Report

How We Planted 100 Trees for 4 Families in 2023

How We Planted 100 Trees for 4 Families in 2023: A Report on Our Successful Sadaqah Jariyah Project

Sadaqah Jariyah is a form of ongoing charity that benefits the giver and the receiver in this life and the hereafter. One of the best ways to perform Sadaqah Jariyah is to plant trees that provide food, shade, and oxygen for people and animals. In 2023, we implemented and delivered four tree planting projects in different countries, using crypto as a means of payment and donation. In this article, we will share with you the details and outcomes of our successful Sadaqah Jariyah project.

What are the Benefits of Tree Planting?

Tree planting is a simple yet powerful act that can have many positive impacts on the environment and society. Here are some of the benefits of tree planting:

Tree planting can help combat climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen into the atmosphere. Trees also reduce the greenhouse effect by cooling the air and the land.
Tree planting can help prevent soil erosion and desertification by holding the soil together and retaining moisture. Trees also improve soil fertility by adding organic matter and nutrients.
Tree planting can help conserve biodiversity and wildlife by providing habitats and food sources for various species of plants and animals. Trees also support pollination and seed dispersal by attracting insects and birds.
Tree planting can help improve human health and well-being by providing fresh air, clean water, and natural medicine. Trees also reduce noise and air pollution by filtering dust and harmful gases.
Tree planting can help enhance economic and social development by providing income, employment, and education opportunities for people. Trees also provide food, fuel, timber, and other products that can improve the quality of life.

How Did We Use Crypto for Tree Planting?

Crypto is short for cryptocurrency, which is a digital form of money that can be created, stored, and transferred using cryptography and blockchain technology. Crypto has many advantages over fiat money or bank transfers, such as speed, low cost, transparency, security, privacy, and empowerment. We used crypto for our tree planting projects for the following reasons:

We used crypto to pay for the tree saplings, materials, tools, labor, and transportation costs. We bought the tree saplings from local nurseries or farmers using crypto wallets or exchanges. We also paid the local workers who helped us with the planting using crypto.

What Were the Outcomes of Our Tree Planting Projects?

We planted more than 100 tree saplings in different countries: Pakistan, Syria, and Sudan. We chose these countries based on their needs, challenges, opportunities, and potentials. Here are some of the outcomes of our tree planting projects:

We helped four families (19 people) become economically capable by providing them with a source of income from selling or consuming the fruits of their trees. We also helped them save money on buying food or fuel from outside sources.
We helped improve the environment by reducing carbon emissions, preventing soil erosion, conserving water resources, enhancing biodiversity, and beautifying the landscape. We also helped mitigate the effects of natural disasters such as droughts or floods.
We helped spread happiness and joy by giving hope and confidence to the people who received our trees. We also shared our love and gratitude with them by giving them hugs and smiles. We also prayed for them and asked Allah (SWT) to bless them.

We would like to share some stories from the people who benefited from our tree planting projects without quoting them directly from the sources. Here are some of their experiences:

Ahmad is a 45-year-old farmer from Syria who lost his land due to civil war. He was struggling to make ends meet because he had no income or crops. But when we came to his land with 25 olive saplings, he felt hopeful and optimistic. He learned how to take care of his trees from us and received some money from us to buy fertilizer and water. He is looking forward to harvesting his olives and selling them in the market.

These are just some of the examples of how our Islamic charity institution is making a difference in the lives of people and their communities through tree planting projects using crypto. We thank you for your generous support and donations that made this possible. May Allah (SWT) reward you for your kindness and generosity.

Ibadah / Acts of Worship Projects Report Sadaqah What We Do

How to Celebrate the Birth of the Holy Prophet in 2023

How to Celebrate the Birth of the Holy Prophet in 2023: A Powerful Way to Donate for Islamic Charity

The birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is a blessed and joyful occasion for Muslims around the world. It is a time to remember and honor his life, teachings, and example, and to express our love and gratitude to him. It is also a time to share our happiness and generosity with others, especially the needy and deserving people. In this article, we will show you how you can celebrate the birth of the Holy Prophet in 2023 by donating for Islamic charity with our Islamic charity institution.

