The Philosophy of Sadaqa

Charity

The Quran mentions words with root ṣād dāl qāf (ص د ق) several times, of which 14 are translated as charity in this search result: https://corpus.quran.com/search.jsp?q=charity. The following is a study of these fourteen ayaat to explore the philosophy of charity: 

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1

وَاَتِمُّوا الۡحَجَّ وَالۡعُمۡرَةَ لِلّٰهِؕ فَاِنۡ اُحۡصِرۡتُمۡ فَمَا اسۡتَيۡسَرَ مِنَ الۡهَدۡىِ​ۚ وَلَا تَحۡلِقُوۡا رُءُوۡسَكُمۡ حَتّٰى يَبۡلُغَ الۡهَدۡىُ مَحِلَّهٗ ؕ فَمَنۡ كَانَ مِنۡكُمۡ مَّرِيۡضًا اَوۡ بِهٖۤ اَذًى مِّنۡ رَّاۡسِهٖ فَفِدۡيَةٌ مِّنۡ صِيَامٍ اَوۡ صَدَقَةٍ اَوۡ نُسُكٍۚ فَاِذَآ اَمِنۡتُمۡ فَمَنۡ تَمَتَّعَ بِالۡعُمۡرَةِ اِلَى الۡحَجِّ فَمَا اسۡتَيۡسَرَ مِنَ الۡهَدۡىِ​ۚ فَمَنۡ لَّمۡ يَجِدۡ فَصِيَامُ ثَلٰثَةِ اَيَّامٍ فِى الۡحَجِّ وَسَبۡعَةٍ اِذَا رَجَعۡتُمۡؕ تِلۡكَ عَشَرَةٌ كَامِلَةٌ  ؕ ذٰ لِكَ لِمَنۡ لَّمۡ يَكُنۡ اَهۡلُهٗ حَاضِرِىۡ الۡمَسۡجِدِ الۡحَـرَامِ​ؕ وَاتَّقُوا اللّٰهَ وَاعۡلَمُوۡٓا اَنَّ اللّٰهَ شَدِيۡدُ الۡعِقَابِ‏ ١٩٦

Complete the pilgrimage and minor pilgrimage for Allah. But if prevented ˹from proceeding˺, then ˹offer˺ whatever sacrificial animals you can afford. And do not shave your heads until the sacrificial animal reaches its destination. But if any of you is ill or has a scalp ailment ˹requiring shaving˺, then compensate either by fasting, charity, or a sacrificial offering. In times of peace, you may combine the pilgrimage and minor pilgrimage then make the sacrificial offering you can afford. Whoever cannot afford that ˹offering˺, let them fast three days during pilgrimage and seven after returning ˹home˺—completing ten. These offerings are for those who do not live near the Sacred House. And be mindful of Allah, and know that Allah is severe in punishment.

[Al-Quran 2:196, Translation: Dr. Mustafa Khattab, The Clear Quran]

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2

۞ قَوۡلٌ مَّعۡرُوۡفٌ وَّمَغۡفِرَةٌ خَيۡرٌ مِّنۡ صَدَقَةٍ يَّتۡبَعُهَاۤ اَذًى​ؕ وَاللّٰهُ غَنِىٌّ حَلِيۡمٌ‏ ٢٦٣

Kind words and forgiveness are better than charity followed by injury. And Allah is Self-Sufficient, Most Forbearing.

[Al-Quran 2:263, Translation: Dr. Mustafa Khattab, The Clear Quran]

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3

وَاِنۡ كَانَ ذُوۡ عُسۡرَةٍ فَنَظِرَةٌ اِلٰى مَيۡسَرَةٍ ​ؕ وَاَنۡ تَصَدَّقُوۡا خَيۡرٌ لَّـكُمۡ​ اِنۡ كُنۡتُمۡ تَعۡلَمُوۡنَ‏ ٢٨٠

If it is difficult for someone to repay a debt, postpone it until a time of ease. And if you waive it as an act of charity, it will be better for you, if only you knew.

