Charity in Islam is more than just the act of giving; it’s a means of worship that is believed to bring you closer to Allah. Giving charity softens the heart of the believer, as well as helping the one in need. Charity for Muslims is a lifelong responsibility that is intertwined with faith, compassion, and most importantly, social justice.
So what is the best form of charity in Islam? The answer to this is based around the intention and impact of the deed. In Islam, giving charity is not only about what we give, but why we give and how.
Emphasis of Giving Charity
Caring for the vulnerable and for those who struggle to support themselves is a core practice taught within Islam.
Charity is in place to purify the wealth of a believer, a sign that leads to true faith. Allah reminds us in the Quran to give from what we love to help the ones facing hardship. “Never will you attain the good [reward] until you spend [in the way of Allah] from that which you love. And whatever you spend – indeed, Allah is knowing of it.” [Quran 3:92]
The Messenger of Allah (Peace be Upon Him) also taught us that charity does not reduce wealth; instead, it brings blessings [Muslim].
Understanding Different Forms of Charity
Giving charity in Islam can take different forms. There’s the mandatory charity known as Zakat, which is an annual obligatory form of charity upon every eligible Muslim and also the third pillar of Islam. The voluntary act of charity, which is known as Sadaqah, can be given at any time, in any amount, as many times as a believer wills. There’s also Sadaqah Jariyah, which is an ongoing charity, continuing to benefit people long after it’s given.
Each charity has its own value. The best form, however, is that which brings lasting benefit and is given with pure intention.
The Importance of Intention When Giving
The intention for any action in Islam is of great importance. An act of charity given with sincerity is greater than a donation made for recognition. When giving charity, the intention should be made to please Allah alone, without the expectation of anything in return.
The best charity is not that which is measured by size, but that which is made with a pure heart, to help another person.
Supporting Orphans When Giving Charity
A highly rewarded act of charity in Islam is to help and care for an orphan. The Messenger of Allah (Peace be Upon Him) has said that “Myself and the caretaker of an orphan will be in Paradise like this”, and he held his two fingers together. [Bukhari]
Supporting an orphan is considered by many as the best form of charity as it caters to long-term needs. An orphan is not only in need of food or clothing but also support for education, medical aid, and emotional care that can provide stability and hope for the future.
A Orphans in Need, restoring hope and dignity to an orphaned child and widowed families, is at the heart of what we do. We work to provide food and shelter, along with education and emotional support, to transform lives for the better.
Allah emphasises the importance of supporting the orphan in the Quran multiple times. He says “And they give good in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive.” [Quran 76:8]. The Quran also states not to oppress the Orphan [Quran 93:9].
Charity That Goes a Long Way
Sadaqah Jariyah is at times known as one of the greatest forms of giving due to its continuous benefit to others, long after the contribution has been made.
Examples of Sadaqah Jariyah are supporting an education, providing clean water, or building an institution such as a Hospital, School or even a Mosque.
When an orphan is educated, the child can grow up to support their family and contribute to society themselves. Through this, supporting an orphan’s education can become a form of ongoing charity, rewarding the one who donates even after their death.
Charity Given Confidentially
The act of giving made in secret is highly encouraged in Islam. When charity is given without the need for attention strengthens the relationship between the one who donated and Allah. Quietly giving also hides the dignity of the one who receives the donation.
A Charity Rooted in Compassion and Justice
Giving charity in Islam is more than just helping the one in need. Wealth in general is seen as a gift from Allah, and those who have more have a responsibility over those who have less. Giving charity helps the community and reminds the believers of all the blessings that have been bestowed upon them by Allah.
Choosing the Best Charity
The best form of charity in Islam comes down to the intention of giving. It doesn’t matter which form of charity you give; it’s more about why you’re giving and how you’re giving. To give sincerely to the one in need with the purpose of creating lasting change is probably one of the best ways. Protecting the vulnerable and strengthening the community can lead to great reward in the hereafter.
Supporting Orphans in Need can help feed a child in need, and build a future filled with hope and dignity. Overall, the best form of charity is the one that brings you closer to your creator.
Donate now to Orphans in Need and help change the life of a vulnerable child. Your charity can help feed and house a widowed family or a child relying on help from others.
