Inspired by KonoozTube (on YouTube)
In our perception of wealth, we’ve traditionally categorized people into three main groups: the poor, the middle class, and the rich. However, the reality of wealth distribution is much more intricate than these broad categories suggest. Within the category of the poor, there are various levels of economic hardship. Some individuals are homeless, those who can afford to rent a house but lack stable employment, and others who are employed but struggle to afford even a single meal. Similarly, wealth extends beyond the rich category, encompassing levels such as millionaires, billionaires, and the extremely affluent. When considering how to assist those in need, it’s important to recognize the complexity of people’s circumstances and the multitude of factors that influence their financial well-being.
Often, we overlook certain individuals when extending generosity, particularly those who seem financially stable. Even when we are aware of their circumstances, we may still determine that they are undeserving of help. These are the individuals in the class between being in poverty and the middle class. They may have jobs, and sometimes they even have homes, but they struggle to make ends meet. And even these people have levels- We have those working in low-paying jobs such as housemaids, street vendors, security guards, and bodaboda. Then there are teachers, religious teachers, secretaries, and others. This hierarchy continues up the ranks. Although everyone has the freedom to choose where their donations go, it’s unfortunate how we sometimes label others as undeserving.
One makes the decision to send a delivery of donations to an orphanage, which is a very noble act. However, they attempt to negotiate the delivery charges, (especially when they can afford it) even though they know it will be unprofitable for the delivery guy. Another person decides to renovate a mosque but pays the workers less than they deserve. Someone creates an education fund to help others, yet their own relative struggles to afford their child’s schooling.
Why do we choose not to help our neighbors because they have a car, even though we know they struggle with chronic illnesses that drain their finances? Why do we refuse to assist our relatives simply because they own a house, without considering that the house might have been inherited? Why do we procrastinate on paying the workers who are digging the charity boreholes we are donating? And why do we run the largest charity organization but still underpay our employees? What motivates these actions?
Let’s not assume that everyone is comfortable in their lives. Life is unpredictable and not just black and white. For example, you might be giving all your charity to an orphan who already has other donors or has a wealthy grandfather taking care of them, while overlooking your housemaid who can’t afford treatment for a long-term illness. You might also donate frequently to a mosque without realizing that the teachers working there can barely afford a meal. Additionally, you might focus all your charity efforts on the poor on the streets, while forgetting those who are heavily in debt due to their inability to make ends meet, not because of a luxurious lifestyle.
You might know a manager who owns a car and think they have their lives in order, but perhaps they are the sole breadwinner for ten other siblings or relatives. You might know someone’s income, but you don’t really know their responsibilities. Some people have constant hospital/medical bills, many dependents, and are responsible for educating their younger ones. Some have professional achievements but don’t have stable jobs. I know of a PhD holder, a part-time lecturer who shared her story of how she’d have to sell snacks to be able to acquire fare to go teach her classes (as a PhD student!). Who would’ve ever thought?
The main point is to be kind whenever possible without making assumptions about someone’s financial situation. It’s also a reminder to be thoughtful and considerate when offering help. Your landlord may seem well-off because he/she owns houses, but if you’re aware that they are struggling with debt or medical bills, they may still be in need of assistance. In fact, some people we overlook may be eligible for zakatul maal.
It is for this reason that Allah subhanahu wataala categorized for us the recipients of zakat as follows:The poor (al-fuqarâ’), meaning low-income or indigent.The needy (al-masâkîn), meaning someone who is in difficulty.Zakat administrators.Those whose hearts are to be reconciled, meaning new Muslims and friends of the Muslim community.Those in bondage (slaves and captives).The debt-ridden.In the cause of God.The wayfarer, meaning those who are stranded or traveling with few resources.If we carefully examine this list, we will notice that most of us give charity to the poor, but we often forget about the masakin, the reverts, the indebted, and many others.
Let’s reflect on this verse from Suratul Kahf which says, “As for the ship, it belonged to some poor people, working at sea….” Today, if someone owned a ship and worked on it, would we even consider them as poor people who may need our help?Of course none of us knows what the weightier charity is, and no one can or should force us to redirect our money for charity. Ultimately, it is Allah who grants the reward and no one else. However, here is a gentle reminder to extend our generosity to those we don’t normally consider, even if it is by simply paying a worker a good pay. They too are working hard and deserve help.
When it comes to helping those in need, there are numerous ways to offer kindness and support. It’s not only about providing direct donations. We can also show our support indirectly by giving thoughtful gifts, especially during significant occasions like Ramadan, Eid, and weddings. Additionally, we can assist by purchasing necessary medicines for those who are unwell, taking some home ration when visiting them, and forgiving debts owed to us. Furthermore, making regular purchases from their businesses can contribute to their success and make a positive difference.
Let’s challenge traditional thinking, treat others with more understanding and insight, and recognize that life is multifaceted and complex. In everything we do, let’s strive for exceptional generosity and kindness.
