Ibadah / Acts of Worship

How to Remove Sins and Seek Forgiveness in Islam: A Step-by-Step Guide to Discharging Mazalim and Achieving True Repentance

In our journey through life, mistakes and sins are inevitable. We may slip up in our duties to Allah, harm ourselves by indulging in forbidden actions, or even wrong others. The beauty of Islam is that Allah’s door is always open for sincere repentance. But how do we truly expiate our past sins? How do we seek forgiveness for sins that we can’t quite categorize, or those that involve the rights of others? At Our Islamic Charity, we believe that understanding how to purify ourselves and return to Allah is essential for every believer. Let’s explore how you can take practical steps to cleanse your heart, remove sins, and become closer to Allah.

Category 1: Sins with Specific Atonements (Kaffarah)

In Islam, there are certain sins for which Allah and His Messenger have provided detailed guidance on how to atone. One such example is breaking the fast during Ramadan without a valid excuse. For this sin, Islam has outlined the concept of Kaffarah. Kaffarah acts as a prescribed expiation or compensation for the wrongdoing.

For example:

If someone intentionally breaks their fast during Ramadan, they are required to either fast for 60 consecutive days or, if unable to do so, to feed 60 poor people.

Kaffarah is a way for us to make amends, rectify our relationship with Allah, and continue striving for righteousness. This concept teaches us the importance of taking responsibility for our actions and following through with tangible steps that bring us closer to Allah’s mercy. If we fail to follow these prescribed actions, it means we haven’t fully rectified our mistake, and thus, may not fully benefit from Allah’s forgiveness.

Here you can read about the types of Kaffarah and, if necessary, pay your Kaffarah based on various cryptocurrencies(BTC, ETH, SOL, BNB …).

Category 2: Sins Against Ourselves (For example Drinking Alcohol or Wine)

Now, there’s a second category of sins where, although the act is Haram(forbidden), no specific Kaffarah is mentioned in Islamic texts. A prime example of this is drinking alcohol or wine. While alcohol consumption is a major sin in Islam, the path to atonement doesn’t involve a fixed Kaffarah but focuses on sincere repentance (Tawbah).

When we indulge in sins like these, we harm ourselves more than anyone else. Allah, in His infinite wisdom, has forbidden alcohol for its detrimental effects on our physical, spiritual, and mental well-being. The road to forgiveness for sins like these involves:

  • Immediate cessation: Stop the sin immediately and resolve never to return to it.
  • Sincere repentance: Tawbah requires that we:
    • Regret the action deeply.
    • Ask Allah for forgiveness with a clean and pure heart.
    • Resolve never to return to the sin.
  • Charity and Good Deeds: Giving in charity, helping the poor, and doing good deeds can wipe away sins. Charity in secret, feeding the poor, and supporting orphans are especially powerful.
  • Istighfar: Constantly asking Allah for forgiveness through saying “Astaghfirullah” (I seek forgiveness from Allah).

The beauty of Tawbah lies in the fact that no matter how many times we sin, if we repent sincerely, Allah promises to forgive us. He is Al-Ghaffar, the One who forgives repeatedly. This means that even if we’ve committed the sin of drinking alcohol multiple times, we should never despair of Allah’s mercy. The door to forgiveness is always open, and repentance is a powerful tool that wipes away our past transgressions.

Category 3: Addressing Wrongs Done to Others (Discharging Mazalim)

The third category of sins is perhaps the most challenging but also the most rewarding. These are the sins that involve wronging others (Mazalim).

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) has emphasized that when we violate the rights of others, whether it’s by lying, stealing, backbiting, or any other form of injustice, we must first seek to rectify the wrong with the person we have harmed before seeking forgiveness from Allah.