What is the Birth of the Holy Prophet?

The birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is also known as Mawlid or Milad. It is the commemoration of his birth date, which is believed to be on the 12th of Rabi al-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic calendar. According to some sources, the birth date of the Holy Prophet in 2023 will be on Monday, January 9.

The birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is a source of inspiration and guidance for Muslims. He was sent by Allah (SWT) as a mercy to all the worlds, and as the final and perfect messenger of Islam. He brought the Quran, the word of Allah (SWT), and taught us how to live according to its teachings. He showed us the best morals, manners, and values, and demonstrated how to worship Allah (SWT) sincerely and purely. He also established a strong and united community of believers, who followed his example and spread his message.

The birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is also a cause of celebration and gratitude for Muslims. We celebrate his birth by praising Allah (SWT) for sending him to us, and by sending salutations and blessings upon him. We also express our gratitude to him by following his sunnah (tradition) and by loving him more than ourselves. We also celebrate his birth by spreading joy and kindness to others, especially to those who are in need or suffering.

Why Donate for Islamic Charity?

Islamic charity is a noble and rewarding act that is enjoined by Allah (SWT) and His messenger (SAW). It is one of the pillars of Islam, and it has many benefits for both the giver and the receiver. Islamic charity can be given in many forms, such as zakat, sadaqah, waqf, or khairat. Islamic charity can be given at any time, but especially on occasions such as the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Here are some of the reasons why donating for Islamic charity is a great deed that has many rewards in this life and the hereafter:

Donating for Islamic charity is a form of worship and obedience to Allah (SWT). He said: “And spend [in the way of Allah] from what We have provided you before death approaches one of you and he says: My Lord, if only You would delay me for a brief term so I would give charity and be among the righteous.” (Quran 63:10)
Donating for Islamic charity is a form of gratitude and love for the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW). He said: “The most beloved people to me are those who are most beneficial to people.” (Tabarani) He also said: “None of you will believe until you love me more than your father, your children and all mankind.” (Bukhari)
Donating for Islamic charity is a form of purification and protection for ourselves and our wealth. The Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said: “Charity does not decrease wealth.” (Muslim) He also said: “Sadaqah extinguishes sin as water extinguishes fire.” (Tirmidhi)
Donating for Islamic charity is a form of intercession and salvation on the Day of Judgment. The Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said: “The believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity.” (Ahmad) He also said: “Give charity without delay, for it stands in the way of calamity.” (Tirmidhi)

What are the Activities We Did on the Birth of the Holy Prophet in 2023?

As part of our celebration of the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) in 2023, we have organized and conducted various activities that reflect our love and gratitude to him and our generosity and kindness to others. Here are some of the activities we did on this occasion:

We held celebrations in different places where we gave speeches and introduced the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and his life, teachings, and example. We also recited the Quran, sang nasheeds, and sent salutations and blessings upon him.
We cooked and distributed 4000 hot meals to the poor and needy people in different countries, such as Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Syria. We also provided them with dates, fruits, sweets, and drinks. We shared our happiness and joy with them and made them feel the warmth and care of our Islamic charity institution.
We collected and distributed gifts to the children who are orphans, refugees, or victims of war or disasters. We gave them bags, shoes, stationery, toys, books, clothes, and blankets. We made them smile and laugh and gave them hope and confidence for their future.

We thank you for your generous support and donations that made this possible. May Allah (SWT) reward you for your kindness and generosity. Ameen.

Food and Nutrition Ibadah / Acts of Worship Report What We Do

How Donating and Sadaqah Benefit Your Well-being

It is often said that “giving is receiving,” a sentiment that resonates across cultures and religious beliefs. With this in mind, let’s delve into how and why the act of giving—be it a simple donation or the religious practice of Sadaqah in Islam—can impact our health positively.

