Learn more about Global Ehsan Relief’s mission and global impact by clicking here
Charity is very important in the religion of Islam. It not only benefits the recipient with betterment of life but it equally rewards the giver in both this life and the next. Charity is something that can be given in many forms that don’t solely rely on monetary association. This means everyone has the ability to improve someone’s life. Let’s delve into the types of charity in Islam and what each have to offer.
The importance of charity in Islam is of great essence. The Holy Quran address this in the following verse:
“Those who give, out of their own possessions, by night and by day, in private and in public will have their reward with their Lord.” [2:274]
Charity is something that can be given at any time of day and whether it is given and witnessed by others or is done in private, Allah SWT is aware and will reward you accordingly.
Furthermore, did you know that there is a gate to heaven that is dedicated to those who were charitable in this life? It goes by the name Baab As-Sadaqah. Those who give Sadaqah (charity) will be entering through this door or paradise.
Zakat is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, making it an obligation for eligible Muslims to donate a portion (usually 2.5%) of their wealth annually. It is important for those that posses assets such as Gold, Silver, Real Estate etc. calculate their Zakat in time so they pay it in due course. More than just financial support, it purifies wealth and fosters social equity. Global Ehsan Relief ensures your zakat is distributed effectively to widows, orphans, and families in need across the globe.
Sadaqah is a voluntary act of giving, encompassing everything from money to acts of kindness, such as a smile or a helping hand. It can be given at any time, for any amount, and for any cause. It’s a powerful expression of compassion and community spirit. An example of daily sadaqah is the ability to help a neighbour out with their garden, send food over to your loved ones, help a work colleague by reducing their work load, opening a door for a stranger, looking at your spouse with loving eyes and much more. these are principles that should be encoded in everyday life but are highly rewarded in Islam.
Sadaqah Jariyah is a continuous form of charity that benefits both the giver and the receiver for years and sometimes even generations. Projects like building water wells, building schools, or mosques fall under this category. Global Ehsan Relief’s sustainable programs, such as clean water wells and orphan sponsorships, are excellent options for those seeking long-term reward even after death.
Lillah means “for Allah,” and is a type of voluntary charity given solely for the sake of pleasing Allah, without restriction on cause, as long as it’s for good. Unlike zakat, Lillah can support broader community projects, such as mosque renovations or hospital equipment. Imagine being able to help improve a mosque or hospital that one day may accommodate your loved ones and the generations to come, it truly is rewarding beyond imagination.
Kaffarah is a compensatory donation made when someone breaks a religious obligation, such as intentionally missing a fast or breaking an oath. It serves as both repentance and repair. Kaffarah contributions help provide meals or support to those in need. As a believer it is vital to refrain from false promises, this not only decays your reputation and attacks your character but also proves difficulty in trusting you as a human being. It can interrupt trade, upset a partner and even spread corruption in the land by breeding weak character. Always remember that Allah SWT is the all knowing and what is usually hard to obtain has a greater reward. If during the month of Ramadan you are unable to fast due to a valid reason, you are genuinely excused, but for those that do not have a valid reason to miss a fast must strive for excellence and a full month streak.
When someone cannot fast due to chronic illness or old age and cannot make up the fasts later, Fidya becomes a means to fulfil that obligation. It involves feeding a needy person for each missed day. Global Ehsan Relief offers Fidya donation options that deliver hot meals and food packs to impoverished communities worldwide. It is important to follow the process of a missed fast properly. For example, women that are on their cycle for the month may intend to fast later in the year to make up for their missed fasts, so Fidya is not applicable in such a case. However if there is an illness that is long term, you can pay Fidya to help maximise your rewards for the month of Ramadan.
Let’s recap to some of the benefits that giving charity in Islam entail. By giving charity, your wealth is purified, you are protected from calamities that may befall you, there is a major increase in blessings in your life and in your wealth, you can earn continuous rewards through Sadaqah Jariyah and most important of all, you serve your very own ummah which means it’s an all-round rewarding situation!
So, whether you decide to engage in Zakat, Sadaqah, Fidya, Kaffarah or Lillah, each charity offers a unique spiritual and societal benefit. May Allah SWT reward us for the charity we give both openly and in discreet, Ameen.