[Al-Quran 2:280, Translation: Dr. Mustafa Khattab, The Clear Quran]

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4

وَمَا كَانَ لِمُؤۡمِنٍ اَنۡ يَّقۡتُلَ مُؤۡمِنًا اِلَّا خَطَـــًٔا​ ۚ وَمَنۡ قَتَلَ مُؤۡمِنًا خَطَـــًٔا فَتَحۡرِيۡرُ رَقَبَةٍ مُّؤۡمِنَةٍ وَّدِيَةٌ مُّسَلَّمَةٌ اِلٰٓى اَهۡلِهٖۤ اِلَّاۤ اَنۡ يَّصَّدَّقُوۡا​ ؕ فَاِنۡ كَانَ مِنۡ قَوۡمٍ عَدُوٍّ لَّـكُمۡ وَهُوَ مُؤۡمِنٌ فَتَحۡرِيۡرُ رَقَبَةٍ مُّؤۡمِنَةٍ​ ؕ وَاِنۡ كَانَ مِنۡ قَوۡمٍۢ بَيۡنَكُمۡ وَبَيۡنَهُمۡ مِّيۡثَاقٌ فَدِيَةٌ مُّسَلَّمَةٌ اِلٰٓى اَهۡلِهٖ وَ تَحۡرِيۡرُ رَقَبَةٍ مُّؤۡمِنَةٍ​ ۚ فَمَنۡ لَّمۡ يَجِدۡ فَصِيَامُ شَهۡرَيۡنِ مُتَتَابِعَيۡنِ تَوۡبَةً مِّنَ اللّٰهِ​ ؕ وَكَانَ اللّٰهُ عَلِيۡمًا حَكِيۡمًا‏ ٩٢

It is not lawful for a believer to kill another except by mistake. And whoever kills a believer unintentionally must free a believing slave and pay blood-money to the victim’s family—unless they waive it charitably. But if the victim is a believer from a hostile people, then a believing slave must be freed. And if the victim is from a people bound with you in a treaty, then blood-money must be paid to the family along with freeing a believing slave. Those who are unable, let them fast two consecutive months—as a means of repentance to Allah. And Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise.

[Al-Quran 4:92, Translation: Dr. Mustafa Khattab, The Clear Quran]

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5

۞ لَا خَيۡرَ فِىۡ كَثِيۡرٍ مِّنۡ نَّجۡوٰٮهُمۡ اِلَّا مَنۡ اَمَرَ بِصَدَقَةٍ اَوۡ مَعۡرُوۡفٍ اَوۡ اِصۡلَاحٍۢ بَيۡنَ النَّاسِ​ ؕ وَمَن يَّفۡعَلۡ ذٰ لِكَ ابۡتِغَآءَ مَرۡضَاتِ اللّٰهِ فَسَوۡفَ نُـؤۡتِيۡهِ اَجۡرًا عَظِيۡمًا‏ ١١٤

There is no good in most of their secret talks—except those encouraging charity, kindness, or reconciliation between people. And whoever does this seeking Allah’s pleasure, We will grant them a great reward.

[Al-Quran 4:114, Translation: Dr. Mustafa Khattab, The Clear Quran]

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6

وَكَتَبۡنَا عَلَيۡهِمۡ فِيۡهَاۤ اَنَّ النَّفۡسَ بِالنَّفۡسِۙ وَالۡعَيۡنَ بِالۡعَيۡنِ وَالۡاَنۡفَ بِالۡاَنۡفِ وَالۡاُذُنَ بِالۡاُذُنِ وَالسِّنَّ بِالسِّنِّۙ وَالۡجُرُوۡحَ قِصَاصٌ​ؕ فَمَنۡ تَصَدَّقَ بِهٖ فَهُوَ كَفَّارَةٌ لَّهٗ ​ؕ وَمَنۡ لَّمۡ يَحۡكُمۡ بِمَاۤ اَنۡزَلَ اللّٰهُ فَاُولٰٓٮِٕكَ هُمُ الظّٰلِمُوۡنَ‏ ٤٥

We ordained therein for them: "Life for life, eye for eye, nose or nose, ear for ear, tooth for tooth, and wounds equal for equal." But if any one remits the retaliation by way of charity, it is an act of atonement for himself. And if any fail to judge by (the light of) what Allah hath revealed, they are (No better than) wrong-doers.

[Al-Quran 5:45, Translation: A. Yusuf Ali]

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7

۞ وَمِنۡهُمۡ مَّنۡ عَاهَدَ اللّٰهَ لَٮِٕنۡ اٰتٰٮنَا مِنۡ فَضۡلِهٖ لَـنَصَّدَّقَنَّ وَلَنَكُوۡنَنَّ مِنَ الصّٰلِحِيۡنَ‏ ٧٥

And there are some who had made a vow to Allah: “If He gives us from His bounty, we will surely spend in charity and be of the righteous.”

