Studying Islam

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[quote]As i see it, we first need to differentiate between fulfilling our obligations, the bare minimum that is, and trying to achieve a higher level of piety (Taqwa). As the value system of Islam gets well rooted in our psyche, we would grow in faith and strive to emulate the Prophet's (sws) example more dearly. That being said, the Quran repeatedly exhorts the believers to be charitable not only under normal circumstances but especially when one is in need of money. Having a fixed budget for charity in income is also highly encouraged. All of these are ways to qualify for the highest grades of Paradise.
Specifically in response to your question, i would say that it boils down to the concept of simplicity and the general socio-economic situation of the society. The antithesis of simplicity is extravagance and pomposity. What constitutes extravagance would vary with the social status and income of a person and, again, the prevalent socio-economic conditions. You might be living in a, by and large, affluent society and needlessly spending on a perfume might not be a big deal provided the spirit is not to show off. Hence the spirit with which you are spending your money is critical. 
Even while living in a society where poverty is rife, if you have paid Zakah and spent reasonably in charity, you can fulfill your desire of buying a perfume with the right spirit. May be six months down the road, having grown more spiritually, you would want to give away that amount in charity rather than buying a perfume.
In so many words what i am trying to get across is that taqwa is an inner feeling which has its levels and people at different levels would behave differently in your example, without any of them being really wrong.[/quote]

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