The Healing Power of Generosity
The act of giving is akin to planting seeds of goodwill. These seeds not only result in a garden of joy for those who receive your generosity but also bloom into flowers of well-being within you. This is not just a poetic analogy but a reality backed by scientific research.

Studies have shown that the act of giving can stimulate the release of endorphins, often referred to as “feel-good” hormones. These chemicals in the brain create a sense of joy and happiness, which is sometimes referred to as the “helper’s high.” But the benefits of giving extend beyond momentary happiness.

The Ripple Effect of Sadaqah on Health
In the context of Islamic teachings, Sadaqah—voluntary acts of charity and kindness—holds a place of high esteem. It’s a practice that not only fulfills one’s spiritual obligations but also promotes a sense of community and empathy. But what’s fascinating is the ripple effect that Sadaqah can have on your health.

Reduced Stress and Anxiety: When you give to others, your focus shifts away from your own challenges, leading to lower levels of stress and anxiety. This mental reprieve can improve your overall well-being and outlook on life.
Improved Physical Health: Research suggests that people who engage in regular acts of kindness, such as giving, may have lower blood pressure and a longer lifespan. These physical health benefits are likely linked to the positive emotions and reduced stress levels associated with giving.
Enhanced Self-esteem and Happiness: Giving can boost your self-esteem and sense of purpose. Knowing that your actions are making a difference in others’ lives can lead to enhanced self-worth and overall happiness.

Why Donate to Our Islamic Charity
At Our Islamic Charity, we provide a platform for you to experience the health benefits of giving. When you donate, you’re not only helping us provide aid to those in need, but you’re also investing in your own physical and mental health.

Your donation, your act of Sadaqah, initiates a ripple effect—your generosity aids those in need, and the act of giving benefits your health and happiness. It’s a cycle of positivity and well-being that starts with you.

Embrace the Joy of Giving
To reap the health benefits of giving, you don’t need to make grand gestures. Even small acts of kindness can make a big difference. Remember, in the realm of Sadaqah, it’s not the size of the donation that counts, but the sincerity and goodwill behind it.

In conclusion, giving and Sadaqah are much more than moral or religious obligations—they are pathways to better health and happiness. When you give, it’s akin to planting a seed of kindness that blooms into a flower of well-being within you. So, let’s embrace the joy of giving and the healthful benefits it brings, for in every act of generosity, we sow the seeds of a healthier, happier life.

Ibadah / Acts of Worship Report Sadaqah

Importance of Ihsan in Islam

Ihsan(excellence) is one of the three dimensions of Islam, along with islam (submission) and iman (faith). Ihsan means to do beautiful things, to perfect one’s actions, and to show excellence in worship and in social interactions. In this article, I will explain the meaning, significance, and benefits of ihsan in Islam, and how we as an Islamic charity can practice it and encourage others to do so.

The meaning of ihsan in Islam

The word ihsan comes from the root word hasana, which means to be good, beautiful, or excellent. Ihsan has two aspects: an inward aspect and an outward aspect. The inward aspect of ihsan is to have sincerity, purity, and awareness of Allah in one’s heart. The outward aspect of ihsan is to perform good deeds, to beautify one’s actions, and to show kindness and generosity to others.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) defined ihsan as follows: “Ihsan is to worship Allah as if you see Him, and if you do not see Him, then He sees you.” This hadith shows that ihsan is the highest level of worship, where one strives to please Allah with every action and intention. It also shows that ihsan requires constant mindfulness of Allah’s presence and watchfulness over us.

Ihsan (excellence) is one of the three core dimensions of Islam, alongside Islam (submission) and Iman (faith). We have talked about the importance of submission in Islam in another article, which you can read here.

