(MENAFN- Kashmir Observer)
Mental health benefits of charity in Islam
By Wasim Kakroo
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)
Zakat is not just charity, it is the fundamental act of social justice in Islam. Giving zakat means giving a specified percentage of one's wealth to certain categories of people in need. Zakat has economic, social and religious dimensions. It is designed to help the poor, not only by redistributing wealth but also by reducing disparities in society and promoting social justice- John Esposito, Professor of Religion and International Affairs at Georgetown University
In Islam, charity is considered one of the pillars of faith, along with prayer, fasting, and pilgrimage. Muslims are encouraged to give to those in need, both as a religious obligation and as a means of promoting social justice and equality. Sadaqa and Zakat are two types of charity that are mentioned frequently in the Qur'an and Hadith. Sadaqa refers to voluntary charity, while Zakat is a mandatory tax that Muslims must pay if they meet certain criteria. In addition to the spiritual benefits of giving, there are also numerous mental health benefits that come from practicing Sadaqa and Zakat.
Sadaqa and Zakat as Acts of Worship
Sadaqa and Zakat are both considered acts of worship in Islam. By giving to those in need, Muslims are fulfilling their obligation to serve God and help their fellow human beings. This sense of purpose and fulfillment can be incredibly beneficial for mental health. Studies have shown that people who have a strong sense of purpose in life are more resilient and better able to cope with stress and adversity.
In addition to the sense of purpose that comes from giving, Sadaqa and Zakat also promote feelings of compassion and empathy. When we give to those in need, we are acknowledging their humanity and recognizing their struggles. This can help us to develop greater empathy and compassion for others, which can improve our relationships with friends, family, and the wider community.
Zakat as a Means of Purification
Zakat is considered a form of purification in Islam. By giving a portion of their wealth to those in need, Muslims are purifying their own wealth and protecting themselves from the negative effects of greed and materialism. This can be especially beneficial for mental health, as materialism has been linked to a range of mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
In addition to purifying their wealth, Zakat also promotes humility and gratitude. By recognizing that their wealth is a blessing from God and sharing it with those in need, Muslims are reminded of their own dependence on God and the importance of gratitude. This can help to reduce feelings of entitlement and promote a greater sense of humility and gratitude, which are both beneficial for mental health.
Sadaqa as a Means of Self-Improvement
Sadaqa is often described as a means of self-improvement in Islam. By giving to those in need, Muslims are encouraged to develop greater self-discipline and self-control. This can be especially beneficial for mental health, as self-discipline has been linked to a range of positive outcomes, including greater resilience, better stress management, and improved emotional regulation.
In addition to promoting self-discipline, Sadaqa also promotes generosity and kindness. When we give to those in need, we are demonstrating kindness and compassion, which can improve our relationships with others and promote a greater sense of social connectedness. This sense of connectedness is important for mental health, as social isolation and loneliness have been linked to a range of negative outcomes, including depression, anxiety, and poor physical health.
Sadaqa and Zakat as Forms of Social Justice
Sadaqa and Zakat are both forms of social justice in Islam. By giving to those in need, Muslims are promoting greater equality and fairness in society. This can be especially beneficial for mental health, as studies have shown that greater social equality is associated with better mental health outcomes.
In addition to promoting social justice, Sadaqa and Zakat also promote community engagement and activism. When we give to those in need, we are demonstrating our commitment to the well-being of our communities and our willingness to take action to promote positive change. This sense of community engagement can be incredibly beneficial for mental health, as it promotes a sense of purpose and belonging.
In conclusion, Sadaqa and Zakat are both important practices in Islam that promote both spiritual and mental health benefits. Through giving to those in need, Muslims are able to develop a sense of purpose and fulfillment, compassion and empathy, humility and gratitude, self-discipline and generosity, and social justice and community engagement. These practices promote mental health by providing individuals with a sense of connectedness, social support, and purpose, which can help to reduce feelings of isolation and promote resilience in the face of adversity.
The author is a licensed clinical psychologist (alumni of Govt. Medical College Srinagar) and works as a consultant clinical psychologist at Centre for Mental Health Services (CMHS) at Rambagh Srinagar. He can be reached at 8825067196
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