Islam As It Is
The Five Pillars of Islam
~ 108 ~
In so doing, no one should consider that he is
conferring a great favour upon those less well-
endowed than himself, and should in no way be
condescending to the recipients of his charity. When
a man gives alms to others, he should do so in the
knowledge that they have a rightful share in his
wealth, for this is as God has ordained. He is doing
no more than giving others their due. But when he
gives, he can feel reassured that he himself will be
given succour by his Maker on the Day of
Judgement. In giving to others, he knows for certain
that he will not be denied by God at the Last
Reckoning.
Zakat
gives a clear indication of what one’s respon-
sibilities to others should be. Everyone is required
to recognize the rights of others, just as everyone is
expected to sympathize with those afflicted by
adversity. This feeling should be so well developed
that one has no hesitancy about sharing one’s
possessions with others, or coming to their
assistance, even when it is clear that nothing can be
expected in return. Even where there are no ties of
friendship, one should wish others well and guard
their honour as if it were one’s own.
