[Charity] The giver benefits more than the receiver

Sadaqah (voluntary charity) is a core act of worship. It is a means of expiation of sins as well as a means of extinguishing the fire. Any form of charity protects us from disturbances and diverts calamities away. Moreover, it wards off misfortune, illness and a bad end. The believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity. It also opens a specific door of Jannah reserved exclusively for charitable believers. Open-handed generosity also brings peace of mind, alleviates anxiety, purifies and increases our wealth. Furthermore, it erases negative traits like greed and miserliness and fosters qualities of humility, gratitude and empathy. It is also a means of divine proximity, a means of duahs being accepted and puts out the anger of Allah.

Sadaqah Jariyah is a continuous, ongoing charity from which a person will benefit even after his death. There is endless reward for donations for the construction or renovation of a masjid, distribution of Qurans, building water wells, planting trees or passing on beneficial knowledge.

Charity begins at home. You must prioritize those who are under your care – provide for your household, give financial and emotional support to your family members, help with chores, give your time and your sincere concern. It is a common misconception that philanthropy is a privilege exclusively reserved for the wealthy. Sadaqah extends beyond financial contributions to include physical assistance, investment of one’s time and moral support.

We can’t help everyone, but everyone can help someone. And remember, no amount of money is too small to give. No act of kindness, however small, is ever wasted. A small contribution can make a big difference for the needy. Half a loaf is better than none. It may mean a lot to the receiver.

Show unselfish concern for the welfare of others based on your capabilities. We rise by lifting others. We are called to meet poverty not with pity but with a heart of active grace and profound care, warmth and generosity. Compassion is the bridge we must build to reach those in need. Empathy is the cornerstone of human connection. It is the ability to step into someone’s shoes, understand their feelings and hardships. Do not ask the wounded person how he feels; become the wounded person. Feel their pain. Casual blindness to the despair of others is cruelty.

Be perspicacious. Be insightful. Be benevolent. Be affable. Show consideration. A simple invitation, a simple meal shared, a friendship connection may touch the needy to the core. They pray for a lifeline, a sign of relief, a Godsend of help. BE IT. When we share what we have, we light a candle in a pitch-dark room. Love for your brother that which you love for yourself. Alleviate their deprivation. Do not touch the head of vulnerable orphans with your hand only but with your heart also. Mop up their tears. Support widows. Be altruistic. Cooperate. Dig deep. Show solidarity. Nullify apathy. Embrace empathy. Establish sympathy. Try to reduce societal inequality. Show reliability and flexibility. Strengthen connections. Target the needy and assist them. Show sensitivity.

Each of us has a part to play in the healing of the world. But it must be done with sincerity, only to please Allah. No showing off. No vaunting. No uploading on social media. Give them respect. Never belittle them. Never embarrass them. Give zealously; what your right hand does, your left hand must not be aware of it. Charity demands sincere internal intention and external respect. Never expect anything in return except rewards from ALLAH. Sow the seeds of help in the dark and let the harvest bloom in the lives of others. It’s not how much we give but how much love we put into giving.

In the long run, Sadaqah benefits both parties. Volunteers don’t get paid because they are priceless in the Hereafter. Today’s sacrifices are tomorrow’s sanctuary. Cast your bread upon the water; the tide will return it multiplied. Sadaqah is their relief today but your shade tomorrow. Sadaqah is a boon; rescue yourself by giving, by sharing. It will return to the giver as a source of divine grace, peace and ultimate salvation. Donate today for a better, permanent tomorrow.

Moustaffa Mudhoo