Charity, or “Sadaqah” in Arabic, holds a special place in Islam as a fundamental act of compassion, generosity, and social responsibility. Embedded within the teachings of the Quran and exemplified by the actions of the Prophet Muhammad(PBUH), charity stands as one of the five pillars of Islam and serves as a means to cultivate empathy, uplift communities, and establish a just and harmonious society. Islam is said to be the epitome of a way of life which was built around the mere act of charity and looking after those who need help.

The Qur’an underscores the importance of charity as an act of worship and a means of purifying one’s wealth. Verses such as “The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills” (Qur’an, 2:261) emphasises the idea that charity is not just a material gesture but a spiritual investment with manifold rewards.

Concept of Charity In Islam

It is believed by scholars that Sadaqa wards off calamity and escalates blessings and sustenance in one’s life. Obligatory and supererogatory charity is one of the main foundations upon which this religion stands.

Charity is deeply ingrained in the teachings of Islam, emphasising the importance of helping those in need and contributing to the betterment of society. The Quran, which Muslims believe to be the word of God, highlights the significance of charitable acts in numerous verses. One such verse is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:267), which states, “O you who have believed, spend from the good things which you have earned and from that which We have produced for you from the earth. And do not aim toward the defective therefrom, spending [from that] while you would not take it [yourself] except with closed eyes. And know that Allah is Free of need and Praiseworthy.”
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said “Your smiling in the face of your brother is charity, commanding good and forbidding evil is charity, your giving directions to a man lost in the land is charity for you. Your seeing for a man with bad eyesight is a charity for you, your removal of a rock, a thorn or a bone from the road is charity for you. Your pouring what remains from your bucket into the bucket of your brother is charity for you.” as Narrated by Abu Dharr. (Tirmidhi Vol. 4, Book 1, Hadith 1956). 

Zakat: the obligatory almsgiving

Zakat, another form of charity, is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and holds a unique status in the realm of charity. It is an obligatory form of almsgiving that is calculated based on an individual’s wealth and possessions. Zakat is seen as a means of redistributing wealth and ensuring that the basic needs of the less fortunate are met. Muslims are required to give a portion of their accumulated wealth annually to those in need, which can include the poor, the needy, the orphans, and others. “And establish prayer and give Zakat, and whatever good you put forward for yourselves – you will find it with Allah.” (Qur’an 2:110,) As one of the pillars of Islam, Zakat is a form of obligatory charity that has the potential to ease the suffering of millions.

On the other hand, “sadaqah” refers to voluntary acts of charity that go beyond the obligatory zakat. Sadaqah can take various forms, including financial assistance, providing food to the hungry, supporting education, or offering assistance in times of calamity. This type of charity is not bound by specific rules or amounts, allowing Muslims to give as generously as they are able to. Sadaqah can take various forms, including donating money, providing food, clothing, or shelter to those in need, and offering one’s time and skills to benefit the society.

The Virtues of Charity

Charity is not merely a financial transaction but a reflection of one’s compassion and willingness to share their blessings with others. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasised the virtues of charity through his teachings and actions. He is reported to have said, “The believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity.” (Sunan Ibn Majah 2408). This highlights the enduring impact of charitable deeds, not only in this world but also in the hereafter.

Additionally, Islamic charity emphasises the concept of “sadaqah jariyah,” which refers to perpetual or continuous charity. This can take the form of building schools, hospitals, or digging wells, among other projects, that continue to benefit people long after the initial contribution. Such initiatives underline the enduring impact of charity and its ability to create positive change for generations to come.

Charity as a Means of Spiritual Growth

In Islam, acts of charity are not just about meeting the material needs of the less fortunate; they are also seen as a means of spiritual purification and personal growth. Giving to those in need cultivates humility, gratitude, and a sense of responsibility towards others. It serves as a reminder of the transient nature of worldly possessions and encourages believers to prioritise their eternal rewards.

The concept of charity in Islam transcends religious boundaries, providing an avenue for interfaith understanding and cooperation. Acts of kindness and compassion are universal values that resonate with people of all faiths. By embodying the principles of charity, Muslims can foster connections with individuals from diverse backgrounds, working together to address common challenges and contribute to the greater good.

Modern Applications of Islamic Charity

In the contemporary world, the principles of charity in Islam continue to hold immense relevance. Muslim organisations and individuals worldwide engage in a wide range of charitable initiatives, spanning from disaster relief to healthcare, education, and poverty eradication. These efforts reflect the enduring commitment of Muslims to address societal challenges and promote the well-being of all.

In addition to traditional forms of charity, modern technology has facilitated innovative ways of giving, such as online donations and crowdfunding campaigns. These platforms enable Muslims to contribute to causes beyond their immediate communities, amplifying the impact of their generosity and extending their reach to global humanitarian efforts.

Moreover, charity serves as a means of breaking the cycle of poverty. Through education, healthcare, and sustainable development projects, charitable contributions uplift individuals, providing them with opportunities to lead dignified lives and contribute positively to society.

Charity in Islam knows no borders. Muslims are encouraged to extend their acts of kindness and generosity beyond their local communities to assist those in need around the world. This global perspective reflects the universality of compassion and the belief in the intrinsic worth of all human beings, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Charity in Islam is more than a mere financial transaction; it is a profound expression of faith, compassion, and social responsibility. By engaging in acts of charity, Muslims strive to emulate the teachings of the Qur’an and the practices of Prophet Muhammad, embodying the values of empathy, solidarity, and justice. Through both obligatory zakat and voluntary sadaqah, Muslims contribute to the well-being of their communities and the world at large, leaving a legacy of positive change that extends far beyond their lifetimes.