Ramadan Prep: Charity and Helping Others (Part 5)

Charity (Sadaqah) and helping those in need are fundamental aspects of Ramadan. This blessed month is not only about personal worship but also about extending kindness and generosity to others. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said:

“The best charity is that given in Ramadan.” (Tirmidhi)

Giving in charity purifies our wealth, strengthens our faith, and earns immense rewards. This guide explores how to maximize acts of charity and kindness during Ramadan.

In Case You Missed It:

Ramadan Preparation Guide: How to Maximize Your Worship (Part 1)
Ramadan Preparation Guide: Strengthening Your Relationship with the Quran (Part 2)
Ramadan Preparation Guide: Maximizing Your Worship Through Salah and Dhikr (Part 3)
Ramadan Preparation Guide: Fasting with Sincerity and Gratitude (Part 4)

1. The Importance of Charity in Ramadan

Charity is emphasized throughout the Quran and Sunnah. Allah (SWT) says:

“The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed of grain that sprouts seven ears; in every ear, there are a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills. And Allah is All-Encompassing and Knowing.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:261)

Ramadan provides a special opportunity to increase charitable acts and gain multiplied rewards. It is a month when Muslims are encouraged to focus on their community and support those who are less fortunate. By engaging in acts of charity, we align ourselves with the teachings of Islam and contribute to a more just and compassionate society.

2. Types of Charity in Ramadan

1. Zakat (Obligatory Charity)

Zakat is one of the five pillars of Islam and must be given by eligible Muslims once a year. It purifies wealth and helps the less fortunate.

“And establish prayer and give Zakat, and whatever good you put forward for yourselves – you will find it with Allah.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:110)

Giving Zakat in Ramadan is especially encouraged, as the rewards for good deeds are multiplied in this sacred month. Ensuring that Zakat is given correctly—by calculating wealth and distributing it to those eligible—is an essential part of fulfilling this obligation.

2. Sadaqah (Voluntary Charity)

Unlike Zakat, Sadaqah has no fixed amount and can be given anytime. It includes:

• Donating money, food, or clothes.
• Sponsoring an orphan or a needy family.
• Providing meals for those fasting (Iftar Sadaqah).
• Supporting educational and medical needs of the poor.
• Helping someone pay off a debt.
• Contributing to the construction of mosques, schools, or water wells in underserved areas.

“Save yourself from Hell-fire even by giving half a date-fruit in charity.” (Bukhari, Muslim)

3. Feeding the Fasting (Iftar Sadaqah)

Providing food for someone to break their fast earns immense rewards. The Prophet (SAW) said:

“Whoever gives Iftar to one who is fasting will have a reward like his, without detracting from the fasting person’s reward in the slightest.” (Tirmidhi)

Muslims can participate by preparing meals for neighbors, donating to community Iftar programs, or sponsoring Iftar meals at mosques and shelters.

4. Supporting Local and Global Causes

Donating to charities that assist refugees, the homeless, or disaster-stricken areas ensures your wealth benefits those in critical need. Look for trusted Islamic organizations that provide aid in war-torn regions, offer medical support, or fund sustainable development projects.

5. Acts of Kindness as Charity

Charity isn’t limited to financial donations. The Prophet (SAW) said:

“Your smile to your brother is a charity. Your removing of stones, thorns, or bones from the paths of people is a charity.” (Tirmidhi)

Simple deeds such as visiting the sick, helping an elderly person, mentoring youth, or even speaking kind words count as charity. Volunteering time to assist at local shelters, community centers, or religious institutions also contributes to the charitable spirit of Ramadan.

3. How to Maximize Charity in Ramadan

1. Give with sincerity: Ensure your charity is solely for the sake of Allah (SWT) and not for recognition.
2. Create a giving plan: Set aside a portion of your income daily or weekly for charity, so that your giving remains consistent.
3. Seek out those in need: Personally deliver donations to the poor and needy when possible to make a direct impact.
4. Encourage family and friends: Involve your loved ones in charitable efforts, such as organizing donation drives or preparing Iftar for the less fortunate.
5. Make Dua for barakah: Ask Allah to bless and multiply your charitable acts.
6. Utilize online donations: Support trusted organizations working globally to help those in need.
7. Perform hidden charity: Give without seeking recognition, as secret charity is highly rewarded.
8. Give beyond material donations: Offer your time and skills, such as teaching, mentoring, or providing professional services for free.

4. The Night of Power (Laylatul Qadr) and Charity

Giving charity during Laylatul Qadr is especially rewarding. The Prophet (SAW) said:

“Laylatul Qadr is better than a thousand months.” (Surah Al-Qadr 97:3)

To maximize this opportunity:

• Donate consistently in the last ten nights. Many people set up automated daily donations so they don’t miss Laylatul Qadr.
• Support Masjids, orphanages, and Islamic centers that contribute to community development.
• Provide for those observing I’tikaf by arranging food and essential supplies.
• Seek Allah’s mercy through sincere prayers and giving.

5. Charity as a Lifelong Habit

While Ramadan amplifies the spirit of giving, charity should not be limited to this month. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was known for his continuous generosity throughout the year. Developing a habit of regular charity keeps the blessings flowing and ensures that the spirit of Ramadan extends beyond its duration.

Practical Steps to Continue Giving After Ramadan:

• Set up monthly charitable donations.
• Participate in long-term sponsorship programs.
• Volunteer regularly at community organizations.
• Teach children the value of giving from an early age.
• Keep a charity jar at home for spare change and encourage family members to contribute.

Conclusion

Charity in Ramadan is a means to purify our wealth, uplift those in need, and gain immense rewards. By making generosity a core part of our worship, we embody the true spirit of Islam and strengthen our connection with Allah (SWT).

May Allah (SWT) accept our acts of charity and increase us in goodness. Stay tuned for Part 6: The Power of Dua and Seeking Forgiveness in Ramadan. Ameen!