Islamic Teachings on Charity:

 Sadaqa is Charity given voluntarily in order to please God. Sadaqa also describes a voluntary charitable act towards others, whether through generosity, love, compassion or faith. These acts are not necessarily physical or monetary. Simple good deeds such as a smile, or a helping hand, are seen as acts of sadaqa. Zakat is one of the five pillars of Islam, and every adult Muslim who can afford it must donate a portion of their wealth to charity every year.

Types of  Charity in Islam:

1. Zakat: This is the compulsary alms-giving which allah has given the order for in the Quran.

2. Sadaqah: This is  the general term used for giving charity in Islam.

3. Sadaqah Wajibah: This is charity which is binding in nature.

4. sadaqah Nafilah: This is the charity which is not binding in nature but is optional 

Verses about Charity:

English

1. Verse from the Quran: "The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a grain of corn that sprouts seven ears; in every ear there are a hundred grains. Allah multiplies the reward for whom He wills, and Allah is Munificent, All-Knowing."
   — Surah Al-Baqarah (2:261)

2. Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH): "The best of people are those who are most beneficial to people."
   — Narrated by Al-Qudsi

3. General Teachings: "Charity does not decrease wealth. Rather, it purifies the soul and brings blessings."

Urdu

1. قرآنی آیت: "جن لوگوں نے اللہ کی راہ میں اپنے مال خرچ کئے ان کی مثال ایک دانے کی طرح ہے جس نے سات بالیں نکالیں، ہر بالی میں سو دانے ہیں۔ اللہ جس کے لیے چاہے، دوگنا کرتا ہے۔ اور اللہ وسعت والا، علم والا ہے۔"
   — سورہ البقرہ (2:261)

2. حدیث: "سب سے بہتر لوگ وہ ہیں جو لوگوں کے لئے سب سے زیادہ فائدے مند ہوں۔"
   — حدیث قدسی

3. عام تعلیمات: "صدقات دولت کو کم نہیں کرتے، بلکہ روح کو پاک کرتے ہیں اور برکت لاتے 

 Islamic teachings on charity are fundamental and deeply ingrained in the faith, reflecting a profound commitment to social justice, compassion, and community support. Here are some key aspects:

1. Obligatory Charity (Zakat): One of the Five Pillars of Islam, Zakat is a mandatory act of giving. Muslims are required to donate a portion of their wealth, typically 2.5% of their savings and investments, to those in need. This act purifies wealth and helps reduce inequality within the community.

2. Voluntary Charity (Sadaqah): Beyond the obligatory Zakat, Sadaqah refers to voluntary acts of charity that can be given at any time and in any amount. It includes both financial contributions and acts of kindness, such as helping someone in need or offering a smile.

3. Charity as an Act of Worship: Charity is viewed as a form of worship and a means to earn spiritual rewards. The Quran and Hadith emphasize that giving in charity should be done sincerely for the sake of Allah, not for personal gain or recognition.

4. Encouragement to Give: The Quran repeatedly encourages Muslims to give generously. Verses such as "The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a grain of corn that grows seven ears; in each ear is a hundred grains" (Quran 2:261) highlight the spiritual and moral benefits of charitable giving.

5. Charitable Giving and Social Justice: Charity is seen as a way to address social and economic inequalities. It is intended to support the poor, the orphaned, the widowed, and the marginalized, ensuring that their basic needs are met and their dignity is preserved.

6. Charity and Purification of the Soul: The act of giving charity is believed to purify the heart and soul, removing greed and fostering empathy and compassion. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "The best of people are those who are most beneficial to others."

7. Impact on Society: Islamic teachings stress that charity should be aimed at creating sustainable solutions to poverty and hardship. This involves not just giving alms, but also supporting education, healthcare, and economic development.

In summary, charity in Islam is not only a religious obligation but also a profound act of social responsibility and personal growth. It embodies the principles of empathy, justice, and community solidarity, reinforcing the interconnectedness of all individuals within the Islamic worldview.

Islamic teachings on charity are deeply rooted in the faith and play a significant role in the lives of Muslims. Charity in Islam is not just a voluntary act of kindness but an essential component of spiritual and communal well-being. Here are some key aspects:

1. Obligatory Charity (Zakat)

• Definition: Zakat is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, making it a mandatory act of worship. It requires Muslims to give a fixed portion of their wealth to those in need.
• Percentage: The standard amount is 2.5% of one's savings and financial assets annually.
• Recipients: Zakat must be given to specific categories of people outlined in the Quran, including the poor, the needy, and those who are in debt.

2. Voluntary Charity (Sadaqah)

• Definition: Sadaqah is any voluntary act of charity that goes beyond the obligatory Zakat. It can be given at any time and in any amount.
• Forms: Sadaqah can include not just financial contributions but also acts of kindness, such as helping someone in need or offering a smile.

3. Charity as a Purification of Wealth

• Purpose: In Islamic teachings, charity is seen as a way to purify one's wealth and soul. It serves as a means to cleanse one's possessions of any potential moral or spiritual impurity.
• Quranic Guidance: The Quran emphasizes that giving charity purifies one's wealth and increases blessings. For example, Surah Al-Baqarah (2:261) compares the act of charity to a grain of corn that grows seven ears, with each ear producing a hundred grains.

4. Charity and Social Justice

• Equity: Islamic charity aims to address social inequalities and support those who are less fortunate. The principles of justice and compassion underpin charitable acts, reinforcing the idea that wealth should be shared to alleviate suffering.
• Community Focus: Charity is not only a personal obligation but also a communal responsibility. Muslims are encouraged to contribute to the well-being of their communities and to address systemic issues of poverty and injustice.

5. Charity in Daily Life

• Continuous Effort: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized that charity can be a daily practice. Simple acts of kindness, such as offering advice or helping with daily tasks, are also considered forms of charity.
• Reward: According to Hadith, even small acts of charity are highly valued. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, "Every act of kindness is a form of charity."

6. Charity and Spiritual Growth

• Intention (Niyyah): The intention behind giving charity is crucial. Muslims are encouraged to give with a sincere heart, seeking Allah’s pleasure rather than seeking praise or recognition from others.
• Rewards in the Hereafter: Islamic teachings hold that charity not only benefits the recipient but also brings spiritual rewards in the Hereafter. Good deeds are believed to be rewarded manifold by Allah.

7. Charity during Ramadan

• Increased Emphasis: During the holy month of Ramadan, the act of giving charity is especially encouraged. Many Muslims make a concerted effort to increase their charitable activities during this time as a way to maximize spiritual benefits.

In summary, charity in Islam is a multifaceted practice that encompasses both obligatory and voluntary aspects, aiming to purify wealth, promote social justice, and foster spiritual growth. It reflects the core values of compassion, community support, and selflessness in the Islamic faith.