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Giving charity in Islam: Lessons from LaunchGood
November 6, 2024
Giving charity in Islam: observations from LaunchGood
By Yusuf Jaffar
•
4 min read
Charity is deeply cherished in Islam, woven into the fabric of faith and daily life. For over a decade, our crowdfunding platform has had the privilege of connecting with over 2 million generous Muslim donors worldwide.
Here, we share insights gained from these experiences, hoping to inspire even more meaningful acts of charity in the path of Allah.
In this post, we explore:
Quotes and rulings on giving charity that resonates with our donors
The Quran and Hadith offer profound guidance on charity, and certain verses and sayings have especially resonated with our community. We’ll highlight these powerful quotes, showing how they’ve inspired our donors’ giving journeys.
Disclaimer: This data is based solely on our platform’s experiences and does not represent the overall giving trends of all Muslims.
Quotes and rulings on giving charity in Islam from our donors
When it comes to the Islamic teachings on charity that have resonated most with our audience, two themes emerge that underscore the heart of Islamic giving.
Personal reward of giving: Charity in Islam purifies wealth, brings blessings, and draws the giver closer to Allah, offering personal spiritual growth.
Solidarity through charity: Charity also emphasizes supporting those in hardship and fostering unity within the Ummah, making it a powerful act of compassion and communal responsibility.
Islam and charity quotes: personal
"The deeds most loved by Allah are those done regularly, even if they are small." (Sahih Bukhari 6464). This Hadith reminds us that consistent small acts of charity are highly valued by Allah, encouraging ongoing kindness and generosity.
"The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed of grain that sprouts seven ears; in every ear, there are a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills." (Quran 2:261). This verse illustrates how charity yields multiplied rewards, inspiring believers to give generously.
"Give charity without delay, for it stands in the way of calamity." (Al-Tirmidhi 589) – This Hadith underscores charity’s protective role, suggesting that giving can help shield one from life’s hardships.
Our donors give charity as a means to seek blessings and purification. We take pride in holding interview sessions with our donors, and time and again, we are humbled by their perspectives on giving.
Islam and charity quotes: standing in solidarity
"The example of the believers in their affection, mercy, and compassion for each other is that of a body. When any limb aches, the whole body reacts with sleeplessness and fever." — (Sahih Bukhari 6011, Sahih Muslim 2586)
This Hadith illustrates how the well-being of each individual in the Ummah affects the entire community, emphasizing the importance of empathy and shared responsibility.
"The believer to another believer is like a building whose different parts support each other." The Prophet then clasped his hands with his fingers interlaced to demonstrate.— (Sahih Bukhari 481, Sahih Muslim 2585)
This analogy likens the Ummah to a solid structure, highlighting the importance of standing together and supporting one another.
"None of you truly believes until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself."
— (Sahih Bukhari 13, Sahih Muslim 45)
This Hadith emphasizes that true faith involves desiring the same goodness for others that one desires for oneself, fostering a spirit of unity and compassion.
Working at LaunchGood, I have no doubt that the Ummah responds to crises. Time and again, we see complete strangers standing in solidarity with people they've never met, giving generously in response to floods, earthquakes, and more. I am humbled, for this is a reminder to me that the Ummah is truly one body.
Popular question: In Islam can we give charity to family and friends?
Yes, it is generally allowed.
Dual reward in charity to relatives
Giving charity to relatives brings a double reward: it fulfills charity and strengthens family ties. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Charity given to a poor person is charity, but charity given to a relative is two things: charity and upholding the ties of kinship” (Al-Nasa'i, Al-Tirmidhi). It shows the special value of supporting family members.
Spending on the family as a charity
Providing for one’s family with the intention of seeking Allah’s reward is considered charity. The Prophet (PBUH) stated, "When a Muslim spends something on his family intending to receive Allah's reward, it is regarded as sadaqah for him" (Sahih Bukhari). Everyday family expenses can thus become spiritually rewarding.
Voluntary charity (sadaqah) to family members
Voluntary charity given to families, even if they aren't financially in need, strengthens family bonds. The Quran says, "Whatever good you spend should be for parents, relatives, orphans, the needy, and travelers" (Quran 2:215). It encourages closeness and support within families.
The only thing not permissible may be Zakat for family
Zakat has specific rules regarding family. While voluntary charity can support any family members, Zakat cannot cover the basic needs of direct dependents, like children or spouses. However, Zakat may assist relatives facing extra financial hardships, such as debt, beyond these basic needs.
As an Islamic crowdfunding platform, we have witnessed this spirit of solidarity come to life in countless ways. Families and friends come together to raise funds for health needs, honor parents or relatives who have passed, support nieces or nephews left behind after the loss of a parent, and help friends pay off debt.
What is the best Islamic charity to give to?
At LaunchGood, we are truly blessed to have supported over 8,202 fundraisers, including 4,202 businesses, who together have run more than 114,000 campaigns on our platform. This immense collective effort highlights the power of our community and the impact of coming together to support meaningful causes.
Every campaign is a story of generosity and a step towards making a difference, reminding us of the boundless potential when we unite for good.
Charities come in all shapes and sizes, each with its unique strengths. If you’re searching for Islamic charities or organizations that support the Ummah, LaunchGood is the perfect place to start. While it’s not about one charity being better than another, each organization brings its own expertise and focus, regardless of size. Some specialize in mobilizing large-scale emergency responses to deliver vital aid in regions facing conflict or disaster, while others concentrate on areas like dawah, Islamic education, and supporting local communities.
The best advice? Click on the search box below and find a cause that resonates with you. There's something for everyone to support and be inspired by. Otherwise, choose from the featured campaigns that we have presented below.
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