Sermon 81 of Nahj al-Balagha: About Abstinence

O people! Abstinence (zuhd) is to shorten desires, to thank for bounties and to keep away from what is prohibited. If (all of) this is not possible then (at least) what is prohibited should not overpower your patience; and do not forget gratitude when receiving blessings for Allah has exhausted the excuses before you through clear, shining arguments and open, bright books.

Alternative Sources for Sermon 81
(1) Al-Saduq, Ma’ani al-'akhbar, 251;
(2) Idem., al-Khisal, I, 11;
(3) al-Barqi, al-Mahasin, 234;
(4) al- 'Amidi, Ghurar, 119;
(5) al-Fattal, Rawdah, 434;
(6) al-Tabarsi, Mishkat,106.