GIVING FROM EMPTY POCKETS

The power of giving in faith

Many of us believe giving requires wealth. But Islam teaches a powerful lesson. The most significant acts of charity can come from the most unexpected places, even when our pockets are empty.

Here's a powerful reminder from a close friend of mine. Give generously, even when you have little, and trust that Allah (SWT) will provide.

Why give when we have less?

While financial security brings comfort, true security comes from relying on Allah (SWT) as the ultimate Provider. Giving, even in hardship, strengthens this dependence. We acknowledge that provisions (rizq) are predetermined by Him, and trust He will replace all we give in His name.

The Quran beautifully captures this in Surah Ar-Rum 30:37–39.

Do they not see that Allah extends provision for whom He wills and restricts it? Indeed, in that are signs for people who believe. So, give the relative his right, as well as the needy and the traveler. That is best for those who desire the countenance of Allah, and it is they who will be successful. And whatever you give for interest to increase the wealth of people will not increase with Allah. But what you give in?zakah, desiring the countenance of Allah, they shall have manifold increase.

This is the essence of the narration where the Prophet ? mentioned the paradoxical nature of many faith-inspired actions. “Charity does not decrease wealth, no one forgives another person but Allah increases their honor, and no one humbles himself for the sake of Allah but that Allah raises their status.”

When patience leads to abundance

Sometimes, our prayers for financial ease seem unanswered. This doesn't mean Allah (SWT) has forgotten us. The Prophet Muhammad (?) said, "If Allah intends good for a servant, He tries him with hardship." (Tirmidhi). Perhaps a greater reward awaits.

I trust this. The most beautiful charity is the one given from what little we have. And if Allah (SWT) makes me wait, I know it's because something even greater is on the way.

Let us find motivation in the words of the Prophet ?, who said, “The generous one is near to Allah, near to Paradise, near to the people, and far from the Hellfire. The miserly one is far from Allah, far from Paradise, far from the people, and near to the Hellfire. An ignorant, generous person is more beloved to Allah Almighty than a stingy scholar.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhī, no.?1961)

As part of the ummah, I believe we must confront the materialistic influences that have crept in. We need to heal by developing a relationship with wealth that aligns with the Prophet's teachings. By refocusing on the importance of the hereafter, we can strive to make this worldly life better for ourselves and those around us.

As Ramadan draws to a close, let's carry the spirit of generosity, self-reflection, and mindfulness into the rest of the year. This month has been a time for growth, and like any servant of Allah (SWT), I've strived to learn and improve myself. May we all continue on this journey of betterment, together.