[Al-Quran 9:75, Translation: Dr. Mustafa Khattab, The Clear Quran]

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8

خُذۡ مِنۡ اَمۡوَالِهِمۡ صَدَقَةً تُطَهِّرُهُمۡ وَتُزَكِّيۡهِمۡ بِهَا وَصَلِّ عَلَيۡهِمۡ​ؕ اِنَّ صَلٰوتَكَ سَكَنٌ لَّهُمۡ​ؕ وَاللّٰهُ سَمِيۡعٌ عَلِيۡمٌ‏ ١٠٣

Take from their wealth ˹O Prophet˺ charity to purify and bless them, and pray for them—surely your prayer is a source of comfort for them. And Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing.

[Al-Quran 9:103, Translation: Dr. Mustafa Khattab, The Clear Quran]

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9 & 10

اِنَّ الۡمُسۡلِمِيۡنَ وَالۡمُسۡلِمٰتِ وَالۡمُؤۡمِنِيۡنَ وَالۡمُؤۡمِنٰتِ وَالۡقٰنِتِيۡنَ وَالۡقٰنِتٰتِ وَالصّٰدِقِيۡنَ وَالصّٰدِقٰتِ وَالصّٰبِرِيۡنَ وَالصّٰبِرٰتِ وَالۡخٰشِعِيۡنَ وَالۡخٰشِعٰتِ وَالۡمُتَصَدِّقِيۡنَ وَ الۡمُتَصَدِّقٰتِ وَالصَّآٮِٕمِيۡنَ وَالصّٰٓٮِٕمٰتِ وَالۡحٰفِظِيۡنَ فُرُوۡجَهُمۡ وَالۡحٰـفِظٰتِ وَالذّٰكِرِيۡنَ اللّٰهَ كَثِيۡرًا وَّ الذّٰكِرٰتِ ۙ اَعَدَّ اللّٰهُ لَهُمۡ مَّغۡفِرَةً وَّاَجۡرًا عَظِيۡمًا‏ ٣٥

Surely, Muslim men and Muslim women, believing men and believing women, devout men and devout women, truthful men and truthful women, patient men and patient women, humble men and humble women, and the men who give Sadaqah (charity) and the women who give Sadaqah, and the men who fast and the women who fast, and the men who guard their private parts (against evil acts) and the women who guard (theirs), and the men who remember Allah much and the women who remember (Him) - for them, Allah has prepared forgiveness and a great reward.

[Al-Quran 33:35, Translation: T. Usmani]

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11 & 12

اِنَّ الۡمُصَّدِّقِيۡنَ وَالۡمُصَّدِّقٰتِ وَاَقۡرَضُوا اللّٰهَ قَرۡضًا حَسَنًا يُّضٰعَفُ لَهُمۡ وَلَهُمۡ اَجۡرٌ كَرِيۡمٌ‏ ١٨

Surely those men who give Sadaqah (alms) and those women who give Sadaqah and have advanced a good loan to Allah, for them it will be multiplied, and for them there is a noble reward.

[Al-Quran 57:18, Translation: T. Usmani]

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13

يٰۤاَيُّهَا الَّذِيۡنَ اٰمَنُوۡۤا اِذَا نَاجَيۡتُمُ الرَّسُوۡلَ فَقَدِّمُوۡا بَيۡنَ يَدَىۡ نَجۡوٰٮكُمۡ صَدَقَةً  ​ؕ ذٰ لِكَ خَيۡرٌ لَّكُمۡ وَاَطۡهَرُ ​ؕ فَاِنۡ لَّمۡ تَجِدُوۡا فَاِنَّ اللّٰهَ غَفُوۡرٌ رَّحِيۡمٌ‏ ١٢

O you who believe! When you (want to) consult the Messenger (Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) in private, spend something in charity before your private consultation. That will be better and purer for you. But if you find not (the means for it), then verily, Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

[Al-Quran 58:12, Translation: Al-Hilali & Khan]

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14

وَاَنۡفِقُوۡا مِنۡ مَّا رَزَقۡنٰكُمۡ مِّنۡ قَبۡلِ اَنۡ يَّاۡتِىَ اَحَدَكُمُ الۡمَوۡتُ فَيَقُوۡلَ رَبِّ لَوۡلَاۤ اَخَّرۡتَنِىۡۤ اِلٰٓى اَجَلٍ قَرِيۡبٍۙ فَاَصَّدَّقَ وَاَكُنۡ مِّنَ الصّٰلِحِيۡنَ‏ ١٠

Give out of what We have provided for you, before death comes to one of you and he says, ‘My Lord, if You would only reprieve me for a little while, I would give in charity and become one of the righteous.’

