Embracing Charity During Ramadan: The spiritual, social rewards in Islam
As Muslims reach the midpoint of Ramadan, they are reminded to sustain their prayers and charitable deeds, particularly towards the less privileged, in order to reap spiritual rewards from Almighty Allah.
Beyond its spiritual benefits, fasting also serves as a reminder of the importance of charity and giving. In fact, the act of giving while fasting carries a unique reward and blessing, both for the giver and the receiver.
1. Fasting and Charity: A Perfect Pair
During the month of Ramadan, the spirit of charity is magnified. Fasting teaches self-restraint, humility, and compassion, encouraging Muslims to empathize with the less fortunate.
When a person is fasting, they experience hunger and thirst firsthand, which makes them more sensitive to the struggles of those who are in need on a daily basis. The act of giving, particularly in the form of charity or sadaqah, becomes a natural extension of fasting.
The Holy Qur’an emphasizes the importance of giving during times of fasting:
“The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like that of a grain of corn that grows seven ears, and in each ear there are a hundred grains.”
(Qur’an, 2:261)
This verse highlights how acts of charity, especially when performed during fasting, yield immense rewards. It demonstrates that giving in the way of Allah is not only a means to purify wealth but also a source of abundant blessings.
2. Purification of the Soul
Fasting purifies the soul by eliminating distractions and allowing a person to focus more on their relationship with Allah. In this sense, fasting becomes a tool for spiritual growth, and charity becomes a powerful way to cleanse one’s heart from greed, arrogance, and selfishness.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
“The best of charity is that which is given during fasting.”
(Sunan al-Tirmidhi)
This Hadith highlights the significance of giving while fasting, as the act is considered more rewarding than at any other time. When a Muslim gives charity while fasting, their act of kindness is amplified by their devotion to Allah. Charity performed during this time reflects a deeper level of selflessness and sincerity.
3. Increased Reward for the Fasting Person
Giving charity during Ramadan is highly encouraged, as the rewards for good deeds are multiplied manifold. The Qur’an mentions:
“The month of Ramadan [is that] in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So whoever sights [the new moon of] the month, let him fast it; and whoever is ill or on a journey, then an equal number of other days. And Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship…”
(Qur’an, 2:185)
This verse sets the context for fasting in Ramadan but also suggests that it is a time of great mercy and generosity from Allah. Therefore, those who fast should strive to give generously as their acts of kindness are rewarded many times over.
READ ALSO: The spiritual significance, benefits of the first 10 days of Ramadan
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is reported to have been the most generous during Ramadan, not only in providing for the needy but in encouraging others to do so as well. He said:
“Whoever gives iftar (breaks the fast) for a fasting person will have the same reward as the fasting person without diminishing the reward of the latter in any way.”
(Sunan Ibn Majah)
This Hadith underscores the immense reward for those who give charity, particularly in helping others break their fast, such as providing iftar meals to the less fortunate. Even a simple act of kindness during this sacred month can lead to immense spiritual rewards.
4. Encouraging Solidarity and Brotherhood
Fasting is not just an individual act of worship; it also fosters a sense of community. The shared experience of fasting connects people from different walks of life and reinforces the values of empathy, mutual support, and unity. Charity during this time helps to strengthen bonds within the Muslim community and extends kindness beyond one’s immediate circle.
The Qur’an teaches:
“The believers are but a single brotherhood.”
(Qur’an, 49:10)
Fasting cultivates this brotherhood by teaching Muslims to consider the welfare of others, and charity serves as a tangible expression of this concern. By giving, the rich share with the poor, and communities come together, creating an environment of solidarity and compassion.
5. Psychological and Emotional Benefits
The act of giving while fasting also carries emotional and psychological rewards. Helping others can increase feelings of satisfaction and happiness, as well as reduce stress and anxiety. It provides the giver with a sense of purpose and fulfillment, knowing that their actions are pleasing to Allah and contributing to the well-being of others.
Fasting, combined with charity, encourages a person to remain mindful of the less fortunate, fostering an ongoing commitment to social justice and community welfare. The act of giving also reinforces gratitude, as the fasting person appreciates the blessings of food and drink more deeply and feels a strong urge to share these blessings with others.
Conclusion, giving charity while fasting is an act of immense spiritual significance in Islam. It purifies the heart, amplifies rewards, and strengthens the bonds of brotherhood within the community.
As the Qur’an and Hadith emphasize, the rewards for charity during fasting are manifold, both in this life and the hereafter.
By following the example of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who was known for his generosity, Muslims can draw closer to Allah and help make the world a more compassionate and just place.
Through charity, fasting becomes more than a personal act of worship, it becomes a vehicle for social change and a means to spread mercy, kindness, and solidarity throughout the community.
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