At Our Islamic Charity, we often encounter situations where people are unsure how to atone for the wrongs they’ve committed against others. This process, known as discharging Mazalim, involves a few key steps:

  • Acknowledge the wrong: Admitting our mistakes is the first step in rectifying them.
  • Seek forgiveness from the wronged party: It may be difficult, but asking for forgiveness from the person we’ve harmed is crucial. If they forgive us, we can rest assured that the sin has been lifted. If it’s impossible to make up for the wrongs directly, you can give charity on their behalf and pray for their well-being.
  • Compensate for any damage: If the wrong involves something tangible like money or property, we should return what we owe or offer compensation.
  • Sadaqah and Du’a: If it’s impossible to seek forgiveness directly, or the person is no longer available, we can give sadaqah on their behalf and make sincere Du’a for their well-being.

Sadaqah (charity) is a powerful means of cleansing sins in Islam. When we give Sadaqah, especially on behalf of those we have wronged, we hope that Allah will accept it as compensation and remove the burden of our sins. If you’re unsure about the exact compensation, donating generously to those in need, such as through Our Islamic Charity, is an excellent way to seek atonement.

Discharging Mazalim: How Much Should You Pay?

There’s no fixed amount of charity that one should give when discharging Mazalim. What matters most is the intention behind the act and the sincerity of your repentance. You should give according to your ability and make sure your heart is in the right place. Whether you give large amounts of crypto zakat or distribute food to the needy, what matters most is that you are actively working to purify your soul and atone for past mistakes.

At Our Islamic Charity, we encourage those seeking to rectify their past wrongs to contribute in meaningful ways that align with Islamic values. Whether it’s through providing for the Fuqara (needy) or sponsoring education for children, your charitable acts can become a means of removing your past sins.

The Power of Sincere Repentance

Every Muslim, at some point, will face the reality of sin. But the beauty of Islam is that no matter how far we stray, Allah’s mercy is always within reach. Through Kaffarah, Tawbah, and discharging Mazalim, we can purify our hearts and repair our relationship with both Allah and those around us. By giving in charity, feeding the poor, and seeking forgiveness from those we’ve wronged, we open the door to a fresh start—a new chapter where we live in accordance with Islamic teachings and with the hope of Allah’s infinite mercy.

Remember, no sin is too great to be forgiven, and no heart is too stained to be cleansed. At Our Islamic Charity, we are here to help guide you on your journey towards seeking Allah’s forgiveness. May Allah accept our repentance and allow us to walk the path of righteousness with sincerity and humility.

Let’s continue our mission to remove sins, distribute crypto donations, and give Sadaqah in ways that align with the noble principles of Islam.

Ibadah / Acts of WorshipKaffarahSadaqah

How Do I Ask Questions About Islam in a Language Other Than Arabic?

As-salamu alaikum, dear brothers and sisters.

At Our Islamic Charity, we are dedicated to not only helping the needy through acts of charity but also assisting those on their journey to better understand Islam. Whether you’re a revert to Islam or a Muslim who doesn’t speak Arabic, we know that deepening your knowledge about Islam can sometimes feel challenging. But don’t worry, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

In this article, we will explore various approaches to help you understand Islam better, no matter where you are in your spiritual journey.

Understanding Islam Without Knowing Arabic

Many new Muslims or those whose native language is not Arabic may find it difficult to access the vast knowledge Islam has to offer. But you don’t have to feel overwhelmed or stuck. With the right approach and tools, you can gain a deeper understanding of Islam and come closer to Allah.

Let’s break it down step by step:

1. Begin with Basic Definitions

One of the first hurdles for new Muslims is understanding Islamic terminology. It’s normal to feel lost when you come across unfamiliar words like “Salah,” “Zakat,” or “Fard“. But here’s a simple solution: leverage platforms like Wikipedia and YouTube to familiarize yourself with these terms.

There are official channels that explain Islamic concepts in simple, easy-to-understand ways, available in many languages. For instance, searching for “What is Salah in Islam?” on YouTube will yield countless videos explaining the practice in detail. This can be a powerful starting point for anyone trying to build a solid foundation in their understanding of the religion. You can visit the YouTube channel of Islamic charity, which is about Islamic laws and Sharia payments.

2. Ask Questions in Your Own Language

Don’t be afraid to ask questions in your native language. Whether it’s English, French, Urdu, or any other language, start by asking questions in the language you’re most comfortable with. Use translators to convert your questions into Arabic or other languages, and search for answers across various platforms. Many Islamic scholars and online communities are available to answer in multiple languages.

