In a world that thrives on diversity and inclusivity, it is crucial that we come together to support and uplift every community, ensuring that no one is left behind. One community that often faces unique challenges and struggles is the Muslim community. With a rich history, vibrant culture, and millions of individuals across the globe, Muslims contribute significantly to our society. However, they also encounter various obstacles, ranging from discrimination and prejudice to economic hardships and limited access to resources.
In this blog, we will explore the significance of supporting the Muslim community and delve into the various ways in which your donation can create a lasting impact. Whether you are an individual looking to make a personal contribution or a business seeking to engage in corporate social responsibility, this blog will provide valuable insights and suggestions on how to channel your support effectively.
The Importance of Giving to Others
Inequality and poverty cause hardships in many communities, and this is part of the test that Allah (SWT) gives to those that are comfortable or financially stable. This test is to ensure we share our temporary wealth with his creation and show compassion to those less fortunate. After all, our wealth 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 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.
There is no suggestion or guidance on when you should give, although many people choose to give during the month of Ramadan when the rewards are greatest for this life and in the Hereafter.
An Obligation Towards Humanity
Not only does helping others open our eyes to the ongoing issues of the world, but it also instills compassion and empathy for others within us and pulls us away from potentially selfless acts as a result. The notion of giving to others also acts as a great reminder that nothing that we own in this world belongs to us, to begin with. It is all given to us by Allah (SWT) and can just as easily be taken away from us in the same way it was given.
It is our duty as fellow human beings to ensure we combine our efforts to eradicate poverty and hunger from this world.
What are the Benefits of Donation to Ourself?
Donation is an investment in this life and hereafter:
Return on investment is not normally associated with charitable donations. Nonetheless, Allah (SWT) promises us that he will increase our wealth and sustenance and bring us success in this life and the hereafter when we donate.
(Interpretation of the meaning) “Indeed, the men who practice charity and the women who practice charity and [they who] have loaned Allah a goodly loan – it will be multiplied for them, and they will have a noble reward.”
(Quran 57:18)
Donation opens the gates of paradise
Only those believers who were charitable and gave donations in the way of Allah, to their parents, orphans, widows, the sick, and the needy will be allowed to enter through Baab As-Sadaqah, one of 8 gates to Jannah.
(Interpretation of the meaning) “And those who kept their duty to their Lord will be led to Paradise in groups till when they reach it and its gates will be opened and its keepers will say peace be upon you! You have done well, so enter here to abide therein”
(Quran 39:73)
Donation purifies the Nafs
Our wealth, no matter how big or small, is a gift from Allah (SWT) and can be a burden. We are accountable for how we spend it and should try to spend it wisely. Spending our wealth on charity and donation extinguishes worldly desires and attains the reward of the Hereafter.
(Interpretation of the meaning) “By no means shall you attain righteousness unless you give (freely) of that which you love. And whatever you spend; indeed, Allah is Knowing of it.”
(Quran 3:92)
Donation atones for our sins
The Prophet (PBUH) said: “Charity extinguishes the sins like water extinguishes a fire.”
(Ibn Majah)
On the Day of Judgement, every person will be held accountable for their sins, both major and minor. Giving donations regularly is a simple way of helping to expiate any sins we have committed knowingly, and unknowingly.
What is the Social Impact of Donations?
As a Muslim Ummah caring for one another is an essential part of our Islamic identity. Islam focuses on community sustainability, and donation is the engine that facilitates this.
Donation is a powerful tool to help re-circulate wealth to those most vulnerable, many of whom are experiencing poverty at no fault of their own, but due to their unfortunate circumstances, such as war, resources, and limitations.
- Some of the social benefits of donation are:
- Restores and establishes human dignity.
- It helps bridge the gap between the rich and the poor.
- It eliminates social conflicts and establishes social security.
- Reduce poverty.
- It gives hope to those who may feel hopeless
- It prevents the poor from resorting to unlawful or illegal means to earn a living.
- Promotes selflessness and giving.
- Financial help by way of food, shelter, and clothes.
- Raising awareness of real issues around you and the world.
It is a natural human instinct to want to further our interests in life. This sometimes comes at the cost of being less generous with our wealth to save for our futures. However, it’s important to remember that we don’t take care of our own needs – Allah does.
And while we should all be planning for our future stability, we should also have faith that Allah will fulfill our needs. We should strive to serve His sake and not succumb to acting selfishly or shortsightedly.