THE TRUE HUMANITARIAN AND PHILANTHROPIST

THE TRUE HUMANITARIAN AND PHILANTHROPIST

The Prophet Muhammad truly cared about others, bettering the lives of the weak and indigent. To achieve this lofty goal, he taught his followers the true meaning of charity. He said: “It is a duty upon every Muslim to give charity.” The Companions asked him, “O Prophet of God! What about the one who does not find anything [to spend in charity]?” He replied, “Let him work with his hands, benefitting himself, and let him then spend in charity.” The Companions “And what if he cannot find [work]?” He replied, “Then let him assist someone wronged and needy.” The Companions asked, “And what if he cannot find (anyone in need)?” He replied, “Then let him do good and abstain from evil, for that will be his charity.”¹ It is also reported that he peace and blessings upon him – said: “Smiling at your brother is charity.” asked, 992 –

I Set forth by al-Bukhārī in al-Ṣaḥīḥ, 2:524 S1376. Muslim in alṢaḥīḥ, 2:699 S1008.

2 Set forth by al-Tirmidhi in al-Sunan, 4:339 S1956. •Ibn Hibbān in al-Ṣaḥīḥ, 2:286 $529.