Importance & Rewards of Feeding the Poor in Islam (Quran & Hadith)
mahnoorAs Muslims, it is our moral and religious duty to help out those in need, and if any of our brothers and sisters are going hungry and we are aware of it, we shall be questioned in the hereafter. Thus, feeding the poor in Islam is not a recommendation but a necessity. It holds immense significance in Islamic teachings, with the Quran and Hadith emphasizing its virtues and rewards. Let’s discuss the teachings of Islam regarding feeding the poor, exploring its importance, rewards, Quranic references, Hadiths, and methods. At the conclusion of this article, we also talked about SAPA’s role in feeding the poor.
Importance of Feeding Others in Islam
1. Proving One’s Empathy and Compassion
Islam constantly teaches us to care for those around us and have an empathetic attitude towards all of Allah’s creations. This is why feeding the poor is so important, as it is a tangible expression of one’s compassion towards those who are less fortunate.
2. Fulfilling a Social Responsibility
If we put religion aside for a minute and consider our social responsibilities, even then, feeding the poor is an absolute necessity. It teaches us to spread our wealth and personal belongings among those who require them more than us. It eliminates the element of selfishness that all humans have.
3. Spiritual Growth
Engaging in acts of charity, including feeding the poor, is believed to have a purifying effect on the soul. By helping those in need, Muslims seek to cultivate virtues such as generosity, humility, and gratitude, which are essential for spiritual growth.
4. Solidarity and Unity
The concept of brotherhood holds great significance in Islam. Islam encourages Muslims to always stand by their fellow Muslims and never leave them alone in troubling times. This promotes solidarity and unity amongst not just individual Muslims but also between different Muslim nations.
5. Promise of Reward and Blessing
Islam promises abundant rewards and blessings for those who feed the poor. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated that feeding the hungry is a means to earn the pleasure of Allah and attain paradise. This belief serves as a powerful motivation for Muslims to engage in acts of charity and kindness.
7 Rewards of Feeding the Poor in Islam (Quran and Hadith)
1. Earning the Pleasure of Allah
Allah values Muslims who help his people in difficult times. He brings forth the needy and the poor to make us realize that we have been blessed with many things and that it is now our duty to spread some of the blessings around and share them. A great reward is promised for those who feed the poor.
The Holy Quran says, “Or to give food in times of famine, to an orphaned relative, or to a poor person in distress, and—above all—to be one of those who have faith and urge each other to have perseverance and urge each other to have compassion; these are the people of the right.” (Al-Balad, Qur’an 90: 14 – 18).
2. Attaining Paradise
As Muslims, our main goal in life is to do good and follow the right path so that we can enter Jannah or paradise. To become part of the righteous people, we must ensure that all those around us never go to sleep hungry.
The Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) said, “O people! Spread the Islamic greetings amongst yourselves, feed the hungry, maintain kinship relations, observe prayer at night while people are asleep, and you will peacefully enter Paradise.” (At- Tirmidhi)
3. Multiplication of Rewards
The rewards for feeding the poor are multiplied manifold. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Whoever feeds a fasting person will have a reward like that of the fasting person, without any reduction in his reward” (Sunan Ibn Majah). This indicates that the rewards for feeding the poor are not only significant but also multiplied beyond measure.
4. Protection from Calamities
Engaging in acts of charity, including feeding the poor, is believed to protect individuals from calamities and misfortunes. By helping those in need, Muslims seek protection and blessings from Allah.
5. Forgiveness of Sins
As human beings, we are bound to sin and make mistakes. However, Allah is very merciful and willing to forgive us if we ask for forgiveness, carry out good acts, and help his people and creations. Feeding the poor and needy is considered an act of worship that can lead to the forgiveness of sins.
The messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him) said, “Whichever believer feeds a hungry believer, Allah feeds him from the fruits of Paradise on the Day of Resurrection.” (Tirmidhi)
6. Increase in Blessings
The Holy Quran has promised that all those who feed the poor will be given several blessings, and their earthly and heavenly possessions will be increased by several folds. Allah says, “So Allah SWT will ward off from them the evil of that day, and cause them to meet with splendor and happiness; And reward them, for their steadfastness, with a Garden, and with silk.” (Surah Al-Insaan, Qur’an 76:5-12)
7. Setting an Example
By feeding the poor, Muslims set a positive example for others to follow. This act of kindness and generosity inspires others to engage in similar acts of charity, creating a ripple effect of goodness and compassion in society. It is also important to teach our children to help the poor and the needy so that they will also carry out this good task and continue the circulation of wealth within society.