The significance of ihsan in Islam

Ihsan is significant in Islam because it is a commandment from Allah and a quality that He loves in His servants. Allah says in the Quran: “Indeed, Allah commands justice, good conduct (ihsan), and giving to relatives, and forbids immorality, bad conduct, and oppression. He admonishes you that perhaps you will be reminded.” (An-Nahl 16:90)

Ihsan is also significant in Islam because it is a way of following the example of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), who was the best model of ihsan. He said: “Verily, Allah has prescribed ihsan upon everything.” He also said: “The most beloved people to Allah are those who are most beneficial to people. The most beloved deed to Allah is to make a Muslim happy, or to remove one of his troubles, or to forgive his debt, or to feed his hunger.” He also said: “The best among you are those who have the best manners and character.”

Ihsan is also significant in Islam because it is a means of attaining Allah’s reward, mercy, and pleasure in this life and the hereafter. Allah says in the Quran: “Is the reward for good (ihsan) anything but good (ihsan)?” (Ar-Rahman 55:60) He also says: “And whoever does righteous deeds (ihsan), whether male or female, while being a believer – those will enter Paradise and will not be wronged, [even as much as] the speck on a date seed.” (An-Nisa 4:124)

The benefits of ihsan in Islam

Ihsan has many benefits in Islam for both individuals and society. Some of these benefits are:

Ihsan purifies the heart from hypocrisy, arrogance, envy, and other diseases.
Ihsan increases the faith, love, gratitude, and remembrance of Allah.
Ihsan enhances the quality, sincerity, and concentration of worship.
Ihsan improves the morals, manners, and character of a person.
Ihsan strengthens the bonds of brotherhood, friendship, and cooperation among Muslims.
Ihsan spreads peace, harmony, justice, and mercy in society.
Ihsan attracts the blessings, protection, guidance, and help of Allah.
Ihsan elevates the status, honor, dignity, and happiness of a person in this life and the hereafter.

How can we as an Islamic charity practice ihsan?

As an Islamic charity team, we have a great opportunity and responsibility to practice ihsan and inspire others to do so. We can practice ihsan by: (To read more about Ihsan, you can read the Ihsan al-A’amal Policy of our islamic charity.)

Being sincere in our intention to serve Allah and His creation.
Being diligent in our worship and obedience to Allah.
Being kind and generous in our dealings with our donors, beneficiaries, partners, and communities.
Being honest and transparent in our accounting and reporting of our activities and finances.
Being professional and efficient in our management and delivery of our projects and programs.
Being innovative and creative in our solutions and approaches to address the needs and challenges of our target groups.
Being respectful and inclusive of the diversity and dignity of all people, regardless of their race, religion, gender, or status.
Being humble and grateful for the support and feedback of our stakeholders and beneficiaries.
Being accountable and repentant for our mistakes and shortcomings.

I hope this article has given you some insights and motivation about why ihsan is important in Islam and how we as an Islamic charity can practice it and encourage others to do so. Ihsan is not only a duty but also a privilege and a joy for a Muslim. By practicing ihsan, we can please Allah, follow the Prophet, benefit ourselves and others, and attain success in this life and the hereafter. May Allah bless you and guide you always.

Ibadah / Acts of Worship Report

Donation from a Sociological Perspective

Donation from a Sociological Perspective: Why Does a Society Need Charity?

Donation is the act of giving something voluntarily to someone or something in need, without expecting anything in return. Donation can take many forms, such as money, goods, services, time, or blood. Donation can also have many motives, such as altruism, empathy, gratitude, guilt, obligation, or religion.

Donation is not only a personal or individual behavior, but also a social and collective phenomenon. Donation is influenced by various social factors, such as culture, norms, values, beliefs, attitudes, emotions, relationships, networks, groups, organizations, institutions, and systems. Donation also has various social impacts, such as enhancing social cohesion, reducing social inequality, promoting social justice, fostering social change, and improving social well-being.

In this article, we will explore donation from a sociological perspective and answer the question: why does a society need charity?

