The Modest Model

One of the factors that contributes to human happiness and supports wise decision-making is the simplicity of life and distancing oneself from the enslaving bonds of materialism. Many tools and possessions, while seemingly enhancing life, ultimately preoccupy the mind with their acquisition and preservation. At times, these flashy and luxurious items become burdens that demand vigilance and service from their owners.

The principle is that life’s tools should serve humans in their pursuit of spiritual and intellectual growth, not the other way around. Cars, appliances, and other household items should ease our lives and contribute to our development, rather than making us subservient to them.

Lady Fatimah (peace be upon her), throughout her radiant life, especially during her marital life with Ali (peace be upon him), exemplified this principle. This noble family freed themselves from material constraints and refused to become servants of worldly possessions.

Fatimah’s home, from an outward perspective and in terms of its furnishings (even by the standards of its time), was one of simplicity and modesty. It contained only a few basic items: a sheep’s hide for a rug, a pillow stuffed with palm fibers, a water skin, a sieve, a towel, and a few vessels[1]. These items were minimal, fulfilling only the essential needs.

They could have chosen to furnish their home with luxurious items, but their foundation was rooted in divine ideals, not material affluence. In this home, the husband and wife lived to reach the pinnacle of spiritual growth, even while their clothing was patched[2]. Their dwelling was modest, even below the common standards of the time, yet their aspirations were lofty, and their thoughts reached perfection. Fatimah’s expectations of her husband were minimal, and her modesty prevented her from requesting anything beyond his means. In response to Ali’s (peace be upon him) encouragement to voice any desires, she replied, “I feel ashamed before my Lord to ask you for something you cannot provide.”[3]

This is why, after centuries, this home remains illuminated—not because of material grandeur, but because of the faith and nobility of its residents. Lady Fatimah (peace be upon her) stands as an enduring example of simplicity and virtue.

(Adapted from the book “In the School of Fatimah,” authored by Dr. Ali Ghaemi, with edits and additions.)

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Footnotes:
[1] A’yan al-Shia, Vol. 2, p. 287

[2] Al-Duru’ al-Waqiyah, p. 74

[3] Tafsir Furāt al-Kufi, p. 83