Islam expects “people” to practice tolerance in their family, society and everyday life. It is the teaching of Islam that when faced with ill-treatment by any unwise person, a sensible person should be less reactive and more tolerant. The misbehavior of others should not provoke him/her to do the same.

Why is Charity So Important in Islam?

Ever noticed how many times the word ‘charity’ is referred to in the Holy Qur’an? Charitable acts such as helping those in need, sharing your wealth, supporting orphans, widows and more also hold great importance and emphasis in the Book of Guidance.

It is crucial to understand that Allah (SWT’s) guidance is there to ensure we stay humble, and to want for others what we would want for ourselves. We have been given hearts to feel compassion towards others but it is both our hearts and minds that shape us into good human beings. Giving to others and helping others is not an inordinate act; it’s simply humanity.

There is a reason why there are different levels of wealth and poverty in the world today, and for those of us who are comfortable or well off, this is our test. Allah (SWT) is testing us to see if we share our temporary wealth with his creation; for it was given to us by Him and it can also be taken from us by Him.

It is therefore upon us, as our duty, to help our fellow brothers and sisters in need, (whether Muslim or not), and to share compassion for those who are suffering.

Although generosity in giving to others and helping is a natural act of humanity – it is greatly rewarded in Islam, too.

Charity also forms the third of the obligatory Five Pillars of Islam – also known as zakat. It is the act of giving a portion of one’s profitable wealth to those in need each year. The other primary form of charity is known as “Sadakah” – which means voluntary charity.

Whilst giving zakat is obligatory for most Muslims, sadaqah, however, is optional.  It is not necessarily an obligatory act of charity and it doesn’t have to come from ones monetary wealth. Giving charity, in the form of sadaqah, can be simply sharing one’s good knowledge and/or smiling at a stranger in the street. It can be a humble act towards others, helping someone physically or even helping someone away from harm.

The Holy Prophet (PBUH) has narrated: “The believer’s shade, on the Day of Judgement, will be his charitable acts”.

Nothing feels better than the act of giving that serves as a reminder that everything we have in this world is immaterial and never initially belonged to us in the first place.

I pray that this will encourage you to give when someone is in need. Muslim or not!

By mabdussalaam

Creator and C.E.O. of Interfaith Library A competent and dedicated educator & theologian, with over 30 years of theological teaching experience as an Imam and spiritual advisor.