Page 78 - The Mercy of Believers

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THE MERCY OF BELIEVERS

or small, nor will they cross any valley, without it
being written down for them so that Allah can rec-
ompense them for the best of what they did. (Surat
at-Tawba: 121)

Giving the Best of Everything in Alms

People who do not abide by the Qur'an perceive giv-
ing alms as giving away old possessions that are no
longer needed. This is rather like a tradition they hold to.
In the process, they are very careful not to include any of
the things for which they feel some attachment. Often
their main purpose is to get rid of old possessions and
thus create a false image of doing good. In one verse,
Allah draws attention to the fact that their intention is
often to show off:
And also for those who spend their wealth to show
off to people, not having belief in Allah and the Last
Day. Anyone who has made Devil his comrade, what
an evil comrade he is! (Surat an-Nisa': 38)
Giving away a possession one does not feel like using
because it is outmoded is a sign of deeming the recipient
inferior. Because such donors rank people according to
their money, they do not consider a needy person worthy
of respect. Consequently, they think it is not proper to al-
locate the best of what they have to poor people.
However, the Qur'an commands as follows:

You who believe! Give away some of the good
things you have earned and some of what the earth
produces for you. Do not have recourse to bad things