[Al-Quran 63:10, Translation: M.A.S. Abdel Haleem]

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[Al-Quran ..., Translation: ...]

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Love and Compassion in Islam

Question: To my limited understanding, the big difference between Christianity and other religions and Islam is that "love your neighbor as yourself" is missing from the Koran. Am I wrong ?
Response: Indeed, you're misinformed. The Quran places great stress on love and compassion for all members of the society, to the extent that one chapter links faith with interpersonal relations.

Chapter 107 Verses 1-7
1 Seest thou one who denies the Judgment (to come)?  
2 Then such is the (man) who repulses the orphan (with harshness),  
3 And encourages not the feeding of the indigent.  
4 So woe to the worshippers  
5 Who are neglectful of their prayers,  
6 Those who (want but) to be seen (of men),  
7 But refuse (to supply) (even) neighbourly needs. 
Another verse related to taking care of the community:
Chapter 4 Verse 36: Serve Allah, and join not any partners with Him; and do good- to parents, kinsfolk, orphans, those in need, neighbours who are near, neighbours who are strangers, the companion by your side, the wayfarer (ye meet), and what your right hands possess: For Allah loveth not the arrogant, the vainglorious;-

Comment: Does that sound like love to you, Samiya ? To me it sounds like orders from above. Even threats.
Response: Belief in the divine origin of holy scriptures preceeding the Quran is an article of faith for a Muslim.
Chapter 2, Verse 4: And who believe in the Revelation sent to thee, and sent before thy time, and (in their hearts) have the assurance of the Hereafter.
We believe that the Quran completes and restores to its purity the message that was sent earlier.
Chapter 10, Verse 37: This Qur'an is not such as can be produced by other than Allah. On the contrary it is a confirmation of (revelations) that went before it, and a fuller explanation of the Book - wherein there is no doubt - from the Lord of the worlds.
Chapter 5:Verses 46-48
46 And in their footsteps We sent Jesus the son of Mary, confirming the Law that had come before him: We sent him the Gospel: therein was guidance and light, and confirmation of the Law that had come before him: a guidance and an admonition to those who fear Allah.  
47 Let the people of the Gospel judge by what Allah hath revealed therein. If any do fail to judge by (the light of) what Allah hath revealed, they are (no better than) those who rebel.  
48 To thee We sent the Scripture in truth, confirming the scripture that came before it, and guarding it in safety: so judge between them by what Allah hath revealed, and follow not their vain desires, diverging from the Truth that hath come to thee. To each among you have we prescribed a law and an open way. If Allah had so willed, He would have made you a single people, but (His plan is) to test you in what He hath given you: so strive as in a race in all virtues. The goal of you all is to Allah. it is He that will show you the truth of the matters in which ye dispute;
By the way, Love thy neighbour is also a commandment, an order from above.

Comment: Muslims are only generous to other muslims
Response: Unfortunately, that is the myopic understanding of certain communities and sects, to the extent that they then restrict the ambit of their charity to their own community or sect, and not even give to all muslims. But that is not the message of the Quran. The Quran emphasizes charity, sympathy and empathy for all humans.
The following is Chapter 90 which again links faith and righteousness to compassion
 1 I do call to witness this City;-  
 2 And thou art a freeman of this City;-  
 3 And (the mystic ties of) parent and child;-  
 4 Verily We have created man into toil and struggle.  
 5 Thinketh he, that none hath power over him?  
 6 He may say (boastfully); Wealth have I squandered in abundance!  
 7 Thinketh he that none beholdeth him?  
 8 Have We not made for him a pair of eyes?-  
 9 And a tongue, and a pair of lips?-  
 10 And shown him the two highways?  
 11 But he hath made no haste on the path that is steep.  
 12 And what will explain to thee the path that is steep?-  
 13 (It is:) freeing the bondman;  
 14 Or the giving of food in a day of privation  
 15 To the orphan with claims of relationship,  
 16 Or to the indigent (down) in the dust.  
 17 Then will he be of those who believe, and enjoin patience, (constancy, and self-restraint), and enjoin deeds of kindness and compassion.  
 18 Such are the Companions of the Right Hand.  
 19 But those who reject Our Signs, they are the (unhappy) Companions of the Left Hand.  
 20 On them will be Fire vaulted over (all round). 
  Translated by Yusuf Ali
http://searchtruth.com/chapter_display.php?chapter=90&translator=2&mac=

What it says about money in the Qur'an?