By doing this, you can make sure you’re understanding Islam through a lens that makes sense to you, rather than struggling through a language barrier.

3. Study the Quran in Translation

The Quran is the ultimate source of knowledge in Islam. While learning Arabic is a beautiful goal, you don’t have to wait to read the Quran until you’re fluent. There are translations of the Quran in almost every major language, and reading these will help you understand its teachings more clearly.

Start by reading a translation in your language. Then, if you’re eager to dive deeper, you can compare different translations to grasp subtle meanings. This will significantly improve your understanding of Islam’s core values.

4. Learn Through Practice

Once you’ve developed some understanding of Islamic terminology and teachings, you’ll find that your knowledge and vocabulary will improve naturally through practice. By consistently asking questions, reading the Quran, and engaging with Islamic content, you will become more confident in your ability to understand the faith. The more you practice, the more familiar you’ll become with the nuances of Islamic thought.

5. Seek Guidance and Avoid Misguidance

It’s important to be mindful that not all sources of information are reliable. In today’s digital age, misinformation is widespread, and sometimes people—knowingly or unknowingly—mislead others about Islam. Always cross-check the information with trusted scholars or reliable Islamic institutions.

At Our Islamic Charity, we have access to many scholars who can help answer your religious questions. Never hesitate to reach out to us if you need guidance. The road to knowledge can be challenging, but it’s important to stay grounded and always seek the truth.

The Spiritual and Charitable Duty of Muslims

At Our Islamic Charity, we believe that our duty as Muslims extends beyond just financial support. Our mission is rooted in spiritual care as well. As Muslims, we not only care about the worldly needs of our brothers and sisters but also about their spiritual growth.

Allah commands us to help each other, not only with money or food but with knowledge that leads us closer to Him. When we help others understand the Quran and the teachings of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), we are fulfilling a higher purpose. The knowledge we spread today can guide someone on the straight path and help them achieve eternal happiness in the hereafter.

A Path of Continuous Growth

In conclusion, understanding Islam without knowing Arabic is entirely possible and rewarding. Whether you are a new Muslim or simply someone looking to deepen their knowledge, know that your journey is part of your connection to Allah. With patience, sincerity, and the right resources, you can grow in both your worldly understanding and spiritual connection.

We, as a team at Our Islamic Charity, are committed to helping you along this journey. Whether you need help understanding the Quran, clarifying Islamic rulings, or navigating life as a Muslim, we are here for you. Together, with the help of Allah, we can continue to strengthen our faith and help those in need, spiritually and financially.

May Allah bless you and guide you on your path of learning and charity. Let’s continue our work together, helping not only the Fuqara but also every soul seeking to know Allah better.

This is just the beginning of how you can expand your understanding of Islam. Remember, it’s a journey of constant learning. If you ever feel lost, reach out. We are in this together. May Allah be pleased with all of us.

Ibadah / Acts of WorshipReligion

Tahajjud Salah: A Path to Closeness with Allah, Not a Guarantee for Worldly Desires

As Muslims, we seek to build a strong connection with Allah through our prayers, salah, and acts of worship. One of the most beloved and profound practices is the Tahajjud prayer, a nightly prayer that holds immense spiritual significance. It’s during the quiet moments of the night, when the world is asleep, that we find a unique opportunity to communicate directly with our Creator. However, it’s essential to approach Tahajjud with the right mindset, understanding its true purpose and impact on our lives. Read the definition of Tahjud prayer from Wikipedia here.

The Beauty and Power of Tahajjud

The Tahajjud prayer is a gift from Allah that allows us to seek His guidance, forgiveness, and blessings. It is a time when the veil between the servant and the Creator feels the thinnest, and Duas (supplications) made during this period hold special merit. Waking up for Tahajjud requires dedication, self-discipline, and sincerity, as it is an act of devotion that goes beyond the obligatory prayers.

