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Virtues of Dhul Hijjah: A Sacred Time for Spiritual Reflection

7/30/2024

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Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is extremely significant for Muslims all over the world. It is also known as the "Month of Pilgrimage," which is closely associated with the Hajj, one of Islam's five fundamental pillars. During the initial ten days of the month, Muslims who possess the physical and financial means have to perform the Hajj pilgrimage to Makkah. On the tenth day of Dhul Hijjah, Eid al-Adha, also known as the festival of sacrifice, is celebrated. This holy month is highlighted by Allah in Quran Surah Al-Hajj (22:27-28):

"And proclaim to the people the Hajj (pilgrimage); they will come to you on foot and on every lean camel; they will come from every distant pass— That they may witness benefits for themselves and mention the name of Allah on known days over what He has provided for them of [sacrificial] animals."
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This special month is a time when people come together to show their devotion, reflect on their beliefs, and participate in community activities. So, let us learn about the Dhul Hijjah significance and the virtues associated with this blessed month.
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The Virtues of the First Ten Days

Many people consider the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah to be the most significant period of the year, offering a valuable opportunity following Ramadan. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), in Hadiths, said:
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"There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days." (Sahih Bukhari)
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Think about it: we have an opportunity every year to engage in acts of worship during Dhul Hijjah that are more beloved to Allah than any other time!
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Acts Of Worship During Dhul Hijjah

In order to seek Allah's forgiveness and maximise your reward, you should carry out the following Sunnah actions: -
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Fasting

​Fasting on the Day of Arafah (the 9th of Dhul Hijjah) is highly recommended for those who are not performing Hajj. But it is also important to remember that fasting on the other days of Dhul Hijjah holds a great advantage and a beautiful opportunity to connect with Allah, deepen your spiritual understanding, and cleanse your soul. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
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"Fasting on the day of Arafah expiates the sins of the previous year and the coming year." (Sahih Muslim)

This means that fasting on the day of Arafah will help effectively cleanse minor sins collected over a span of two years.

The Prophet (saw) said, ’There is no day on which Allah frees more people from the Fire than on the day of ‘Arafah’ (Sahih Muslim)

​If you are unable to fast for the entire nine days, consider fasting on the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah, which is the Day of 'Arafah. 'Arafah is the most blessed day of the year, just as Laylat al-Qadr is the most blessed night of the year.
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Prayer

Did you know that praying Tahajjud at night for the first ten nights of Dhul-Hijjah holds the same importance as praying on Laylat al-Qadr?
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Tahajjud is a prayer that holds a unique Dhul Hijjah significance, as it is observed during the quiet hours of the night after one has rested and awoken to engage in worship. During this period, the world becomes still and people's hearts become more open to spiritual contemplation and prayer. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated the importance of it:

"The best prayer after the obligatory prayers is the night prayer (Tahajjud)." (Sahih Muslim)
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Dhikr

During the holy days of Dhul Hijjah especially, Dhikr - the act of remembering Allah - involves continuous prayer and devotion. For this period, some advised forms of Dhikr consist of:
  • Takbeer: Declaring "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the Greatest).
  • Tahmeed: Praising Allah with "Alhamdulillah" (All praise is due to Allah).
  • Tasbeeh: Glorifying Allah with "SubhanAllah" (Glory be to Allah).
  • Tahleel: Affirming the oneness of Allah with "La ilaha illallah" (There is no god but Allah).
It is encouraged to increase Dhikr, especially after prayers and Quran recitation. The Prophet Muhammad  said:

"There are no days that are greater before Allah or in which good deeds are more beloved to Him, than these ten days. So, recite a great deal of tahleel, takbeer, and tahmeed during them." (Ahmad

Reciting "Allahu akbar, Allahu akbar, la ilaha ill-Allah, Allahu akbar, wa Lillaah il-hamd" not only serves as an act of worship but also proclaims the greatness of Allah.

