The Book of Asceticism or Leaving this World for the Beyond, Al-Bayhaqi Collection - Scholars Editions

A Spiritual Masterpiece: Zuhd in the Light of the Salaf

Zuhd – or asceticism – is neither absolute renunciation of this world nor an invitation to voluntary poverty. It is rather a spiritual detachment, a refusal to make the material world a finality. This book highlights the pure and exemplary understanding of the salaf (pious predecessors) regarding this fundamental principle.

Imam Al-Bayhaqî, a renowned traditionist of the 5th century of the Hijra, compiled here the most beautiful quotes, wisdom, and stories of those who embodied true renunciation of excess and lived for the hereafter.

Purpose of the Work

• Present authentic teachings on asceticism

• Reconcile the modern reader with a forgotten or misunderstood practice

• Offer an inspiring model for those who wish to center their lives around Allah

An Accessible and Profound Read

The French edition offered by Éditions des Savants allows the French-speaking reader to:

• Understand the concept of zuhd in its authenticity

• Draw inspiration from concrete stories of great spiritual strength

• Realize that asceticism is not a rejection of the world, but a call to moderation, piety, and clarity

Some Topics Covered

• The definition of zuhd according to scholars

• The fruits of detachment of the heart

• The balanced relationship with the material world (dounya)

• The exemplarity of the Companions and successors in their management of material life

• The distinction between authentic asceticism and mystical excess

Why Read This Book Today?

In an era marked by consumption, distraction, and superficiality, this book is a true spiritual wake-up call. It reminds us that inner peace comes from a heart freed from worldly attachments, and centered on the essential: the meeting with Allah.

A Bridge Between Past and Present

Although composed in a classical era, this book remains perfectly suited to our modern reality. It teaches how to live in the world without belonging to the world, how to possess without being possessed, how to aspire to eternity without neglecting one's responsibilities.

An authentic work

• Source: Kitâb az-Zuhd al-Kabîr

• Author: Al-Bayhaqî, universally recognized for his adherence to the Sunnah and the verification of hadiths

• Approach: methodical, with referenced citations from the Quran, the Sunnah, and the words of the salaf

An ideal spiritual gift

This book constitutes:

• A powerful spiritual gift

• An excellent support for courses or halaqas

• A personal resource for purifying oneself and renewing one's connection with Allah

For further exploration: SEO internal links

• Imam Al-Bayhaqî

• Spirituality and purification of the soul

• The Salaf Salih

• Books of hadiths

• Editions of the Scholars