Religion

Unveiling Generosity: The Islamic Tradition of Hibah

The Qur’an, a radiant guide for Muslims, emphasizes compassion and generosity. It reminds us that true fulfillment comes not just from acquiring wealth, but from sharing it with those in need. One beautiful expression of this principle is Hibah, a voluntary gift offered during one’s lifetime with no expectation of return.

The Wellspring of Generosity: Unveiling the Meaning of Hibah

The word “Hibah” stems from the Arabic term “Hiba,” which translates to “gift” or “offering.” It signifies a selfless act, extending oneself for the benefit of another. This concept isn’t merely a cultural custom; it’s a deeply woven Islamic practice encouraged throughout the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Quranic Verses: Unveiling the Power of Giving

While the Qur’an doesn’t directly use the word “Hiba” for gifts, it overflows with verses that inspire charitable giving in its many forms. In Surah Al-Baqarah (verse 177), Allah (SWT) reminds us:

“And those who give away what they love for kinship, orphans, the needy, the traveler, those who ask [for help], and for freeing slaves. And they establish prayer and give zakat.”

This verse beautifully captures the essence of Hibah. It highlights giving to loved ones, those less fortunate, and those struggling. It emphasizes that charity can encompass not just material possessions but acts of kindness and support.

Hadiths: Illuminating the Path of Generosity

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) embodied the spirit of generosity throughout his life. He not only encouraged his followers to give but also actively participated in acts of Hibah himself. Here’s a powerful Hadith that exemplifies this:

“The best of wealth is that which is given away in charity.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)

This Hadith underscores the importance of Hibah. It emphasizes that true wealth lies not in hoarding possessions but in using them to benefit others and seeking Allah’s (SWT) pleasure.

Beyond Material Possessions: The Encompassing Nature of Hibah

Hibah is not restricted to material possessions. It can encompass a vast array of acts of kindness and support. You can offer your time, expertise, or simply a listening ear. A heartfelt visit to a lonely neighbor or volunteering at a local food bank can be powerful forms of Hibah.

The Power of Hibah: Leaving an Enduring Legacy

Giving through Hibah allows you to witness the impact of your generosity firsthand. It fosters a sense of connection, strengthens social bonds, and leaves an enduring legacy. It sets a powerful example for future generations, inspiring them to embrace the Islamic tradition of giving.

Our Invitation: Share the Light of Generosity

Our Islamic charity is dedicated to upholding the values of compassion and generosity. We invite you to explore the many ways you can share the light of generosity with others. Whether it’s through a financial contribution, volunteering your time, or simply spreading awareness about the importance of Hibah, every act of giving has the potential to make a significant difference. You can use the link to donate and participate in many of our kindness projects.

Together, let’s cultivate a spirit of giving that reflects the spirit of Islam and brings light to the lives of those in need.

Ibadah / Acts of WorshipReligion

Power of Giving: Anonymous Donations in Islam and Cryptocurrency

In the Islamic tradition, giving to charity is considered a fundamental pillar of faith, an act of worship (ibadah) that brings countless blessings to the giver and the receiver(Read the definition of ibadah here.). Muslims are encouraged to be generous and kind towards others, helping those in need selflessly and with pure intentions. However, navigating the balance between fulfilling this religious obligation and avoiding worldly desires like pride or social recognition can sometimes be a challenge.

This is where the concept of anonymous donations comes into play. The anonymity offered by cryptocurrency donations can be a powerful tool for Muslims seeking to fulfill their ibadah with utmost sincerity. Let’s delve deeper into the Islamic perspective on charitable giving and explore how anonymous crypto donations can be a force for good.

The Importance of Charity in Islam

Islam emphasizes the importance of helping those less fortunate. The Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) are replete with verses and hadiths that extol the virtues of charity (sadaqah) and urge Muslims to give generously from their wealth.

One of the most important obligatory charities in Islam is Zakat, a yearly alms tax levied on a Muslim’s wealth. Zakat is meant to be distributed among the poor and needy, purifying one’s wealth and fulfilling a religious duty. However, charity extends far beyond Zakat. Muslims are encouraged to give additional voluntary donations (sadaqah) throughout the year to various causes they believe in.

The Power of Donating Anonymously

While public recognition for charitable acts can be gratifying, the core principle behind Islamic giving lies in sincerity and the pursuit of Allah’s pleasure. The Quran reminds us:

“If you disclose your charitable expenditures, they are good; but if you conceal them and give them to the poor, it is better for you, and He will remove from you some of your misdeeds [thereby]. And Allah , with what you do, is [fully] Acquainted.” (Quran 2:271)

This verse underscores the importance of giving without seeking worldly rewards or recognition. Anonymous donations ensure that the focus remains solely on fulfilling one’s religious duty and helping those in need.