It’s a time when we can pour our hearts out to Allah, ask for His mercy, and seek solutions to our problems. Many of us have heard stories of how people’s Duas were answered during Tahajjud. These stories inspire hope and drive us to seek similar outcomes. While it’s true that Duas made during Tahajjud can be powerful, we must remember that Tahajjud is not a guarantee to receive exactly what we want in life. Nowhere in the Quran or Hadith does it say that Tahajjud will automatically lead to the fulfillment of our specific desires.

Allah Answers in the Best Way

One of the most important lessons we need to learn as Muslims is that Allah’s wisdom is beyond our comprehension. He knows what is best for us, and sometimes, what we ask for may not align with what is best for our well-being, both in this life and the hereafter. This understanding is crucial when we make Duas during Tahajjud.

Approaching Tahajjud with the mindset that “Allah will answer my Dua in the way that is best for me” helps to cultivate patience and contentment in the hearts of the believers. It is a sign of trust in Allah’s plan and His infinite knowledge. Sometimes, we might not get what we ask for, and it’s easy to feel discouraged. But we must remember that Allah always answers, even if it’s not in the way we expect.

If Allah, in His wisdom, decides that what we are asking for is not beneficial for us, He might delay the response, grant us something better, or keep us protected from something harmful. Our limited perspective might not allow us to see this, but Allah’s knowledge encompasses everything.

Embrace Patience and Trust in Allah

When we approach Tahajjud with the belief that it is a means to get what we desire in this world, it sets us up for potential disappointment. It’s not uncommon to feel frustration or discouragement when our Duas are not answered in the way we hope. Some may even feel a sense of detachment or frustration towards Allah, questioning why their prayers weren’t granted.

To prevent this, we need to shift our mindset. Instead of viewing Tahajjud as a transactional act where we ask and immediately receive, we should focus on the spiritual closeness we develop with Allah during these sacred moments. Tahajjud is not about guaranteeing outcomes but about surrendering to Allah’s will and trusting that He knows what’s best.

This mindset will, InshaAllah, help us to remain steadfast in our worship, even if our prayers aren’t answered in the way we expected. It will foster a deep sense of peace, patience, and reliance on Allah, knowing that His plan is perfect, even when it doesn’t align with our immediate desires.

Never Stop Making Dua

Just because Allah may not answer your Dua exactly as you wanted doesn’t mean you should stop asking. In fact, the act of making Dua itself is an acknowledgment of your faith and trust in Allah. Keep asking, and never lose hope. We should continue to ask Allah for what we desire, but with the understanding that His response might come in different forms.

If your Dua is answered exactly how you wanted, say Alhamdulillah. It is a beautiful gift, and we should be grateful for it. But if it’s not, don’t feel disheartened. Know that Allah is protecting you from something that may not be good for you or that He has something better planned for you.

We often don’t realize how what we ask for could negatively impact our lives. Perhaps fulfilling a specific Dua might lead to unforeseen harm or distract us from our faith. Allah knows this, and that’s why He might choose not to grant that particular request.

Trusting Allah’s Plan: A Path to Inner Peace

At “Our Islamic Charity,” we encourage everyone to trust in Allah’s wisdom. When we embrace the mindset that Allah’s plan is better than our own, it brings a deep sense of peace and satisfaction into our lives. It allows us to remain hopeful, patient, and positive, even when things don’t go as planned.

As Muslims, we are encouraged to be persistent in our Duas and to never give up hope in Allah’s mercy. However, we must always keep in mind that the answers to our prayers come in the form that Allah sees best, not necessarily in the form we expect.

This shift in perspective can help us avoid the frustration and negativity that often arise when we don’t get what we ask for. Instead, it can lead us to a deeper connection with Allah, rooted in trust, faith, and patience. So, continue to wake up for Tahajjud, make your Duas, and place your trust in Allah, knowing that He will answer in the best possible way.

Conclusion: A Heart Aligned with Divine Will

Tahajjud Salah is a profound act of worship that brings us closer to Allah. It’s an opportunity to seek His forgiveness, make Duas, and strengthen our connection with Him. However, we must approach this beautiful prayer with the right mindset. It’s not about receiving exactly what we want but about submitting to Allah’s will and trusting in His divine wisdom.