Donation as a Social Norm
One of the reasons why a society needs charity is because donation is a social norm. A social norm is a rule or expectation that guides the behavior of members of a society. A social norm can be formal or informal, explicit or implicit, prescriptive or proscriptive. A social norm can also be enforced by rewards or sanctions, such as praise or criticism, approval or disapproval, inclusion or exclusion.

Donation is a social norm that encourages people to help others who are less fortunate or in need. Donation is a social norm that reflects the values of generosity, compassion, solidarity, and reciprocity. Donation is a social norm that signals the identity and status of the donor and the recipient. Donation is a social norm that strengthens the bonds and trust between individuals and groups.

Donation as a social norm can vary across different cultures and contexts. For example, some cultures may have more or less expectations of donation than others. Some cultures may have more or less preferences for certain types of donation than others. Some cultures may have more or less rituals or etiquettes for donation than others.

Donation as a social norm can also change over time and space. For example, donation may become more or less prevalent or popular due to historical events or social trends. Donation may become more or less accessible or convenient due to technological innovations or environmental changes. Donation may become more or less diverse or complex due to globalization or differentiation.

Donation as a Social Capital
Another reason why a society needs charity is because donation is a social capital. A social capital is a resource that is derived from the relationships and networks among people. A social capital can be measured by the quantity and quality of the connections and interactions among people. A social capital can also be categorized by the type and level of the relationships and networks among people.

Donation is a social capital that creates and maintains the relationships and networks among people. Donation is a social capital that facilitates the exchange and sharing of information, knowledge, skills, ideas, opinions, values, norms, beliefs, emotions, support, cooperation, collaboration, coordination, and influence among people. Donation is a social capital that generates and distributes the benefits and costs of the relationships and networks among people.

Donation as a social capital can have positive or negative effects on individuals and groups. For example,

Positive effects: Donation can increase the trustworthiness and reputation of the donor and the recipient. Donation can enhance the satisfaction and happiness of the donor and the recipient. Donation can improve the performance and productivity of the donor and the recipient.
Negative effects: Donation can create dependency and obligation between the donor and the recipient. Donation can cause resentment and jealousy among other people who are not involved in the donation. Donation can lead to exploitation and corruption by some people who abuse the donation.

Donation as a social capital can also have different outcomes depending on the type and level of the relationships and networks among people. For example,

Type: Donation can be based on bonding (relationships among people who are similar), bridging (relationships among people who are different), or linking (relationships among people who are unequal) ties.
Level: Donation can be performed at micro (individual), meso (group), or macro (society) levels.

Donation as a Social Movement
A third reason why a society needs charity is because donation is a social movement. A social movement is a collective action that aims to achieve or resist some change in society. A social movement can be motivated by various factors, such as grievances, ideologies, identities, opportunities, or resources.

A social movement can also adopt various strategies, such as protests, campaigns, advocacy, lobbying, or education.

Donation is a social movement that seeks to address some of the problems or issues in society.
Donation is a social movement that expresses some of the values or visions in society.
Donation is a social movement that mobilizes some of the actors or allies in society.
Donation is a social movement that challenges some of the structures or systems in society.

Donation as a social movement can have different scopes and scales. For example,

Scope: Donation can target different domains or sectors in society, such as health, education, environment, human rights, or development.
Scale: Donation can operate at different levels or regions in society, such as local, national, regional, or global.

Donation as a social movement can also have different impacts and outcomes. For example,

Impacts: Donation can affect the awareness, attitudes, behaviors, or policies of the people or institutions in society.
Outcomes: Donation can contribute to the improvement, transformation, or preservation of the conditions or situations in society.

Conclusion

In conclusion, donation is a multifaceted and dynamic phenomenon that has various social dimensions and implications. Donation is a social norm that guides the behavior of members of a society. Donation is a social capital that creates and maintains the relationships and networks among people. Donation is a social movement that seeks to achieve or resist some change in society. Therefore, donation is an essential and valuable aspect of any society that needs charity.

Report What We Do