Question: For some reason I have been thinking about the issue of money and what has been written about it in the OT and NT. (I'm also curious what it says about money in the Qur'an.) ...I know the bible says the *love* of money is the root of all evil; then there is the story about the rich man and the camel and the eye of a needle. My question is: does the bible differentiate between those who have money and use it wisely, and those who have money and use it only to live lavishly? My money does not come from family, but from some fortunate financial decisions I made in my youth. I do not live lavishly; in fact I live decidedly below my means. I sure hope that the bible doesn't say that God will exclude all rich people from heaven. If that is so, I have a problem.

Answer: Very briefly, money/wealth is a means of trial. We are not encouraged to hoard money, rather it is seen as a societal economic tool which should stay in circulation for the benefit of all rather than in coffers to rot. We are advised that wealth is among the things of this world and will be left behind upon death. The best we can do is use it, and if we use it for good causes, we earn rewards which we carry with us to the Hereafter. We are encouraged to spend, whatever is left after fulfilling our needs, on the poor, the needy and in the way of God (helping the society and promoting the religion). As far as spending on the poor and needy is concerned, we are advised to first look to our immediate relatives, and then move out towards others. Thus, depending on whatever one’s financial status, one can help as many as possible. Most jurists agree that the recommended minimum amount of charity is 2.5% of our wealth (only after one is able to meet one’s basic needs) which is known as zakat, which must be distributed annually among those who need it. Quoting a relevant passage below:

