink, and a third for air.”
[Sunan al-Tirmidhi, 2380]
Minimalism here means eating with mindfulness, avoiding waste, and remembering that contentment comes from gratitude rather than abundance.
3. Wearing Simple Clothing
The Prophet ﷺ wore clothing that was plain, clean, and modest—never extravagant. He discouraged arrogance through appearance and instead encouraged clothing that covered the body and reflected humility. Minimalist living means choosing garments for their purpose, not for show.
4. Contentment With What One Has
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Richness is not having many possessions. Rather, true richness is the richness of the soul.”
[Sahih al-Bukhari, 6446 | Sahih Muslim, 1051]
This is the heart of Sunnah minimalism—contentment. A minimalist life is not about deprivation but about freeing oneself from the endless chase for more.
5. Avoiding Waste and Excess
The Qur’an says:
“Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils, and ever has Satan been to his Lord ungrateful.”
[Qur’an 17:27]
Minimalism in Islam means using resources responsibly—water, food, clothes, and time—so nothing is squandered. Even in wuḍūʾ, the Prophet ﷺ would use only as much water as needed.
6. Detachment From Dunya
The Prophet ﷺ reminded his companions that this world is temporary:
“Be in this world as if you were a stranger or a traveler.”
[Sahih al-Bukhari, 6416]
Minimalism in this sense is spiritual—living lightly in the world, focusing not on amassing but on preparing for the Hereafter.
7. Charity as a Form of Minimalism
Giving away what is not needed purifies wealth and heart. The Companions often gave from what little they had, understanding that true ownership lies with Allah. Minimalism is not hoarding less but sharing more.
