What is zuhd (asceticism)?

ISLAM Q N A
Question
What is zuhd (asceticism)? Does it mean wearing scruffy clothing, fasting constantly, and keeping away from society, or something else?.

Answer
Praise be to Allaah.

Zuhd does not mean wearing scruffy clothing, withdrawing from people and keeping away from society, or fasting constantly. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) is the leader of all zaahids (ascetics) but he would wear new clothes; adorn himself to meet delegations, for Jumu’ah and for Eid; mix with people and call them to do good and teach them about their religion; and he forbade his companions (may Allaah be pleased with them) to fast constantly. Rather zuhd means shunning that which is haraam and that which Allaah hates; avoiding shows of luxury and overindulging in worldly pleasures; focusing on doing acts of worship; and making the best preparation for the Hereafter. The best explanation of that is the life of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him).

And Allaah is the Source of strength. May Allaah send blessings and peace upon our Prophet Muhammad and his family and companions. End quote.

Standing Committee for Academic Research and Issuing Fatwas

Fataawa al-Lajnah al-Daa’imah li’l-Buhooth al-‘Ilmiyyah wa’l-Ifta (24/369).

http://www.islam-qa.com/en/ref/105352