The Messenger of Allah (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) said: “Whoever leaves valuable dress out of humility to Allah while he is able to afford it, Allah will call him before all of creation on the Day of Judgement so that he can choose whichever Hulal of faith he wishes to wear.” [Tirmidhi]

“Hulal of faith” are the garments of Jannah which are given to the people of faith. Allah (subhana wa ta’ala) loves the act of a Muslim who, though well-to-do and rich, avoids wearing ostentatious garments out of modesty, so as not to show off and make other people feel inferior.

This recommendation to avoid ostentation and display can be applied to housing, furniture, décor, mannerisms, meals… everything. Whatever I have is a gift and a test from Allah (subhana wa ta’ala). It should be used to earn my Akhirah, so that these blessings can be mine forever, and not just for as long as I live on earth.

When I am given something by Allah (subhana wa ta’ala) do I feel further indebted to Him? Do I feel even more love for Him than before? Do I desire to serve Him with every ounce of my strength, and every penny of my wealth, and every second of my time? He who has no need of me, compared to Whom a trillion like myself have no significance, has chosen to favour me with His countless blessings! Will I show my gratitude to Him (subhana wa ta’ala) or use His blessings to subdue others?

This hadith is a glad tiding to those who do not use Allah’s blessings to rule over other people by awing and humbling them. Those who take care of the feelings of others in this respect will be granted garments of their choice before all creation on the Day of Judgement. Then everyone will come to know how well-off they had been in the world and that they had not flaunted their wealth.