In Surah Al-Hajj, the Quran instructs us to "mention the name of Allah on the appointed days" (Quran 22:28)

Simple yet powerful practices like increasing one's own Dhikr throughout the day, reciting the Talbiyah in accordance with Makkah pilgrims' custom, and engaging in post-prayer Dhikr (SubhanAllah 33 times, Alhamdulillah 33 times, Allahu Akbar 34 times) are advised in addition to structured Dhikr. And reciting "SubhanAllahi wa bihamdihi" (Glory be to Allah and praise Him) one hundred times daily carries the promise of making amends for your sins, no matter their weight.
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Charity

Giving charity, or Sadaqah, is always seen as a virtuous act in Islam. However, its importance is even greater during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

"Every act of goodness is a charity." (Sahih Muslim)
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Financial Charity

Making generous contributions to charitable organisations, community projects, and individuals in need is an effective way to obtain Allah's blessings. As said in the Quran:

"The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] that sprouts seven ears; in every ear, there are a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills. And Allah is all-encompassing and Knowing." (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:261)
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Acts of Kindness

Charity is not limited to monetary contributions. Any act of kindness is considered Sadaqah. This includes:
  • Helping neighbours or community members.
  • Volunteering time and skills to benefit others.
  • Spreading knowledge and offering emotional support.
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Hajj Pilgrimage

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever performs Hajj and does not commit any obscenity nor commit any sin, he returns (free from sin) as the day his mother bore him." (Sahih Bukhari)

Hajj is an annual Islamic pilgrimage to Makkah, Saudi Arabia, where pilgrims perform rituals conducted by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Muslims who are financially and physically stable are obligated to perform Hajj at least once during their lifetime. 

The Prophet Muhammad said, "An accepted Hajj brings no less a reward than Paradise." (Ibn Majah)

Occurring during the month of Dhul Hijjah, between the 8th to the 12th, it is a time when millions of Muslims unite in Makkah to perform the following rituals. Let's talk about these Hajj rituals and the significance that they have: -
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  1. Ihram: Men are expected to wear two seamless white clothes, while women are encouraged to wear simple and modest dresses. This special attire represents a sense of unity and humility among every pilgrim.
  2. Tawaf: One of the first rituals pilgrims perform is Tawaf, where you walk seven times around the Kaaba, the cubic structure at the centre of Masjid al-Haram in Makkah. 
  3. Sa'i: Next, pilgrims have to walk back and forth seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah. The ceremony honours the pilgrimage of Hajar (Hagar), the wife of Prophet Ibrahim, who travelled these hills in search of water for her son, Isma'il (Ishmael).
  4. Standing at Arafah: Pilgrims come together at the plain of Arafah, dedicating the afternoon to heartfelt prayers and reflection. It is regarded as the supreme objective of Hajj, where pilgrims humbly seek Allah's mercy and forgiveness.
  5. Muzdalifah: The next stop after Arafah is Muzdalifah, where pilgrims collect pebbles for the symbolic stoning of the pillars.
  6. Stoning the Jamarat: In Mina city, pilgrims participate in the ritual of throwing pebbles at three pillars, symbolising your rejection of evil and the temptations of Satan. It honours Prophet Ibrahim's rejection of Satan's attempts to stop him from sacrificing his son.
  7. Sacrifice: Then Pilgrims perform Qurbani, the sacrificial offering of an animal. This honours the fact that Prophet Ibrahim was ready to kill his son Isma'il as a sign of his devotion to Allah.
  8. Tawaf al-Ifadah: Finally, pilgrims return to the Kaaba to perform another circumambulation, Tawaf al-Ifadah, which marks the completion of your spiritual journey of the of Hajj.  Hajj rituals hold great significance, so you must perform them with sincerity, humility, and a profound devotion to Allah.
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Eid al-Adha: The Festival of Sacrifice

The ultimate celebration of these blessed days occurs in Eid al-Adha, which falls on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah. It's a day of celebration, gratitude, and sacrifice. Muslims all over the world perform Qurbani (animal sacrifice). The meat from the sacrifice is distributed to family, friends, and those in need, promoting a sense of community and generosity. 