Holy Quran Chapter 2 Verses 261- 284 Translation by M Pickthal
261 The likeness of those who spend their wealth in Allah's way is as the likeness of a grain which groweth seven ears, in every ear a hundred grains. Allah giveth increase manifold to whom He will. Allah is All-Embracing, All-Knowing.
262 Those who spend their wealth for the cause of Allah and afterward make not reproach and injury to follow that which they have spent; their reward is with their Lord, and there shall no fear come upon them, neither shall they grieve.
263 A kind word with forgiveness is better than almsgiving followed by injury. Allah is Absolute, Clement.
264 O ye who believe! Render not vain your almsgiving by reproach and injury, like him who spendeth his wealth only to be seen of men and believeth not in Allah and the Last Day. His likeness is as the likeness of a rock whereon is dust of earth; a rainstorm smiteth it, leaving it smooth and bare. They have no control of aught of that which they have gained. Allah guideth not the disbelieving folk.
265 And the likeness of those who spend their wealth in search of Allah's pleasure, and for the strengthening of their souls, is as the likeness of a garden on a height. The rainstorm smiteth it and it bringeth forth its fruit twofold. And if the rainstorm smite it not, then the shower. Allah is Seer of what ye do.
266 Would any of you like to have a garden of palm-trees and vines, with rivers flowing underneath it, with all kinds of fruit for him therein; and old age hath stricken him and he hath feeble offspring; and a fiery whirlwind striketh it and it is (all) consumed by fire. Thus Allah maketh plain His revelations unto you, in order that ye may give thought.
267 O ye who believe! Spend of the good things which ye have earned, and of that which We bring forth from the earth for you, and seek not the bad (with intent) to spend thereof (in charity) when ye would not take it for yourselves save with disdain; and know that Allah is Absolute, Owner of Praise.
268 The devil promiseth you destitution and enjoineth on you lewdness. But Allah promiseth you forgiveness from Himself with bounty. Allah is All-Embracing, All-knowing.
269 He giveth wisdom unto whom He will, and he unto whom wisdom is given, he truly hath received abundant good. But none remember except men of understanding.
270 Whatever alms ye spend or vow ye vow, lo! Allah knoweth it. Wrong-doers have no helpers.
271 If ye publish your almsgiving, it is well, but if ye hide it and give it to the poor, it will be better for you, and will atone for some of your ill-deeds. Allah is Informed of what ye do.
272 The guiding of them is not thy duty (O Muhammad), but Allah guideth whom He will. And whatsoever good thing ye spend, it is for yourselves, when ye spend not save in search of Allah's Countenance; and whatsoever good thing ye spend, it will be repaid to you in full, and ye will not be wronged.
273 (Alms are) for the poor who are straitened for the cause of Allah, who cannot travel in the land (for trade). The unthinking man accounteth them wealthy because of their restraint. Thou shalt know them by their mark: They do not beg of men with importunity. And whatsoever good thing ye spend, lo! Allah knoweth it.
274 Those who spend their wealth by night and day, by stealth and openly, verily their reward is with their Lord, and their shall no fear come upon them neither shall they grieve.
275 Those who swallow usury cannot rise up save as he ariseth whom the devil hath prostrated by (his) touch. That is because they say: Trade is just like usury; whereas Allah permitteth trading and forbiddeth usury. He unto whom an admonition from his Lord cometh, and (he) refraineth (in obedience thereto), he shall keep (the profits of) that which is past, and his affair (henceforth) is with Allah. As for him who returneth (to usury) - Such are rightful owners of the Fire. They will abide therein.
276 Allah hath blighted usury and made almsgiving fruitful. Allah loveth not the impious and guilty.
277 Lo! those who believe and do good works and establish worship and pay the poor-due, their reward is with their Lord and there shall no fear come upon them neither shall they grieve. 278 O ye who believe! Observe your duty to Allah, and give up what remaineth (due to you) from usury, if ye are (in truth) believers.
279 And if ye do not, then be warned of war (against you) from Allah and His messenger. And if ye repent, then ye have your principal (without interest). Wrong not, and ye shall not be wronged.
280 And if the debtor is in straitened circumstances, then (let there be) postponement to (the time of) ease; and that ye remit the debt as almsgiving would be better for you if ye did but know.
281 And guard yourselves against a day in which ye will be brought back to Allah. Then every soul will be paid in full that which it hath earned, and they will not be wronged.
282 O ye who believe! When ye contract a debt for a fixed term, record it in writing. Let a scribe record it in writing between you in (terms of) equity. No scribe should refuse to write as Allah hath taught him, so let him write, and let him who incurreth the debt dictate, and let him observe his duty to Allah his Lord, and diminish naught thereof. But if he who oweth the debt is of low understanding, or weak, or unable himself to dictate, then let the guardian of his interests dictate in (terms of) equity. And call to witness, from among your men, two witnesses. And if two men be not (at hand) then a man and two women, of such as ye approve as witnesses, so that if the one erreth (through forgetfulness) the other will remember. And the witnesses must not refuse when they are summoned. Be not averse to writing down (the contract) whether it be small or great, with (record of) the term thereof. That is more equitable in the sight of Allah and more sure for testimony, and the best way of avoiding doubt between you; save only in the case when it is actual merchandise which ye transfer among yourselves from hand to hand. In that case it is no sin for you if ye write it not. And have witnesses when ye sell one to another, and let no harm be done to scribe or witness. If ye do (harm to them) lo! it is a sin in you. Observe your duty to Allah. Allah is teaching you. And Allah is knower of all things.
283 If ye be on a journey and cannot find a scribe, then a pledge in hand (shall suffice). And if one of you entrusteth to another let him who is trusted deliver up that which is entrusted to him (according to the pact between them) and let him observe his duty to Allah his Lord. Hide not testimony. He who hideth it, verily his heart is sinful. Allah is Aware of what ye do.
284 Unto Allah (belongeth) whatsoever is in the heavens and whatsoever is in the earth; and whether ye make known what is in your minds or hide it, Allah will bring you to account for it. He will forgive whom He will and He will punish whom He will. Allah is Able to do all things.

The last two verses of this chapter which follow the above injunctions are beautiful:
Holy Quran Chapter 2 Verse 285-286 Translation by A Yusuf Ali
285 The Messenger believeth in what hath been revealed to him from his Lord, as do the men of faith. Each one (of them) believeth in Allah, His angels, His books, and His apostles. "We make no distinction (they say) between one and another of His apostles." And they say: "We hear, and we obey: (We seek) Thy forgiveness, our Lord, and to Thee is the end of all journeys."
286 On no soul doth Allah Place a burden greater than it can bear. It gets every good that it earns, and it suffers every ill that it earns. (Pray:) "Our Lord! Condemn us not if we forget or fall into error; our Lord! Lay not on us a burden Like that which Thou didst lay on those before us; Our Lord! Lay not on us a burden greater than we have strength to bear. Blot out our sins, and grant us forgiveness. Have mercy on us. Thou art our Protector; Help us against those who stand against faith."

