IMPORTANCE OF CHARITY IN ISLAM

The importance of Charity in Islam

Islam is the religion of peace that supports humanity and mankind in the best possible ways. Have you ever wondered Allah S.W.T has granted some people wisdom and wealth while the others are comparatively less privileged? This is because this world is a test for the Muslims all around the world for which the rewards will be given in the world hereafter i.e. on the Day of Judgment. Therefore, in order to pass the test with flying colors, there are some hints and obligations set by Allah S.W.T which the Muslims have to apply in their daily lives.

Charity

Charity is one of the things that hit two targets with one arrow. It not only helps the people in need but also benefits the giver by increasing the excellence and blessings either in this world or hereafter. This is why most of the Muslims try to donate charity in every way possible to fulfill their responsibilities as a religious person.

Types of charity in Islam

1. Zakat:

Zakat is the 3^rd pillar of Islam that makes it obligatory for the Muslims to donate it every year on the unused assets. For instance, an investment, gold, or any property that is used for personal interests in other ways, are some of the things on which Zakat is mandatory. Mostly, people donate Zakat in the month of Ramadan because Allah S.W.T has promised an increased reward for helping the poor and needy in the holy month.

2. Sadqah:

While zakat is only to be paid in the form of money, Sadqah is something that can be given in any form to anyone whom you feel deserves it. For example, smiling, donating in building a masjid or a house, or giving food to the needy, are some of the forms of Sadqah which Allah S.W.T loves the most. Also, Sadqah can be any time of the year to anyone who is in need. In fact, it is suggested to give Sadqah on a daily basis to receive more rewards and become a source of happiness for someone.

Benefits of charity in Islam

Charity in Islam is a fact that cannot be denied even if you have a little bit of extra money or things. There are infinite benefits of charity that are proved to beneficial for both the giver and the taker, some of which are listed below:

• It makes the person generous by nature.
• It saves the giver from the unfortunate situations.
• It is said to be a source of prevention from the unfavorable conditions.
• It spreads the message of kindness and humanity to the non-Muslims.
• It does not let people die of thirst and hunger.
• It saves someone from the embarrassment of asking for money.
• It relieves the person from debt by forgiving the loan.
• It makes the giver less greedy for money that is just a temporary thing.
• It forms a cycle or a chain of donating money by more people getting inspired from the generous act.

Kindness is a label is specifically meant for Islam and there can be no example of it other than charity in Islam.