There are several benefits to anonymous giving in Islam:

  • Combats Hypocrisy: Donating anonymously helps to eliminate the risk of falling into hypocrisy (riya), where one gives charity to be seen or praised by others.
  • Purifies Intentions: By removing the element of social recognition, anonymous donations allow the giver to focus solely on their intentions and seek Allah’s reward.
  • Protects the Recipient’s Dignity: In some cases, public recognition of charity can unintentionally undermine the dignity of the recipient. Anonymous giving ensures that aid is received with respect and privacy.

The Rise of Anonymous Crypto Donations

The emergence of cryptocurrency has opened new avenues for anonymous charitable giving. Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin offer a decentralized and secure way to transfer funds without revealing the identities of the sender or receiver. In 2008, Bitcoin, the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, emerged under the creation of Satoshi Nakamoto, a figure whose true identity remains anonymous to this day. This anonymity was a core design principle of Bitcoin, built on the idea of decentralized and secure online transactions without the need for revealing identities.

This aligns perfectly with the Islamic principle of anonymous charity, allowing donors to fulfill their ibadah with greater ease and privacy. Our Islamic charity recognizes the growing popularity of crypto donations and embraces this innovative approach to giving. We have established secure and legal methods for accepting anonymous cryptocurrency donations, adhering to the guidance laid out by Islamic scholars.

One of the simplest methods that we have presented, which has a very high level of security for you, is the wallet-to-wallet method. You copy the address of your favorite cryptocurrency from here and you can make your donation as a simple transaction to our wallet address. Of course, this is for donors who wish to remain anonymous, otherwise you can enter your full personal details.

Conclusion

Giving anonymously(Donating anonymously) in Islam is a powerful way to purify one’s intentions and fulfill the ibadah of charity with utmost sincerity. The anonymity offered by cryptocurrency donations provides Muslims with a valuable tool to strengthen their faith and contribute to worthy causes. By embracing this approach, we can ensure that our charitable acts are driven by a genuine desire to help others and seek Allah’s pleasure.

Join us in making a difference! Explore our website to learn more about how you can leverage the power of anonymous crypto donations to support our vital charitable work.

CryptocurrencyIbadah / Acts of WorshipReligionWhat We Do

Living a good life isn’t just about following rules, it’s about cultivating a generous heart. Islamic ethics, rooted in the Quran and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), provide a beautiful framework for this. Let’s explore some key principles that guide us towards kindness, good manners, and openness in our daily interactions.

Kindness: A Reflection of God’s Mercy

The Quran emphasizes compassion and generosity as core qualities of a believer. Surah Ar-Rahman (The Most Merciful) reminds us that God’s mercy encompasses all creation. By reflecting this kindness in our own actions, we become vessels of positive change in the world.

Imagine encountering someone having a difficult day. A simple smile, a helping hand, or a listening ear can make a world of difference. The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Kindness is a mark of faith, and its absence is a mark of hypocrisy” (Sahih Muslim). Kindness isn’t limited to humans either. Treating animals with respect and care is also an aspect of good character.

Good Manners: The Art of Living Together

Respectful interactions are the cornerstone of a strong community. Islamic teachings provide guidance on good manners, known as “adab” in Arabic. This encompasses everything from using polite greetings to respecting personal space, avoiding gossip, and fulfilling promises.

Think about the positive impact our words can have. The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Let your speech be good, and you will be loved” (Tirmidhi). By choosing our words carefully and avoiding harsh language, we create a more positive atmosphere for everyone.

Open-Mindedness: Embracing Differences

Islam encourages openness to diverse perspectives. The Quran itself acknowledges the existence of different communities and ways of life (Surah Al-Hujurat). This doesn’t mean compromising our own beliefs, but rather fostering understanding and respectful dialogue.

Imagine encountering someone with a different viewpoint. Listen actively, seek common ground, and focus on respectful communication. The Prophet (PBUH) said, “The believer who mixes with people and endures their annoyance is better than the believer who does not mix with people and does not endure their annoyance” (Sahih Bukhari).

A Smile: The Universal Language of Kindness

A smile is a powerful tool for fostering connection. The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Smiling to your brother (or sister) in faith is an act of charity” (Tirmidhi). A genuine smile can disarm tension, create a welcoming atmosphere, and even brighten someone’s day.

Living These Principles: Every Day, Every Interaction

These Islamic ethical principles are not just grand ideals; they are meant to be practiced in our daily lives. Whether it’s showing patience in a crowded marketplace, offering sincere condolences to a grieving friend, or simply volunteering our time to help others – every act of kindness contributes to a more positive and compassionate world.

Our Islamic Charity: Joining Hands in Generosity

As part of Our Islamic Charity, we believe in fostering these ethical values. Join us in making a difference, one kind act at a time.

