11. Charity Pays
Charity makes the world a better place. But what makes charity a pillar of faith?
Allah (SWT) commands us to be kind to all of His creation. One way we can do this is through charity, the act of giving. In fact, charity is so profound that Allah (SWT) has made it an obligation for us! As a pillar of Islam, Muslims must give a portion of their wealth to the needy each year. This annual giving is called zakat.
What is really mine?
Yet it’s not only the recipients of our zakat who benefit from this charitable act. Zakat literally means “that which purifies.” In giving a portion of our fortune to others, we purify our souls by removing greed, pride, stinginess, and selfishness. By giving zakat, we also remember one of Islam’s greatest lessons: that our possessions are never truly ours to begin with. In the Holy Qur’an we learn that “to Allah belongs all things and to Him all things return” (24:42).
In the story “Olive the Praise is Allah’s,” Amira learns these lessons first hand. After making it rich, Amira begins to feel greed. However, once she realizes that Allah (SWT) is the ultimate Owner of her possessions, Amira rids the greed in her heart by giving away one of her products.
Charity Pays
A second meaning of zakat is “that which grows.” In generously giving our wealth to others, Allah (SWT) increases His good favor upon us!
In the story “Quarterback Gives Back,” Amin initially feels miserly, wanting to keep all of his money for himself. However, after making the intention to give charity, he is rewarded graciously. After reading this title, we hope that you and your family will agree that charity pays!
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Published: May, 2016
Research: Armaan Siddiqi
Creative Developers: Elizabeth Lymer & Kenneth Molloy
Art Direction: Annie Idris
Editors: Sana Aaser & Amin Aaser