"Their meat will not reach Allah, nor will their blood, but what reaches Him is piety from you." (Surah Al-Hajj, 22:37)
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This verse highlights that the act of sacrificing something is merely symbolic; what is truly important is the commitment to piety and righteousness that lies behind the act.
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The Legacy of Prophet Ibrahim

The story of Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael is remembered on Eid al-Adha. This story is about both obedience and trust in Allah's plan. Allah replaced Ishmael with a ram (adult male sheep), showing that true faith is always rewarded. This verse emphasises the value of trust and the benefits that come with genuine submission to Allah's will.
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"And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice." (Surah As-Saffat, 37:107)
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Lessons from Prophet Ibrahim

The life of Prophet Ibrahim provides valuable lessons that are still relevant today. Let's take a look at some important insights we can gain from his life and legacy:
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Unwavering Faith:

One of the most important lessons from Prophet Ibrahim's life is his faith in Allah. Despite immense challenges, such as being thrown into a fire and being asked to sacrifice his son, his faith remained unshakeable. This teaches us the value of having strong faith and trust in God, even in adversity. This verse illustrates Ibrahim's unyielding faith and his quest for certainty in Allah's power.

Ibrahim said, 'My Lord, show me how You give life to the dead.' [Allah] said, 'Have you not believed?' He said, 'Yes, but [I ask] only that my heart may be satisfied.' [Allah] said, 'Take four birds and commit them to yourself. Then [after slaughtering them], put on each hill a portion of them; then call them - they will come [flying] to you in haste. And know that Allah is Exalted in Might and Wise.'" (Quran, 2:260) 
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Sacrifice and Commitment:

The story of his son Isma'il's intended sacrifice teaches the importance of sacrifice, commitment, and putting faith ahead of personal desires. It highlights the concept that genuine dedication often requires making personal sacrifices and prioritising faith above all else.
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"And when they had both submitted, and he put him down upon his forehead, We called to him, 'O Ibrahim, you have fulfilled the vision.' Indeed, We thus reward the doers of good." (Quran, 37:103-105) 
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Hospitality and Generosity:

Ibrahim is also known for his hospitality and generosity. The story of him welcoming and entertaining guests who turned out to be angels shows the value of hospitality and kindness to others.
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Challenging Injustice:

Ibrahim's challenge to his father and community's idolatry teaches a powerful lesson about standing up to falsehood and injustice. It emphasises the importance of questioning incorrect practices and upholding the truth, even when it is difficult.
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Incorporating Sunnah Practices into Daily Life

Following the Sunnah actions promotes spiritual rewards and blessings, strengthens one's relationship with Allah, and provides practical guidance for implementing Quranic teachings. It promotes Muslim unity and identity through shared practices and traditions. Here is a list of Sunnah actions that one should incorporate in their daily routine:
  • Greeting with "As-salamu alaykum" (peace be upon you)
  • Using the Miswak (a tooth-cleaning stick) for oral hygiene.
  • Eating and drinking with the right hand.
  • Sleeping on the right side as the Prophet often slept on his right side.
  • The Prophet also emphasised the importance of visiting and comforting the sick.
  • Fasting on Mondays and Thursdays as the Prophet often fasted on these days.
  • Reciting supplications before sleeping, eating, and travelling.
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Wrapping Up:

In the sacred month, it is encouraged to engage in deep reflection, seek forgiveness, and sincerely perform acts of worship during Dhul Hijjah. Repentance plays a crucial role, enabling believers to come back to Allah with humility to attain spiritual purity and seek the blessings. ​
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Understanding The Meaning Of Qurbani In The Quran And Hadith

7/5/2024

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Qurbani, derived from the word qurban, refers to the ritual sacrifice of an animal performed during the 10th and the 13th Dhulhijjah (twelfth, i.e., final month of the Islamic calendar). This sunnah muakkadah can be traced back to Hazrat Ibrahim, a prophet who obeyed Allah’s order and sacrificed his son Ismael. As a reward, the Almighty placed a lamb or a sheep in its place, which is why many Muslims perform this ritual to remember this day. It symbolises submission to Allah, charity, faith, and providing the needy with the meat of animals like camels and cows in order to show compassion and devotion to the Almighty's authorities. 

Prophet Muhammad said, "There is nothing dearer to Allah during the days of sacrifice than the sacrificing of animals" (Ibn Majah).

Qurbani meaning in Quran and Hadith, has been mentioned in verses that signify recognition of Allah's blessings and creating a sense of harmony. So, let's explore these verses mentioned in the holy book of Islam along with their meanings, and other important things for a better understanding of Qurbani.
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Qurbani in the Quran And Hadith

Quran

Being the sacred religious text of Islam, it guides Muslims towards their moral and spiritual growth through Qurbani, faith, charity, and other aspects of life. The word "Qurban" is associated with the feast of Eid al-Adha and has been used for slaughtered animals as a form of worship and sacrifice. 

