Friday Brief: Social Welfare In Islam Is Not Complicated

In Islam, faith is not just about prayer and fasting. It is about how we treat other people. The Quran and the Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) have given clear instructions about social welfare. Taking care of the poor, the orphan, the widow, and the needy is not optional. It is a duty. The Quran says: “Have you seen the one who denies the Day of Judgment? That is the one who pushes away the orphan and does not encourage feeding the poor” (107:1-3). These verses are very direct. If someone ignores the orphan and the hungry, it is as if they are denying the Hereafter. This shows how seriously Islam takes social welfare. Charity does not go to waste. Even a small amount given to the right person is seen by Allah. The Prophet (PBUH) was the best example of caring for others. He said: “He is not a believer whose stomach is full while his neighbour goes hungry” (Al-Adab Al-Mufrad). This is a strong warning. You cannot call yourself a true believer if you eat well while the person next door has nothing. The Prophet (PBUH) also said: “The best people are those who are most beneficial to others” (Al-Mu’jam al-Awsat). Your value as a Muslim depends on how much you help those around you. Zakat is the most well-known form of social welfare in Islam. It is one of the five pillars. Every year, Muslims with enough savings must give 2.5 per cent of their wealth to the poor and deserving. But Zakat is just the start. Sadaqah, or voluntary charity, is encouraged at all times. The Prophet (PBUH) said that even a smile is a form of charity. Removing a stone from the road is charity. Giving water to someone thirsty is charity. Every small act of kindness counts. Social welfare in Islam is not complicated. Feed the hungry. Clothe the naked. Visit the sick. Help the orphan. Be kind to your neighbour. Do not hoard wealth while others suffer. These are not suggestions. They are commands from Allah and His Prophet (PBUH). If every Muslim followed these teachings, there would be no poverty or loneliness in our communities. Let us start today. Look around. Someone near you needs help. Do not wait for tomorrow.