Charity holds a significant place in Islam. Allah SWT instructs His servants to always share a portion of their sustenance with those in need through charity. According to the renowned Muslim scholar, Imam Al Ghazali, there are several considerations to bear in mind when giving charity. What are Imam Al Ghazali’s views on charity? Let’s explore his insights in this article.
Charity According to Imam Al Ghazali
1. Imam Al Ghazali Advises Giving Charity in Secret
Imam Al Ghazali emphasizes the importance of giving charity discreetly to avoid ostentation. In his book, Ihya Ulummudin, he states that those who give charity must do so with sincere intentions, distancing themselves from showing off, to earn greater rewards. The act of giving should be motivated by seeking Allah SWT’s pleasure and avoiding ostentation. Charity given to those in need should be purely out of a desire to help fellow beings, not to seek praise from others.
2. Imam Al Ghazali Recommends Giving Charity on Fridays
While charity can be given at any time and place, it is especially recommended to do so on Fridays due to the day’s significance in Islam. People strive to earn rewards from Allah SWT, and charity given from a pure and sincere heart is particularly encouraged. By giving charity, Muslims can draw closer to Allah SWT and become individuals who are eager to help others.
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Applying the Concept of Charity in Daily Life
1. Giving Charity with a Pure Heart & Seeking Rewards from Allah SWT
Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala says:
مَثَلُ الَّذِيْنَ يُنْفِقُوْنَ اَمْوَالَهُمْ فِيْ سَبِيْلِ اللّٰهِ كَمَثَلِ حَبَّةٍ اَنْۢبَتَتْ سَبْعَ سَنَابِلَ فِيْ كُلِّ سُنْۢبُلَةٍ مِّائَةُ حَبَّةٍ ۗ وَاللّٰهُ يُضٰعِفُ لِمَنْ يَّشَاۤءُ ۗوَاللّٰهُ وَاسِعٌ عَلِيْمٌ
“The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills. And Allah is all-Encompassing and Knowing.” (Q.S Al-Baqarah [2]:261)
As the verse from Allah above states, those who give charity will have their rewards multiplied by Allah SWT. In truth, giving charity actually increases our good deeds. With sincere intentions and the pursuit of rewards from Allah SWT, may we become individuals who are keen to give charity and assist fellow Muslims in need.
2. Giving Charity as a Tangible Expression of Concern for the Muslim Community
Charity not only purifies the heart and soul from greed but also strengthens the bond among Muslims. Through charity, social disparities can be reduced, and the Muslim community can flourish. Often, we see fellow Muslims in need of assistance and living in inadequate conditions. The hope is that more Muslims who are keen to give charity will help reduce social inequalities and foster prosperity.
Friends, based on Imam Al Ghazali’s concept of charity, we should give with pure intentions, avoid ostentation, and it is recommended to give on Fridays due to its many virtues. As Muslims, we should maintain the spirit of giving charity to ensure the prosperity and well-being of the Muslim community. Therefore, friends can donate online through Dompet Dhuafa to ensure your charity reaches the right, trustworthy, and reliable institution. Click here to donate your charity.