Surah Al-Hajj (22:36) states, "And the camels and cattle We have appointed for you as among the symbols (of Allah); for you therein is good. So mention the name of Allah upon them when lined up (for sacrifice); then when they are down on their sides, eat from them and feed the needy and the beggar. Thus have We subjected them to you that you may be grateful."

This verse emphasises animals designated for sacrifice, the importance of mentioning Allah's name during the sacrifice, and distributing the meat to the less fortunate, showing gratitude.

Al-‘An’am (6/162) mentions, “Say, Indeed, my prayer, my rights of sacrifice, my living and my dying are for Allah, Lord of the worlds.” 
It states to surrender yourself before Allah, where all your deeds and Qurbani are for the lord of the entire world.

Surah Al-Hajj (22:34) states, "And for every nation, We have appointed religious ceremonies, that they may mention the name of Allah over the beast of cattle that He has given them for food. And your God is One God, so you must submit to Him Alone. And give glad tidings to the humble."

Emphasising that every nation is given a sacrificial ritual, the above-mentioned Quran verse points towards one God to whom you should completely submit yourself.  
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Hadith

Hadith refers to the acts and the sayings of the Islamic Prophet Muhammad, where the Qurban is viewed as a means of seeking closeness to Allah and purifying one's soul. 

Sahih Bukhari, Book 68, Hadith 476, says, "The Prophet (peace be upon him) said on the day of Eid, 'Whoever has slaughtered (his sacrifice) before the prayer, should repeat it (slaughter another animal)."

The above saying indicates the timing of the sacrifice, i.e., the act of Qurbani before the Eid prayer and the action of repeating it again after the prayer.

Sahih Muslim, Book 22, Hadith 4869 states. "I prayed with the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) on the day of sacrifice. When he finished (the prayer), he was brought two rams, and he sacrificed them. He said: 'In the name of Allah, and Allah is the Greatest. This is on behalf of me and anyone of my Ummah who has not offered a sacrifice." 

It shows that Prophet Muhammad himself is performing the sacrificing ritual while mentioning Allah's name. He is also offering it on behalf of those who have never sacrificed before. 

Sayedatuna Aisha (RadiAllahuanhu) narrates that Rasul Allah said, “There is no dearer deed of Ibne Adam in the days of Qurbani than flowing the blood (doing Qurbani), and that animal will come with his horns, hairs, and hooves on the day of Qayamt. The blood of the Qurbani reaches the stage of acceptance before it reaches the floor.” (Tirmizi, Ibnu Majah)

It highlights that the act of Qurbani is the most beloved deed, which gains acceptance by Allah before the blood of the animal touches the floor.
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Obligations And Rules

There are many rules and guidelines for Qurbani, which have been mentioned down below:
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Eligibility

​Any Adult Muslim who has excess wealth equal to or more than the following nisab value is eligible for performing Qurban: 
  • 87.48 grams of gold 
  • 612.36 grams of silver
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Qurbani Animals And Their Minimum Age

The Qurban requires the following animals with a minimum age to ensure they are suitable for the sacrifice:
  • Goats and sheep should be at least 1 year old (equivalent to one person's Qurbani).
  • Cows or buffalo must be at least 2 years old (equivalent to seven people's Qurbani).
  • Camels should be 5 years old (equivalent to seven people's Qurbani).
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Quality Of Animals

The animals who are to be sacrificed must be healthy and free of diseases, which may include the mentioned below condition:
  • They cannot be too lean or thin.
  • The animals must be able to walk themselves to the slaughter site.
  • Ensure that they are not missing half of their teeth or are toothless.
  • They must not be blind or one-eyed.
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Method Of Slaughter

The slaughter will only be called Qurbani if it's carried out in a human way by mentioning Allah and following the below-mentioned rules:

  • You must only use a sharp knife to carry out the Qurbani to avoid unnecessary suffering. 
  • The knife should not be sharpened in front of the sacrificial animal.
  • Do not slaughter the animal in front of another animal. 
  • The words "Bismillahi Allahu Akbar" must be recited when the sacrifice is being made. 
  • The slaughtered animal cannot be skinned until the body is entirely cold. 