Ibadah / Acts of WorshipQuranReligion

Fidya is a term that means compensation or ransom in Arabic. It is a form of charity that a Muslim pays when they miss or break a fast in Ramadan without a valid reason. Fidya is a way of making up for the missed fast and fulfilling the religious obligation of fasting.

Fasting in Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam, which are the basic acts of worship that every Muslim should perform. Fasting in Ramadan means abstaining from food, drink, and sexual activity from dawn to sunset for 29 or 30 days. Fasting in Ramadan has many benefits, such as:

  • Strengthening one’s faith and devotion to Allah (SWT)
  • Developing self-control and discipline
  • Purifying one’s body and soul
  • Experiencing hunger and thirst and empathizing with the poor and needy
  • Seeking forgiveness and mercy from Allah (SWT)
  • Increasing one’s good deeds and rewards

However, not everyone can fast in Ramadan due to various reasons, such as:

  • Illness or injury that prevents one from fasting or makes fasting harmful
  • Old age or weakness that makes fasting difficult or impossible
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding that requires one to nourish oneself and the baby
  • Traveling or working in conditions that make fasting impractical or unbearable
  • Menstruation or postnatal bleeding that exempts one from fasting

In these cases, Allah (SWT) has given some concessions and alternatives to fasting, such as:

  • Making up the missed fasts later when one is able to do so
  • Paying fidya for each missed fast if one cannot make up the fasts later
  • Paying kaffarah for each broken fast if one deliberately breaks a fast without a valid reason

In this article, we will focus on fidya, which is the compensation for missed fasts that cannot be made up later. We will explain what fidya is, why it is important, how much it is, how to pay it, and who can receive it.

What is fidya?

Fidya is a form of sadaqah(charity) that a Muslim pays to feed a poor person for every day of fasting that they miss and cannot make up later. Fidya is an option for those who are unable to fast due to illness, old age, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or any other reason that prevents them from making up the fasts later. Fidya is mentioned in the Quran as follows:

“Fasting is for a fixed number of days, and if one of you be sick, or if one of you be on a journey, you will fast the same number of other days later on. For those who are capable of fasting (but still do not fast) there is a redemption: feeding a needy man for each day missed. Whoever voluntarily does more good than is required, will find it better for him; and that you should fast is better for you, if you only know.” (Quran 2:184)

Fidya is not only a way of compensating for the missed fasts, but also a way of expressing gratitude to Allah (SWT) for His blessings and mercy, and seeking His forgiveness and acceptance.

Why is fidya important?

Fidya is important because it helps one to fulfill their religious duty of fasting in Ramadan, even if they cannot fast physically. Fidya also helps one to share their wealth and generosity with the poor and needy, who are more deserving of it. Fidya also helps one to earn rewards and blessings from Allah (SWT), who loves those who give charity.

How much is fidya?

The amount of fidya varies according to the local cost of living and the average meal price. However, it is usually around $5 per missed fast in the Europe and US. This amount should provide one person with two meals or two people with one meal. However, if someone misses all the fasts of Ramadan, they would need to pay $150.

How to pay fidya?

Fidya can be paid in the form of food or money, depending on the situation and the availability of resources. Fidya can be paid before or during Ramadan, but preferably before Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan. Fidya can be paid online through various Islamic charity websites or offline through local mosques or Islamic organizations. You can also make the payment here.

Who can receive fidya?

Fidya is to be given only to the poor and needy, not to everyone. Scholars consider fidya to be like zakat, which is another form of obligatory charity that every Muslim pays annually. Therefore, those who are entitled to receive fidya are regarded as being among those who are entitled to receive zakat. These include:

  • The poor, who do not have enough income or assets to meet their basic needs
  • The needy, who have some income or assets, but not enough to meet their essential needs
  • The debtors, who are in debt and cannot pay it off
  • The wayfarers, who are travelers or refugees who are stranded or in need of assistance
  • The converts, who are new to Islam and need support and guidance
  • The workers, who are employed to collect and distribute fidya or zakat
  • The cause of Allah (SWT), which includes any righteous or charitable cause that benefits the Muslim community or humanity at large
  • The captives, who are prisoners of war or enslaved and need ransom or liberation

We hope this article has helped you understand what fidya is and how to pay it. Fidya is a great way of fulfilling your religious obligation of fasting in Ramadan, even if you cannot fast physically. Fidya is also a great way of helping the poor and needy, who are more deserving of your charity. Fidya is also a great way of earning rewards and blessings from Allah (SWT), who loves those who give charity.

May Allah (SWT) accept your fidya and your fasting, and grant you a blessed and peaceful Ramadan. Ameen.

Ibadah / Acts of WorshipReligion

Qurbani and Aqiqah are two important Islamic rituals that involve the sacrifice of animals for the sake of Allah (SWT). Both of them have many benefits and rewards for the Muslims who perform them and the people who receive them. However, they also have some differences and similarities that you should know. In this article, we will explain what Qurbani and Aqiqah are, why they are performed, how they are performed, and what are their differences and similarities.

