As one of the Five Pillars of Islam, charity plays a huge part in everyday life for Muslims around the world. Helping those less fortunate than ourselves by giving up free time is one way, but donating Zakat and ongoing charity (also known as Sadaqah Jariyah) are just some of the many ways that Islamic teachings prioritise charity in the wider world. Zakat is an obligation that almost all Muslims must meet, providing they meet specific requirements. Zakat is compulsory as instructed by the Holy Qur’an, and all able Muslim’s undertake this to deepen their connection with Allah (S.W.T) and betterment of themselves.

Charity giving is so important in Islam because there are so many people around the world that are without basic human needs. People are without food, clean water, shelter, clothing and education everywhere we look, whether nearby in our towns and cities or further afield in war-torn countries. By giving to those in need, a good deed is done for both parties, as the donor will also gain contentment from being able to help.  The notion of giving charity to others offers just as much benefit to ourselves as it does to those we give to.

Several different categories of charity are defined in Islam, the two most important being zakat (obligatory charity) and sadaqa (voluntary charity). Zakat is a specific, standardized percentage of one’s extra wealth (over and above the necessities of life) that must be given to the poor and those in need. Sadaqah can be given to anyone in many forms including a smile, wise advice, or helping to build a home or masjid.

Many people give to charity on a regular basis, because they’d either like to make a difference, have a positive impact on others or just because it makes them feel good about themselves. But did you know that there are studies that show, giving to charity carries its own health and wellbeing benefits and it also has positive effects on your personal lives? As there are many proven benefits to giving to charity, scientific research and from other individual’s experiences, in this article, we will be covering some of the important benefits of giving charity / Zakat or Sadqaat.

CHARITY CURE ILLNESS AND PREVENTS DEATH: The Prophet (SAW) said “Treat your sick ones with charity.” (Saheeh al-Jaami).

It is good to give Sadaqah when a loved one falls ill in order to help cure disease and avert ill-fate. The Prophet (SAW) also said that “Sadaqah appeases the Lord’s anger and averts an evil death.” (Tirmidhi)

CHARITY EASES HARDSHIPS AND REMOVES CALAMITIES: The Prophet (SAW) said “Give Sadaqah without delay, for it stands in the way of calamity.” (Tirmidhi)

As Muslim, we believe that Allah (SWT) has created this life as a test of our faith and loyalty through hardships. Giving Sadaqah during a difficult time shows strong Iman and gratitude to Allah (SWT). Only Allah’s (SWT) infinite mercy can change a situation and giving Sadaqah is a way of drawing closer to Him.

CHARITY COMPENSATES OUR SINS: The Prophet (SAW) said: “Charity extinguishes the sins like water extinguishes a fire.” (Ibn Majah)

On the Day of Judgment, every person will be held accountable for their sins, both major and minor. Giving Sadaqah regularly is a simple way of helping to expiate any sins we have committed knowingly, and unknowingly.

CHARITY CREATES BALANCE AND BENEFITS TO ALL OF SOCIETY: Charity benefits the whole community and ensures that the most vulnerable, including orphans, widows, and the sick and needy, have an equal standing in society.  Remember, any act of kindness is Sadaqah, not just money.

The Prophet (SAW) said: “Your smile for your brother is a charity. Your removal of stones, thorns, or bones from the paths of people is a charity. Your guidance of a person who is lost is a charity” (Bukhari).

CHARITY IS A WAY TO EARN REWARDS AFTER DEATH: By giving Sadaqah Jariyah in either your name or that of a loved one who has passed on, you can earn continuous rewards now and in the hereafter. Examples of Sadaqah Jariyah include building a well, school, hospital, or masjid. The beauty of Sadaqah Jariyah is that you earn a reward every time it is used, for as long as it is used.

The Prophet (SAW) said: “When a man dies, his deeds come to an end except for three things: Sadaqah Jariyah (ceaseless charity); a knowledge which is beneficial, or a virtuous descendant who prays for him (for the deceased).”

MOTIVATE FRIENDS AND FAMILY: When you let your friends and family know of your charitable donations, they may find themselves more motivated to undertake their own efforts to give. It takes a village to address issues such as world poverty, scientific advancement, and early childhood education. Stoking passions in the folks around you is a very positive and tangible effect of your own giving.

GIVING TO CHARITY CAN IMPROVE YOUR SELF-ESTEEM AND SELF-WORTH: Donating is a selfless act, so giving to charity will improve your self-esteem and self-worth. By donating money to charity, you will achieve a greater sense of satisfaction and growth as it feels good to help others and provide them with all the essential resources.

TEACH KIDS THE IMPORTANCE OF GIVING: Teaching children to care about others is an important life lesson. When children watch you give, they will grow up knowing that giving back is the right thing to do and follow in your footsteps. So, donating to charity also helps you be a good role model for your kids.

Charity serves as a way to bring justice, balance and kindness to every society and community. It is our hope that the Muslim community fulfills their charitable duty correctly and does their part to eliminating poverty in communities everywhere. Charity heals the giver and the recipient; the former attains expiation and protection as well as a sense of heartfelt tranquillity. As much as physical healing provides relief to the limbs, the inner state cannot be neglected; charity can heal a damaged soul; the pain of which remains concealed. Wounds are dressed and deep cuts are stitched but the invisible injuries of poverty can only be healed through the generosity of people. So let the hearts and bodies be relieved through charity. After all, the best people are those who benefit others.

Published in The Daily National Courier, April, 12 2023

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