Ramadan and Charity - What is The Special Connection?

In Islam, both fasting in Ramadan and giving in charity (Zakah) is obligatory upon Muslims who are able to do so. As rewards are multiplied in Ramadan, it is natural that most Muslims give to charity in the fasting month.

In Ramadan, Muslims become even more charitable and spend out of what Allah has given at this time than at any other time of the year. Many Muslims prefer to give the compulsory charity Zakah during this time as well as extra voluntary donations to good causes at home and abroad.

Charity is an important part of the Islamic faith, and it is closely connected to the observance of Ramadan. During this month, Muslims are encouraged to increase their charitable giving and to perform good deeds for the benefit of others.

In Islam, charity is known as “sadaqah,” and it is one of the five pillars of the faith, along with the declaration of faith, prayer, fasting, and pilgrimage. Muslims are required to give a portion of their wealth to those in need, and this is especially emphasized during Ramadan.

The act of giving charity during Ramadan is believed to be particularly rewarding, as it is seen as a way to purify one’s wealth and to earn blessings from Allah. It is also a way to express gratitude for the blessings that one has received, and to share those blessings with others who are less fortunate.

There are many ways to give charity during Ramadan, including donating money to a charity or a mosque, volunteering at a local soup kitchen or homeless shelter, or performing acts of kindness for friends and neighbors. Many Muslims also choose to perform “zakat,” which is a specific form of charity that involves giving a portion of one’s wealth to those in need.

Overall, the connection between Ramadan and charity is a strong one, and it reflects the importance of giving back to others and supporting those in need. Through acts of charity and kindness, Muslims are able to strengthen their faith, build connections with their communities, and make a positive impact on the world around them.

Zakah

Many Muslims plan to give their Zakah in Ramadan because of the rewards being multiplied many fold. As the Zakah is due at the same time every year from when it’s started, Muslims make this month their giving period. It is also during Ramadan that many charities raise awareness of projects they are undertaking around the world so the opportunity to give to varied causes becomes widely available.

The Quran teaches that the wealth you have is given by Allah who has provided a means for you to acquire it. He has made some people wealthy and the test for them is whether they give the poor their rights. That’s why Zakah is also known as the poor-due.

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Zakat ul Fitr

Zakah can be given any time of year but there is a charitable contribution required especially in Ramadan, called the Zakat ul Fitr. This is where every adult Muslim who possesses food surplus to their immediate needs must pay an amount for each member of their household, either in food or its equivalent in money, to those who would normally be eligible for Zakat i.e. the poor and needy. This amount must be paid before the Eid-ul-Fitr prayer, this way everyone can enjoy this happy occasion.

Other types of Ramadan charity

Fidyah

Fidyah is a form of compensation paid by those who are, amongst some other things, unable to fast in Ramadan, due to illness or old age, etc. An amount of food or its equivalent in money is given to those who are eligible to receive it.

Kaffarah

Kaffarah is also paid as a compulsory compensation when a Muslim who is obliged to fast intentionally breaks the fast or skips it entirely. Just like Zakat ul Fitr and Fidyah, it can only go to those in need.

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The verses explain how the reward for giving in charity, both secretly and openly, is multiplied. In addition, you are forgiven for your sins and you will find ease after going through any hardship. Giving in charity is also a means to purify yourself spiritually.

Quran verses about charity

‘Those who spend their wealth [in Allah’s way] by night and by day, secretly and publicly – they will have their reward with their Lord. And no fear will there be concerning them, nor will they grieve.’
Surah Al Baqarah 2:274