Muslim perspective of Prayer

Muslim Perspective of Prayer:

As muslims, we believe in the power of Prayer. It is an integral part of our lives. We pray atleast five times a day: early morning, just after midday, late afternoon, just after sunset and at night. These are the five compulsory prayers which help connects the individual to the Creator. Our prayers take a minimum of five minutes at a time, but can be lengthened as much as one wishes. There are three main aspects to our prayers:
1. The physical poses: standing, sitting, bowing, prostrating___ complete exercise of the body, something similar to the various positions of original Jewish prayers and yoga.
2. Then comes the wordings or the content of the prayer: we repeat the first seven lines of the very first chapter of the Holy Quran which is a very comprehensive prayer for all humankind. We also recite some portion of the Holy Quran after that to remind ourselves of the message….. praying five times a day keeps reminding us of our real purpose, and helps keep us focused. It reminds us to continue and improve on whatever good that we do, and stay away from all evil. It teaches compassion, humility, discipline, punctuality and so many other good virtues. The reason that you do not see that in the behavior of most muslims is that many do not pray, and some of those who do: do so without understanding…. as a mere ritual. Thus, they are not able to benefit from their prayers.
3. We also pray to Allah for whatever we desire, both in this world and the hereafter. Allah listens to all prayers and grants whatever He decides in His Wisdom is best for us. He is the Most Beneficient, Most Merciful………. He knows what is good for us.

We are told in the Holy Quran that humans have been endowed with free will, and because Allah is just, He has sent us to this world which is basically a place of trial, so that each one of us humans can prove whether we deserve to go to Heaven or Hell………. Allah in His complete knowledge knows our fundamental natures, yet He has given us the free will, and an open-book exam, the book being the Holy Quran, which is a Book of guidance for all humans. The ups and downs of this world, the wealth, the poverty, the health, the sickness, loss of loved ones, shattered dreams, getting more than expectations, living a good life, poor standard of living, all are basically trials for the soul. The good things are not rewards, neither are the difficult times a punishment………… judgment is for the Hereafter………………. This is all a trial. Prayer is the most powerful tool, and we are reminded again and again in the Holy Quran that
a. Those who believe in Allah and the Hereafter
b. Those who pray
c. Those who do good deeds
d. Those who endure with patience
These are the ones who will be successful in the Hereafter, which is the real life………….. the eternal life!

On the scientific side, I was recently reading somewhere that some scientists studying quantum physics theorize that this world is basically a virtual reality, an illusion, a matrix-like scenario, the proof of which they find in the uncertainity principle itself, in the vibrations of the quantum mechanics, and the necessity of an observer for an event to actually take place!

More on Muslim Prayer:

Other than the five compulsory prayers, one can pray as much as one wants. The prayer in the late hours of the night is most advisable and carries great rewards. It is a time of solitude when a muslim leaves the comfort of the bed and shortens the sleep so that he/she can have some private ‘quality’ time with the Creator. At that time, no one is watching, and the prayer and devotion is solely for the love of Allah! But, praying throughout the night is discouraged, as one must get enough rest and sleep, so as to be able to spend the day in a productive way. We, as muslims, must live complete lives, playing all our roles properly, i.e. living the family life, earning a living, taking care of the community, seeking a good education, etc, etc. The prayer just described, and in the previous mail is known as Salaat.

Then comes Fasting, which is compulsory for a month once a year. The month is the lunar month called Ramadhan of the Islamic calendar, being observed all over the world these days. Fasting has been prescribed in the month of Ramadhan because the Holy Quran was sent down in this holy month. Fasting carries a lot of spiritual, bodily, and other worldly benefits with it. Spiritually, one feels good about obeying Allah by not eating or drinking from dawn to dusk, and realizes also that if we can not eat and drink for the sake of Allah, then we can eschew other sins also for the sake of Allah. We can control our anger, we can refrain from lying, cheating and so many other social vices that are prohibited similarly through out the year…. We have the ability, what is needed is the will to do so. We realize how the poor suffer from hunger, how difficult life must be for them, and thus compassion for fellow beings is generated. It is medical research that fasting for a month once a year is most beneficial for the digestive system, especially the liver.
Holy Quran, Chapter 2:
183
O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that ye may (learn) self-restraint,-

184
(Fasting) for a fixed number of days; but if any of you is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed number (Should be made up) from days later. For those who can do it (With hardship), is a ransom, the feeding of one that is indigent. But he that will give more, of his own free will,- it is better for him. And it is better for you that ye fast, if ye only knew.
185
Ramadhan is the (month) in which was sent down the Qur'an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (Between right and wrong). So every one of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spend it in fasting, but if any one is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed period (Should be made up) by days later. Allah intends every facility for you; He does not want to put to difficulties. (He wants you) to complete the prescribed period, and to glorify Him in that He has guided you; and perchance ye shall be grateful.

