Islamic scholar (or Imam/Muazzin/caretaker of a Masjid) this month?” This virtuous action is also considered charity. If we begin filling in the 72 Pious Deeds booklet, we will find ourselves developing the habit of performing many good deeds, slowly but surely.

Dear Islamic brothers! When giving charity, take special care to see who you are giving it to. Unfortunately, nowadays it has become very difficult to find deserving and needy people in our society, because many financially stable people pretend to be poor and ask for charity. We should be extremely careful in this matter. Charity should only be given to the truly needy, or those who are incapable of working. Professional beggars should not be given at any cost. If we do so, we may have sin written in our book of deeds instead of good deeds.

In summary, the Imām of the Ahl al-Sunnah, Imām Aḥmad Razā Khān رَحْمَةُ الـلّٰـهِ عَلَيْه said, “It bears no reward to give charity to someone who is not allowed to ask for it. This is impermissible, sinful and an act which aids in committing sin.” ^[1]

The Messenger of Allah صَلَّى الـلّٰـهُ عَلَيْهِ وَاٰلِهٖ وَسَلَّم said:

He who asks from others despite not facing starvation, nor does he have family to the extent that he cannot cater for them, will come forth on the Day of Judgement with no flesh on his face. ^[2]

Before giving zakat or charity, please do consider all of this carefully. Alongside donating to the poor, destitute, orphaned, and needy individuals, ensure to also donate towards causes that benefit Islam. This can include the building of masjids and madrassahs, as well as maintaining them.