The Radiant Virtue of Charity in Islam: Quranic Verses, Hadiths, Scholarly Wisdom, and Humanitarian Legacy Quoets on Charity in Islam.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Charity, known as “Sadaqah” and “Zakat” in Islam, is a radiant expression of compassion, empathy, and social justice. It embodies the fundamental principle of giving to those in need without expecting anything in return. This comprehensive article delves into the profound significance of charity in Islam, enriched with Quranic verses, Hadiths, quotes from esteemed Islamic scholars, and the enduring legacy of those who exemplify the virtue of giving.
Quotes On Charity In Islam
I. Quranic Verses on Charity
Zakat (Obligatory Almsgiving):
- Surah Al-Baqarah (2:267): “O you who have believed, spend from the good things which you have earned…”
- Surah Al-Baqarah (2:267): “The example of those who spend their wealth in the Way of Allah is like that of a grain that sprouts seven ears, and in every ear, there are a hundred grains. Thus Allah multiplies the action of whomsoever He wills.”
- Surah Al-Baqarah (2:267): “But Allah is subtle in His reckoning.”
Charity (Sadaqah): 4. Surah Al-Baqarah (2:263): “Kind speech and forgiveness are better than charity followed by injury. And Allah is Free of need and Forbearing.”
- Surah Al-Baqarah (2:261): “The example of those who spend their wealth in the Way of Allah is like that of a grain that sprouts seven ears, and in every ear, there are a hundred grains. Thus Allah multiplies the action of whomsoever He wills.”
- Surah Al-Hadid (57:18): “Indeed, the men who practice charity and the women who practice charity and [they who] have loaned Allah a goodly loan – it will be multiplied for them, and they will have a noble reward.”
- Surah Al-Insan (76:7-9): “And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, [saying], ‘We feed you only for the countenance of Allah. We wish not from you reward or gratitude.'”
Helping Others: 8. Surah Al-Baqarah (2:267): “The example of those who spend their wealth in the Way of Allah is like that of a grain that sprouts seven ears, and in every ear, there are a hundred grains. Thus Allah multiplies the action of whomsoever He wills.”
- Surah Al-Insan (76:7-9): “And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, [saying], ‘We feed you only for the countenance of Allah. We wish not from you reward or gratitude.'”
- Surah Al-Hashr (59:9): “And [there is a share for] those who came after them, saying, ‘Our Lord, forgive us and our brothers who preceded us in faith and put not in our hearts [any] resentment toward those who have believed. Our Lord, indeed You are the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate.'”
These Quranic verses emphasize the importance of charity, kindness, and helping those in need as integral aspects of Islamic faith and practice.
II. Hadiths on Charity
Zakat (Obligatory Almsgiving):
- The Obligation of Zakat: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Islam was built on five [pillars]: testifying that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, performing the prayers, paying the Zakat, making the pilgrimage to the House, and fasting in Ramadan.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
- Giving Zakat to the Poor: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “The person who gives away the Zakat of his wealth, which is the right of the poor, will not remain poor.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
Charity (Sadaqah): 3. Charity as a Shield: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Charity does not decrease wealth, no one forgives another except that Allah increases his honor, and no one humbles himself for the sake of Allah except that Allah raises his status.” (Sahih Muslim)
- The Reward of Sadaqah: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “The believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity.” (Tirmidhi)
Helping Others: 5. Helping in Difficulties: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Whoever helps his brother in his time of need, Allah will be there in his time of need.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
- Removing Harm from the Road: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “There is a reward for serving any living being.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
- Visiting the Sick: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “When the Muslim visits his sick Muslim brother, he is harvesting the fruits of Paradise until he returns.” (Sahih Muslim)
- Removing Obstacles: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “While a man was walking on the road, he found a thorny branch and removed it. Allah thanked him for that deed and forgave him.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
These Hadiths highlight the importance of giving Zakat and Sadaqah, helping those in need, and serving others in various ways as integral aspects of Islamic practice and ethics.
III. Quotes from Islamic Scholars
- Imam Al-Ghazali: “Charity is a sign of faith, and whoever is not charitable has no faith.”