Then comes Charity, the next equally important form of prayer. One must spend on the welfare of parents, relatives, orphans, travelers, and all who need help… those who ask, and also seek out those who are really needy but are too proud to ask, and in the way of Allah. Allah says that no charity goes to waste, rather, He increases the rewards manifold.
The Holy Quran:
The likeness of those who spend their wealth in the Way of Allah, is as the likeness of a grain (of corn); it grows seven ears, and each ear has a hundred grains. Allah gives manifold increase to whom He pleases. And Allah is All-Sufficient for His creatures needs, All-Knower. ( سورة البقرة , Al-Baqara, Chapter #2, Verse #261)
Kind words and forgiving of faults are better than Sadaqah (charity) followed by injury. And Allah is Rich (Free of all wants) and He is Most-Forbearing. ( سورة البقرة , Al-Baqara, Chapter #2, Verse #263)
O you who believe! Do not render in vain your Sadaqah (charity) by reminders of your generosity or by injury, like him who spends his wealth to be seen of men, and he does not believe in Allah, nor in the Last Day. His likeness is the likeness of a smooth rock on which is a little dust; on it falls heavy rain which leaves it bare. They are not able to do anything with what they have earned. And Allah does not guide the disbelieving people. ( سورة البقرة , Al-Baqara, Chapter #2, Verse #264)
Those who spend (in Allahs Cause - deeds of charity, alms, etc.) in prosperity and in adversity, who repress anger, and who pardon men; verily, Allah loves Al-Muhsinoon (the gooddoers). ( سورة آل عمران , Aal-e-Imran, Chapter #3, Verse #134)

To those who can afford it, Pilgrimage once in a lifetime is ordained. We go to Makkah in Saudi Arabia, cicumambulate the Kaabah, and re-live the the rites of great Prophet Abraham. We run between the hills of Safa and Marwa to re-live the anguish of the poor mother Hagar of Prophet Ishmael who was running from one hilltop to another looking for water for her child. We drink from the well of Zamzam, which miraculously appeared where the baby Ishmael was lying, kicking his feet, crying due to thirst. Scientists have tried to find the source of this water, and they have just no explanation where this appeared from in the middle of the desert, and continues to supply water for the pilgrims to this day. We go to Mina, stay there glorifying Allah, then go to field of Arafat on the day of the Pilgrimage, ie 9th ZilHajj, then spend the night in Muzdallifah, praying, resting, and collecting tiny stones. Armed with the stones, we return to Mina in the morning, and go to symbolically stone the devil at the three places where he had tried to deceive Abraham by talking him out of sacrificing his first born, as per his dream and the custom prevalent in those times. Then we sacrifice an animal, in memory of how Allah had graciously accepted the sacrifice of Abraham, and replaced Ishmael with an animal, while Abraham had covered his eyes and lowered the knife to carry out the will of Allah. Allah had saved Ishmael, as all He wanted was to test Abraham and Ishmael, and see if they were completely muslims(submitting to the will of Allah) or whether love for life or child would hinder either of them. They passed with flying colours, and muslims remember and re-live it, which helps increase faith. The sacrificed animal is to be eaten, shared with family, neighbours, relatives, the poor and needy. Thus, there is no needless killing or waste, the sacrifice becoming a part of the great circle of life.

The great thing about being a muslim is that we do not need to go through any ‘in-betweens’ to communicate with Allah. Any time we need to talk to Him, remember Him, or ask for help, we can just directly speak to Him, sitting, standing, lying, or if possible, formally praying. And the great thing, we know for sure that He is hearing each and every word, and He will either grant us our wish, or give something better instead. Even when, apparently, our wish is not being granted, we know that its either due to the trial that we must go through, or that it is somehow not the right thing for us, as Allah, in His complete knowledge knows that our wish, if fulfilled, will be to our physical or spiritual detriment.

Allah is the Most-Beneficient, Forever Merciful, and loves all of us. That is why, He invites mankind again and again to believe in Him, and not associate any with Him. He says He will forgive all sins of those who repent sincerely, and then worship and obey Him, as guided in the Holy Quran.
May Allah bless and guide us all. Amen