At “Our Islamic Charity,” we encourage everyone to continue making Duas during Tahajjud, but with a heart full of patience, faith, and trust. If you have any questions about Islamic and Sharia laws or Sharia payments, you can ask us.

Know that Allah hears every supplication, and He will respond in the way that is best for you.

Ibadah / Acts of WorshipReligion

Who Are the Fuqara(The Poor)? Understanding the Beneficiaries of Crypto Zakat

As believers, we are constantly seeking ways to fulfill our religious obligations while making a tangible difference in the lives of others. One of the key obligations for Muslims is zakat, a form of almsgiving that is considered a pillar of Islam. But have you ever wondered who the real beneficiaries of zakat are, specifically the “Fuqara”? In this article, we dive deep into understanding who the Fuqara are, how they are different from other categories like the Masakin, and why it’s so crucial for us to direct our charity—whether through traditional means or crypto donations—towards them.

The Quran’s Definition of Fuqara

The term “Fuqara” has its roots in the Arabic word “Faqr,” meaning poverty or need. In the context of Islamic jurisprudence, the Fuqara are the poor who are in need of financial support to fulfill their basic necessities but cannot meet them through their own efforts. According to Islamic law, these are individuals whose income or resources are insufficient to cover their needs. As Muslims, it’s our duty to ensure they are supported through zakat and charity, especially when we have the means to do so.

In the Quran, Allah specifically outlines eight categories of people eligible for zakat, one of which is the Fuqara. The verse states:

“Zakah expenditures are only for the poor (Fuqara) and for the needy (Masakin) and for those employed to collect [zakah] and for bringing hearts together [for Islam] and for freeing captives [or slaves] and for those in debt and for the cause of Allah and for the [stranded] traveler – an obligation [imposed] by Allah. And Allah is Knowing and Wise.” (Quran 9:60)

This clear directive from Allah provides a framework for us as Muslims, ensuring that zakat is distributed justly and reaches those who need it the most.

The Difference Between Fuqara and Masakin

While the terms Fuqara and Masakin are often used interchangeably, there is a subtle but important distinction between them. The Fuqara are those who have nothing or very little to meet their basic needs. They are entirely reliant on external help, like zakat, to survive.

On the other hand, the Masakin are slightly better off but still fall below the threshold of financial sufficiency. They might have some income, but it is not enough to fulfill all their needs. Essentially, the Masakin have something, but not enough.

This differentiation is essential for us to understand because it helps us distribute zakat appropriately, ensuring that both groups receive the support they need while acknowledging the degrees of poverty they experience.

Why Crypto Zakat for Fuqara Matters

In today’s digital age, cryptocurrency has emerged as a new and powerful tool for giving charity. By donating crypto zakat, we have the potential to revolutionize how we assist the Fuqara, reaching them faster and more efficiently than ever before. Crypto donations allow for direct, transparent, and borderless transactions, ensuring that zakat reaches those who need it the most, especially in regions where traditional banking systems may not function optimally.

At Our Islamic Charity, a significant portion of our crypto zakat is directed towards helping the Fuqara. Whether it’s in the form of food distribution, medical aid, or financial assistance, we are committed to ensuring that your zakat is spent exactly as outlined in the Quran. We work closely with religious scholars and imams, who supervise the proper allocation of funds according to Islamic teachings. This allows us to maintain the integrity and trustworthiness of our charity, ensuring that your zakat is used in the most effective way possible.

How We Help the Fuqara

Our Islamic Charity has established a variety of programs aimed at alleviating the suffering of the Fuqara. One of our primary initiatives is the daily distribution of hot meals to the poor and needy in the Middle East, Mediterranean region, and Central Africa. These meals provide not just sustenance but also a sense of dignity to those who receive them.

In addition to food distribution, we support the Fuqara by providing access to clean water, medical supplies, and education. Through our zakat initiatives, we empower individuals to improve their situations and break the cycle of poverty. For those who wish to donate, crypto zakat offers a seamless and innovative way to contribute to these causes, ensuring your zakat reaches the Fuqara efficiently and effectively.