Methods of Feeding the Poor in Islam
Islam has created several methods of helping the poor and the needy. Throughout the year, we have several opportunities to gain Allah’s blessings through this route. We can feed those in need via the methods mentioned below:
1. Zakat
Zakat, also known as Zakah or Zakat Al Maal, stands as a pillar of compassion and duty in Islam. It’s not just about giving; it’s a heartfelt obligation ingrained in the teachings of the Quran and Hadith. This form of almsgiving is a mandatory act of charity, a way for Muslims to cleanse and uplift their wealth. Zakat isn’t just a duty; it’s a bridge that connects hearts and a testament to the profound teachings of Islam.
“Those in whose wealth there is a recognized right for the needy and the poor.” (Surah Ma’arij, Qur’an 70:24-25)
2. Sadaqah
Sadaqah, rooted in sincerity, is more than charity—it’s a selfless act of kindness aimed at uplifting those in need. At SAPA, we value Sadaqah for its spiritual and societal impact, offering it as a meaningful and accessible way for you to contribute to charitable causes. In Islam, Sadaqah goes beyond obligatory almsgiving, representing a voluntary form of charity that purifies the soul and fosters community spirit. Giving Sadaqah for illness allows individuals to provide crucial support and relief to those facing hardships, demonstrating compassion and solidarity in challenging times.
3. Fidya
In Islam, Fidya (or Fidyah) plays a crucial role, especially regarding missed fasts during Ramadan. Fidya serves as charitable compensation for those unable to fast due to valid reasons like illness or old age. Fidya holds significant meaning, providing a way for individuals to fulfill their religious obligations while also supporting the less fortunate. Understanding Fidya and its purpose in Islam is essential for those seeking spiritual purification and looking to contribute to the community’s well-being through acts of charity.
The Holy Quran says, “And as for those who can fast with difficulty, they have (a choice either to fast or) to feed a poor person (for every day).“ (Surah Al-Baqarah, Quran, 2:184)
4. Kaffarah
Kaffarah, in Islam, is a form of atonement for specific violations, especially related to fasting during Ramadan. It serves as a means of seeking forgiveness for intentional actions that break the fast, such as eating or drinking during daylight hours. In Islamic jurisprudence, Kaffarah signifies the expiation for these offenses, obligating individuals who inadvertently break their fast to fulfill this duty by paying a specified amount.
5. Sadaqah Jariyah
In Islam, Sadaqah Jariyah is a powerful concept that highlights the enduring impact of charitable acts, benefiting individuals and communities long after the initial donation. Combining the Arabic words “Sadaqah” (charity) and “Jariyah” (continuous), it symbolizes a virtuous cycle of giving that extends its positive influence in both this world and the Hereafter.
“When a man dies, all his good deeds end except three: ongoing charity (sadaqah jariyah), beneficial knowledge, or a righteous son who will pray for him.” (Narrated by Muslim)
Conclusion
In conclusion, feeding the poor in Islam is not just an act of charity; it’s a fundamental duty and a means of earning Allah’s pleasure and blessings. It is a practice that embodies the core values of compassion, generosity, and social responsibility, enriching both the giver and the recipient. By understanding the teachings of Islam regarding feeding the poor, Muslims can fulfill their religious obligations and contribute to the well-being of society.
SAPA’s Role in Feeding the Poor in Islam
At SAPA (Sudanese American Physicians Association), we provide easy donation methods so that you can dedicate a part of your wealth to feeding the world’s hungry. Our Sudan Hunger Relief initiative is a very good example of our related work. This program is dedicated to addressing the critical issue of food insecurity, particularly in the conflict-affected regions of Sudan. Our core activities revolve around food distribution, forging strategic partnerships, and implementing sustainability efforts to ensure a brighter and more secure future for those in need. So, in case you are looking for a charity that delivers your donations to the right place, you can contact us or visit our website.
FAQs
What rewards are promised for feeding the poor in Islam?
Rewards for feeding the poor include earning the pleasure of Allah, attaining paradise, multiplication of rewards, protection from calamities, forgiveness of sins, increase in blessings, and setting a positive example for others.
What are the benefits of feeding the poor in Islam?
The benefits of feeding the poor in Islam include spiritual purification, fulfillment of religious obligations, support for the less fortunate, and the perpetuation of good deeds that benefit both individuals and communities.
How does feeding the poor reflect the teachings of Islam?
Feeding the poor reflects the teachings of Islam by embodying the core values of compassion, generosity, and social responsibility, as well as by promoting unity, solidarity, and the well-being of society as a whole.
How does SAPA contribute to feeding the poor in accordance with Islamic teachings?
SAPA contributes to feeding the poor through initiatives like the Sudan Hunger Relief program, which focuses on food distribution and sustainability efforts in conflict-affected regions of Sudan.
