Types of charity
1. Obligatory Charity (Compulsory Charity)
1.1 Zakat:
Zakat is a fundamental part of the Islamic financial system and is obligatory for every Muslim who possesses the minimum amount of wealth (nisab). Its primary aim is to promote wealth distribution and alleviate poverty. Zakat is applicable on gold, silver, cash, trade goods, and livestock. The rate of Zakat is 2.5%, and it is distributed among the eligible recipients.
The Quran mentions the categories of those eligible to receive Zakat:
– The poor (faqir)
– The needy (miskin)
– Those in debt
– Those working in Allah’s path (e.g., in jihad or seeking knowledge)
– Travelers in need
Zakat is both an act of worship and a financial obligation that purifies wealth and brings blessings.
1.2 Fitrana (Sadaqat al-Fitr):
Fitrana is given after completing the fasts of Ramadan, on the day of Eid al-Fitr, so that the poor can also partake in the joys of Eid. Fitrana is obligatory for every Muslim who possesses the minimum amount of wealth (nisab), and its purpose is to purify the fast for those who observed it and to assist those in need. The amount of Fitrana is equivalent to the value of wheat, barley, dates, or similar items.
1.3 Nazar:
Nazar is a vow that a person makes in the name of Allah for a specific purpose or in the hope of fulfilling a need. For example, a person might vow that if their illness is cured, they will give some charity in Allah’s way. It is obligatory to fulfill the vow once the purpose has been achieved.
1.4 Kafara:
Kafara is a form of charity given as atonement for a specific sin or transgression. For example, it may be required for breaking a fast or taking a false oath. Kafara can include feeding the poor or performing other specific acts of charity.
2 . Sadaqat al-Nafila (Voluntary Charity):
2.1 General Charity:
General charity can be given at any time and is not obligatory. Its purpose is to help the poor and needy individuals in society. Giving charity is considered a good deed, and in return, it earns the pleasure of Allah.
2.2 Khairat:
Khairat generally refers to voluntary charity, which is not obligatory but is given by a person out of their own will. There is great virtue in giving khairat, and it should be a part of everyday life. This can include giving money, food, clothing, or other essential items.
2.3 Waqf:
Waqf means dedicating a property or asset permanently in the way of Allah. Its purpose is to be used for the welfare of people on a continuous basis, such as establishing a mosque, school, or hospital. Waqf is considered a continuous charity (sadaqah jariyah), meaning that the rewards for it continue to accrue as long as the property or asset benefits others.
3. Donations (Financial Aid)
3.1 Qarz-e-Hasna:
Qarz-e-Hasna is a type of loan given without any interest, with the expectation that the borrower will repay it. The Quran encourages giving Qarz-e-Hasna and considers it a great act of goodness.
3.2 Gifts:
Giving gifts is a recommended practice in Islam and serves as a means to enhance love and friendship among people. Anything can be given as a gift, and its sole purpose is to seek the pleasure of Allah.
4. Sadaqat al-Jariyah (Continuous Charity):
Importance of Charity:
In Islam, charity is a significant act, aimed not only at helping the poor and needy but also at purifying oneself from the love of wealth and seeking the pleasure of Allah. Charity is a means of salvation in the Hereafter and also brings Allah’s mercy and blessings into this world.
**Prophetic Hadith: ** Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Charity extinguishes sins just as water extinguishes fire.” (Tirmidhi)
This explanation clearly shows how important giving charity is in Islam and the vast benefits it brings, which not only assist those in need but also bring blessings into the life of the giver.
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