- Ibn Qayyim Al-Jawziyya: “Charity given in secret extinguishes the wrath of the Lord.”
- Imam Shafi’i: “When a person spends on his family, seeking reward for it from Allah, it is counted as Sadaqah.”
- Imam Ali: “The hand that gives is better than the hand that takes.”
- Imam Ibn Rajab: “Do not belittle any act of kindness, even if it is just greeting your brother with a cheerful countenance.”
- Imam Abu Hanifa: “The most beloved deed to Allah is to make another Muslim happy, or to remove one of his troubles, or to forgive his debt, or to feed his hunger.”
- Imam Malik: “Giving charity to a poor person is charity, but to a relative, it is both charity and upholding the ties of kinship.”
These quotes reflect the wisdom of Islamic scholars and the emphasis in Islam on acts of charity, kindness, and helping others as essential aspects of faith and community.
IV. The Humanitarian Legacy of Heroes of Islam
A. Abdul Sattar Edhi
Known as the “Angel of Mercy,” Abdul Sattar Edhi dedicated his life to humanitarian work. He established the Edhi Foundation, one of the largest and most respected charitable organizations in Pakistan, providing healthcare, education, and social services to millions in need.
B. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan
The founder of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, was a philanthropist who dedicated his resources to improving the lives of people globally. He supported countless charitable initiatives, including education and healthcare projects.
C. Umm Kulthum
Umm Kulthum, a revered Islamic scholar, was also known for her charitable acts. She spent her life helping those in need and advocating for women’s rights, making a profound impact on society.
V. Conclusion
Charity in Islam is a powerful and transformative act of kindness, deeply rooted in the faith’s core principles of compassion, empathy, and social justice. It holds profound meanings, is supported by numerous Quranic verses and Hadiths, and is guided by specific rules and principles.
By understanding the significance of charity and following the guidance of the Quran and Hadith, Muslims can engage in acts of benevolence that not only alleviate the suffering of the less fortunate but also promote social welfare and spiritual growth, reflecting the true essence of charity in Islam.
As Islamic scholars have affirmed and heroes of Islam have demonstrated through their actions, charity is not merely a financial transaction but a profound expression of faith and a means to alleviate suffering, uplift communities, and bring people closer to their Creator. It is the radiant virtue that illuminates the path of compassion and righteousness in Islam.
In the spirit of charity, let us remember the words of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him):
“The believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity.” (Tirmidhi)
This article serves as a comprehensive exploration of the virtue of charity in Islam, offering guidance, inspiration, and a profound understanding of its significance in the life of a believer.
Here are some well-known Islamic charity organizations that operate globally:
- Islamic Relief Worldwide: With a presence in over 40 countries, Islamic Relief is one of the largest and most recognized Islamic charities. They provide a wide range of services, including emergency relief, healthcare, education, and sustainable development projects.
- Human Appeal International: Operating in more than 25 countries, Human Appeal International focuses on poverty alleviation, healthcare, education, and emergency relief efforts.
- Zakat Foundation of America: This organization provides humanitarian assistance and development programs in over 50 countries. They focus on disaster relief, education, and health services.
- Mercy-USA for Aid and Development: Mercy-USA operates in multiple countries and provides assistance in healthcare, nutrition, and education, with a focus on helping those in crisis.
- Muslim Aid: With a global presence, Muslim Aid offers programs in disaster relief, sustainable development, and education in various countries.
- Islamic Help: This organization supports communities globally with an emphasis on disaster relief, healthcare, and education.
- Penny Appeal: Penny Appeal operates in numerous countries, providing emergency relief, healthcare, education, and orphan sponsorship programs.
- Helping Hand for Relief and Development: Operating in more than 60 countries, this organization offers assistance in healthcare, education, and disaster relief.
These are just a few of the many Islamic charity organizations that work tirelessly to alleviate suffering and provide support to communities in need worldwide. Each of these organizations has a unique focus and approach, but all share the common goal of helping those in need in accordance with Islamic principles of charity and compassion.
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