The Messenger of Allah said, “Verily Allah has enjoined goodness to everything; so when you kill, kill in a good way, and when you slaughter, slaughter in a good way. So every one of you should sharpen his knife and let the slaughtered animal die comfortably.” [Sahih Muslim]
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Distribution Of Qurbani Meat

As per the rules, it is always suggested to split meat equally into three parts where you can keep one part for yourself, the other for your friends and family and the last part should be given to the poor.
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Intention Behind Qurban

Your intention behind performing the sacrificing ritual should not be for selfish reasons. Rather, it should be to seek Allah's pleasure. 

A verse from the Quran states, "And recite to them the story of Adam’s two sons, in truth, when they both offered a sacrifice [to Allah ], and it was accepted by one of them but was not accepted by the other. Said [the latter], “I will surely kill you.” Said [the former], “Indeed, Allah only accepts from the righteous [who fear Him]."
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Qurbani Rules for the Married Couple

Both the husband and wife must donate a minimum of 1 Qurbani each as per the Hanafi school of thought if they are eligible and possess more wealth than they need.
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Pre-sacrifice Restrictions

If you are performing the sacrificing ritual, you must know the Hadiths on Qurbani Obligations, including not cutting your hair or nails from the start of the Dhul-Hijjah until the sacrifice is done.

Quran mentions, "And do not shave your heads until the sacrificial animal has reached its place of slaughter. And whoever among you is ill or has an ailment of the head [making shaving necessary must offer] a ransom of fasting [three days] or charity or sacrifice. And when you are secure, then whoever performs ‘umrah [during the Hajj months] followed by Hajj [offers] what can be obtained with ease of sacrificial animals. And whoever cannot find [or afford such an animal] – then a fast of three days during Hajj and of seven when you have returned [home]."
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Benefits of Qurbani

The following are some social and spiritual benefits of Qurbani apart from submitting to Allah:
  • Performing the Qurban can lead to the forgiveness of sins.
  • It brings spiritual rewards and growth as narrated in Hadith, i.e. each hair of the sacrificed animal will reward the person performing Qurbani. 
  • Promotes compassion and social equity through the distribution of meat to the needy and the less fortunate.
  • It helps in strengthening community ties, creating a sense of unity and mutual support. 
  • It brings peace of mind by fulfilling crucial religious obligations. 
  • Works towards creating the spirit of sacrifice and selflessness in Muslims and reminding them to always prioritise Allah's commands over individual desires.

Quran describes, "It is not their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah: it is your piety that reaches Him" (22:37)
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Final Word!

Qurbani meaning in Quran is very significant, which encourages every eligible Muslim to perform this ritual as it is one of the greatest virtues followed by Hadith and the holy Islamic text. It truly promotes generosity, love, Islamic knowledge, submission to Allah, and an attempt to maintain societal balance.  ​
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The Spiritual Significance of Charity During Ramadan

5/30/2024

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“There has come to you Ramadan, a blessed month which Allah has enjoined you to fast, during which the gates of heaven are opened, and the gates of Hell are closed, and the rebellious devils are chained up. In it, there is a night which is better than a thousand months, and whoever is deprived of its goodness is indeed deprived.” [Nasai, 2106; Ahmad, 8769]

Ramadan is a sacred time in Islam and is celebrated during the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It is the month of fasting (Sawm) for Muslims worldwide, a period of spiritual devotion, self-restraint, and increased acts of worship. The month starts with the sighting of the crescent moon and lasts until the next crescent moon appears. 

During this time, the significance of charity is highly rewarded by Allah. Charity (Zakat) is a required donation by qualified Muslims for charitable causes. Muslims fast to grow spiritually and connect with God, a tradition that helps build self-discipline and compassion during Ramadan. This period not only unites communities in prayer but also promotes a spirit of charity, where individuals extend a helping hand to those in need, signifying the values of Islam. So, let us explore the concept of Ramadan's charity significance during the holy month.
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Understanding Charity (Zakat) in Islam

Zakat - One of the five pillars of the Islamic faith mandates that adult, sane, and cognizant Muslims possessing a specific amount of wealth (nisab) give away 2.5% of it to charity. The month of Ramadan is considered to be the ideal time to complete the Zakat duty.  It can be paid anytime up to noon on Eid day or before the Eid prayer on Eid al Fitr. 

