Power of Charity

Anas bin Malik relates that Abū Talha was the richest person among the Ansars in Madinah so far as landed property and date gardens were concerned. He liked his garden of Bairaha the best of all his properties. It was just in front of the Mosque of the Holy Messenger (peace and blessings of Allah be to him). The Holy Messenger used to visit this garden and drink its water. When the verse 3:92 was revealed, Abū Talha went to the Holy Messenger and submitted: Messenger of Allah! Allah has sent down to you this verse, and the property I like most is Bairaha. I therefore offer it in charity for the pleasure of Allah, hoping for its recompense from Him. You can dispose it of, as Allah might direct you. The Holy Messenger said: “Well, well, this is a very profitable property; this is a very profitable property. I have heard what you have said and I think you should divide it among your relatives.” Abū Talha said: “So shall I do, Messenger of Allah!” and he divided it among his cousins and relations.

(Bukhari, Muslim)

Cooperation is impossible if men refuse to render service to those who need it, to the best of their ability and capacity. However, only that service is meritorious and efficacious which is rendered with the spirit of self sacrifice and for the sole pleasure of Allah. Bases of human virtues are fellow-feeling and high thinking. Islam has laid great emphasis on distribution of wealth among one’s kith and kin, and masses at large.