| In the Name of Allah, The Compassionate, The Merciful Munificence in the cause of Allah |
| The topic of 'munificence in the way of Allah' which is sometimes called 'Sadqa' in the terminology of hadith (Sadqa is any and every kind of influence in the way of Allah) is in itself such a wonderful thing that very few of the 'recommended precepts' have perhaps been given an importance equal to it. From the point of view of Islam 'Sadqa' exercises great influence upon everything including life, wealth and riches and above all the blessing of Allah. The holy Prophet (SAW) says: "One the Day of Judgment every one will rest under the shadow of his 'Sadqa' until the matters are settled between the people." "Secret munificence in the way of Allah quenches the flame of Allah's wrath." Imam al Sadiq (as) said: "Every Muslim who clothes a naked Muslim remains under Allah's protection till such times as an old piece of that cloth lasts." "Treat your sick kindly in the way of Allah....seek your sustenance by means of 'Sadqa'.....before 'Sadqa' reaches the creature it takes place in the hand of the Creator." Imam al Baqir (as) says: "Goodness and kindness in the path of Allah rubs off poverty, increases one's age and wards off ninety types of disagreeable deaths from the person concerned." It is, however, much better that one should do this noble act while he possesses good health and authority and not in the shape of a will at the time of his death. The holy Prophet (saw) was asked as to which 'Sadaqa' is better. He replied: "That one which you give personally when you are alive and in control of your affairs, when you hope to live and are afraid of indigence-not that you should postpone it till you are about to die and then say as to how much may be given to different persons." |