In the Quran, Allah proclaims, “And establish prayer and give zakat, and whatever good you put forward for yourselves, you will find it with Allah…” (2:110).

Zakat represents the purifying of riches and divine favours as well as the expansion of spiritual riches by generous offerings. Giving back in Ramadan is an important part of Islamic beliefs because it helps people in need and promotes social justice in the community. 

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) once said, “The believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his sadaqah.” [Al-Tirmidhi] charity is like a shade on Judgment Day, protecting believers and also helping them secure blessings in the afterlife. It's a way to show gratitude, strengthen our faith, and remind us that everything comes from Allah.
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​The Spiritual Importance of Charity During Ramadan

During the month of Ramadan, one's devotion to Allah and relationship with him becomes stronger. This holy month gives us an opportunity to develop a more charitable spirit and strengthen our spirituality so that we can help those who are in need.

"The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills. And Allah is all-encompassing and Knowing." - Quran 2:261

Just as a seed yields multiple crops, Allah multiplies the rewards for those who give generously for His sake. This multiplication signifies not just material abundance but also spiritual blessings and divine favour. Let's discuss the significance of charity in detail: -
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Purification of Wealth and Soul:

Giving back in Ramadan, like Zakat and Sadaqah (voluntary charity), helps the less wealthy and also cleans our hearts. It helps us develop understanding, gratitude, and compassion during Ramadan by reminding us that material things are temporary.
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Spiritual Rewards and Blessings:

"The month of Ramadan [is that] in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion." (Quran 2:185)

Giving charity during Ramadan serves as a criterion for distinguishing between selflessness and selfishness, generosity and greed. And when we follow the guided path of Allah, we gain spiritual rewards and blessings.

Special Importance of Last Days:

"Indeed, We sent the Quran down during the Night of Decree. And what can make you know what is the Night of Decree? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months." (Quran 97:1-3)

The last days of Ramadan, particularly the final 10 nights, are especially blessed with opportunities for increased worship, devotion, and charitable acts. It is a time for seeking immense blessings and rewards that one can attain by worshipping and seeking divine mercy on Laylat al-Qadr, the Night of Power, which is better than a thousand months. 

Continued Charity Beyond Ramadan:

"And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive." (Quran 76:8)

While Ramadan's charity significance is higher, the spirit of giving and compassion should extend beyond this blessed month. Continuous acts of charity throughout the year mirror the true essence of Islamic teachings. Through sincere charity seeking Allah's pleasure and reward, believers experience abundant blessings.

Community and Solidarity Through Charity

Ramadan promotes a sense of unity and communal spirit within the Muslim community. Sharing iftar meals, engaging in communal prayers, and extending acts of kindness and support signify the spirit of brotherhood/sisterhood. Moreover, the act of accepting charity is also received with dignity and respect, as individuals in need are supported by their fellow community members without judgment or stigma.
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"Zakat expenditures are only for the poor and for the needy and for those employed to collect [zakat] and for bringing hearts together [for Islam] and for freeing captives [or slaves] and for those in debt and for the cause of Allah and for the [stranded] traveler - an obligation [imposed] by Allah. And Allah is Knowing and Wise." (Quran 9:60)
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Zakat is a divine obligation which is decreed by Allah, who is all-knowing and wise. The above-written verse says that Zakat expenditure is distributed among 8 categories-
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  • The poor, who lack sufficient means for basic needs
  • The needy, who have limited resources
  • Those employed to collect and distribute Zakat
  • Individuals who are new converts or those inclined toward the faith
  • Captives or slaves, for their liberation
  • Those burdened with debts, 
  • Efforts in the cause of Allah, which can include various forms of communal and religious benefit and
  • Travelers who are stranded and in need of assistance
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"The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers. And fear Allah that you may receive mercy." (Quran 49:10)
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It explains that Allah's mercy is directly linked to your behaviour within the community. All Muslims are part of a single, united community, where each believer is considered a sibling to another. One must resolve all issues and have solidarity and compassion during Ramadan, as it is the perfect time to unite and celebrate. And fear Allah because your actions - how you treat your fellow Muslims will be noted when seeking mercy.
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Practical Ways to Give Charity During Ramadan