Eman Sakina

Helping and supporting those in distress is a trait that is encouraged by Islam and a noble character that is an implication of sincere brotherhood and chivalry. The life and manners of the Prophet present the finest example for every aspect of our life, especially in helping and supporting those in need or distress. The Prophet was known for this noble characteristic, even before receiving the divine message.

Friday Musings

Allah says:And he said, “Only you have taken besides Allah idols (out of) love among you in the life (of) the world. Then (on the) Day (of) the Resurrection you will deny one another and curse one another, and your abode (will be) the Fire and not for you any helpers.” (Surah Al-Ankabut29:25)

Muslims’ primary goal is to worship God, but this is done not only through rituals like prayer and fasting but also through the treatment of other people. Allah says:“And give the relatives his right, and the needy, and the wayfarer, and (do) not spend wastefully.” (Surah Al-Isra` 17:26)

The Quran, provides numerous injunctions regarding helping others. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:195), believers are reminded of the virtue of spending in the way of Allah and not throwing themselves into destruction. This spending encompasses various forms of assistance, including financial aid, emotional support, and physical help.

Moreover, Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:2) highlights the concept of cooperation in righteousness and piety, indicating that Muslims are encouraged to collaborate in acts of goodness and kindness. This verse emphasizes the collective responsibility of believers to support one another in their journey toward righteousness.

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) serves as the epitome of compassion and selflessness in Islamic teachings. His life is replete with instances where he went above and beyond to help others, irrespective of their backgrounds or beliefs.

One famous Hadith narrated by Abu Huraira states: "Whosoever removes a worldly grief from a believer, Allah will remove from him one of the griefs of the Day of Judgment. Whosoever alleviates [the lot of] a needy person, Allah will alleviate [his lot] in this world and the next." This Hadith underscores the profound spiritual rewards associated with helping those in distress.

In Islam, charity is not merely an act of goodwill; it is a mandatory form of worship known as Zakat. Muslims are required to give a portion of their wealth to those in need, ensuring the equitable distribution of resources within the community. Additionally, Sadaqah (voluntary charity) is highly encouraged, further fostering a culture of generosity and benevolence.

Furthermore, Islam emphasizes the importance of social welfare and the well-being of marginalized groups such as orphans, widows, and the impoverished. Providing for these vulnerable segments of society is not just an option; it is a sacred duty incumbent upon every Muslim.

Central to the teachings of Islam is the virtue of kindness (ihsan) towards others. Muslims are encouraged to exhibit kindness and empathy in their interactions with fellow human beings, animals, and the environment. This includes acts such as visiting the sick, feeding the hungry, and advocating for justice and equality.

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In conclusion, helping others is not merely a peripheral aspect of Islam; it lies at the very core of the faith. By embodying the values of compassion, generosity, and solidarity, Muslims fulfill their duty to Allah and contribute to the betterment of society. In a world plagued by discord and inequality, the timeless teachings of Islam serve as a beacon of hope, inspiring believers to strive for a more compassionate and just world.