Fulfill Your Zakat Obligation with Us

If you’re looking to fulfill your zakat obligation, especially through crypto donations, we invite you to partner with Our Islamic Charity. Our mission is to follow the guidance of Allah and His Messenger (PBUH) by helping the most vulnerable members of society, including the Fuqara. By trusting us with your zakat, you can rest assured that it will be distributed according to the Quranic guidelines and Islamic laws.

If you have calculated your Zakat amount, you can pay Crypto Zakat from here.

If you want to calculate your zakat including your cryptocurrency assets, click here.

Together, we can make a lasting impact. Whether through traditional means or by embracing the future with crypto zakat, let us join hands in serving those who need it the most, for the sake of Allah.

Food and NutritionIbadah / Acts of WorshipReligionWhat We DoZakat

Understanding the Lebanon Crisis and How You Can Help

As we witness the unfolding crisis in Beirut, Lebanon, our hearts ache for the countless families caught in the turmoil. The escalating conflicts, which have now reached the heart of the city, have transformed lives overnight. You might wonder, how can we, as a united community through “Our Islamic Charity,” make a difference in this desperate situation? Let’s delve into what’s happening and how we can take action together.

The Current Situation: A City in Crisis

At the beginning of October 2024, we saw conflict flare up in southern Lebanon, and it didn’t take long for the repercussions to ripple into Beirut. Streets that once echoed with laughter now resonate with the cries of the displaced. Homes lie in ruins, and the daily reports of injuries and displacements paint a grim picture. Our presence here is crucial. We are not just observers; we are active participants in alleviating the suffering of those around us.

Children and women bear the brunt of this crisis. Imagine the fear in a child’s eyes as they navigate a city transformed into a battleground. Women, often the backbone of families, find themselves in precarious situations, struggling to provide safety and sustenance. The stories we hear are heartbreaking, and they compel us to act.

The Urgent Need for Humanitarian Aid

Our efforts at “Our Islamic Charity” are focused on addressing immediate needs. We have taken steps to temporarily settle displaced families in northern cities. However, the challenge is immense. We face an overwhelming shortage of essential supplies, particularly tents, blankets, and warm clothing. The nights are growing colder, and without adequate shelter, the most vulnerable among us suffer the most. You can donate crypto for winter clothes and tents here.

In our ongoing mission, we have coordinated the transfer of vital resources from warehouses in Syria. The urgency of this task cannot be overstated. Every hour matters, and each tent can mean a safe space for a family to rest. We invite you to join us in this mission. Together, we can ensure that no one has to sleep on the cold streets, shivering in fear and uncertainty.

How You Can Make a Difference

While the situation is dire, there is hope. You have the power to make a meaningful impact. Whether through donations or spreading the word about our initiatives, your involvement can change lives. Our charitable organization embraces the use of innovative methods like crypto donations, making it easier for you to contribute from anywhere in the world. This modern approach to giving not only ensures that your support reaches those in need swiftly but also helps us maximize our resources. You can donate crypto for the people of Lebanon and the Lebanese crisis here.

Imagine a child in Beirut receiving a warm blanket or a meal because of your generosity. Picture a mother finding solace in knowing her family has a roof over their heads, even if just for a night. Each contribution, no matter the size, can create ripples of change that uplift entire communities.

Relief to Lebanese Muslims: A Call to Action

As we stand in solidarity with the people of Beirut, let’s remember that every act of kindness counts. We urge you to join us in this humanitarian effort. Share our message, talk to your friends, and consider donating through our crypto aid platform. The resilience of the Lebanese people is inspiring, but they need our help now more than ever.

In conclusion, as we navigate these challenging times together, let’s commit to making a difference. With your support, we can provide hope and relief to those who need it most. Our Islamic Charity stands ready to serve, and together, we can help rebuild lives and restore dignity in Beirut.

Let’s take action and be the change we wish to see in the world.

Humanitarian AidIbadah / Acts of WorshipReportWhat We Do