What is Qurbani?

Qurbani is the act of sacrificing an animal during the days of Eid al-Adha, which is the 10th, 11th, or 12th of Dhul-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar. Qurbani is an obligatory duty for every Muslim who has reached puberty and has enough wealth to afford it. Qurbani is a way of following the example of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) who was willing to sacrifice his son Ismail (AS) for the sake of Allah (SWT), but Allah (SWT) replaced him with a ram. Qurbani is also a way of expressing gratitude to Allah (SWT) for His blessings and mercy.

What is Aqiqah?

Aqiqah is the act of sacrificing an animal on the occasion of a child’s birth. It is a recommended sunnah for every Muslim who can afford it. Aqiqah should be performed on the seventh day after the birth of the child, or as soon as possible after that. Aqiqah is a way of celebrating the birth of a child and giving thanks to Allah (SWT) for His gift. Aqiqah is also a way of protecting the child from harm and evil.

Why Perform Qurbani and Aqiqah?

Qurbani and Aqiqah have many benefits and rewards for both the performers and the recipients. Here are some of them:

  • Qurbani and Aqiqah are acts of worship that bring one closer to Allah (SWT) and earn His pleasure and forgiveness.
  • Qurbani and Aqiqah are acts of charity that help feed the poor and needy and share the joy with them.
  • Qurbani and Aqiqah are acts of obedience that follow the sunnah of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and show love and devotion to them.
  • Qurbani and Aqiqah are acts of purification that cleanse one from sins and faults.
  • Qurbani and Aqiqah are acts of solidarity that strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and unity among Muslims.

How to Perform Qurbani and Aqiqah?

Qurbani and Aqiqah have some rules and guidelines that should be followed to ensure their validity and acceptance. Here are some of them:

  • The animals that can be sacrificed for Qurbani and Aqiqah are sheep, goats, cows, camels, or buffaloes. The animals should be healthy, free from defects, and have reached a certain age. For sheep and goats, the minimum age is one year; for cows, buffaloes, and camels, the minimum age is two years.
  • The number of animals that should be sacrificed for Qurbani depends on the type of animal. For sheep and goats, one animal suffices for one person or one family; for cows, buffaloes, and camels, one animal suffices for seven people or seven families.
  • The number of animals that should be sacrificed for Aqiqah depends on the gender of the child. For a boy, two animals should be sacrificed; for a girl, one animal should be sacrificed.
  • The time of sacrifice for Qurbani is from after the Eid prayer on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah until before sunset on the 12th of Dhul-Hijjah. The time of sacrifice for Aqiqah is preferably on the seventh day after the birth of the child, or any day after that.
  • The intention of sacrifice for Qurbani should be to seek Allah’s (SWT) pleasure and reward; the intention of sacrifice for Aqiqah should be to give thanks to Allah (SWT) for His gift and to protect the child from harm.
  • The method of sacrifice for Qurbani and Aqiqah should be according to Islamic law, which requires slaughtering the animal by cutting its throat with a sharp knife in a swift manner while saying “Bismillah Allahu Akbar” (In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest).
  • The distribution of the meat for Qurbani and Aqiqah should be done in a fair and generous manner. The meat should be divided into three parts: one for oneself and one’s family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the poor and needy. Alternatively, the meat can be given entirely to the poor and needy.

What are the Differences and Similarities Between Qurbani and Aqiqah?

Qurbani and Aqiqah have some differences and similarities that can be summarized as follows:

  • Qurbani is obligatory for every Muslim who has reached puberty and has enough wealth to afford it; Aqiqah is recommended for every Muslim who can afford it.
  • Qurbani is performed during the days of Eid al-Adha; Aqiqah is performed on the occasion of a child’s birth.
  • Qurbani is a way of following the example of Prophet Ibrahim (AS); Aqiqah is a way of celebrating the birth of a child.
  • Qurbani requires one animal for one person or one family; Aqiqah requires two animals for a boy and one animal for a girl.
  •  Qurbani and Aqiqah both involve the sacrifice of animals for the sake of Allah (SWT).
  • Qurbani and Aqiqah both have benefits and rewards for the performers and the recipients.
  • Qurbani and Aqiqah both have rules and guidelines that should be followed to ensure their validity and acceptance.

We hope that this article has helped you understand what Qurbani and Aqiqah are, why they are performed, how they are performed, and what are their differences and similarities. We also hope that this article has inspired you to perform Qurbani and Aqiqah with sincerity and generosity, and to share the joy with your brothers and sisters in Islam. May Allah (SWT) accept your Qurbani and Aqiqah, and bless you with His mercy and grace. Ameen.

 

Ibadah / Acts of WorshipReligionWhat We Do