The Caliph More Ascetic Than Bahlool

One day, the caliph said to Bahlool, “You are truly an ascetic and a man of great piety.”

Bahlool, with his characteristic wit, replied, “But you, O Caliph, are even more ascetic and pious than I am!”

Surprised, the caliph asked, “How can you say that? On what basis do you claim I am more ascetic than you?”

Bahlool smiled and explained, “Because you abstain from the eternal and great blessings of the Hereafter, while I abstain from the fleeting and insignificant pleasures of this worldly life.”

The caliph was left speechless, realizing the profound wisdom hidden in Bahlool’s words. With this simple exchange, Bahlool reminded everyone that true asceticism lies in valuing the eternal over the temporary and prioritizing the rewards of the Hereafter over the fleeting indulgences of this world.