Hudhaifa told that he heard God’s messenger say, “Do not wear silk or brocade, do not drink from gold and silver vessels, and do not eat from gold and silver dishes, for others have them in this world, but you will have them in the next.” (Bukhari and Muslim.)
The Prohibition of Luxury and Imitation of Disbelievers
This noble hadith from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) contains three profound prohibitions that safeguard the Muslim community from moral and spiritual corruption. The prohibition of silk and brocade for men preserves masculine dignity and prevents extravagance, while the restrictions on gold and silver vessels protect against arrogance and worldly attachment.
Spiritual Wisdom Behind the Prohibitions
These prohibitions serve to distinguish the Muslim community from the practices of disbelievers and those immersed in worldly pleasures. By abstaining from these luxuries in this temporal world, believers cultivate contentment (qana'ah) and detachment (zuhd) from material possessions.
The wisdom lies in training the soul to desire the eternal pleasures of Paradise rather than temporary worldly delights. This discipline strengthens faith and prepares the heart for the ultimate meeting with Allah.
The Promise of Eternal Reward
The concluding portion of the hadith contains a magnificent promise: "for others have them in this world, but you will have them in the next." This demonstrates Allah's infinite mercy - what is forbidden as a test in this temporary abode will be permitted and abundant in the eternal Paradise.
This teaching reflects the Islamic principle of delayed gratification, where believers sacrifice momentary pleasures for everlasting joy. The prohibition thus becomes not a deprivation but an investment in the hereafter.
Scholarly Exceptions and Applications
Classical scholars have noted exceptions to these prohibitions based on other authentic texts. Silk is permitted for women, and medical necessity may allow limited use of gold and silver vessels. The underlying principle remains: avoiding extravagance and maintaining spiritual purity.
In contemporary application, scholars extend these principles to modern luxuries that produce similar effects of arrogance and excessive attachment to worldly life. The essence is moderation and remembering the ultimate destination.