Avoiding extremism in faith-service (ibadat)
Many tend to consider Islam as extremism. I cannot argue that there are no extremists among us, as they are everywhere, but Islam, as a principle, is consequently avoid extremism. There is no benchmark to follow how much burden has to be carried in the religious practice. I
In addition to the obligatory prayer, everyone fulfills the rules according to their own strength and ability:
But those who believe and work righteousness, - no burden do We place on any soul, but that which it can bear, - they will be Companions of the Garden, therein to dwell (forever). (Quran 7:42)
We meet many times with admonitions that warn of abuses. Extremism deprive our energies of conducting normal life-practice. Here's one:
Narrated Abu Huraira:
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "Religion is very easy and whoever overburdens himself in his religion will not be able to continue in that way. So, you should not be extremists, but try to be near to perfection and receive the good tidings that you will be rewarded; and gain strength by worshipping in the mornings, the afternoons, and during the last hours of the nights."
Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari 39
We find similar hadith in the sense that extreme devotion should not distract us from our family, social life, and ourselves, because as the scripture says, your wife (spouse), guest, and body have rights over you.
We have to pay attention not only to other human beings but to all creatures. Our abilities, wealth, social position is not there to serve selfish goals. All this is providence, but not just our own providence. If God has provided a particular quantity of livelihood that is more than enough for us, we should know that the excess contains the providence of others. Not just for humans, but for all creatures.
Abu Huraira reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said:
A man suffered from thirst while he was walking on a journey. When he found a well, he climbed down into it and drank from it. Then he came out and saw a dog lolling its tongue from thirst and licking the ground. The man said: This dog has suffered thirst just as I have suffered from it. He climbed down into the well, filled his shoe with water, and caught it in his mouth as he climbed up. Then he gave the dog a drink. Allah appreciated this deed, so he forgave him.
It was said, “O Messenger of Allah, is there a reward for charity even for the animals?” The Prophet said:
In every being with a moist liver there is a reward for charity.
Source: Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 5663, Grade: Muttafaqun Alayhi
The hadith above is about a dog. But we find others about trees and keeping crops untouched even in wartime. Life is the creation of God. Man can't do that. Thus, the sanctity of life must be respected. Respect works only if it is connected to service. Everyone has a different ability to serve. The point is not to set standards, but to use our own abilities. This is the rule in daily life and religious practice. Thus, extremism and its demand are incompatible with the doctrines (aqidah).
