Benefits Of Charity in Muharram

Muharram, which marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar, is one of the four sacred months of Allah SWT. In the Quran, Allah SWT mentions four sacred months, and Muharram is one of them. The word Muharram is an Arabic word that means ‘forbidden’ or’sacred’.

In the Quran, Allah SWT said:

“Indeed, the number of months ordained by Allah is twelve, as recorded in the Book of Allah on the day He created the heavens and the earth. Among these, four are sacred. This is the correct and just faith.”

Muharram holds significant significance, as Prophet Muhammad PBUH tells us that the best month to fast after is the month of Muharram. He also called Muharram the month of Allah SWT.

The First 10 Days of Muharram

The first 10 days of Muharram are the most important ones. During these days, every Muslim tries to maximise their efforts to earn more rewards and spiritual benefits. Some of the most important deeds are as follows:

Fasting on the day of Ashura and the day before

Involve yourself in activities for social causes.

Increase acts of worship.

Spend more time in remembrance of Allah SWT.

Repent sincerely and give up all kinds of sins.

Spend quality time with your family.

Give charity in the name of Allah SWT.

Muharram, The Time Of Giving Charity

During this month, many people try to donate as much as they can. Many people give their yearly Zakat during this month. This practice of giving in the name of Allah is not limited to Shia Muslims. Sunni Muslims also participated in this act and maximised their charity giving during this month. It is generally believed that the rewards of good deeds are multiplied during this month, which is why every Muslim tries their best to spend in the way of Allah SWT.

With the help of the SKZ Foundation, you can donate your sadqa and zakat to help the poor and needy and earn endless rewards in this world and the hereafter.

Following The Sunnah

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasised the importance of performing good deeds during the month of Muharram. By giving charity, we, as Muslims, are following his example and trying to stick to his teachings by following his path.

Narrated Abu Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him): The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:

“Every day, two angels come down from heaven, and one of them says, ‘O Allah! Compensate every person who spends in Your cause,’ and the other (angel) says, ‘O Allah! Destroy every miser.'”

Forgiveness of sins

Charity is a way to wipe out one’s sins and brings us closer to Allah SWT. It is believed that acts of charity can help wipe away sins and bring the giver closer to Allah’s mercy and forgiveness.

Supporting The Needy

Charity helps in alleviating the suffering of the less fortunate and promoting social welfare and equity. This strengthens the bonds within the community and develops a spirit of brotherhood and compassion. Start by giving the charity to the deserving people who are closer to you. They have more rights than anyone else.

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:

“When you give charity, start with your own family. If any of them are poor, they have a greater right to be given charity.”

Cultivating Generosity

Consistently giving charity helps develop a generous and selfless personality. It encourages Muslims to think beyond their personal needs and contribute to the welfare of others.

Detachment From Materialism

By giving away part of their wealth, individuals learn to detach from material possessions and focus on spiritual growth and contentment.

Protection From Calamities

Many Islamic teachings suggest that charity acts as a shield against misfortunes and calamities. It is believed that Allah protects those who are generous and charitable from various forms of harm.

Abu Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him) narrates: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“Protect yourself from Hellfire even by giving a piece of money as charity.”

Barakah (Blessings)

Giving charity brings barakah into the giver’s life, which means an increase in blessings and prosperity in both worldly and spiritual aspects.

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:

“Charity does not decrease wealth. No one forgives another except that Allah increases his honour. And no one humbles himself for the sake of Allah except that Allah raises his status.”

Emotional Satisfaction

The act of helping others brings a deep sense of fulfilment and satisfaction. It enhances emotional well-being and provides a sense of purpose and meaning in life.